"Tea is drunk to forget the din of the world." ~T'ien Yiheng
I don't think it is any surprise that I would not be a Tea Party supporter. However, I do enjoy the "activism" on the behalf of this more conservative population.
If you are not aware of what the "Tea Party" is promoting - let me share a few factoids with you:
Mission Statement: The impetuses for the Tea Party movement are excessive government spending and taxation. Our mission is to attract, educate, organize, and mobilize our fellow citizens to secure public policy consistent with our three core values of Fiscal Responsibility, Constitutionally Limited Government and Free Markets.
Sounds good. Sounds very patriotic. That's fine with me.
However, the vast majority of tea party supporters are applying this specifically toward the Obama administration. I, on the other hand, believe that our President is being fiscally responsible, is remaining within the confines of the constitution, and is encouraging a free market. However - President Obama takes it one step further - he is making sure we take care of our fellow man. Because, clearly - the "Big Business" and the private sector is not doing a very good job of it.
I am also completely distraught over the hate speech coming directly from the Tea Party. No, not all of their members are engaging in their sort of activity. But a very specific population within their group has attached themselves to the movement and are representing the "ideals" of the Tea Party.
In response, the "Coffee Party" was created. (Heck - did someone say COFFEE??) Their philosophy is: The Coffee Party Movement gives voice to Americans who want to see cooperation in government. We recognize that the federal government is not the enemy of the people, but the expression of our collective will, and that we must participate in the democratic process in order to address the challenges that we face as Americans. As voters and grassroots volunteers, we will support leaders who work toward positive solutions, and hold accountable those who obstruct them.
Here is what I think - Let us use this government that was created by the people for the people to do good in this great nation of ours. I would never associate myself with a group that is angry and looks more like a "negative ad campaign for the Obama administration." That may work on the greedy and the super poor - but not me.
I wanted to be fair and understanding when I wrote about this - so I did I little searching.. if you have a moment, educate yourself and view the following.
In the end - I just want to see change. Change in how we are seen in the world - change in how we do business - change in how we respect and take care of one another.
Aggression and the "Mine Mine Mine, don't touch" attitude does not work for me. Maybe it works for you, and that's great. Isn't that the beauty of this great nation? For now, let us agree to disagree and pray for the best!!
What are your thoughts on the Tea Party and Coffee Movement? If you don't care - why?
At first I was totally turning my nose up at my "Word of the Day" bestowed on my by my sister. (Want to see more head to the upper right side tab.) Ambiguity is sooooo Ambiguous.. ;-)
But then I happened up the perfect image for this post and I realized - THAT IS THE THEME OF MY BLOG. Who knew a word would sum up my life, my blog, my journey through life. Check it out:
I don't think I could have said it any better. Here's the thing, I used to be such a massive planner. I still am (I mean.. did you see the plans for my vacations??) BUT there is a difference now - I get a basic road map. Which means I decide where I would like the world to unfold. Truth be told - I can just get lost in the streets. Which I do, BUT - I also know that if I see something that I wanted to check out, it makes it all the more sweet.
I guess this brings me to my Blog's name - Destination: Unknown (Not all who wander are lost.) As a child, I always knew what I wanted to be. I followed that path and never strayed all of the way until I met my first husband. Here is where I have an 8 year hiccup. Oh the stupid things we do for "love."
I ended up leaving my chosen career (television news) to take a job in public relations/media relations. I wanted more money. I wanted the house, the cars, the dogs, the nice things. Oh yeah- typical 20 -something year old mentality. I wanted to "play house." Yeah - did not work. Sure, the money improved (ps - if people tell you TV pays, they are wrong.) But the dream of the home inside being perfect would never come to be.
We transplanted that dream to Birmingham... had a wonderful brand new home, perfect little kitchen...the works. But any ounce of "like" I had in me for this man was gone. My career - was gone. My friends and family were gone. It's not as if I did not want to leave my hometown - I did. I just wanted it to be on my terms. Ever since I met this man - nothing was on my terms.
