Now that school is well underway and friendships are reconvened, I'm hearing more and more fat talk. It's easy to get together with your girlfriends and say "oh, you know, I should really cut back on my calories," or something like that. Maybe that's true. Maybe you shouldn't have eaten that second, third, sixth cookie last night while reading boring AP Econ notes, but that was one day out of 365. It doesn't make you automatically "fat."
Speaking of which, whether you're bigger or not is completely besides the point. What the scale says DOES NOT MATTER! How else can I get this through your thick skull? For real. If you feel comfortable with yourself, if you're eating a healthy and balanced diet, and if you're exercising regularly that's all anyone can ever ask of you, and that's all you should ask of yourself.
It's unhealthy to skip meals. In the long run yes, you'll probably lose some weight. But that is so unhealthy. And isn't that the opposite of what you're trying to do? Skipping meals slows down your metabolism. And if you're like me, and you have zero self control when it comes to food, you'll probably just end up pigging out on a bag of candy corn later that night while reading Lord of the Flies.
So, have I convinced you to drop the "I'm on a diet" speech? Because I'm not going to listen to you whine about how you've consumed too many calories in the past few days.
On a side note: I know that counting calories works for some people. If you know how many calories you need to consume in a day to stay at a consistent body weight or whatnot - go for it. Count all you want. Just don't live your life by it. I know if I were to count calories I'd drive myself insane.
To begin our "healthy journey" out of the land of calories, diets, etc. I start by grabbing some fruit in the mornings. I've gotten into a wonderful habit of eating frozen berries, yogurt, and raw oatmeal, which fills me up just enough and is super good for me. When I get the munchies during school, I grab an apple to tide me over until lunch - great way to get in another fruit/vegetable.
Like a lot of schools around the country, we've morphed into eating only what's good for us (sarcasm). The only upside I see to this is it's easy for me to eat two more produce items with my lunch, which puts me up to four! And it isn't even one o'clock yet. See what I'm doing here?
Plan your meals around fruit and vegetables, add on some whole grains, and never forget to eat a little protein (it helps keep you feeling full longer).
Got it? Produce. Whole grains. Less meat, but enough protein. Lots of water.
Oh, and NO MORE DIETS!
Monday, September 17, 2012
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Feminism at the grocery store.
Pet peeve: when women give up and let a man take care of things.
I told myself that I wouldn't post anything about my job, but we all know that plan wouldn't pan out, now didn't we? I work at a grocery store. I courtesy around, picking up odds and ends, making everything look pretty, and bagging your food for you to gorge yourself on later.
Being my first job, I can't say that it's a particularly appealing profession in the long run. To those who do go into the grocer-ing business, I applaud you. I've heard you people can end up making a lot of money and work your way up sky high. I wish you the best of luck, but it will never be for me. When I walk into work I always try to remind myself how lucky I am to have a job. Not only because of the crappy economy, but also because a few decades ago it would have been seen as "unfeminine" for me to be working. Or something like that.
Which brings me to my next point. Women have come a long way in the past century. We've won the right to vote, we can run for government positions, we are able to work our way up in life without depending on others to provide for us. Basically, we are freaking rock stars. So why is it that some women feel the need to put themselves back into that box of dependency?
Part of my job is bringing in shopping carts after they're discarded in the parking lot. Yes, at times it is physically taxing. But it's not all that bad. It's a beautiful day! It's a chance to get away from customers! (Seriously though, love you guys.) It's an opportunity to move around instead of waiting for something to happen. (That's not quite true. For heaven sakes, I work at a grocery store. Busy, busy, busy!)
Today, however, a woman was stepping into her car when she saw me struggling to get a couple carts unstuck. Before taking off she said, "They shouldn't make the girls do that. Bring the boys out here."
Well goodness me, I wasn't aware that I was incapable of manual labor!
But for real, why? Why do you want to go back to a way of life that puts women at the bottom of the food chain? I enjoy opportunities just as much as the next guy.
In her defense she isn't the first one to say something like that to me. I was once vacuuming the entryways when a man came in and told me that I was going to make a wonderful housewife. If I hadn't begun the whirling of the vacuum again I'm sure I would have said somethings to that man that would certainly have come back to bite me later. It isn't his fault he's stuck in the fifties.
I just don't understand. Don't say you want equality and then sit back and let some man carry the load when you know you can do the job a whole lot better. Get out there and bring in your own carts.
I told myself that I wouldn't post anything about my job, but we all know that plan wouldn't pan out, now didn't we? I work at a grocery store. I courtesy around, picking up odds and ends, making everything look pretty, and bagging your food for you to gorge yourself on later.
Being my first job, I can't say that it's a particularly appealing profession in the long run. To those who do go into the grocer-ing business, I applaud you. I've heard you people can end up making a lot of money and work your way up sky high. I wish you the best of luck, but it will never be for me. When I walk into work I always try to remind myself how lucky I am to have a job. Not only because of the crappy economy, but also because a few decades ago it would have been seen as "unfeminine" for me to be working. Or something like that.
Which brings me to my next point. Women have come a long way in the past century. We've won the right to vote, we can run for government positions, we are able to work our way up in life without depending on others to provide for us. Basically, we are freaking rock stars. So why is it that some women feel the need to put themselves back into that box of dependency?
Part of my job is bringing in shopping carts after they're discarded in the parking lot. Yes, at times it is physically taxing. But it's not all that bad. It's a beautiful day! It's a chance to get away from customers! (Seriously though, love you guys.) It's an opportunity to move around instead of waiting for something to happen. (That's not quite true. For heaven sakes, I work at a grocery store. Busy, busy, busy!)
Today, however, a woman was stepping into her car when she saw me struggling to get a couple carts unstuck. Before taking off she said, "They shouldn't make the girls do that. Bring the boys out here."
Well goodness me, I wasn't aware that I was incapable of manual labor!
But for real, why? Why do you want to go back to a way of life that puts women at the bottom of the food chain? I enjoy opportunities just as much as the next guy.
In her defense she isn't the first one to say something like that to me. I was once vacuuming the entryways when a man came in and told me that I was going to make a wonderful housewife. If I hadn't begun the whirling of the vacuum again I'm sure I would have said somethings to that man that would certainly have come back to bite me later. It isn't his fault he's stuck in the fifties.
I just don't understand. Don't say you want equality and then sit back and let some man carry the load when you know you can do the job a whole lot better. Get out there and bring in your own carts.
Monday, September 3, 2012
Under Attack
It's time for a little bit of honestly. There's a reason I haven't posted for a while. Senior year has begun, and I'm ready for it to be totally awesome. So far nothing exciting has happened. Last year I felt like I really sort of discovered who I am. That may sound totally cliche, but I really got involved in the things that I'm most passionate about. I had found a totally great relationship with God, and I was able to share Him with the people around me. I also did a lot of research on "body hate," and realized that we have a choice in the way we preceive ourselves. And I got into running. Which was totally awesome, and I had the best time of my life crossing those finish lines.
And then the finish lines were behind me, AP Lang blogging was over, I had let my relationship with God fall apart, and I just felt a little stranded. I'm not sure how else to explain it. Even though nothing major happened, my perspective shifted and everything I new to be concrete shifted with it.
This song has been playing on the radio a lot lately. I haven't got it all figured out yet, and I never will, but this song always reminds me that God will always love us. No matter what we do, no matter who we were before or who we are now, we can always come back to Him.
And then the finish lines were behind me, AP Lang blogging was over, I had let my relationship with God fall apart, and I just felt a little stranded. I'm not sure how else to explain it. Even though nothing major happened, my perspective shifted and everything I new to be concrete shifted with it.
This song has been playing on the radio a lot lately. I haven't got it all figured out yet, and I never will, but this song always reminds me that God will always love us. No matter what we do, no matter who we were before or who we are now, we can always come back to Him.
"For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, now things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:38-39
I'm still having a hard time at it. I don't know why God feels so far away right now. But I know that He still loves me. And He loves you too! We just have to trust Him. He's not promising that everything is going to turn out all right, but He is promising to always be there for us.
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Say Cheese!
