Learning how to drive was an incredibly uplifting learning experience. It gave me freedom, a sense of independence, and my own beginning of the infamous "solo lifestyle"!
I took months of driver's education prior to clocking my hours in order to get my license, but would never trade back all the laughter and intelligent conversation my driving instructor and I shared together.
My driving instructor's name was Frank. He was a gentle, older guy with a great sense of humor. While we were out for drives, he would take the pressure off with a wisecrack here and there, or tales of the houses in the neighborhoods.
All the kids in my class were intelligent, humorous, and sweet individuals--even the craziest of teenage boys. I reconnected with an old Elementary school friend who was in the same timeblock as I was every other night. She was the one who released my Starbucks obsession through her famous "iced coffee with four pumps of vanilla and some milk".
Driving education is something no kid should miss out on. The bonds you create are irreplaceable, and the people you meet are inspiring. Perhaps this experience was super duper for me, while it is painful for others. The spring-summer of 2010 were two of the best that I will never forget, and while I may never see those kids again, I will always hold the good times close to my heart.
The only downside to class was the gruesome and gory film strips of car accidents and much left unsaid. Let's just say... you won't be drinking Coke again in your life, nor seeing human guts the same way.
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This post is part of the category "79 Things". Click to see the complete series of 79 Things.
Tunes for the days that are rough, stressful, or just a little off. A warning that some may be explicit, or for the "younger crowd". These are my favorite songs for when my spirit needs some jazzy empowerment.
Stronger by KanYe West Sixteen Tons by Oliver Darley Walking on Thin Ice by Yoko Ono Instant Karma by John Lennon Not Afraid by Eminem Lose Yourself by Eminem We R Who We R by Ke$ha Stronger by Britney Spears Remember the Name by Fort Minor Apologize by One Republic Too Fake by Hockey You Found Me by The Fray Set Fire to the Rain by Adele This One's for the Girls by Martina McBride Louboutins by Jennifer Lopez
Because I am quite the "abnormal" teenager, and have a good portion of adult readers, I figured I would write a blog post from the outside looking in to a regular teenage society: trends, pitfalls, and some well unanswered rumors. I am calling the shots, naming names, and being honest at full throttle.
While yes, I do text my friends, and use vulgar vocabulary (quite universal traits pegged on teenagers), the behavior I witness from teenagers around me is quite appalling and lacking of much class. For me, growing into adulthood is all about maturity, education, interest in being alive, and correct respect for your wise teachers and those who made milestones before you. Know your status, and know how to create a healthy future for your children. In my eyes: common sense. In their eyes: bullshit! Here are several, typical teenage traits that often disappoint me:
1. Oblivious of the future. Many teenagers seem stuck-in-the-now, throwing their lives around like they are nothing. "I don't care if I ace this test", "It's not that dangerous, I'm just bein' the shit", "PARTY, PARTY, PARTY!" Ignorant, and annoying. I had a conversation with a peer who did not understand why educational planning and jotting down their dreams for the future had any relation to how they would end up in their adult years. Everything you can reflect upon now shows your maturity in a big way, especially when you are writing College applications. I don't think you want your future College acceptance administrators to see: "Future-planning is so stupid!" if they look up your Facebook page to determine if you are the right student for them.
2. Drug love. The top issue among teenagers today. I would say from the peers I meet, 7 of every 10 have either tried a drug, or are under the influence of a drug at the moment of our conversation. Whether they are heavily using marijuana, getting wasted on vodka, or just smoking a cigarette every day, none of them seem to realize how idiotic their choices are, or how unhealthy these habits are for their bodies. More disappointing? A good portion of them are not aware they are being influenced by peer pressure. They're just "fitting in" because that is "the thing to do"! I have even heard the rumor: "Part of being a teenager is experimenting with drugs and having fun partying." Well, I may be abnormal, but let's not get carried away! Part of being a uneducated, typical teenager is experimenting--part of being a successful, blossoming teenager is paying respect to your body and loving yourself. While I do not idolize my friends who choose the path of drugs, I respect their freedom to use what ever substances they choose to. They will learn... someday!