About one year later we divorce. Something I was sooo against, but found it necessary. Two months before we separated I found a job in my field. That same month I met the egyptian, who embodied all of the creative and aspiring qualities I wanted in a man. He was exciting, spoke three languages, english literati, free spirit.
Many months later I head to Egypt - wondering the streets of Cairo and Alexandria. I knew I had to let go of the planning and control. I knew that life was never about where I would end up. Heck, to be honest - the place we all end up is the same (right?) So I thought, I need to take a moment and smell the roses.. go with the flow.. enjoy the journey.
When I decided (one year ago) to start this blog - I did not want a theme. I do not like to be pigeon holed into a category. My moods and my writing with change daily - and NO - I don't know where I will be one month from now, or 1 year for now, or even 5 years from now.
All I know is that I have this beautiful (yet temperamental) man by my side, a decent enough resume, interesting goodies I have collected from all over the world, and imagination.
My Destination - Is still Unknown. As ambiguous as that sounds. Also - I am not lost.. I am just enjoying the bumpy ride.
The WOTD is so much fun to do, however - instead of mixing up the words for me, my sister has insisted on giving me all "heavy" words. I mean, I gave her corn dog - why would she give me criticism/reality/silence.. argh!
Before I lose some of my readers over this, I thought I would share with you something on a different personal side.. something I have been thinking about - HOLIDAYS!
September (though it's a cursed month for me) is also the month that kicks off the holiday cheer!!! I am sooo in love with life from Sept - Dec. The best part of any calendar year in my book!
First of all, you've got Back To School! No, I don't have any kids.. but I still get excited to see all of the pencils and folders and wide ruled loose leaf paper bins filling up at the department stores. I always loved school, so this time of year just brings back awesome memories!
Then we have this glorious Labor Day weekend. The weekend we take those last minute summer vacation trips, that last "summer themed" cook out, that last attempt to go swimming before the water and air turn nippy.
Then college and high school football starts. No, I am not a football fan - but that does not mean I cannot appreciate the spirit of it! There are teams I have grown to "hope to win." Doesn't mean I have to watch it! Notre Dame, UGA, Alabama, Hoover High, SW High, New Orleans Saints (going professional now).. those are perfect examples.
Ramadan is wrapping up for my husband, soon we will be celebrating Eid! Eid is an Arabic word meaning "festivity", while Fiṭr means "to purify"; and so the holiday symbolizes the purification after completing the fasting month which is after the end of the Islamic month of Ramadan, on the first day of Shawwal. Basically you have a huge feast for a couple of days, and it is usually done as a community! The food is phenomenal, and the atmosphere is one of love and compassion!
Just a few weeks later we get ready for HALLOWEEN!!!! I am sooo excited about this year! We have a few plans to visit a few amazing haunted houses! In Birmingham, we will go to Sloss Fright Furnace and ATROX Factory. We plan to add one more to our list - Netherworld in Atlanta. One of the many activities I have planned for the egyptian and I is to teach him how to carve a pumpkin.
Last October we were sooo stressed with immigration, we did not get to have a good time. THIS year - we will go somewhere and pick out our pumpkin and carve a seriously cool masterpiece for our stoop. Now.. I have to tell you, I am one MEAN pumpkin carver. I even taught a class once!
I think he needs the full effect to understand how cool the whole pumpkin carving can be! There are great little pumpkin carving kits that you can pick up anywhere. SOOO much fun! I need to take my pics to my parent's home this weekend and scan away some of the items I have in my scrap books!
The video shows how very cooool the festival is in Birmingham!
Following this festival, I will be at mass celebrating All Saints Day! Time to light a few candles and say a few prayers.
It is a beautiful time for people of the catholic and orthodox faiths. We remember those who have passed on. We celebrate the saintly life and we are reminded that spirits are alive and well, and we respect that.
Let's not forget what else the fall season brings - International Festivals!!! In 17 days we will celebrate the Greek Festival. Then there is the Middle Eastern Food Festival at Saint George's. These are excellent opportunities to get out into the community and experience some excellent culture!
Following these busy couple of weeks - we head into Thanksgiving!! I LOVE Thanksgiving. Why? It's such a wonderful time of year. It is officially fall (in the south), the air is crisp, we still have leaves that are brilliant colors on the trees and the food -oh the scrumptious food!