For those of us who have been or are seniors, we all know the stressful-ness of getting everything done that ought to have been done months ago. I am just beginning to experience this type of procrastination. Yep, that's right, senior pictures! I just got them taken, like today, just. And I would like to say one thing - there is wayyy too much pressure put on the "perfect" senior photos.
All week I have totally been freaking out about my appearance. Every little detail that I found a nuisance has been blown out of proportion into a full fledged "ugly". Starting with my hair. Everyone has good and bad hair days, and I am learning to enjoy my natural hair style. There's only one problem. Once it dries, that's the way it's going to look for the day, good or bad. And with all this nice weather we're having, my hair has been drying pretty flat. Which has been stressing me out all week long! I wake up, look in the mirror, and complain, complain, complain about my hair. I probably asked my mother a thousand times what I should do if it turns out bad.
That's just one of the many things I've been fat talking myself about this week. My teeth are crooked. My eyes are too close together. I'm too pale, for heaven sakes it's summer! And goodness, gracious, I have no idea how to pose for a picture. No modeling in my future. That's a joke. I'm too short, and not skinny enough, and it goes on and on and on.
But then this morning came, and I woke up two hours early. Went through all the steps to ready myself in the morning. Voila! Fret about outfits some more. Look at myself in the mirror twelve hundred times. Check to make sure my makeup wasn't smudged. All the worrying comes down to a couple hours of harmless photography.
To wrap this all up, the right photographer can make you forget all your worries. Once we started snapping pictures, I was no longer thinking about if they were going to turn out alright. Besides, these pictures aren't for the "today". They're to remember the yesterday ten/twenty years from now. And I hope that when I look back I won't think, "Man, look how crazy my hair was!" but I'll be remembering how happy and special my teenage years were.
So if you're in the midst of a modeling session just remember: You are so beautiful! No hairstyle, number on the scale, makeup smudge, or pant size can change that.
All week I have totally been freaking out about my appearance. Every little detail that I found a nuisance has been blown out of proportion into a full fledged "ugly". Starting with my hair. Everyone has good and bad hair days, and I am learning to enjoy my natural hair style. There's only one problem. Once it dries, that's the way it's going to look for the day, good or bad. And with all this nice weather we're having, my hair has been drying pretty flat. Which has been stressing me out all week long! I wake up, look in the mirror, and complain, complain, complain about my hair. I probably asked my mother a thousand times what I should do if it turns out bad.
That's just one of the many things I've been fat talking myself about this week. My teeth are crooked. My eyes are too close together. I'm too pale, for heaven sakes it's summer! And goodness, gracious, I have no idea how to pose for a picture. No modeling in my future. That's a joke. I'm too short, and not skinny enough, and it goes on and on and on.
But then this morning came, and I woke up two hours early. Went through all the steps to ready myself in the morning. Voila! Fret about outfits some more. Look at myself in the mirror twelve hundred times. Check to make sure my makeup wasn't smudged. All the worrying comes down to a couple hours of harmless photography.
To wrap this all up, the right photographer can make you forget all your worries. Once we started snapping pictures, I was no longer thinking about if they were going to turn out alright. Besides, these pictures aren't for the "today". They're to remember the yesterday ten/twenty years from now. And I hope that when I look back I won't think, "Man, look how crazy my hair was!" but I'll be remembering how happy and special my teenage years were.
So if you're in the midst of a modeling session just remember: You are so beautiful! No hairstyle, number on the scale, makeup smudge, or pant size can change that.
Sunday, August 12, 2012
Good Ol' Iowa State Fair
Let me begin by saying this: I am in no way, nor will I ever be a country girl. The Fair is a new world to my city-bred eyes. I had no idea cows were so big! And I made sure to cover my nose and mouth when we passed the pigs - you know, swine flu outbreaks and all. But really, I had a great time at the Fair. Apparently I've been there before? I can't remember anything but a giant pig that I was sure would swallow me whole had he the chance.
When you go to the Iowa State Fair, three fourths the experience is in the food. For real. Throwing caution to the wind, I leapt upon the chance to try greasy, deep fried dishes that are sure to stop your heart. If you ever get the chance to try fried macaroni and cheese go for it! No hesitation. Best decision I have ever made. Seriously good. That, and a German Chocolate funnel cake consisted of my dinner. I don't normally like funnel cakes, but my friend and I inhaled the entire thing in five minutes flat. Because if you're going to put cake in a funnel you might as well make it German Chocolate.
Now let me get to the real reason why, of all people, I ended up at the Fair. Concert. Yep. My first official, tickets-with-seating-on-them concert. And yes, it was Toby Mac. For those of you who live in a hole, Toby Mac is a Christian rapper artist who is totally awesome.
When you go to the Iowa State Fair, three fourths the experience is in the food. For real. Throwing caution to the wind, I leapt upon the chance to try greasy, deep fried dishes that are sure to stop your heart. If you ever get the chance to try fried macaroni and cheese go for it! No hesitation. Best decision I have ever made. Seriously good. That, and a German Chocolate funnel cake consisted of my dinner. I don't normally like funnel cakes, but my friend and I inhaled the entire thing in five minutes flat. Because if you're going to put cake in a funnel you might as well make it German Chocolate.
Now let me get to the real reason why, of all people, I ended up at the Fair. Concert. Yep. My first official, tickets-with-seating-on-them concert. And yes, it was Toby Mac. For those of you who live in a hole, Toby Mac is a Christian rapper artist who is totally awesome.
The other two bands that played were Jamie Grace, who is a fairly new artist, and Tenth Avenue North. You may know Jamie Grace's song Hold Me:
She's pretty awesome too. When she was up on stage she was talking about getting some bad feedback for having love songs on her CD. Her response? Why shouldn't a twenty one year old, Christian girl write love songs? Why do they have to be about anyone other than God, who will always remain her first love? So awesome!
And then Tenth Avenue North took the stage and I went berserk. I love them so much! Their stories that they told while on stage stuck out to me the most. The lead singer talked about how you can't define yourself by your accomplishments. They weren't their songs or their talents, but God's People. Jesus' Children who He died for. Secular performers worship themselves while on stage. These guys - they were totally and completely giving their all for God.
Sitting in the middle of the fairgrounds I was able to find God. In the midst of all the chaos of the world, I was able to worship God. It was so amazing. The whole time I was sitting there so thankful to have the opportunity to believe in the God who created me. We have the freedom to worship, and that is truly awesome.
Sunday, August 5, 2012
Beautiful Things
When I was around six years old, I asked my mother about sin. I wanted to make sure I was going to make it to heaven. Not to meantion, I was feeling a little guilty that day for making my sister cry. I had asked God over and over again, "Please forgive my sin" afraid that he couldn't hear me or that I was being insincere. When my mother told me that we had to ask God to forgive our specific sin I quickly got to work, sitting on the back porch stairs, naming off every misdemeanour I could remember, always worried that I had forgotten something.
We all worry about sin. For those of you who don't believe in God, why do you feel guilty when you do something wrong? A lot of the time when I invite a friend to church the immediate response is that God will strike them with lightening for stepping into His House because they know they aren't right with God. You were created with a desire to know Christ. Whether you want to or not, you feel guilty for your sins. That's called the Holy Spirit, people. Like our God-given conscious. It's a thing.
You can't get right with God until you believe He can forgive you of your sins. Until you mean all the "I'm sorry's" and the "I won't do it again's," He's waiting to forgive you. He's waiting for you to love Him. Because trust me, He already loves you.
John 10:10 says, "I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly."
Jesus died to give you life. Eternal life. "For all have sinned and fall short of the Glory of God" (Romans 3:23) but God sent His Son, Jesus, to die on a cross, one of the most gruesome and humble deaths; He took your sins, before you were created, and took them upon Himself, so that you may be forgiven.
If you ask.
Romans 5:8 says, "But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."
The other day I was sitting in service listening to a missionary speak. He lives in Haiti with his family. He talked about how Haitians are pained at being known as one of the poorest countries in the world. Mass graves, now overgrown with wild grass, hold the bodies of the victims of the earthquake. Entire villages are living out of tents around the rubble. Yet, out of all the destruction and hurt, brokenness creates healing and beauty.
Brokenness creates healing and beauty. I love that.