3. Lacking articulation and conversational maturity. My biggest tick with most teenagers is that they do not have depth! All of their grammar is the same "lamee" grammar most everyone their age exhibits, and their conversational maturity is shameful. I have met some incredible individuals who can hold conversation about something besides getting high or laid, but not many. Most of these individuals are passed the teen-age benchmark--19, 20, even 23 or 24. Just because a teenager like myself knows how to communicate with elders and respects my status in this vast universe does not mean I have "lost my childhood" or "grew up too fast". I think I am growing up just right--above the influence and embracing my youth, being a stereotype buster for the rest of the teenage generation.
So, are these teenage traits something future generations want to live among in years to come? I certainly do not want to see my child ruin their life with a lack of class, low depth, and drug use, but I also am not going to go Nazi-mom and push them into insanity... but that's for another blog post another day. Any teenage attitudes that make you tick? Email me and tell me your thoughts.
This was a disappointment. The first frappuccino I have tried that I truly could not even stand enough to finish it, is sadly the green tea.
Generally not a tea fan, silly me thought: "Oh, maybe they make it more mild than actual tea!" Well, that was true to an extent, but not by much. This frappuccino is ideally crafted for a tea-drinker, that loves the herbal tingles on their tastebuds.
To me, it was like drinking a naturopathic medicine, or perhaps chewing on some seaweed. I was very unimpressed, and ended up throwing it away after several sips.
As I sit here and type yet again another blog entry, I am recuperating from a two-day annual event that my city hosts: huge art show/parade of many cultures and walks of life. These two days are seemingly the only two days out of each year that I truly feel *a part of* my city in all its tarnishes and joys.
I can confidently say I am a weary young woman wandering through a city of many petals--some bad, and some good, all exposed in full bloom like a dandelion, trying to find the place she will settle. I have met open hearts, and closed minds. I have met the lightest spirits, and the darkest souls. Through my journey, I have found one thing to be true: I will always belong.
To me, "to belong" is the reassurance of love, acceptance, and happiness in wherever you decide to stay, to a point it feels entirely right. My city holds just that for me. The morals of those around me may frustrate and disappoint me, and the burdened minds may throw me off, but while I may not fit in, I will always belong.
My city holds a special spark not many others do. My city is crafted by Mother Earth in a unique, simply perfect way, as if She never had to try. There is never a more flawless destination for compassion, equality, or togetherness. This Earth Day, I thank God for the planet, country, state, and city I am a part of. I may never understand the viewpoints of majority, nor will I ever give up the fight of our minority, but I belong. On this Earth, in America, and in the Pacific Northwest.
Bellingham, Washington, home to many travelers, happy, wholesome families, and bustling, optimistic College kids. A great vacation destination with quaint locations filled with many opportunities, including the refurbished, old Fairhaven district.
LODGING: The Quality Inn Baron Suites 100 East Kellogg Road Bellingham, WA 98226 A affordable, friendly hotel with seasonal pool, nearly year-round hot tub, and one of the most varied continental breakfasts I've ever seen. I give it 3/5 stars--a must-stay if you are spending a quiet weekend.
FOOD: red.berry 202 East Holly Bellingham, WA 98226 Deliciously delectable frozen yogurt shop. Pick your flavor of yogurt, then top it off with fresh fruits, berries, and sweet treats. Bargain spend for a quick snack that will leave your tastebuds tingling for more!
Fiamma Wood-fired Pizza 200 East Chestnut Street Bellingham, WA 98225-5003 One of the best pizzerias in town! Known for their famous rosemary lemonade and authentic, wood-fired pizza, Fiamma will never disappoint. Just a heads up: don't ask them to split a salad (you will know what I mean once you read the menu!). Consider making reservations ahead of time.
Mallard's Ice Cream 1323 Railroad Avenue Bellingham, WA 98225-4722 The craziest flavors aside from "pistachio" (they have that, too!), Mallard's adds a unique twist to what we call "normal" ice cream. In their new location, Mallard's is a hot-spot for all ages, and a tiny piece of what makes Bellingham so creative. Within a few-block walking distance of Fiamma Wood-fired Pizza!
Farmer's Market Saturday Market Downtown, Depot Market Square Railroad & Chestnut Streets Wednesday Market Fairhaven, Village Green Mill Street A great family spot with all-natural veggies, fruits, and grains. Creative knick-knacks, booths, and fresh, warm food from all different cultures.