I love my mom's mashed potatoes with gravy. The layered salad, the cranberry sauce, the pumpkin and sweet potato pie - I used to enjoy the Autumn Blush muscadine wine from Chateau Elan in Georgia.. ahh.. it's good times, and great conversation. Not to mention the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade!!! It's my favorite thing to watch!
Next we enter Advent and the weeks leading up to Christmas!
As soon as it is socially acceptable (uh.. the night of Thanksgiving!) I pull out all of my Christmas ornaments and decoration. First thing to be set up? The Advent Wreath. I love going to mass during this month. Each week celebrates another part of the hope and miracle Christians are waiting for - and that is Jesus. It is a time of pleasantries and happiness. I have fond memories of Christmas and that "preparation" part.
I love attending cookie swaps, and christmas parties, and picking out gifts. I love sharing that happiness and hope. It is the one time of year I get super cheesy!
I also like to celebrate with my Jewish friends their season of Hanukkah. I have enjoyed some of the amazing food that is prepared during those eight spectacular nights!
But when it comes to the final countdown of Christmas, I try my best to attend some Christmas Concerts, and watch old movies like - "It's a Wonderful Life" and "Rudolph".. etc.
I buy as much apple cider as possible and have a cup each night. I reminisce more. I miss relatives that have passed, old loves that dies, and friends that have moved on. Memories come rushing back - and it is sweet.
Dare I say it? This is the cusp of the most wonderful time of year in my book. I hope you will find things in your community to do to celebrate these days. Another year is only 4 months away. This is our last chance to look back on 2010 fondly. Let's make the best of it, shall we?
Now - please share with me in the comment section some of the special events your community celebrates.
It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see. ~ Henry David Thoreau
My word of the day is visualization. Funny thing is, it's one of my favorite words.
When I was about 12 I bought a book by Shakti Gawain. (This just shows you the type of kid I was.) It was called, "Creative Visualization." I read it cover to cover. Soaking up every word. It basically told me that your should actively visualize what you want in this life. See yourself with this, doing this, living this - and in time - it will come. Sounds creepy, right?
But I turned it into something I could use in a way that I could understand it. I thought of this process as letting God know my intention, and what I would do with the thing/place/person/lifestyle. At 12. I am sooo not kidding.
Let's just call it - playing out the fantasies in your head. Like a little movie. But believing in it and knowing it will come to pass with God's blessings.
I can think of several instances when this has 'happened.' I don't want you to think I am a total nut job, because I know how 'weird' it seems. I don't practice it now, but I know that it works. (I even think later, some group came out with "The Secret" which I am thinking.. this is no secret, and it's been done!) Also, sports coaches work with their teams helping them visualize the ball and where that ball will go. Many people swear by it!
I am not going to share my examples here. As I was thinking about what has "worked" in my past, I realize they are very personal and I would rather not.
I do share A LOT here, but there is a lot I don't. ;-)
How about I share with you some of the exercises you can use?
1) Find a quiet place. The more you can eliminate noise and other external interruptions to your senses the better.
2) Get a quiet mind. Put a stop to all the mental chatter. Learn and use meditation. There are many types of meditation* (search Google) and the topic is too broad to be discussed here other than to tell you that meditation is a great stress reliever in addition to a great method of ridding yourself of what Buddhists call "monkey mind."
Clearing random thoughts prepares your mind to laser focus on your desire that you wish to visualize.
3) Prepare a written statement of your desire including as much detail as you can muster. Be specific about what you want to have, do or be.
Read your written statement daily before bedtime, when you wake and anytime before a focused visualization session. Put a copy on your bathroom mirror. Make a small laminated copy for your car, wallet or purse.
4) Do not wish for your stated desire! The key while visualizing is to see yourself already in possession of what you want. Remember to use all your senses and conjure up a strong emotion of gratitude and happiness as though what you want has already been delivered to you.
5) DO NOT CONCERN YOURSELF WITH A PLAN OF HOW YOUR DESIRE WILL COME TO YOU! This is very important and where most people fail because they get overwhelmed with thinking they have to work out how they will get what they want.