Jesus wants you to come to Him just as you are. Brokenness and all. "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Accept.
Believe.
Confess.
Revelations 3:20 says, "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in."
We all worry about sin. For those of you who don't believe in God, why do you feel guilty when you do something wrong? A lot of the time when I invite a friend to church the immediate response is that God will strike them with lightening for stepping into His House because they know they aren't right with God. You were created with a desire to know Christ. Whether you want to or not, you feel guilty for your sins. That's called the Holy Spirit, people. Like our God-given conscious. It's a thing.
You can't get right with God until you believe He can forgive you of your sins. Until you mean all the "I'm sorry's" and the "I won't do it again's," He's waiting to forgive you. He's waiting for you to love Him. Because trust me, He already loves you.
John 10:10 says, "I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly."
Jesus died to give you life. Eternal life. "For all have sinned and fall short of the Glory of God" (Romans 3:23) but God sent His Son, Jesus, to die on a cross, one of the most gruesome and humble deaths; He took your sins, before you were created, and took them upon Himself, so that you may be forgiven.
If you ask.
Romans 5:8 says, "But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."
The other day I was sitting in service listening to a missionary speak. He lives in Haiti with his family. He talked about how Haitians are pained at being known as one of the poorest countries in the world. Mass graves, now overgrown with wild grass, hold the bodies of the victims of the earthquake. Entire villages are living out of tents around the rubble. Yet, out of all the destruction and hurt, brokenness creates healing and beauty.
Brokenness creates healing and beauty. I love that.
Jesus wants you to come to Him just as you are. Brokenness and all. "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Accept.
Believe.
Confess.
Revelations 3:20 says, "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in."
You have to make the choice. Jesus is waiting. And He loves you.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Disconnect.
First order of business, happy August everyone!
Second, I am happy to assure you that I did not fall off the face of the earth. As silly as it may seem, I've been kind of off in my own little world. I have been entirely unmotivated to do anything, and in doing so have wasted some of the precious weeks left of summer. No more! This is me, motivation and all, writing to you about my life. Aren't you lucky?
You may remember my babbling last year about my infamous Camp Table Rock? Back to the archives we go. Let me remind you: Fun in the Son: Year Four, Back to Missouri, Knowing Your Faith, Proving the Truth, Seeing the Face of God, Go Light The World. Because camp has a certain repetitive aspect to it, I won't bore you with the exciting details of my adventure this year. But I will say this, my fifth year as a camper at Fun in the Son has been just as great as the last four. The seminars this year were over Evangelism. This is the second year I have heard this seminar, but I learned as much this year as I did the previous.
At the beginning of the week we filled out a witnessing questionnaire. The gist of it is this: we were all created with a desire to know about Christ, God will not be disappointed if we give our all in presenting the Gospel, we are successful witnesses even when the other person does not accept Christ, people do care what God has done in your life, and it is our responsibility to share God with those around us and make sure that those lead to Christ are discipled in their walk with God.
One of the verses that really stuck out to me this year is Acts 26:17-18, which says, "I am sending you to them to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in Me." Last year I really got into the evangelism kick, especially when it came to my classmates; however, now that I look back I'm not sure I was doing it for the right reasons. It is our responsibility as Christians to share God's Word with those around us, despite the consequences. James 1:22 says, "Do not merely listen to the Word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says." The Bible says to share God's love and message with is people. James 4:17, "Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins." You know what you have to do. Go change the world for Christ.
Second, I am happy to assure you that I did not fall off the face of the earth. As silly as it may seem, I've been kind of off in my own little world. I have been entirely unmotivated to do anything, and in doing so have wasted some of the precious weeks left of summer. No more! This is me, motivation and all, writing to you about my life. Aren't you lucky?
You may remember my babbling last year about my infamous Camp Table Rock? Back to the archives we go. Let me remind you: Fun in the Son: Year Four, Back to Missouri, Knowing Your Faith, Proving the Truth, Seeing the Face of God, Go Light The World. Because camp has a certain repetitive aspect to it, I won't bore you with the exciting details of my adventure this year. But I will say this, my fifth year as a camper at Fun in the Son has been just as great as the last four. The seminars this year were over Evangelism. This is the second year I have heard this seminar, but I learned as much this year as I did the previous.
At the beginning of the week we filled out a witnessing questionnaire. The gist of it is this: we were all created with a desire to know about Christ, God will not be disappointed if we give our all in presenting the Gospel, we are successful witnesses even when the other person does not accept Christ, people do care what God has done in your life, and it is our responsibility to share God with those around us and make sure that those lead to Christ are discipled in their walk with God.
One of the verses that really stuck out to me this year is Acts 26:17-18, which says, "I am sending you to them to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in Me." Last year I really got into the evangelism kick, especially when it came to my classmates; however, now that I look back I'm not sure I was doing it for the right reasons. It is our responsibility as Christians to share God's Word with those around us, despite the consequences. James 1:22 says, "Do not merely listen to the Word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says." The Bible says to share God's love and message with is people. James 4:17, "Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins." You know what you have to do. Go change the world for Christ.
Friday, July 6, 2012
Motivation.
You know how I was so incredibly exited about my summer to-do list? Yeah, I regret that.
Crash and burn, my friend.
I have a tendency to get so involved in an activity without thinking it through all the way. This turned out all right for my first half-marathon, but I'm just not feeling the motivation that I should right now.
Let's start with my list. What I have accomplished: I have read wayy over the amount of fiction books I wanted to get through this summer. Currently I'm re-reading Gone With the Wind. Good choice! But that's about the only thing I've accomplished this summer. Bummer.
That's not entirely true. I did start volleyball practice again! I'm always really nervous and stressed out at the beginning of the season, but after a week or two I remember how much I love to play. It's crazy how easy it is to forget my love of volleyball. Which leads me to my next point. With all this volleyball-in' I haven't exactly had the energy to run. Not to mention it's 100 degrees every day of the week. Stupid heat wave! So I've been feeling pretty out of the loop lately. The furthest I've run since my half was five miles, and that was about a month ago. So, I think it's time to rethink my priorities.
After I ran my 10k and half-marathon I was so pumped up and ready for the next race. This surprised even me because, like I said before, I didn't think of myself as someone who would live from race to race. Turns out, I was right. I need some down time. I've known this for quite a while now, I just didn't want to admit it to myself. I feel like I'm always failing, and as running is the one thing I thought I might be decent at, it's put me in a depressed mood. Sometimes you just have to realize enough is enough. I run because I like to be active and healthy. Now that I'm playing volleyball again, I feel like I'm going into double time. Especially with the heat, I'm just plain worn out. So, maybe I'll sign up for a 10k or maybe even a 5k. I just need to take my runs a little easier than I intended.
Something that drives me crazy about running: I feel like every time I take a few weeks off I have to start over from scratch again. It's sooo disappointing! On the up side, you always have something to work towards. I still love to run, and plan on running for as long as my body allows me.
Oh, and about my hundred page narrative that I was writing, that hasn't happened either.
How has your summer turned out differently than planned?
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Good Old Vitamin D
My mother watched me through the glass of the mirror as I was applying aloe vera to my lobster-esque skin. As mother's everywhere do when they see their daughters scrutinize their reflections she told me I looked beautiful. "I hate that I see it this way, but I find tan skin so beautiful," she commented. I looked up at my bronzed face and attomatically thought, "If beauty hurts, we're doing it wrong."
A hundred years ago tan skin was a sign of bad breeding. If you were tan that meant you worked in the sun, which implied that your family was poor. Hats, gloves, and parasols covered the ladies and shield them from being considered lower class citizens. Fair skin was beautiful. What happened?
From what I have gathered, it was the 1920 when Coco Chanel, a French designer, arrived home from a yacht party with a deep suntan. Being famous, she of course set the new trend of "tan." Bikinies arrived in the fifties along with self-tanning products of bronzer and brown creames. Of course, with short summer months, the tan didn't last longer than days of sunshine. Well somewhere along the line the brilliant idea of tanning salons began. In the eighties the world saw the first tanning beds which have only grown up until now. And this, my dear friends, is the new idea of beautiful.
