Today, 1 year ago, I graduated from Oklahoma State University. It's hard to believe that it's already been a year. I was thinking about that today and how so much has happened in just a year.
I graduated last May with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education. At the time I believed that I would be attending Grad school at OSU and wouldn't have to move or anything. However that didn't work out. I ended up not getting into the graduate program there. Things were hectic that week and also very emotional. I officially found out that I wasn't getting into the program that Tuesday the week of graduation. My parents were already on their way down for graduation and I had to tell them that I hadn't gotten into the program. I was going to be coming home for the summer anyway but since I hadn't been accepted into the program, there was no need for me to stay.Therefore, I had to move out of my apartment. It was stressful having to move everything out quickly while at the same time prepare for graduation. I was an emotional wreck that week.
Graduation day arrived and I was excited. My brother had flown into Oklahoma City the day before. I was already moved out of my apartment by Saturday and was staying with my parents at the motel. The day starting off by the 4 of us heading to IHOP for breakfast. Afterwards, we ran a few last minute errands for my pre-Graduation party. We had reserved a room at the Stillwater Community Center for a little party. However, because I didn't actually know many people in Stillwater, there weren't that many people. In fact the party ended up being just family. My aunt and uncle (from my dad's side) came to my graduation. After the party, we went back to to motel and relaxed a bit before getting ready for the ceremony. A few days ago, my mom and I had gone shopping to find a dress for me to wear. Had we had more time instead of having to move me out of my apartment, I'm sure we could have gone to Tulsa or Oklahoma City to find something. As it was, we had to work with the stores we had. But we found a nice dress and some shoes to go with it.
I arrived early to campus for graduation because the College of Education had a little reception for us graduates prior to the ceremony. It was nice seeing some of my friends and classmates and professors. It was both exciting and scary. Hard to believe that the day had finally arrived! I signed in and got my name card and just walked around trying to calm myself down. I also took pictures with my new video camera (It was a graduation present to me from my parents. I had received it quite recently in the mail). After what seemed like forever, it was time for us to line up. My friend Mary Ann and I tried to stay close to each other. Finally the procession over to the Stadium began. It was weird walking across campus for the last time as a student. Once I graduated, I would officially become an alumnus. The waiting in line seemed to last forever but finally we processed into the stadium.
It was incredibly weird walking onto the floor of the stadium knowing that when I left again, I'd be a graduate. Once I had found a seat, I looked around for my family and found them. They waved to me and I waved back. After everyone had filed in, the ceremony officially began. Speakers spoke and everything. Then they started calling us graduates to walk across the stage and receive our diplomas (although not really since they wouldn't be mailed until later). It was exciting to walk across the stage and to shake hands with the associate dean and get my picture taken. I walked carefully back to my seat and waited for everyone else to get their diplomas. After moving our tassels and some finally words, the ceremony was over and we processed back outside. I met up with my family and we headed back to campus to take a few pictures.
When it was all over, my parents and brother and I headed over to Applebee's where we met up with my Uncle and Aunt. We spent quite a few hours just talking. My uncle was telling us stories about my dad's family which was extremely interesting. After that, it was all over.
It was hard to believe then that it was over after working for so long.
At the time last year, I had no idea about my future. I knew I wanted to still go to grad school and get a Master's degree but I didn't know where I would be. Things were uncertain for me back then.
Now a year later, I've finished my first full year of graduate school and have moved to Texas. Things haven't always been easy for me but still, I can't help but be happy at what I've already accomplished. I've finished a year of grad school already and have about a year and a half left. I have (so far) a 4.0 GPA and I hope that I can keep that going. A year ago, I would not have thought I would be where I am now.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Texas Drivers
I'll admit it I'm not the world's greatest driver and I don't try to be. In fact if anything, I'm overly cautious sometimes. My brother even comments sometimes that I drive like an old lady. I'm just not a very confident driver and especially when driving in a bigger city than I'm used to. In fact, I panic sometimes when I'm not sure where I'm going and I'm driving in Dallas.
Texas drivers annoy me. There are just certain things that I can't stand. Being from New Mexico, I'm sure I do things that annoy Texas drivers too. There are 3 things that since moving to Texas, have really bothered me about Texas drivers.
First of all, Texas drivers don't signal when changing lanes! OMG! This annoys me so much. Is using your turn signal a sign of weakness in Texas? It seems like practically all the drivers I've seen while traveling don't signal whenever they change lanes. It's lucky that I'm a pretty defensive driver and can see them but sometimes they come out of nowhere. Now to say I always signal would be lying a bit. I occasionally don't signal but it's usually only when not very many people are behind me. But really, not signaling? Why? Is it like some rule in Texas that when changing lanes on the highway,you don't signal?