This is the beauty of visualization, strong belief and the law of attraction. You just have to implant the thought and prepare yourself to receive by being hyper-aware of new impulsive ideas, opportunities and events and recognize that it is by your effort of thought that brought these impulses to you.
6) Act on the thoughts and ideas that come to you through visualization without fear and your wishes will be yours; not by spontaneous materialization as skeptics like to admonish but rather through your efforts you will place yourself in the right place, with the right people or whatever the case may be, to allow the Universe (God) to deliver the means to acquire your burning desire.
You will improve with time recognizing and understanding thoughts, ideas and events that suddenly appear as not random meaningless things, but rather the pieces of the plan being delivered to you as a reward for your effort. These unexpected ideas, thoughts or events are sometimes referred to as "synchronicities."
Spiritual teacher and creator of the Miracle Mind Manifesting Program , Aine Belton says synchronicities can be "little things like the song that comes on the radio that reflects exactly how you’re feeling, the conversation you over hear that serves to help you with a problem, the book that falls off the shelf that is exactly what you need or the person who calls you just as you think about them...They are gifts and opportunities that present themselves in a magical and often unexpected way, opening doors to happiness and success."
7) BE PERSISTENT! Visualize your dreams or goals daily. Bedtime and when you wake are ideal times. Even small moments are beneficial, like when sitting at a stoplight, while exercising, or using the restroom.
Planting your vision in your mind before bedtime allows your subconscious to work on your plan all night. Be ready to wake up with new ideas and thoughts that may require action on your part. This is the power of the "universal mind" working on your behalf.
Keep a notebook and pencil by your bed and start a habit of writing down your thoughts and dreams even if they make no sense now.
Re-reading your written statement of desire in the morning will keep it fresh in your mind all day.
8) Create a Vision Board. In the movie The Secret, John Assaraf described constructing a vision board filled with cut outs of the things he wanted in life, specifically his dream home. Daily he would look at his vision board, close his eyes and visualize he already had what he wanted. Years later while showing the vision board to his son, Mr. Assaraf realized he now lived in a house identical to the one on his vision board!
Making a vision board is simple. It's a mosaic of cut out images and words that match your dreams and desires glued or taped to a piece of poster board. Cut out an image of the boat or car you’ve always wanted, the dream home or vacation home, or whatever it is you want to do, have or be. Go wild and have fun with it!
Once you are done, hang your vision board someplace where you will see it everyday. Look at it often and visualize yourself already in possession of what you want and don't forget to add in strong emotions of gratitude and happiness.
9) Repetitive thoughts will always serve to attract their equivalent from the Universe (God). Even when you are not actively visualizing, practice monitoring your thoughts and immediately dismiss all that are negative.
Remember, start with a burning desire and open your mind to fully believe that these techniques work.
*** source life-changing-mind-power.com
There you have it - an example of the word of the day! What do you hope to obtain/change/become in the near future??? How do you see yourself doing it?
The theme of this blog post is definitely the GOOD stuff coming up! Sorry for the rant this morning. After a tearful plea to an unsuspecting husband and a prayer or two sent upward, I have regained my composure and I am trying to concentrate on the GOOD things that are coming up.
I told you I am resilient.
But bare with me...
Okay. I mentioned I have a vacation coming up. It's not exactly resort style fun, but it is a get away with relaxation, friendship, family and fun all rolled into one. It will all start Friday the 10th and last through the 19th. I will be MIA on the blog scene, but I have requested a few people fill in for me. Still not finished making my asks.. but I did tackle a few people that for one - do not have a blog, but have a LOT to say and then a few of YOU will be asked soon.
I think you will be surprised and I hope you will enjoy what they all have to say... which is - I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT. I picked a wide variety of people from totally random backgrounds. I am sure it will be good stuff! Luckily, I will be able to check things from my phone, so I should be able to read your comments!!
Moving on.. my little vacation (as I mentioned before) will be Friday. The egyptian and I are heading to my parents home (they live in the Oconee National Forest) also known as - Haddock, Georgia. (I grew up in Macon - but they have since moved to the country.) That night we plan to just relax with my family... which means PLAY with that devil, Autumn.