It's true that sunshine makes you happy like chocolate. But did you know that it only takes your skin fifteen minutes each day in the sun to soak up all the vitamin D you need? I like to look tan as much as the next person, but over the years I have realized that is nearly impossible with my complexion. So why expose myself to unnecessary risks?
We all know that too much exposure to tanning lamps or even from the sun itself can cause skin cancer. The ultraviolet radiation causes skin cell damage that can lead to abnormal cell reproduction. I'm not a science person so I don't understand it all, all I know is that it's dangerous. UV rays are a killer and we're willingly letting them hurt us for something our culture sees as beautiful.
If you do, however, escape the skin cancer epidemic, too much exposure to radiation can lead to premature skin aging such as wrinkles and brown spots. And no. A quick fix with Botox should not be an option!
So it's your choice. Weigh the risks. I love being outdoors during the summertime, because it's the only time that the sun really warms your skin. But seriously, sun screen can be a lifesaver. Literally. What's the point of being tan anyway? Does it really make you more beautiful? Because the right guy will be able to see your beauty, tan or not.
All I'm saying is you're not going to see me at a tanning salon anytime soon.
A hundred years ago tan skin was a sign of bad breeding. If you were tan that meant you worked in the sun, which implied that your family was poor. Hats, gloves, and parasols covered the ladies and shield them from being considered lower class citizens. Fair skin was beautiful. What happened?
From what I have gathered, it was the 1920 when Coco Chanel, a French designer, arrived home from a yacht party with a deep suntan. Being famous, she of course set the new trend of "tan." Bikinies arrived in the fifties along with self-tanning products of bronzer and brown creames. Of course, with short summer months, the tan didn't last longer than days of sunshine. Well somewhere along the line the brilliant idea of tanning salons began. In the eighties the world saw the first tanning beds which have only grown up until now. And this, my dear friends, is the new idea of beautiful.
It's true that sunshine makes you happy like chocolate. But did you know that it only takes your skin fifteen minutes each day in the sun to soak up all the vitamin D you need? I like to look tan as much as the next person, but over the years I have realized that is nearly impossible with my complexion. So why expose myself to unnecessary risks?
We all know that too much exposure to tanning lamps or even from the sun itself can cause skin cancer. The ultraviolet radiation causes skin cell damage that can lead to abnormal cell reproduction. I'm not a science person so I don't understand it all, all I know is that it's dangerous. UV rays are a killer and we're willingly letting them hurt us for something our culture sees as beautiful.
If you do, however, escape the skin cancer epidemic, too much exposure to radiation can lead to premature skin aging such as wrinkles and brown spots. And no. A quick fix with Botox should not be an option!
So it's your choice. Weigh the risks. I love being outdoors during the summertime, because it's the only time that the sun really warms your skin. But seriously, sun screen can be a lifesaver. Literally. What's the point of being tan anyway? Does it really make you more beautiful? Because the right guy will be able to see your beauty, tan or not.
All I'm saying is you're not going to see me at a tanning salon anytime soon.
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
What Happens Here
After reminiscing for far too long I find myself to be in the company of family. We traveled an hour and a half down the road to say hello to my cousins - four boys who are entierly their own persons. What happens here, stays here.
Tomorrow we come home. After being gone for vacation for a month last year I had the misconception that two and a half weeks would be far too short a trip. Like I said, misconception. I am homesick. Terribly so. I can't wait to hang out on our grimy city beach lake with my friends. The ocean has no chance to better itself without companions to fill the mindless hours of sunshine. Enough mushy, heartfelt chatter.
It also doesn't help that I haven't had the chance to run during our vacation like I hoped to. I've been having trouble with my knee, so I decided to take the first week of vacation easy anyway. I stuck it out on the elyptical, which is always easier to focus on when you have a TV in front of you, and managed to get in a few hours of exercize over the first week of relaxation. It just went downhill from there. Our condo on the beach had a fee for using their gym. I find this to be totally ridiculous. did we not pay for a room? Give us someplace to exercize! Especially with all the fatty vacation food that everyone inhails. Although, a plus side to a condo is that we ate most of our meals in our room; therefore, we ate healthier than if we had been staying in a hotel. That doesn't include dessert, though!
I did finally get a treadmill before we arrived in Missouri. I ran two and a half miles before feeling like I was going to puke. Which was expected because we had just indulged in a regular cheesy, spicy, Mexican fiesta. Case in point, I'm ready to get home and run my little heart out. Wish me luck since I'm supposed to be in training again and expected to run seven miles Saturday. This might be a bad decision.
I hope your intentions to keep up a healthy lifestyle while vacationing turn out better than mine did. All well. I'm so close to home I can taste it!
Tomorrow we come home. After being gone for vacation for a month last year I had the misconception that two and a half weeks would be far too short a trip. Like I said, misconception. I am homesick. Terribly so. I can't wait to hang out on our grimy city beach lake with my friends. The ocean has no chance to better itself without companions to fill the mindless hours of sunshine. Enough mushy, heartfelt chatter.
It also doesn't help that I haven't had the chance to run during our vacation like I hoped to. I've been having trouble with my knee, so I decided to take the first week of vacation easy anyway. I stuck it out on the elyptical, which is always easier to focus on when you have a TV in front of you, and managed to get in a few hours of exercize over the first week of relaxation. It just went downhill from there. Our condo on the beach had a fee for using their gym. I find this to be totally ridiculous. did we not pay for a room? Give us someplace to exercize! Especially with all the fatty vacation food that everyone inhails. Although, a plus side to a condo is that we ate most of our meals in our room; therefore, we ate healthier than if we had been staying in a hotel. That doesn't include dessert, though!
I did finally get a treadmill before we arrived in Missouri. I ran two and a half miles before feeling like I was going to puke. Which was expected because we had just indulged in a regular cheesy, spicy, Mexican fiesta. Case in point, I'm ready to get home and run my little heart out. Wish me luck since I'm supposed to be in training again and expected to run seven miles Saturday. This might be a bad decision.
I hope your intentions to keep up a healthy lifestyle while vacationing turn out better than mine did. All well. I'm so close to home I can taste it!
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Water Tower
"You are my sunshine, my only sunshine. You make me happy when skies are gray . . . "
I remember singing that over and over again while sitting on our porch swing overlooking the busy street. Probably the only busy street in the town. Behind us sits our parsonage, owned by the church that is just paces away from our front door. Of course, no one ever uses the front door because we're all so budddy-buddy with each other. No. The back door was more suiting. You'd walk into the kitchen and be greeted with the ever present smell of chocolate chip cookies.
I remember the storms more than anything - which I know is a funny thing to remember. A tornado would strike up in the middle of a board meeting or a small group gathering down at the church. Before we knew it everyone would be sloshing through the rain and into our basement. Once before a storm we had had a luau with a whole pig and everything. We were lucky enough to have left overs, and once we got the all clear shuffled out of the basement to heat up some pork. As we filed onto the porch after the storm, we'd watch the hail hit the wet grass; as the clouds began to part a rainbow would shine onto our little part of heaven.
Tonight I travel down memory lane for the reason that there is no other choice. We have made a stop in our old little town in Missouri to visit friends both forgotten and remembered. A lot has changed. The old parsonage has long been torn down. The only thing left is a single tree, planted when I was born. Still a sapling when we moved to bigger and better things, it's unrecognizable now. Standing forever strong.
I just finished reading a book entitled Dead End in Norvelt by Jack Gantos. The plot took place in a small, dying town where an old woman was waiting to write the Original Norvelters obituaries before she herself passed on. One of the younger women in the town kept scheeming, trying to get others go join her in keeping the town alive. No matter what anyone said her opinion of her home could not be swayed. It was forever a part of who she was. It defined her existence.
In a way I think everyone has ties to their hometown. The place they were born holds a special place in their hearts, whether they want it to or not, because it reminds them of the carefree days of childhood. I don't remember anything but happiness when I lived in Missouri.
Growing up in Missouri our house sat right next to the town water tower. I used to think every house owned a water tower, and I always referred to it when I wanted to come home. We would walk over to the water tower and look up, getting dizzy as the clouds shifted around the monument. It was surrounded by sand which I always wanted to walk barefoot on just like the movies. My mother thought it was dangerous back there. She couldn't see us because of the thick grass that grew up around the fence. Broken glass bottles surrounded our little piece of land. It was beautiful because it represented home.