Second thing about Texas drivers that annoy me is the fact that they get in the wrong lane when turning! There is a particular intersection back in Denton where this happens at a lot and I always have to be careful when I'm trying to turn. Locust Street is a one way street and turning left onto University Dr. has 2 lanes. One lane only turns left. The other lane turns left or goes straight. I always get into the lane that turns left/goes straight and turn into the far right lane on University Dr. It never fails that someone gets into the lane that only turns left and then when turning they change into the far right lane and usually they turn into one of the strip mall or the CVS pharmacy located right after turning onto University. If you need to turn into one of these areas right after turning, then why didn't you get into the lane that turned into the far right lane to begin with? It just doesn't make sense to me and it's not like it's complicated or anything. I just don't understand it.
The third thing is something that also annoys someone else I know is what is referred to as the "Texas turn". It's when a driver gets out in the middle of an intersection in order to make a turn. Like the other person, I'm also annoyed by this. I just worry that they'll get hit or that I'll hit them or something. The only thing is that I'm short and have a small mid-size car. Sometimes it's a big pickup truck or SUV or another big car that blocks my view so I can't even see sometimes to make my turn.
So yeah. Texas drivers annoy me. Of course I'm also just not used to them yet or even used to driving in a bigger city than my small hometown. Texas drivers aren't the worse drivers I'm sure but I'm sure they're not the best either.
Texas drivers annoy me. There are just certain things that I can't stand. Being from New Mexico, I'm sure I do things that annoy Texas drivers too. There are 3 things that since moving to Texas, have really bothered me about Texas drivers.
First of all, Texas drivers don't signal when changing lanes! OMG! This annoys me so much. Is using your turn signal a sign of weakness in Texas? It seems like practically all the drivers I've seen while traveling don't signal whenever they change lanes. It's lucky that I'm a pretty defensive driver and can see them but sometimes they come out of nowhere. Now to say I always signal would be lying a bit. I occasionally don't signal but it's usually only when not very many people are behind me. But really, not signaling? Why? Is it like some rule in Texas that when changing lanes on the highway,you don't signal?
Second thing about Texas drivers that annoy me is the fact that they get in the wrong lane when turning! There is a particular intersection back in Denton where this happens at a lot and I always have to be careful when I'm trying to turn. Locust Street is a one way street and turning left onto University Dr. has 2 lanes. One lane only turns left. The other lane turns left or goes straight. I always get into the lane that turns left/goes straight and turn into the far right lane on University Dr. It never fails that someone gets into the lane that only turns left and then when turning they change into the far right lane and usually they turn into one of the strip mall or the CVS pharmacy located right after turning onto University. If you need to turn into one of these areas right after turning, then why didn't you get into the lane that turned into the far right lane to begin with? It just doesn't make sense to me and it's not like it's complicated or anything. I just don't understand it.
The third thing is something that also annoys someone else I know is what is referred to as the "Texas turn". It's when a driver gets out in the middle of an intersection in order to make a turn. Like the other person, I'm also annoyed by this. I just worry that they'll get hit or that I'll hit them or something. The only thing is that I'm short and have a small mid-size car. Sometimes it's a big pickup truck or SUV or another big car that blocks my view so I can't even see sometimes to make my turn.
So yeah. Texas drivers annoy me. Of course I'm also just not used to them yet or even used to driving in a bigger city than my small hometown. Texas drivers aren't the worse drivers I'm sure but I'm sure they're not the best either.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Traumatized
I had my last counseling session yesterday. The last of the sessions they offer here. I've made a lot of progress and I've definitely been feeling a lot better. I feel as though I'll be able to continue making progress on my own now despite the fact that I know that it won't be easy. However, there are still issues that need to be worked out. Issues that are better suited for the long term counseling that the center cannot provide. My counselor feels as though it would be extremely helpful for me to find a counselor back home so I can continue counseling over the summer. Especially since I'll be home for 3 months. She feels as though I should look for a counselor that specializes in trauma. The reasoning for this is because I'm still having issues dealing with the event that took place back in November (I posted an entry about it). Basically that event traumatized me and it did. I still break down and all the horrible memories come flooding back in whenever I even think about it.
The event traumatized me so much that it changed me. It changed how I feel about living here in my apartment complex. I really think that given the opportunity, I'd move in a heartbeat. If someone were to offer me an apartment that was cheaper than the one I'm currently living in and also it came with perks such as utilities paid, I'd jump at the chance. Despite the fact, I really hate the thought of having to move everything out of my apartment again. It was such a hassle just moving out of my Oklahoma one and moving into this one that quite honestly it would be easier to just stay put until I finally graduate and start my career. There are things I like about my apartment. I love the fact that it's within walking distance of a library and that it's a nice size. I also like that I have at least one neighbor I can talk to and feel comfortable with.