Saturday morning, I plan to continue relaxing while my mom (who is an artist) plans to take the egyptian to the gallery (where she is the president of) and use him as a model for her portrait class. They are using oil paints and he is getting paid to model! Seriously. A quick $100 for sitting there. Turns out, he has an excellent profile (the nose is perfectly straight.) Very excited for him. Also - I promise to get one of the paintings and take a picture of it. LOL
That night we are heading to a party with some dear old friends I have known for 25 years. Sunday, we are heading to another friend's home in Warner Robins, Georgia. The egyptian will be speaking at her school on Monday morning.
Tuesday I leave middle Georgia and head up to Atlanta for a work conference. That's only one night - but hey, it will be good to see my "team". There is usually only one Communications Director per major metro. In my state - that leaves me. My boss works in Tampa, and her boss is in Atlanta. So - all of the team will get together! (Atl, Bham, Nashville, Jackson, New Orleans, Jaxville, West Palm, Miami, Tampa, & Orlando.)
Wednesday I will head back to my parents home. I have left Thursday and Friday open - but Saturday - I AM TAKING THE EGYPTIAN TO HELEN, GEORGIA. I am sure, if you are not from Georgia you have no idea where Helen is. It is a little jewel in the foothills of the Blue ridge and the beginning of the Appalachian mountains. My mother and father will be joining the egyptian and I on a day road trip. We were trying to figure out if we wanted to rent a cabin, then we opted out. It is only 2 1/2 hours from my parents home. We will leave early Saturday morning, and return late Saturday night.
This is how the Visitor's Center describes Helen:
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains on the Chattahoochee River, this Northeast Georgia village has a rich history linked to the Cherokee Indians and Indian burial mounds as well as early settlers who arrived to mine for gold and cut virgin timber for a thriving lumber industry in the early 1900s. Helen is a re-creation of an alpine village complete with cobblestone alleys and old-world towers. We've got shopping, camping, both rustic and luxury mountain cabins, restaurants, bed and breakfast inns, mountains, theater, recreation, romantic getaways, beautiful scenery, family activities, waterfalls, museums, history, art, fishing, tubing, golf, and more. Something for every member of the family.
Sounds cute, doesn't it? My family has been vacationing up there for years. When I was little, we spent a little time up there.. and as an adult, I have taken many an exchange student up for a day of rest and relaxation! One of my favorite activities in the summer is tubing the Hooch. Which means - we take inner tubes to the top of the mountain and tube down the river to another spot. Usually takes about 2 hours to do that stretch of river! What else is cool about it - it's cheap. Only $10 bucks and you can do this all day! $6 for one trip!
Our plan is a little more relaxed. We will arrive in the morning (10ish) and my hope is to go directly to Higher Ground Coffee and More Shop. The little mountain coffee shop claims to have a smorgasbord of coffees available. Sounds like the perfect way to warm up and kick start our day of activities!!! I checked out there menu, and lo and behold - there was a Pumpkin Spice Latte. *insert hallelujah chorus here!!* They also have Apple Cider and something called White Lightening - coffee with a double shot of espresso... sweet Jesus, bring it on! I did check, and yes - the egyptian will be able to have some hot tea. :-) After our coffee morning, we hope to walk through the shops. Shops there are a plenty! Sooo many cool ones to pick from! (Oh.. side note, and NO I am not going there.. but the original Cabbage Patch kids were "born" in Helen. Seriously - click on this link for the Babyland General Hospital. Apparently, people dressed as nurses will bring your new baby to your little one.. as if they are in an actual hospital. I just can't make this type of stuff up - I swear!!) As far as the shopping goes, lots of German themed shops. The whole town is VERY German (Bavarian Architecture everywhere.) There are also tons of folk arts and clearly, I will be inspired to learn quilting soon! (That sounds sooo lame.. but I really want to try it out.)