Food Co-Op 1220 North Forest Street, Bellingham Like many other food co-ops around the area, this store has an outstanding variety of organic and natural foods for the ultimate health nut, along with delicious ready-made salads, sandwiches, and hot dishes for a lunch to go (or eat in the cafe!).
Pepper Sisters 1055 North State Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Deliciously HOT Mexican food. Authentic, unique, and will have you craving more (even when you are too full)! Don't go here if you have a sensitive tongue, or at least order your food very mildly spicy!
ATTRACTIONS/SHOPS: American Museum of Radio & Electricity 1312 Bay Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Want to know a bit more information on where or why all this electricity, radio, and T.V. nonsense came about? This museum is the 4-1-1 center of all things electronic! A perfect destination for those who know nothing, a little, or are a pro radio expert. * AMORAE also runs their own radio set-up with an extensive storage of radios and booklets on the 2nd level that will shock any HAM operator.
Marine Life Center 1801 Roeder Avenue # 100 Bellingham, WA 98225-2200 A quaint building with a wide selection of sea creatures from the deep! You can find everything from crabs to jellyfish, sea urchins to octopus located within an observation pool, touch pool, eelgrass aquarium, octopus tank, and rocky shore habitat. A great family option with a mere $2 suggested donation per person!
For The Love of Hospice 1051 N. State St. Bellingham, WA 98225 A small, cute boutique-type thrift store was opened here on State Street, right next door to infamous Pepper Sisters restaurant by a nurse who had a mission to support the local Whatcom Hospice organization. Extremely reasonably-priced items for quality and good use, sold by compassionate individuals who care about their cause. /FAIRHAVEN/
Village Books & Cafe 1200 Eleventh Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Village Books always has something for everyone: every age, and every mindset. Friendly staff, reasonable pricing, and spacious interiors are only some of the reasons Village Books remains Fairhaven's treasure. Proceed up the elevator to an open cafe, restaurant, and free Wi-Fi location for all to overlook the charming, old-fashioned Fairhaven district.
Paper Dreams 1206 11th Street Bellingham, WA 98225-7066 Attached to Village Books, Paper Dreams is your one-stop shop for all things creative: journals, stationary, wrapping paper, even a plethora of greeting cards and knick-knacks are up for the taking. A bit more on the pricey end, you may want to visit with a full wallet.
As an update for my 79 Thing's "Form an Exercise Routine" post, I figured I would share what has been trimming the knooks and crannies for me lately.
Back in January, I wrapped my hair into a high ponytail and strapped on my sneakers, popping a water bottle into my bag, and driving off to the Gym. For the first time, I had a set mind on burning calories and forming a regular Gym routine.
The four equipment pieces above are what I use the most in my workouts, unless I am taking an occasional hour-long yoga class on Sunday mornings with mom. The treadmill, abdominals, bicycle, and rower. I love to spend at least 25 minutes on these each week day, sometimes half an hour if I am free.
Having a consistent workout schedule has been wonderful and has kept me refreshed in the worst of days. It is a huge stress reliever for me, and very helpful to get some of the "down time" I need to read for classes that I don't typically find interest in.
This post is part of the category "79 Things". Click to see the complete series of 79 Things.
About a month ago, a chain overwhelmed my Facebook.com feed, stating that: "It's Special Education Week! Special needs kids are not sick or gross, they only want what we all want: to be accepted. You never understand a situation until you are faced with it. This is in honor of all the children made in a unique way!" While this year-old status statement has a sweet sentiment, this upset me the utmost, due to the close ties I have with developmentally disabled individuals.
You see... I don't think there is such a thing as "Special Education Week"--what is that? A week when "normal people" are educated on "special people"? Yikes. Hey, honest and fair kudos to all of you who admirably posted this as your Facebook status in support of fair acceptance for all, but developmentally disabled people are no different from say, homosexual people, or African-American people, who always deserved their full rights, but are (or were) disgustingly prohibited of them within society in different, countless ways. In my opinion, because of the way this hoax is worded, it could make these individuals even more embarrassed to be who they are.