However, I have to admit that I live in a constant state of fear and anxiety. And it's because of what happened. I try to avoid going outside when I know that person is around and I'm constantly on alert in case they decide to come over and try talking to me. I'm afraid to answer my door right away when someone knocks fearing that it's the person. Everytime I pull into the driveway after being away on the weekend or in the evening, I look to see if the person's car is there and even if the person is outside. If I'm around when the person is, I don't open my window blinds and if I do go outside I spy through them to see if it's safe. All this is simply because I don't want to communicate or even see the person.
What happened traumatized me and I'm still having trouble dealing with it. Obviously this is why I still need counseling. Also, despite the fact that I've improved, I wouldn't say all my problems are fixed. I''ll even admit that there's a good possibility that I might a couple more sessions upon my return back to Denton after the summer in order to help me deal with the transition back.
I do find it interesting how when I mentioned to my parents that my counselor suggested I continue counseling over the summer, they said that they'd been discussing that possibility already. I don't know what to think about this. I guess it's nice that they recognize that I'm have things I need help dealing with. Hopefully I'll be able to find someone back home and continue to get better. If this means that I'll have some long term counseling for awhile even after I get back, then so be it. At least I've recognized that I need help and have started getting that help.
The event traumatized me so much that it changed me. It changed how I feel about living here in my apartment complex. I really think that given the opportunity, I'd move in a heartbeat. If someone were to offer me an apartment that was cheaper than the one I'm currently living in and also it came with perks such as utilities paid, I'd jump at the chance. Despite the fact, I really hate the thought of having to move everything out of my apartment again. It was such a hassle just moving out of my Oklahoma one and moving into this one that quite honestly it would be easier to just stay put until I finally graduate and start my career. There are things I like about my apartment. I love the fact that it's within walking distance of a library and that it's a nice size. I also like that I have at least one neighbor I can talk to and feel comfortable with.
However, I have to admit that I live in a constant state of fear and anxiety. And it's because of what happened. I try to avoid going outside when I know that person is around and I'm constantly on alert in case they decide to come over and try talking to me. I'm afraid to answer my door right away when someone knocks fearing that it's the person. Everytime I pull into the driveway after being away on the weekend or in the evening, I look to see if the person's car is there and even if the person is outside. If I'm around when the person is, I don't open my window blinds and if I do go outside I spy through them to see if it's safe. All this is simply because I don't want to communicate or even see the person.
What happened traumatized me and I'm still having trouble dealing with it. Obviously this is why I still need counseling. Also, despite the fact that I've improved, I wouldn't say all my problems are fixed. I''ll even admit that there's a good possibility that I might a couple more sessions upon my return back to Denton after the summer in order to help me deal with the transition back.
I do find it interesting how when I mentioned to my parents that my counselor suggested I continue counseling over the summer, they said that they'd been discussing that possibility already. I don't know what to think about this. I guess it's nice that they recognize that I'm have things I need help dealing with. Hopefully I'll be able to find someone back home and continue to get better. If this means that I'll have some long term counseling for awhile even after I get back, then so be it. At least I've recognized that I need help and have started getting that help.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
BEDA Day 30: It all ends here...
My last BEDA post. Hard to believe that it's ending.It's interesting to note how many things in my life seem to be ending.
First off BEDA has ended and oddly enough, I'm a bit sad about it. I'm sad mainly because it gave me a reason to write everyday. It forced me to write on a regular basis. However, I do think that I'll continue writing both IRL and definitely blogging. With everything that's happened within the past month, BEDA has helped me a great deal. It gave me a reason to get back into writing which has helped me deal with my emotions lately.
Second, the semester is ending which is nice for me. This also means that my projects are ending. I have only a couple to finish up and turn in and I'm officially done with the semester. Once the projects are in, I just have the grades to wait for. The good thing about grad school is that I no longer have Finals to deal with. Just final projects which are usually due the week before (Dead Week). I'm looking forward to being finished particularly with my 5200 class. The downside is that I don't really have much of a break before starting back up with Summer classes. I have a May minimester class that begins on the 16th of May then I have a regular Summer class. Both are Youth Literature classes. The one in May is a multi-cultural literature class while the other one is just general youth literature.
Third, my sessions are ending. This coming Friday is my last session for the semester. I'm a bit nervous about them ending. I feel as though I'm made a lot of progress and have certainly improved over the last month. However, I'm still uncertain about the ability in myself to keep improving and keep moving forward. I'm sure I'll be fine though but we'll see how it is when after I return back after the summer.