After wondering and lots of picture taking, our plan is to go to Hofer's of Helen Bakery & Cafe for lunch. I figured this might be the best option for a wide variety of food - and still that "German" feel. The problem with German food is that the menus are covered in pork! (Remember, I have an egyptian - muslim - no pork! Heck, and no beer for him.. booo.) But this menu seems to be a good pick. Since he LOVES bread, this is a bread heaven! Apparently the little shop has quite a history! The original bakery was thought to be one of the best bakeries in the US! The menu carries everything from Ofenfrischer Leberkäse mit Kartoffelsalat und Spiegelei (Grilled Bavarian luncheon loaf with homemade potato salad, topped with fried egg.) to Spätzle “Schwarzwald” (German noodles tossed with ham, green peppers, onion, tomato and Parmesan cheese) to Jägerschnitzel (Sauteed medallions of pork loin topped with a creamy burgundy mushroom sauce, served with homemade spätzle and red cabbage) to something like a Bratwurst on a Bun to something the egyptian could have like - Home-baked Roast beef on Rye or a Reuben.
After lunch, the plan is to go play a little miniature golf! (This will be a first for the egyptian.) He has nooooo idea how GOOD I am and how COMPETITIVE I am. Not to mention how much fun it will be to play with the family. We will go where we always go - Alpine Golf! $7 a person and we have about an hour or so of good, clean fun!
Following the Alpine Golf, we can either go to Unicoi State Park and Anna Ruby Falls or head to BrassTown Bald and see amazing sites on top of the mountain.
Either choice will be excellent and a great opportunity to enjoy the fresh air and excellent hiking.
Following the good times wondering it will be about time to grab a bite to eat for dinner. Some choices I am looking at are Cafe International (where we ALWAYS eat) which has a fairly wide range of options for dinner and it includes a patio dining overlooking the Chattahoochee River.
Another option is the Troll Tavern (below the bridge!) It is a hole in the wall - but we might want a quick bite before we hit the road!
One last stop - before we leave - has got to be to the Hansel & Gretel Candy Kitchen!
A few other shops I love are: Christmas & More shop - Old World Charm, with a hint of Holiday Tradition - from tapestries to hand-painted ornaments, nativity's, heritage lace, German ornaments, Pyramids, Steinbach, Ulbricht, Nutcracker, Advent Calendars, Music ... a unique shopping experience for sure!
Classics - Entering Classics is like stepping into a true Old World atmosphere with Alpine Yodeling and Folkmusic playing in the background. I bought the coolest Claddagh necklace from there a few years back!
Elfmade Wooden Toys - Just reminds me of Santa's workshop!!The shop is the work of one man who has been making toys for 40 years. He is an artist with the bandsaw, and has been green during his toymaking career.
Goats on the Roof - They are a family-fun unique gift store offering fun gifts, t-shirts, specialty items, Amish jams and jellies, gourmet foods, Amish cheese, and wine. You can even try gem mining, fudge, ice cream & you feed the goats with "bicycle feeders", etc. (Seriously click on the link for the full effect!)
Gourd Place - we will have to go to b/c my father grows gourds in his garden.
Old Clarksville Mill - Over 18,000 Square Feet of Old Clarkesville Mill has been brought back to life as an Art and Antique Mall with over 100 vendors.
I will be outta here for about ten days, and I have to make a decision - to post or not to post.
I am thinking you might like a little break from me - as I go and explore my destinations...
or...
Perhaps I can do what so many of you are doing - and that is get some guest bloggers!
That's right.. putting my little baby into some ten unsuspecting bloggy buddies...
I am at your mercy - I suppose.
I think I know which ten I want to ask - so, you will be getting some notifications from me soon enough. If you are just dying to guest post - send me a message at nicole.abdou@heart.org and let's talk! Put in the subject line - Guest Post.
On to other things...
Have you checked out my tabs lately? You know.. those little things at the top of the page. I have since added a few new recipes. I would love to add one of your favorites (with a link to your blog) - or if you are not a blogger, and just a wonderful reader of mine, just send it to me and I will add it and give you complete credit!
Also, check out the WOTD. Yep - my sister and I have decided to make it official - our WOTD (as we call a game) some might say meme.. whatever. I don't get hung up on that stuff. It's fun. We're doing it. Enjoy.