Maybe I'm just sentimental.
I need a good dose of reality.
I remember singing that over and over again while sitting on our porch swing overlooking the busy street. Probably the only busy street in the town. Behind us sits our parsonage, owned by the church that is just paces away from our front door. Of course, no one ever uses the front door because we're all so budddy-buddy with each other. No. The back door was more suiting. You'd walk into the kitchen and be greeted with the ever present smell of chocolate chip cookies.
I remember the storms more than anything - which I know is a funny thing to remember. A tornado would strike up in the middle of a board meeting or a small group gathering down at the church. Before we knew it everyone would be sloshing through the rain and into our basement. Once before a storm we had had a luau with a whole pig and everything. We were lucky enough to have left overs, and once we got the all clear shuffled out of the basement to heat up some pork. As we filed onto the porch after the storm, we'd watch the hail hit the wet grass; as the clouds began to part a rainbow would shine onto our little part of heaven.
Tonight I travel down memory lane for the reason that there is no other choice. We have made a stop in our old little town in Missouri to visit friends both forgotten and remembered. A lot has changed. The old parsonage has long been torn down. The only thing left is a single tree, planted when I was born. Still a sapling when we moved to bigger and better things, it's unrecognizable now. Standing forever strong.
I just finished reading a book entitled Dead End in Norvelt by Jack Gantos. The plot took place in a small, dying town where an old woman was waiting to write the Original Norvelters obituaries before she herself passed on. One of the younger women in the town kept scheeming, trying to get others go join her in keeping the town alive. No matter what anyone said her opinion of her home could not be swayed. It was forever a part of who she was. It defined her existence.
In a way I think everyone has ties to their hometown. The place they were born holds a special place in their hearts, whether they want it to or not, because it reminds them of the carefree days of childhood. I don't remember anything but happiness when I lived in Missouri.
Growing up in Missouri our house sat right next to the town water tower. I used to think every house owned a water tower, and I always referred to it when I wanted to come home. We would walk over to the water tower and look up, getting dizzy as the clouds shifted around the monument. It was surrounded by sand which I always wanted to walk barefoot on just like the movies. My mother thought it was dangerous back there. She couldn't see us because of the thick grass that grew up around the fence. Broken glass bottles surrounded our little piece of land. It was beautiful because it represented home.
Maybe I'm just sentimental.
I need a good dose of reality.
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Sand, Sun, Ocean Lyfe
It's our last day in Florida, and another red flag day at that. The waves on the beach today were even bigger than yesterday. We spread out our towels and my family hit the water while I read a book like a nerd. I was minding my own business when I feel water creeping into my little corner of the world. That's right. The waves had blasted themselves over the ridge of sand and into human territory. How rude! I quickly sprung into action as I tried to save all of our towels and food from the surf, but to no avail. Crazy water ocean water!
After five days on the beach I am sick and tired of the sand, sunscreen, and the sun itself. I hate to say it, but I'm ready to move on. As much as I love the ocean, enough is enough - expecially when you're sunburnt like a boiled lobster. Okay, maybe not that bad, but I'd say in the catagory of a ripe tomato. I tried, okay? Sometimes all the sunscreen in the world can't protect you from the salt water licking away the semi-protective sunscreen, no matter how many times you re-apply.
After a morning of melting away, we cleaned ourselves off, got rid of the dry seaweed smell, and had a glorious lunch at Bubba Gump's. I hate to say it, but I've never seen Forrest Gump. Tragic, I know. But it can't beat Gone With the Wind. We've wasted the afternoon away with a little shopping and a little dessert. Have you ever tried chocolate dipped key lime pie? It's delicious.
Tomorrow we have an eight hour drive to whoknowswhere. After that we have another seven hour drive before reaching our destination in Missouri, where we'll be visiting friends from another time. Ahh memories.
Quote of the day: "Now you wouldn't believe me if I told you, but I could run like the wind blows. From that day on, if I was going somewhere I was running." -Forrest Gump
After five days on the beach I am sick and tired of the sand, sunscreen, and the sun itself. I hate to say it, but I'm ready to move on. As much as I love the ocean, enough is enough - expecially when you're sunburnt like a boiled lobster. Okay, maybe not that bad, but I'd say in the catagory of a ripe tomato. I tried, okay? Sometimes all the sunscreen in the world can't protect you from the salt water licking away the semi-protective sunscreen, no matter how many times you re-apply.
After a morning of melting away, we cleaned ourselves off, got rid of the dry seaweed smell, and had a glorious lunch at Bubba Gump's. I hate to say it, but I've never seen Forrest Gump. Tragic, I know. But it can't beat Gone With the Wind. We've wasted the afternoon away with a little shopping and a little dessert. Have you ever tried chocolate dipped key lime pie? It's delicious.
Tomorrow we have an eight hour drive to whoknowswhere. After that we have another seven hour drive before reaching our destination in Missouri, where we'll be visiting friends from another time. Ahh memories.
Quote of the day: "Now you wouldn't believe me if I told you, but I could run like the wind blows. From that day on, if I was going somewhere I was running." -Forrest Gump
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Seaweed
Our first full day in Destin was quite an adventure. The sand and ocean itself are different from Panama City Beach. The sand is soft and fine - remember when you were a child and you used to run your hand through the flour? That's what it feels like. The ocean is more green than blue; there's a lot of seaweed, unlike the last beach where there wasn't any seaweed at all. Funny how forty five minutes makes such a difference.
I really think seaweed is a curse on humanity. It smells terrible. I waded into the ocean and it felt like running hair through my fingers. It wraps around your legs like an octopus. Take your choice: a beautiful ocean, or a perfect beach.
After laying out all morning and afternoon, I must say I am officially sunburnt. Yuck! We relaxed the rest of the afternoon before heading out to village wharf. We walked about two miles before coming across shops and restaurants. It's a beautiful little village within the condo community we're staying at, and once the sun had set fireworks sprang from the darkness. Dropless of light shattered the night sky over the ocean. A perfect ending.
Today has been much the same; although, I've tried to stay out of the sun as much as possible. You know, sunburn. The waves, however, were not the same at all. We walked up to the beach to see a red flag, which is the universal sign for danger. We were to use "extreme caution" while out in the deep. I didn't venture out until the last hour of our afternoon when I was tossed by the waves and given a headache. The "nicer" waves are simple, green rolling water that picks you up and gently sets you back down again. All of the waves today were foamy and strong. I was knocked off my feet. You had to time your jump just right, and get the correct angle otherwise ending with a faceplant to the water. I had enough after about twenty minutes and returned to my quiet chair underneath my protective umbrella.
Quote of the day: "All rivers, even the most dazzling, those that catch the sun in their course, all rivers go down to the ocean and drown. And life awaits man as the sea awaits the river." -Simone Schwarz-Bart
I really think seaweed is a curse on humanity. It smells terrible. I waded into the ocean and it felt like running hair through my fingers. It wraps around your legs like an octopus. Take your choice: a beautiful ocean, or a perfect beach.
After laying out all morning and afternoon, I must say I am officially sunburnt. Yuck! We relaxed the rest of the afternoon before heading out to village wharf. We walked about two miles before coming across shops and restaurants. It's a beautiful little village within the condo community we're staying at, and once the sun had set fireworks sprang from the darkness. Dropless of light shattered the night sky over the ocean. A perfect ending.
Today has been much the same; although, I've tried to stay out of the sun as much as possible. You know, sunburn. The waves, however, were not the same at all. We walked up to the beach to see a red flag, which is the universal sign for danger. We were to use "extreme caution" while out in the deep. I didn't venture out until the last hour of our afternoon when I was tossed by the waves and given a headache. The "nicer" waves are simple, green rolling water that picks you up and gently sets you back down again. All of the waves today were foamy and strong. I was knocked off my feet. You had to time your jump just right, and get the correct angle otherwise ending with a faceplant to the water. I had enough after about twenty minutes and returned to my quiet chair underneath my protective umbrella.