Fourth, the fact that Harry Potter is ending with the movies is finally becoming more real. With the release of the Deathly Hallows Part 2 trailer this week, the realization that this is it has begun to set in.Part of my childhood is ending. As I talked about earlier this week, at least when the last book came out, us fans still had the movies to be excited about. But after July 15th, there won't be anymore midnight releases of anything. There's always the theme park to be excited about but it won't be the same so much. None of it will. I know that I'm going to be an emotional wreck at the conclusion of the film but like everything else, it has to end.
Also, though it's not really something that's happening for me this year, several of my friends are graduating from either high school or college in a couple of weeks. So for them one part of their lives is ending and another to begin. Also a few of my friends are getting married soon so there's also that.
"When one door closes, another one opens" "The ending of one journey is the beginning of another"
Nothing lasts forever and I realize this. I feel like I've accomplished things over the last month and have changed. While I ended up not doing any VEDA posts like I was hoping for, I did at least accomplished doing BEDA completely for a second time and that's something I can feel proud about.
So this is it for now. Hope you've enjoyed my posts this month. And now I shall leave you with this movie tagline
"It all ends here"
First off BEDA has ended and oddly enough, I'm a bit sad about it. I'm sad mainly because it gave me a reason to write everyday. It forced me to write on a regular basis. However, I do think that I'll continue writing both IRL and definitely blogging. With everything that's happened within the past month, BEDA has helped me a great deal. It gave me a reason to get back into writing which has helped me deal with my emotions lately.
Second, the semester is ending which is nice for me. This also means that my projects are ending. I have only a couple to finish up and turn in and I'm officially done with the semester. Once the projects are in, I just have the grades to wait for. The good thing about grad school is that I no longer have Finals to deal with. Just final projects which are usually due the week before (Dead Week). I'm looking forward to being finished particularly with my 5200 class. The downside is that I don't really have much of a break before starting back up with Summer classes. I have a May minimester class that begins on the 16th of May then I have a regular Summer class. Both are Youth Literature classes. The one in May is a multi-cultural literature class while the other one is just general youth literature.
Third, my sessions are ending. This coming Friday is my last session for the semester. I'm a bit nervous about them ending. I feel as though I'm made a lot of progress and have certainly improved over the last month. However, I'm still uncertain about the ability in myself to keep improving and keep moving forward. I'm sure I'll be fine though but we'll see how it is when after I return back after the summer.
Fourth, the fact that Harry Potter is ending with the movies is finally becoming more real. With the release of the Deathly Hallows Part 2 trailer this week, the realization that this is it has begun to set in.Part of my childhood is ending. As I talked about earlier this week, at least when the last book came out, us fans still had the movies to be excited about. But after July 15th, there won't be anymore midnight releases of anything. There's always the theme park to be excited about but it won't be the same so much. None of it will. I know that I'm going to be an emotional wreck at the conclusion of the film but like everything else, it has to end.
Also, though it's not really something that's happening for me this year, several of my friends are graduating from either high school or college in a couple of weeks. So for them one part of their lives is ending and another to begin. Also a few of my friends are getting married soon so there's also that.
"When one door closes, another one opens" "The ending of one journey is the beginning of another"
Nothing lasts forever and I realize this. I feel like I've accomplished things over the last month and have changed. While I ended up not doing any VEDA posts like I was hoping for, I did at least accomplished doing BEDA completely for a second time and that's something I can feel proud about.
So this is it for now. Hope you've enjoyed my posts this month. And now I shall leave you with this movie tagline
"It all ends here"
Friday, April 29, 2011
BEDA Day 29: Thoughts from the Arts & Jazz festival
Tonight was the start of the Denton Arts & Jazz Festival. It started around 5PM and will continue for the rest of the weekend. A few things are interesting about this. One is the fact that I live just across the street from the park where it's taking place. On the one hand, it's great that I'm this close because I don't have to worry about transportation and if I get tired, I can just walk home. The downside is that I still hear the music from one of the stages that is practically right in front of my apartment complex (It's still across the street but is in front of my complex). While the music is pretty good, it's still quite loud. I'm lucky that I live a few apartments down from it but I feel for the neighbor who lives in Apartment 12 which is the closest.
I was quite fun. Mostly I just did a quick walk -through tonight looking around at what was there and filming it. I didn't really stop and look at some of the things. I'll do that tomorrow. Mostly what I same is similar to an event back in my hometown. Many crafters selling their work and lots of food booths. The difference is that here there's an even greater variety of food. For example, I had gator tonight which honestly tasted a lot like chicken. I also had some Strawberry Lemonade and some Fried Oreos.