Also - I have uploaded some new videos and there is a "Best Of" set of links for older posts you may not have ever read.
I guess that's all of the "announcements" I needed to make.
(PS - the vacay will be the 10th - 19th. I would need the blog posts by this Wednesday!)
Thanks everyone - see you tomorrow with some random post!
In the month of September, we recognize Women of Achievement and distinction. At the Lady Blogger's Society, members were asked to write a blog post about their achievements and include what they hope to achieve in the near future.
I love this one! Why? Because for one, we are celebrating being women! The fairer sex is not the lesser of the two genders. I don't know about the rest of you, but I have worked hard, sacrificed, and took risks in order to get where I am today both professionally and personally.
Another Reason I am so excited about the post - we get to set some goals. Perhaps we have "plans" we hope to see through to the end - this is just a way to clearly define them.
Ironically, September always brings trouble for me. Or maybe it is more "life changing" events. I always make a point to write a "New Year's Resolutions" list for September - I try to focus on the good, versus the bad. This post request came at just the right time!
With that, I would like to list out my top ten achievements as well as my top ten items I hope to achieve in the near future!
Nicole's Top Ten Achievements.
Personal (Five)
1. Taking a chance. I chose to leave a loveless marriage and fly across the big, blue ocean and spend a little time in the mystical middle east. I met and fell in love with an Egyptian. It was a complete leap of faith - we were engaged quite quickly and have since worked through so much to build a marriage. I went with my heart for the first time - and that has made all of the difference.
2. Celebrating Diversity. I wanted to travel the world, and I wanted to learn languages, taste worldly foods, understand other religions... and I knew the only way was to immerse myself in these cultures and customs. Traveling the world was out of the question financially - so instead I opened up my home and hosted exchange students from all over the world. I have hosted 14 kids from six months to one year over a 6 year span. Most rewarding job I ever had.
3. Creating a new life. When I moved out of state I just knew it would be super difficult to start a new life. Here - I have built a life that I love! I have amazing (interesting) friends, I am involved in a wide variety of activities, and I am exploring more of a community than I would back home. I did it all on my own - I created a completely new life and I love it.
4. Surviving the health scares. My friends and family used to call me a hypochondriac when I was little. I was always worried about illness. Then in my late 20s my worst nightmares became a reality. Fighting the "c" word, viral infections of the fluid around the brain and spine, and a heart that thinks it's a race horse- all of these factors have reminded me that life is very short, and you have got to embrace the good and take care of yourself.
5. Being clear about who I am. I choose to live out loud. I will not stifle or censor my life. I am proud of who I have become and where I am going. I am 37 years old, and God willing, I have many, many more years of growth. I will not bend to another's whims... however, I have learned to remain open, honest - and can discern what I need to take with me in life.
Nicole's (Five) Top Career Moves:
1. Validation. Back in the day, my only dream was to work as a television news producer. I did it. I achieved recognition - I received an Associated Press Award for Best Public Affairs Reporting and I also received a Georgia Association of Broadcaster's award for Excellence in Broadcasting.
2. Published. My jobs throughout the years have afforded me the opportunity to build an amazing portfolio of published writing. Most of it is industry related (mainly health care) - but it has opened doors, introduced me to the publishing business, and created a sense of accomplishment for me.
3. If I wanted it - I got it. I am very proud of my career path. This is the road I chose. Ever since I was 12 - I knew I wanted to work in Media. I went to college got my Broadcast Journalism Degree. I graduated on a Saturday. Started my internship on a Monday. Three months later - ended my internship on a Friday and was hired as a 5pm News Producer at a TV station on Monday morning. I wanted to learn the creative side of video production, and a couple of years later moved into a Promotions/Marketing Producer role. Then I wanted to make the change to Public Relations/ Marketing - I left television and got a job as Field Executive (Marketing) for a nonprofit. A few years later I wanted to be a PR person - moved into a position where I was the Communications Director.