Quote of the day: "All rivers, even the most dazzling, those that catch the sun in their course, all rivers go down to the ocean and drown. And life awaits man as the sea awaits the river." -Simone Schwarz-Bart
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Lazy Days Ahead
Like I said before, we are finally at the beach part of our vacation! Sitting in the sun all afternoon, eating food all evening, sleeping all morning; you get the drill. The days run together at the beach. The sound of the ocean lulls you into deep unexpected sleep. My favorite part of the ocean is how it fades from blue to blue - ocean to sky.
The waves yesterday were calm, but today they picked up a lot. My sister and I call it wave jumping. You know, when you go out as far as you can and jump before the wave crashes onto you. For a moment, it feels like you're suspended in the air, in time and space, before coming back down to the sandy bottom. I'm not a good swimmer, but swimming in the ocean gives some sort of a thrill.
I am proud to say, I am not sunburnt! Although the rest of my family is. Sunscreen is important, folks. For real, you don't want skin cancer. I love sitting on the sand with a good book. How many times can I say it? The beach is so relaxing!
Tomorrow we leave for Destin where we will stay for four days before heading to Missouri to visit family and friends. It's impossible that we've already been gone a week. Beach time on my mind.
The waves yesterday were calm, but today they picked up a lot. My sister and I call it wave jumping. You know, when you go out as far as you can and jump before the wave crashes onto you. For a moment, it feels like you're suspended in the air, in time and space, before coming back down to the sandy bottom. I'm not a good swimmer, but swimming in the ocean gives some sort of a thrill.
I am proud to say, I am not sunburnt! Although the rest of my family is. Sunscreen is important, folks. For real, you don't want skin cancer. I love sitting on the sand with a good book. How many times can I say it? The beach is so relaxing!
Tomorrow we leave for Destin where we will stay for four days before heading to Missouri to visit family and friends. It's impossible that we've already been gone a week. Beach time on my mind.
Friday, June 15, 2012
Stone Mountain
Sounds pretty intimidating, right? Our last day in Atlanta was spent at Stone Mountain, which is a state park outside of Atlanta. Stone Mountain, apparently a big deal in Georgia, is a lot like Mount Rushmore, except not as well known. I mean, I had never heard of it before. The actual mountain has a carving of three Civl War generals with their horses. The first thing on our agenda was to climb the mountain! Sounds like quite a feat, but in reality, it's only a 1.2 mile hike. Of course, once you add in the absurdly steep slope, you're pretty wiped out by the time you get to the top. There were some parts of the mountain that I was walking parallel with the ground in an effort not to fall. All in all, a good experience. The view at the top was extravagant.
After the hike, we cooled off before grabbing some lunch, which I hardly remember eating we were so hungry. We watched a few shows before hitting the SkyHike; yes, that's as frightening as it sounds. They strap you in like they would when you rock climb and you're lead to level one, two, or three. We went to level two, because I decided that level one was for whimps, and well, level three is for the brave. Big mistake. You get up there, and it's 24 feet, mind you, and you totally freeze. At least, I did. When you're that high up, trying to walk a tightrope, it's hard to remember that it's impossible to fall. They strapped you in goood! But that doesn't take away the fear. I can't even explain it, but I will never, ever do it again.
After the unpleasant situation of feeling like we were falling to our deaths, we visited a plantation house. Safe. Unless of course you were a slave. Good thing that ended over 100 years ago. This was the third(?) plantation house I've seen, each one more majestic than the last. Built between 1792 to 1875, this Antebellum Plantation was moved and restored at Stono in 1961. It's surrounded by two slave cabins, a doctors cabin, two other houses, and several farm buildings. The doctors cabin was the most interesting house as it served as a field hospital to Confederate soldiers during the Battle of Atlanta. Call me morbid, but I thought it was cool to think that Civil War soldiers bled in the building we were standing in.
The last adventure of the day was watching a light show over the Stone Mountain carving. I don't know about you, but I had never seen a light show before. In all it's grandeur, I found it to be a little boring. That and I had been walking around for ten hours. All I wanted was to sleep. My favorite part was the country music they played, such as "Sweet Home Alabama" and "Georgia On My Mind." I'll have those songs stuck in my head for weeks!
Currently, I'm sitting in a condo right off of Panama City Beach. It was raining when we arrived, but it seemed to have cleared off now. I hope that we get to walk the beach tonight. I've never met anyone who didn't completely adore the ocean.
After the hike, we cooled off before grabbing some lunch, which I hardly remember eating we were so hungry. We watched a few shows before hitting the SkyHike; yes, that's as frightening as it sounds. They strap you in like they would when you rock climb and you're lead to level one, two, or three. We went to level two, because I decided that level one was for whimps, and well, level three is for the brave. Big mistake. You get up there, and it's 24 feet, mind you, and you totally freeze. At least, I did. When you're that high up, trying to walk a tightrope, it's hard to remember that it's impossible to fall. They strapped you in goood! But that doesn't take away the fear. I can't even explain it, but I will never, ever do it again.
After the unpleasant situation of feeling like we were falling to our deaths, we visited a plantation house. Safe. Unless of course you were a slave. Good thing that ended over 100 years ago. This was the third(?) plantation house I've seen, each one more majestic than the last. Built between 1792 to 1875, this Antebellum Plantation was moved and restored at Stono in 1961. It's surrounded by two slave cabins, a doctors cabin, two other houses, and several farm buildings. The doctors cabin was the most interesting house as it served as a field hospital to Confederate soldiers during the Battle of Atlanta. Call me morbid, but I thought it was cool to think that Civil War soldiers bled in the building we were standing in.
The last adventure of the day was watching a light show over the Stone Mountain carving. I don't know about you, but I had never seen a light show before. In all it's grandeur, I found it to be a little boring. That and I had been walking around for ten hours. All I wanted was to sleep. My favorite part was the country music they played, such as "Sweet Home Alabama" and "Georgia On My Mind." I'll have those songs stuck in my head for weeks!
Currently, I'm sitting in a condo right off of Panama City Beach. It was raining when we arrived, but it seemed to have cleared off now. I hope that we get to walk the beach tonight. I've never met anyone who didn't completely adore the ocean.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
World of Coke
"Elias Burns sang out, 'The rebel bullet is not yet made that is to kill me.' At that, he jumped up and fell down the same instant with a bullet in his brain. He fell across my lap, and his brains and blood ran into my havversack, spoiling my rations. So I took his." -Private Robert Strong
This quote by an Illinois private during the war gives us a peek at the horror and inhumanity of the battlefield. We began our day at the Museum of Atlanta, which of course consisted mostly of Civil War artifacts. The most remembered part of the morning was seeing two southern farm houses. We took a guided tour of the Smith Family farm, which consisted of not only a farm house, but a slave house, the kitchen, and the smoke house. Unlike a plantation, the Smith farm was a family farm operated by the master and thirteen slaves. The house itself was built by the Robert Smith family in the 1840s and was located outside of Atlanta.
The next house we saw was the Swan House. A post-Civil War plantation house, the Swan House resembled a Victorian castle. The stone frame combined the wonder of history with the enchantment of a fairytale unwritten. Much to my regret, we were unable to take a tour of this house; nevertheless, I fell in love.
"The Civil War is, for the American imagination, the great single event of our history . . . We became a nation only with the Civil War." Robert Penn Warren, Southern writer.
After a long morning of historical research, we moved on to World of Coke! We learned the history of the secret coca-cola recepie from 1886, but of course never the secret itself. Written by Dr. John Pemberton, the local pharmacist of Atlanta invented the favored beverage of people around the world. As they say at Coca-Cola, "I'd like to buy the world a coke."
This is what lead me to fall off the bandwagon. It has been over two years since I had a sip of soda, but the sweet smell of fountain drinks wasn't lost upon me as I entered the "tasting room." Sixty different flavors of coke from five different continents. When I walked into the room I was determined not to let it break me. But then my mother - and yes, I blame this fiasco on her - said I absolutely had to try the German soda because of my good friends with a German foreign exchange student this year. So I did. And this lead to my moral demise as a human being. I tasted them all, and ended up with a stomach ache because of it. I regret nothing. My absolute favorite beverage was a pinneaple flavored drink from Greece. Yum!