Of course, there's always the issue of crowds with events like this. Being the socially awkward nerd that I am, I generally don't feel comfortable in crowds or really like them. Although, I didn't find the crowd to be too bad except in a few spots. Mostly because the park is so large that it helps.
After my wanderings, I came across one of the stages where I saw a group of students wearing clothing that Marachi groups normally wear. Of course, this got my attention right away but since they weren't playing just then, I didn't really stick around. When I finally made my way around and came back to the stage, the group was just about to begin performing. It was a Mari achi group. In fact they were from UNT which is my college. Marachi music and concerts have been a bit part of my life. I grew up hearing it at home and going with my parents to see concerts. My dad loves Marachi music. I've never really enjoyed it that much despite the fact that this is music that's part of my culture. I love my culture, I do. I even joined a Hispanic Pride Club in high school and was a Ballet Folklorico dancer. I loved being a dancer and I grew a better appreciation of Marachi Music.
Since I've moved away from home, I've discovered that I miss Marachi music. I miss that part of my culture. I didn't realize this before but when I'm at an event and see a Marachi group, I can't help but think of home. Tonight is one example. Watching the performers, I felt homesick and thought about my parents. I've realized that instead of running away from something that I've never really enjoyed, I now seek it out because it's like a part of home for me. I could have chosen to walk away and listen to some other music at the festival, but instead I actually sought it out. I walked all around and actually came back just so I could listen (that and I wanted to see how good they were). I've also noticed that instead of avoiding Marachi concerts now when I'm home and my parent's invite me, I choose to go. It's strange but I guess in a sense I've grown to appreciate things like this. Despite the fact, that I still don't speak the Spanish language and don't know what they are singing, I still listen to it if it's there. It's the familiarity of it.
I was quite fun. Mostly I just did a quick walk -through tonight looking around at what was there and filming it. I didn't really stop and look at some of the things. I'll do that tomorrow. Mostly what I same is similar to an event back in my hometown. Many crafters selling their work and lots of food booths. The difference is that here there's an even greater variety of food. For example, I had gator tonight which honestly tasted a lot like chicken. I also had some Strawberry Lemonade and some Fried Oreos.
Of course, there's always the issue of crowds with events like this. Being the socially awkward nerd that I am, I generally don't feel comfortable in crowds or really like them. Although, I didn't find the crowd to be too bad except in a few spots. Mostly because the park is so large that it helps.
After my wanderings, I came across one of the stages where I saw a group of students wearing clothing that Marachi groups normally wear. Of course, this got my attention right away but since they weren't playing just then, I didn't really stick around. When I finally made my way around and came back to the stage, the group was just about to begin performing. It was a Mari achi group. In fact they were from UNT which is my college. Marachi music and concerts have been a bit part of my life. I grew up hearing it at home and going with my parents to see concerts. My dad loves Marachi music. I've never really enjoyed it that much despite the fact that this is music that's part of my culture. I love my culture, I do. I even joined a Hispanic Pride Club in high school and was a Ballet Folklorico dancer. I loved being a dancer and I grew a better appreciation of Marachi Music.
Since I've moved away from home, I've discovered that I miss Marachi music. I miss that part of my culture. I didn't realize this before but when I'm at an event and see a Marachi group, I can't help but think of home. Tonight is one example. Watching the performers, I felt homesick and thought about my parents. I've realized that instead of running away from something that I've never really enjoyed, I now seek it out because it's like a part of home for me. I could have chosen to walk away and listen to some other music at the festival, but instead I actually sought it out. I walked all around and actually came back just so I could listen (that and I wanted to see how good they were). I've also noticed that instead of avoiding Marachi concerts now when I'm home and my parent's invite me, I choose to go. It's strange but I guess in a sense I've grown to appreciate things like this. Despite the fact, that I still don't speak the Spanish language and don't know what they are singing, I still listen to it if it's there. It's the familiarity of it.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
BEDA Day 28: Family
I have an awesome family. I truly do. We all support each other and there's just so much love. Whenever we get together over the holidays and such, we have such a great time that it always makes me sad when we must go our separate ways again. I'm mostly referring to my immediate family since my extended family includes a lot of cousins and aunts and uncles on my mom's side. My immidiate family includes my parents, my bother and sister-in-law and nephew, and my Uncle; my dad's brother. Since my Uncle lives in my hometown along with my parents, I see him quite often.