Opinion # 1: While there is no defined "normal" on our vast earth enriched with diverse cultures, take a look at the sentence: "This is in honor of all the children made in a unique way." You are kidding, right? Every child is made in a unique way! Could that line be any more degrading? Or how about the sentence, "You never understand a situation until you are faced with it." Which is correct, obviously, because we all lead different lifestyles. Because of that fact, however, what does someone who has never experienced (assuming the person who created this hoax has no disability) being "special needs" rightfully have to prove in such a claiming statement? Do you really think all "special needs" kids have such a horrible life? If the author is hinting at bullying and torment, most kids are bullied--not just "unique" kids. This sentence seems to reinforce the ignorance on the topic, while the entire paragraph's point is trying to break down barriers.
Opinion #2: I'll make this situation personal. I sure as heck would not want someone posting: "Adopted people aren't all lonely or suffering from abandonment, quit listening to stereotypes and please be their friend. Post this in support of the kids whose families had to give them up! This is Adoption Appreciation Week!" That is just silly, right? Well, sadly that ignorance around both adoption and foster care systems truly is a pressing issue in society today. I, myself, do not feel better reading "support" in that context; I feel like a loser that deserves to be celebrated in a way that is blatantly talked down to.
Opinion #3: Now, I have my own learning disabilities, but I am not affected as much as some, in particularly genetic-related disabilities. Personally, when I hear the term "special needs", I pretty much hear "nigger", similar as in a reference to African-Americans. Sure, "retarded" is much worse, but just say "developmental disability" or "genetic disorder", because that is truly all it is! You wouldn't tell someone with cerebral palsy to their face that they have "special needs" and need to be recognized or accepted, now would you? They are not dumb, and a LOT of them are on Facebook! They function extremely similar, and know when we say "special" in that context, it is not a naturally positive phrase in society.
I will always back the equal rights of safety and peace for developmentally disabled children, or educationally challenged individuals like myself. What I won't do is sign any petition or spread hoaxes about how "special" or "needy of acceptance" they are. Acceptance is a given, not a negotiation.
Well, the first cold of the year hit me. Not just any cold: THE FLU! After a wonderful weekend in Bellingham, Washington, my body decided it had put up with enough of the every day routine stressors. I wanted to provide a few of the product names and tips and tricks I have discovered to be very effective in speeding up the process of a lingering cold and painful moments.
A cold wash-cloth is a must have. When I'm sick, I like to have numerous blankets that I can switch on and off depending upon my temperature, and I always remember to keep that thermometer close by! Personally, I cannot stand Airborne, so I usually consume a couple Chinese herbal, homeopathic remedies when I feel the cold symptoms coming on.
I love a new lozenge "Chloraseptic", which may not be the most pleasant taste, but numbs your sore throat for nearly the entire day, with the help of Cold-Eeze, and regular lozenges (personal favorite brand: Ricola, flavor Honey Herb). Other things to help a sore throat? The infamous tea with lemon juice and honey, popsicles, and my all-time favorite: hot Thai coconut broth soup!
One of the small, special things I discovered while in Bellingham is the frozen yogurt hotspot, red.berry! Ranging from 3-6 dollars, customers can pick their chosen flavor of yogurt, and top it with chocolate or fruity treats.
I picked the original flavor with blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries. Along with the delicious treat, the cafe-like setting is easy on the eyes, modern and hip decor, with magazines and flower accents.
My favorite place to visit while in Bellingham, Washington, is the wood fire pizzeria, Fiamma. It is consistently a "hot spot", so I recommend getting there early, around 5, or later, around 7. Fiamma cooks much more than just pizza, it spices up and adds delicious flavor to pasta, heavy salads, and paninis. With a little bit of everything, this will cure hunger for the vegetarian, and the omnivore.
Tonight, I ordered the delicious Greek Havoc and Veggie Fiona pizzas (mind you, there were 4 other people with me). Greek Havoc is a thick layer of cheese, stuffed with veggies such as red peppers, black olives, artichokes, and more. The Veggie Fiona impressed me the least, coated with rosemary leafs and spicy sauce. It is topped off with kalamata olives and tasty thin cheese. What's that, peaking out from the corner with a lemon wedge, you ask?