Besides, one drink isn't going to kill you, right?
This quote by an Illinois private during the war gives us a peek at the horror and inhumanity of the battlefield. We began our day at the Museum of Atlanta, which of course consisted mostly of Civil War artifacts. The most remembered part of the morning was seeing two southern farm houses. We took a guided tour of the Smith Family farm, which consisted of not only a farm house, but a slave house, the kitchen, and the smoke house. Unlike a plantation, the Smith farm was a family farm operated by the master and thirteen slaves. The house itself was built by the Robert Smith family in the 1840s and was located outside of Atlanta.
The next house we saw was the Swan House. A post-Civil War plantation house, the Swan House resembled a Victorian castle. The stone frame combined the wonder of history with the enchantment of a fairytale unwritten. Much to my regret, we were unable to take a tour of this house; nevertheless, I fell in love.
"The Civil War is, for the American imagination, the great single event of our history . . . We became a nation only with the Civil War." Robert Penn Warren, Southern writer.
After a long morning of historical research, we moved on to World of Coke! We learned the history of the secret coca-cola recepie from 1886, but of course never the secret itself. Written by Dr. John Pemberton, the local pharmacist of Atlanta invented the favored beverage of people around the world. As they say at Coca-Cola, "I'd like to buy the world a coke."
This is what lead me to fall off the bandwagon. It has been over two years since I had a sip of soda, but the sweet smell of fountain drinks wasn't lost upon me as I entered the "tasting room." Sixty different flavors of coke from five different continents. When I walked into the room I was determined not to let it break me. But then my mother - and yes, I blame this fiasco on her - said I absolutely had to try the German soda because of my good friends with a German foreign exchange student this year. So I did. And this lead to my moral demise as a human being. I tasted them all, and ended up with a stomach ache because of it. I regret nothing. My absolute favorite beverage was a pinneaple flavored drink from Greece. Yum!
Besides, one drink isn't going to kill you, right?
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Three Museums and A Cemetary
I feel like I've conquered the whole city of Atlanta today; we have seen that much! It has been an exhausting, yet fulfilling day with a visit to three museums and a cemetary. Here's the details:
Margaret Mitchell House
Our first stop was the Margaret Mitchell Museum and House. You know, the crazy woman who wrote the "Greatest American Novel" Gone With the Wind, better known to her fans as GWTW. Born in 1900, Margaret, better known as Peggy lived during the glorious twenties. It is said that her novel paralleled the Great Depression in the rise and fall of Southern gentry. When she was fourteen Peggy said, "I want to be famous in some way - a speaker, artist, writer, soldier, fighter, stateswoman, or anything nearly."
She got her wish in 1936, when after a long journey and a lot of hard work her first and only book was published, a smashing success. Peggy began writing after she was crippled in bed with arthritis and a broken ankle that refused to heal. Her husband, John Marsh could find no other books on the Civil War, published or not, and in desparation suggested that his wife begin her own account of life during the Reconstruction. John and Peggy worked on her novel for around ten years before it was given to an editor who set up a contract immediately. Many speculate that Gone With the Wind is a nonfiction account of Peggy's life despite the many details and the denial by Peggy, who always said it was purely fiction.
Not long after the book was published, it was picked up by a film director David O. Selznick with a vision to make it the most popular film of all time. Putting together the perfect cast with Vivian Leigh, Clark Gabel, Evelyn Keyes, and Barbara O'Neil, the movie that premiered in Atlanta was a hit, making it the biggest movie to premiere ever.
Walking through the streets of Atlanta, I forget that the characters from Margaret Mitchells famous novel are fictional, because in the heart of the city they come alive. Scarlet, Rhett, Melanie, and Ashley live in the hearts of Americans as a reminder of what was and is to come. It is said that Scarlet's story is the same as Atlanta's: the rise and fall and remembering the glory days.
"As God is my witness, as God is my witness they're not going to lick me. I'm going to live through this and when it's all over, I'll never be hungry again. No, nor any of my folk. If I have to lie, steal, cheat or kill. As God is my witness, I'll never be hungry again." -Katie Scarlet O'Hara
Margaret Mitchell died in 1949, when she was hit by a cab driver on her way to the theatre. She was buried on her family plot in Oakland Cemetary beside her loving husband, her tombstone ever a reminder of the brave woman who took on the "Greatest American Novel" Gone With the Wind.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
"Don't allow anybody to make you feel that you're nobody, Always feel that you count. Always feel that you have worth, and always feel that your life has ultimate significance." These are the famous words of Martin Luther King Jr. as he spoke to thousands of African Americans about freedom and justice. Suffering was not an option, violence was not an option, but determination and boycotting was. This was how Martin Luther fought, "Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase."
The Martin Luther memorial is incredible. An entire fountain surrounds his cement encased casket. Words of live written on his tombstone buried beside his loving and supportive wife.
"I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: 'We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal.'" -Martin Luther King Jr.
Civil War Cyclorama
Have you ever heard of the word "cyclorama" before? Neither had I. It was incredible. Oil painted over a hundred years ago, this diagram of the Battle of Atlanta is as big as a football field. We were completely surrounded by the painting, sitting in rotating seats to see the entire thing. I can't even describe it, but if you come to Atlanta, you have to go there.
Oakland Cemetary
As we walked into the Oakland Cemetary I came across a pure white flower. Beautiful. Perfect. I picked it up and twirled it in my hand as we walked around the tombstones, some dating back to the 1850s. Worn writing etched into the stones of loved ones long forgotten. For a cemetary, it's a magical place of history and fortune.
As we walked along, making up stories for the old Civil War veterans we came across the Mitchell Family Plot. Buried with her parents and her husband, her tombstone reads "author of the famous novel 'Gone With the Wind.'" Coins and rocks had been placed upon her burial place in rememberance and honor of the woman who remembered the "old south." As I stood above her tombstone, I bent down and placed the wilting flower on her grave, the least I could do for a woman who so inspired me as a feminist, reporter, and most importantly, a novelist.
Margaret Mitchell House
Our first stop was the Margaret Mitchell Museum and House. You know, the crazy woman who wrote the "Greatest American Novel" Gone With the Wind, better known to her fans as GWTW. Born in 1900, Margaret, better known as Peggy lived during the glorious twenties. It is said that her novel paralleled the Great Depression in the rise and fall of Southern gentry. When she was fourteen Peggy said, "I want to be famous in some way - a speaker, artist, writer, soldier, fighter, stateswoman, or anything nearly."
She got her wish in 1936, when after a long journey and a lot of hard work her first and only book was published, a smashing success. Peggy began writing after she was crippled in bed with arthritis and a broken ankle that refused to heal. Her husband, John Marsh could find no other books on the Civil War, published or not, and in desparation suggested that his wife begin her own account of life during the Reconstruction. John and Peggy worked on her novel for around ten years before it was given to an editor who set up a contract immediately. Many speculate that Gone With the Wind is a nonfiction account of Peggy's life despite the many details and the denial by Peggy, who always said it was purely fiction.
Not long after the book was published, it was picked up by a film director David O. Selznick with a vision to make it the most popular film of all time. Putting together the perfect cast with Vivian Leigh, Clark Gabel, Evelyn Keyes, and Barbara O'Neil, the movie that premiered in Atlanta was a hit, making it the biggest movie to premiere ever.
Walking through the streets of Atlanta, I forget that the characters from Margaret Mitchells famous novel are fictional, because in the heart of the city they come alive. Scarlet, Rhett, Melanie, and Ashley live in the hearts of Americans as a reminder of what was and is to come. It is said that Scarlet's story is the same as Atlanta's: the rise and fall and remembering the glory days.
"As God is my witness, as God is my witness they're not going to lick me. I'm going to live through this and when it's all over, I'll never be hungry again. No, nor any of my folk. If I have to lie, steal, cheat or kill. As God is my witness, I'll never be hungry again." -Katie Scarlet O'Hara
Margaret Mitchell died in 1949, when she was hit by a cab driver on her way to the theatre. She was buried on her family plot in Oakland Cemetary beside her loving husband, her tombstone ever a reminder of the brave woman who took on the "Greatest American Novel" Gone With the Wind.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
"Don't allow anybody to make you feel that you're nobody, Always feel that you count. Always feel that you have worth, and always feel that your life has ultimate significance." These are the famous words of Martin Luther King Jr. as he spoke to thousands of African Americans about freedom and justice. Suffering was not an option, violence was not an option, but determination and boycotting was. This was how Martin Luther fought, "Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase."