It makes me happy to spend time with everyone but especially with my brother and his family. Over holidays, we play games together. Since my brother has Rock Band and Guitar Hero on his Wii system he brings it with him when he visits and we all take turns playing. Even my Dad does and doesn't normally play games but he seems to really like playing the Wii. It's always an adventure when my brother and I are together. Sure he picks on me and such and can be annoying but in the end, we love each other so much and he keeps an eye on me.
As far as nerdiness/geekiness goes, I guess my family is kinda like that. Well, at least I am and so is my brother and his family. Maybe I get some of mine from him but most likely not. Of course, my brother has shared some of his geekiness with me because he thinks I'll like things and most of the time he's right. While I wouldn't say that my parents are nerdy or geeky, at least not like my brother and I are , my Mom does at least like Harry Potter enough to get excited about the new movie and accompany me to the midnight release. She doesn't have to do that especially because I am old enough to go on my own but she does it because she wants to. She's also at least interested in Star Trek and Star Wars. Again, not as much as my brother is but still. As for my Dad. Well it's safe to say that he's not interested in stuff like that. He like History and Sports. In fact, my Dad was a P.E. teacher before he retired. Now my brother and I were never the athletic type of kids that I'm sure he would've liked. Though my brother and I certainly tried. My brother ran, did soccer, and Ti Kwan Do but never was really into it. For me, the only thing really athletic I tried was Gymnastics and while I enjoyed it, I wasn't very good at it. My brother and I found other interests and both happened to be in the Arts. For him, he loved Theater and for me, Piano. My Dad supported us in our activities and came to realize that neither of us would be athletes. Even my nephew isn't into sports or things like that. He used to be in Karate but he quit and hasn't gone back since. Regardless of everything, I still love my Dad. He at least supports us and still has things to be proud of even if he doesn't understand some of the interests my brother and I have.
I'll admit it bothers me hearing things from some of my friends who have parents that aren't there for them or families that they'd rather run away from . I had friends growing up that were from divorced families and it bothered me sometimes hearing about their lives but I was a kid. It was something I was aware of but at the same time, it didn't really bother me.
I choose to go home over breaks instead of staying here partially because I don't have anyone here. I have no reason to stay. Yet, I have friends who'd rather stay put because they don't want to go home to their families. Some can't because of distance but others choose to stay put because they don't like their families. Basically once they left home, that was it. I don't understand how anyone can feel that way. But I can respect it. When such friends talk about how they don't like their families, it makes me uncomfortable. You can't help who your family is and I know this. I'm lucky that I have a loving family who loves and supports me in every way. I'm lucky I have an older brother who looks out for me and who I can rely on. I'm lucky I have parents who have supported me throughout my life and continue to do so and who are there for me. I wouldn't change my family at all.
It makes me happy to spend time with everyone but especially with my brother and his family. Over holidays, we play games together. Since my brother has Rock Band and Guitar Hero on his Wii system he brings it with him when he visits and we all take turns playing. Even my Dad does and doesn't normally play games but he seems to really like playing the Wii. It's always an adventure when my brother and I are together. Sure he picks on me and such and can be annoying but in the end, we love each other so much and he keeps an eye on me.
As far as nerdiness/geekiness goes, I guess my family is kinda like that. Well, at least I am and so is my brother and his family. Maybe I get some of mine from him but most likely not. Of course, my brother has shared some of his geekiness with me because he thinks I'll like things and most of the time he's right. While I wouldn't say that my parents are nerdy or geeky, at least not like my brother and I are , my Mom does at least like Harry Potter enough to get excited about the new movie and accompany me to the midnight release. She doesn't have to do that especially because I am old enough to go on my own but she does it because she wants to. She's also at least interested in Star Trek and Star Wars. Again, not as much as my brother is but still. As for my Dad. Well it's safe to say that he's not interested in stuff like that. He like History and Sports. In fact, my Dad was a P.E. teacher before he retired. Now my brother and I were never the athletic type of kids that I'm sure he would've liked. Though my brother and I certainly tried. My brother ran, did soccer, and Ti Kwan Do but never was really into it. For me, the only thing really athletic I tried was Gymnastics and while I enjoyed it, I wasn't very good at it. My brother and I found other interests and both happened to be in the Arts. For him, he loved Theater and for me, Piano. My Dad supported us in our activities and came to realize that neither of us would be athletes. Even my nephew isn't into sports or things like that. He used to be in Karate but he quit and hasn't gone back since. Regardless of everything, I still love my Dad. He at least supports us and still has things to be proud of even if he doesn't understand some of the interests my brother and I have.
I'll admit it bothers me hearing things from some of my friends who have parents that aren't there for them or families that they'd rather run away from . I had friends growing up that were from divorced families and it bothered me sometimes hearing about their lives but I was a kid. It was something I was aware of but at the same time, it didn't really bother me.