Their infamous (and delicious) rosemary lemonade.
Whether you're there for a soda, or a pizza to go, you will never be disappointed in Fiamma: Wood Fire Pizza! It is located on East Chestnut Street in Bellingham, Washington's downtown district.
"Mr. Right is waiting for me. I'll find him someday."
Those were the words I spoke just two years ago while participating in my skating rink's show camp. While nearing the end of my teenage years and applying for Colleges, moving on with my big life isn't easy, but necessary, and that includes the dating scene.
They say most people have "a type". I suppose I did. I used to date "cute", brunette boys who were loud, smartasses, and could make me laugh constantly. Unfortunately, many of them suffered depression and/or emotional shutdown before I had met them. I didn't pay attention to the trust level as much, but still yearned for a relationship where I felt needed and loved.
Now? I date a beautifully classy, young man who is tender with my feelings, a listener, and puts up with my crazy beliefs. We have a healthy, 50-50 relationship, laugh almost non-stop, and always have bright smiles on our faces. While he might be down-in-the-dumps for a little while, he takes steps to change and work through his feelings, just as I do. Did I find my Mr. Right? Well, not exactly. He's more of a "Mr. Maybe"--a man that can cause you to consider a marriage, children, and the white picket-fence, but who you are involved with within the time period of constant change and growth... certainly not the time to decide.
As for Mr. Right? I'll still find him someday. Or maybe, I already have.
I want to remind you all today to embrace yourself, your body, and your heart, and work on mending the insecurities within. You are you, and there will never be anyone like you. Be yourself as best you can celebrate, and be beautiful in your own way.
What a day! I spent last Wednesday with some of the most wonderful classmates, setting up, relaxing, and running a successful project showcase from 9A.M. to 6P.M.
I thought I would share some of the art with you all!
Yesterday was a big day. I was pleased to receive an invitation to a girls lunch out with my boyfriend's family. Meeting the boyfriend's family is a big step, even for us kids who choose to date more strictly than others our age.
It was a delicious lunch and a wonderfully warm feeling for my heart, being able to be surrounded by some beautiful and hilarious women.
As a side note, I wanted to mention three of the best delicacies I have come across recently--the "pick-three-for-$7.99" or "one-for-$2.99" (approx.) mini cake dishes from the Olive Garden restaurant. They come in flavors such as tiramisu, double chocolate, strawberry, lemon, and more. Go check them out!
My biggest adventure lately has been my indulgence in artwork--drawing to be exact. While I am not the best young artist by any means, let alone even in the top 10,000, I enjoy doodling, sketching, and creating pieces inspired by serenity and the beautiful individuals within my life.
The pieces to the left (from top to bottom): a cartoon-inspired portrait of boyfriend Mark, portrait of a teenage woman, sketch of dandelions blowing in the wind, and a crosshatch ink drawing replica of a woman draped over a bed, titled "The Morning After"--a painting from a magazine.
I was introduced to the concept of artwork within pre-school, creating personal projects with pencils, crayons, paint, or rather anything I could get my hands on.
For me, the therapeutic side of artwork is what makes me come back time after time. Being able to sit down with some good pencils and draw something that represents your emotions is one of my favorite things to do.
I was a baby born in the small town of Fresno, California, to a beautiful young lady named Melissa. We lived humbly, I assume, with much tender care, as she was a young mother with little direction of where to go next. She realized she could not raise me alone, and my thoughtless father had left us.
Two mature and well educated individuals with unfortunate genetic reproductive complications, were awaiting me in Washington after a long and emotional journey through the adoption system.
This childhood that landed ahead of me held many ups, and many downs. Throughout it all, these two individuals have been the strongest and most powerful forces to keep me going, and I am immensely proud to call them "my parents". I would not have my life any other way, and while my adoption has brought me a tough battle, it has taught me so much more about my deepest desires and callings.
Due to my grandmother's recent passing, I will have to gradually leave behind one of my favorite cities. A place I have called home for all my life: Lincoln City, Oregon.
Resting gently among the beach, Lincoln City is filled to the brim with happiness, solitude, and friendly people. A quaint town with antique stores, a small movie theater and factory outlet, not forgetting the delicious (and authentic) salt water taffy.