The Martin Luther memorial is incredible. An entire fountain surrounds his cement encased casket. Words of live written on his tombstone buried beside his loving and supportive wife.
"I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: 'We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal.'" -Martin Luther King Jr.
Civil War Cyclorama
Have you ever heard of the word "cyclorama" before? Neither had I. It was incredible. Oil painted over a hundred years ago, this diagram of the Battle of Atlanta is as big as a football field. We were completely surrounded by the painting, sitting in rotating seats to see the entire thing. I can't even describe it, but if you come to Atlanta, you have to go there.
Oakland Cemetary
As we walked into the Oakland Cemetary I came across a pure white flower. Beautiful. Perfect. I picked it up and twirled it in my hand as we walked around the tombstones, some dating back to the 1850s. Worn writing etched into the stones of loved ones long forgotten. For a cemetary, it's a magical place of history and fortune.
As we walked along, making up stories for the old Civil War veterans we came across the Mitchell Family Plot. Buried with her parents and her husband, her tombstone reads "author of the famous novel 'Gone With the Wind.'" Coins and rocks had been placed upon her burial place in rememberance and honor of the woman who remembered the "old south." As I stood above her tombstone, I bent down and placed the wilting flower on her grave, the least I could do for a woman who so inspired me as a feminist, reporter, and most importantly, a novelist.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Georgia on my mind.
We have safely made it to Atlanta, Georgia! Fantastic, I know. I'm relieved, especially after spending fourteen plus hours in the car over the past two days. The driving today was kind of crazy. It rained on again/off again the entire way here, and the traffic was horrendous. But we made it safely despite the annoyances.
Don't you love when you step off of a plane, or in my case the Silver Surfer, and you can just feel the difference in the air. The different atmosphere and hubbub of your surroundings filling all your senses. I love it!
We got to the hotel around five and relaxed for about an hour before heading off to the mall. We filled our stomachs with delicious mall-food and did some shopping, more to get up and walk around than to actually buy anything. I can't believe our second day away is over and we still haven't done anything vacation-y. That's what happens when you drive. Although, I do like seeing all the cities. We drove through St. Louis yesterday and Nashville today. From what I saw out my window, I would love to visit someday!
Now something that is causing some stress for me during our time away is I'm currently training for another half marathon right now, which means running four times a week. I'm beginning to realize this is an impossible feat while on vacation. Treadmills are great, but seven miles on a treadmill will kill your knees and might make you go a little crazy. So I'm going to do what I can, and try not to worry about it. But two and a half weeks is such a long time . . .
Can't wait to begin sightseeing tomorrow! Georgia on my mind.
Don't you love when you step off of a plane, or in my case the Silver Surfer, and you can just feel the difference in the air. The different atmosphere and hubbub of your surroundings filling all your senses. I love it!
We got to the hotel around five and relaxed for about an hour before heading off to the mall. We filled our stomachs with delicious mall-food and did some shopping, more to get up and walk around than to actually buy anything. I can't believe our second day away is over and we still haven't done anything vacation-y. That's what happens when you drive. Although, I do like seeing all the cities. We drove through St. Louis yesterday and Nashville today. From what I saw out my window, I would love to visit someday!
Now something that is causing some stress for me during our time away is I'm currently training for another half marathon right now, which means running four times a week. I'm beginning to realize this is an impossible feat while on vacation. Treadmills are great, but seven miles on a treadmill will kill your knees and might make you go a little crazy. So I'm going to do what I can, and try not to worry about it. But two and a half weeks is such a long time . . .
Can't wait to begin sightseeing tomorrow! Georgia on my mind.
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Adventure Time!
On this day of the 10th June 2012, we leave for Illinois where we will be staying one night before we reach Atlanta, Georgia. I'm out of practice for traveling seven plus hours in a car. Longest car ride ever. Seriously. It's ten o'clock at night and we have finally reached our hotel. Thank God because if I spent another minute in that crowded vehicle I think I would have gone insane; not to meantion, I had to pee.
It's going to feel strange traveling for two and a half weeks instead of four. We're driving down to Atlanta where we'll be staying for four nights. This part of the vacation was planned by yours truly - something that I am very proud of. I hate planning! I've always wanted to visit this part of the country because it's where Margaret Mitchell grew up, and for those of you who lived sheltered lives, she wrote Gone With the Wind, known to fanatics as GWTW. We will also visit a Civil War museum, because I'm obsessed with everything to do with the Civil War, and visit a Martin Luther King Jr. memorial, along with other things of less importance.
After discovering the wonders of history, we will be relaxing on the beach beneath the gorgeous Florida sun. If you haven't noticed, we're kind of addicted to the ocean. On our way back home we will be stopping at an old friends house before visiting my counsins. Then back to life as it's always been. But I'm getting ahead of myself.
Don't stop reading . . . or being jealous of my fantastic travels!
It's going to feel strange traveling for two and a half weeks instead of four. We're driving down to Atlanta where we'll be staying for four nights. This part of the vacation was planned by yours truly - something that I am very proud of. I hate planning! I've always wanted to visit this part of the country because it's where Margaret Mitchell grew up, and for those of you who lived sheltered lives, she wrote Gone With the Wind, known to fanatics as GWTW. We will also visit a Civil War museum, because I'm obsessed with everything to do with the Civil War, and visit a Martin Luther King Jr. memorial, along with other things of less importance.
After discovering the wonders of history, we will be relaxing on the beach beneath the gorgeous Florida sun. If you haven't noticed, we're kind of addicted to the ocean. On our way back home we will be stopping at an old friends house before visiting my counsins. Then back to life as it's always been. But I'm getting ahead of myself.
Don't stop reading . . . or being jealous of my fantastic travels!
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Summer To-Do List
Hey guys! It's been awhile, I know. I guess I needed some time off from blogging. But I'm back now. No worries!
Okay, so maybe it's just me, but once summer gets going I get lazy. Obviously, it's summer for goodness sake! After a while, though, the laziness starts to make me feel sick. Too much sitting around, watching the clouds blow past. After a few days of sitting, I get really antsy, and I'm sure my family can attest to this, I get in a horrible mood. And so, I have created a to-do list. Just a little something to keep my mind and body active so I don't go entirely crazy.
Okay, so maybe it's just me, but once summer gets going I get lazy. Obviously, it's summer for goodness sake! After a while, though, the laziness starts to make me feel sick. Too much sitting around, watching the clouds blow past. After a few days of sitting, I get really antsy, and I'm sure my family can attest to this, I get in a horrible mood. And so, I have created a to-do list. Just a little something to keep my mind and body active so I don't go entirely crazy.
- Get in touch with God - I've been feeling a little out of tune with my faith. After a years worth of public school, the swearing and abused morals wear on my nerves. I hope to use this summer to revitalize what I've lost.
- Sign up for my second ever half marathon! I'm super excited about this one. Like I said before, totally addicted to the feeling of crossing that finish line. It's my drug.
- Write a hundred pages of a narrative. Don't laugh, but this one I attempt every summer. I'm just so spastic with my writing. As I'm sure you've all noticed. I can write a while story in my head but I can never seem to articulate it onto paper. Maybe this will be my lucky year summer.
- Read at least ten fiction books. With this whole AP Lang class allowing me to only read nonfiction, I am totally fiction deprived. Completely. Plus, I just got a new stack of books! I've already read two.
- Work a lot - which so far hasn't happened. Honestly, I keep trying to save my money, and then the next trip comes along, or I buy a new guitar, or I go crazy and buy a pair of TOMS. You know. All very important, break the bank type of stuff. So, I need to log some hours this summer; otherwise, I'll never get a car!
- Visit the love of my life - Paris. Don't ruin my dream. It will happen. Just you wait.
So, what do you think? Is making a summer to-do list totally crazy? Or do you get as completely bored as I do? What's on your summer to-do list?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)