I choose to go home over breaks instead of staying here partially because I don't have anyone here. I have no reason to stay. Yet, I have friends who'd rather stay put because they don't want to go home to their families. Some can't because of distance but others choose to stay put because they don't like their families. Basically once they left home, that was it. I don't understand how anyone can feel that way. But I can respect it. When such friends talk about how they don't like their families, it makes me uncomfortable. You can't help who your family is and I know this. I'm lucky that I have a loving family who loves and supports me in every way. I'm lucky I have an older brother who looks out for me and who I can rely on. I'm lucky I have parents who have supported me throughout my life and continue to do so and who are there for me. I wouldn't change my family at all.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
BEDA Day 27: More Harry Potter
OMG you guys! The trailer for Deathly Hallows Part 2 was released tonight!! I'm seriously excited about it right now. I've already watched it at least 5 times! I can't believe it's almost here! The trailer looks so amazingly epic that I can't help but squeal watching it! I can't believe it's here!
I'll admit that I also cried a bit when I saw it. It's great and I can't wait until July 15th but at the same time I can't help but be a little sad. I know I'm going to be a mess when the movie finally arrives. We're talking about the end of part of my childhood here.
I remember getting into Harry Potter shortly before the release of the 4th book. My sister-in-law was the one who really introduced the series to me. She thought I'd enjoy it and it turns out she was right. Little did I know then just how obsessed I'd be with it. I always love reading and Fantasy books but there was something about Harry Potter that was different. Whatever it was, I fell in love with the series. I didn't start going to the midnight releases until the 5th book but I do remember getting the 4th book the day after it was released. I guess the reason I loved Harry Potter so much was because it was an escape from reality. I felt that I could relate to some of the characters. Even back then, I was in love with Hermione's character because I felt I was a lot like her. I still don't know exactly what it was about the series but whatever it was, I'm glad for it. Here I am today, totally obsessed with Harry Potter.
I remember when I saw the first movie. It was the day it was released and it was actually the day. My parents and I were in San Antonio over Thanksgiving break. I remember we had left from my hometown that Thursday before and drove to San Antonio. I remember at one point during the long drive that my mom looked at the clock and realized that we would be arriving close to midnight. She even jokely said that we could just drive straight to the see the movie if we wanted to. I remember I was all for that but it wouldn't have been sensible. We were all tired from the long trip and it wouldn't have been as enjoyable. The next morning however, I remember getting up and being there for the first showing of the day. I remember wearing my black Harry Potter shirt with Hogwarts in the background and a time-turner like necklace. I also wore a golden snitch keychain, and a Bertie Botts Every Flavor Bean bag with my Harry Potter trading cards inside tied around my waist. I'll never forget how excited I was and how I felt after it was over. I still have the ticket stub! It's hard to believe that it was that long ago .
I remember going to the midnight release of Book 7. I was very careful to avoid spoilers and was even worried that some stupid person would shout them out at the release party.Although I'm quite sure had that happened that person would have been attacked but the myriad of Potter fans there. I dressed up for the release. I had the full Harry Potter/Gryffindor uniform already from dressing up for Halloween and also from other movie releases. I dressed as Hermione (though I don't look much like her). I had a S.P.E.W. badge, my time-turner like necklace, and carried around a messenger book bag with Harry Potter books inside. I had styled my curly hair to make it look more curly and messy than usual (it was also shorter than).They had a costume contest and while I didn't win, I was one of the runners up and recieved an exclusive Hastings Book 7 shirt as a prize. It was truly awesome. I remember getting in line (we were toward the beginning) and counting down with the others to midnight. I remember the excitement as the employees handed me my copy and I proceeded to the checkout counter and then going home and immediately reading the first chapter even. Memories that'll never end.
I'll admit that I'd actually already read the first couple of pages already by the time I got my copy. This is because at the time, I was working as a Page at our hometown library. Of course, in order to have the book ready to be put in the library collection for the release, they had to open the copies and get the processed and everything. Several of us staff were tempted to read it and frequently made jokes about taking the copy and hiding in the supply closet to read it. I even saw the book sitting on the cart to be processed. Finally, the Children's Librarian picked it up and opened it to the first page. I was passing by and saw her. We both read the first couple of pages and that was it. That was all we read. (The advantages of working in a library. :) )This was actually the day of the midnight release and after reading the first couple of pages, I was even more eager to get my copy that night.
It was a mixture of emotions during the Book 7 release too but it was different. Even though the books were ending, there were still the movies to look forward to. We still had midnight releases to go to. Now, the last part of the last book is being released soon. We won't have midnight releases to go to anymore. The fandom will never die but it won't exactly be the same.Sure there's the Theme Park and that helps but it's not quite the same as waiting with a bunch of other fans at midnight. The excitement of being one of the first to witness the magic.. Just being there with all these strangers and knowing you share something in common with them. The sense of knowing that most diehard fans go at midnight. It's a wonderful thing and it's hard to believe that it's ending.
Of course, Harry Potter will never be forgotten but will live on forever. "The ones we love never really leave us"
One last midnight release, one last movie. "It all ends here"
I'll admit that I also cried a bit when I saw it. It's great and I can't wait until July 15th but at the same time I can't help but be a little sad. I know I'm going to be a mess when the movie finally arrives. We're talking about the end of part of my childhood here.
I remember getting into Harry Potter shortly before the release of the 4th book. My sister-in-law was the one who really introduced the series to me. She thought I'd enjoy it and it turns out she was right. Little did I know then just how obsessed I'd be with it. I always love reading and Fantasy books but there was something about Harry Potter that was different. Whatever it was, I fell in love with the series. I didn't start going to the midnight releases until the 5th book but I do remember getting the 4th book the day after it was released. I guess the reason I loved Harry Potter so much was because it was an escape from reality. I felt that I could relate to some of the characters. Even back then, I was in love with Hermione's character because I felt I was a lot like her. I still don't know exactly what it was about the series but whatever it was, I'm glad for it. Here I am today, totally obsessed with Harry Potter.
I remember when I saw the first movie. It was the day it was released and it was actually the day. My parents and I were in San Antonio over Thanksgiving break. I remember we had left from my hometown that Thursday before and drove to San Antonio. I remember at one point during the long drive that my mom looked at the clock and realized that we would be arriving close to midnight. She even jokely said that we could just drive straight to the see the movie if we wanted to. I remember I was all for that but it wouldn't have been sensible. We were all tired from the long trip and it wouldn't have been as enjoyable. The next morning however, I remember getting up and being there for the first showing of the day. I remember wearing my black Harry Potter shirt with Hogwarts in the background and a time-turner like necklace. I also wore a golden snitch keychain, and a Bertie Botts Every Flavor Bean bag with my Harry Potter trading cards inside tied around my waist. I'll never forget how excited I was and how I felt after it was over. I still have the ticket stub! It's hard to believe that it was that long ago .
I remember going to the midnight release of Book 7. I was very careful to avoid spoilers and was even worried that some stupid person would shout them out at the release party.Although I'm quite sure had that happened that person would have been attacked but the myriad of Potter fans there. I dressed up for the release. I had the full Harry Potter/Gryffindor uniform already from dressing up for Halloween and also from other movie releases. I dressed as Hermione (though I don't look much like her). I had a S.P.E.W. badge, my time-turner like necklace, and carried around a messenger book bag with Harry Potter books inside. I had styled my curly hair to make it look more curly and messy than usual (it was also shorter than).They had a costume contest and while I didn't win, I was one of the runners up and recieved an exclusive Hastings Book 7 shirt as a prize. It was truly awesome. I remember getting in line (we were toward the beginning) and counting down with the others to midnight. I remember the excitement as the employees handed me my copy and I proceeded to the checkout counter and then going home and immediately reading the first chapter even. Memories that'll never end.
I'll admit that I'd actually already read the first couple of pages already by the time I got my copy. This is because at the time, I was working as a Page at our hometown library. Of course, in order to have the book ready to be put in the library collection for the release, they had to open the copies and get the processed and everything. Several of us staff were tempted to read it and frequently made jokes about taking the copy and hiding in the supply closet to read it. I even saw the book sitting on the cart to be processed. Finally, the Children's Librarian picked it up and opened it to the first page. I was passing by and saw her. We both read the first couple of pages and that was it. That was all we read. (The advantages of working in a library. :) )This was actually the day of the midnight release and after reading the first couple of pages, I was even more eager to get my copy that night.
It was a mixture of emotions during the Book 7 release too but it was different. Even though the books were ending, there were still the movies to look forward to. We still had midnight releases to go to. Now, the last part of the last book is being released soon. We won't have midnight releases to go to anymore. The fandom will never die but it won't exactly be the same.Sure there's the Theme Park and that helps but it's not quite the same as waiting with a bunch of other fans at midnight. The excitement of being one of the first to witness the magic.. Just being there with all these strangers and knowing you share something in common with them. The sense of knowing that most diehard fans go at midnight. It's a wonderful thing and it's hard to believe that it's ending.
Of course, Harry Potter will never be forgotten but will live on forever. "The ones we love never really leave us"
One last midnight release, one last movie. "It all ends here"
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