Then moved to a different state - and lo and behold, after some searching, I got another job in Media Relations with a MUCH larger territory and waaaay more responsibilities and opportunities with TV, radio, newspaper, and magazines. That's where I am now. What's next for me??? Who knows!
4. Saving a life through my ideas. Follow me on this train of thought.. One day at work I was told I need to get a media sponsor for an event. I meet with a certain cable company, share our causes then leave. Next day I get a call, and the company wants to do an event that they sponsor that reaches the African American population about stroke risk. We do the HUGE event - and an older woman heard the commercial on a radio station, asked her pastor to drive her to the event for the free screening (never had insurance.. never had these tests) and the doc doing an artery screening discovered she was on the verge of a stroke. He rushed her (personally) to the hospital, where they were able to save her life. (The doc personally treated her.. no strings attached.) She is living today, because I got some random idea to work with a little cable company. THAT makes my job worthwhile.
5. I usually have a handful of interns each year. Each one learns what they can, they build their portfolio with me, then enter the world. I am watching now as my interns begin their careers in media relations. I am proud to watch them move to the BIG metropolis and make a name for themselves. I hope I contributed to their success!
Now.. what do I hope to accomplish?
1. I hope to stick with my current exercise routine and get back that body I used to sport.
2. I want to work on my photography skills.
3. I am considering a 5 year plan that involves risky moves and bold statements.
4. I am building my marriage.
5. I want to strengthen my spirituality - only then, will I be able to use my gifts for the greater good!
My last word of the day is giggle. I can giggle. Sure - and it usually involves some type of sarcastic remark. THAT brings giggles out of me.
In order to throw as much sarcasm your way as humanly possible - I have a rant. OOOh.. it's a good one. Yes, I am back on the "Blog Hop" rant.
Grrrrrr
I am not sure where to begin - but I want to make a statement: It is all about Quality over Quantity.
I have only seen one or two Blog Hops that added a bit of quality. The Friday Flip Off required you to voice your rants of the week. There was another Blog that wanted you to share a story on how you went green. Then of course you hop around and "follow."
I have come across some blogs that 1,000+ followers. If you actually take time to go through their blog - each day is another blog hop, or a give away or something ridiculous like that trying to pull you in. What happened to good old fashioned baring your soul writing?
OOh and these people are nazis about this stuff also. I wanted to give the Green one a try. I had just woken up, saw my news feed showed one of my blogmates had written a "green" post and linked up to this hop. I thought, okay - I will give it another try. Now I understand how these things work. I linked up.. then headed to the coffee pot to start to brew and while there I was pondering, in what ways do I go green? I was away from my computer a total of maybe 10 minutes - came back, had an idea and was ready to write. I happened upon a new comment I received on a post I had written late the night before. It was from the 'Green' Blog Hop creator. She was basically threatening to remove my button from the Hop if I did not participate fully with a Green post.
Man.. oh man.. I was about to snap this granola eating, open toe shoe - tree hugger in half. Seriously? Were you waiting around and policing the net? 10 minutes... sometimes a girl needs a little inspiration.
Luckily (or maybe not) - most blog hops have absolutely no substance. But it makes me sad that its just a game to these people. I take my writing very seriously. I don't want you to "follow" me if you are not going to take the time to jump in on the conversation. I assure you - if I follow you, I read each one of your post. I may not always comment, but I do from time to time if I have something to say.
I am just annoyed. Blog hops... rants.. just for giggles.
**most pictures came from a google image search. I tried to locate their origins but it was next to impossible. I do not take credit for any of the photos.
I think it is time I talk about another type of culture - my culture. I am from the southern United States. Anyone who has ever visited knows, there is NO place like it in America.
For many, many years I hated the fact that I was from the south. HATED it. As a kid, we would spend portions of our summers in Indiana (mid west - where my dad is from) and my cousins would tease me non-stop for my accent, or make fun of some of the "stereotypes" southerners had. You have to remember, when I was a kid, Dukes of Hazzard was a huge TV show. The plot was supposed to take place in a place called Hazzard County (in Georgia.) People assumed we were all a bunch of back woods redneck moon shiners and had a batch of Daisy Mae's running around.
WHICH - that is completely the opposite. However, yes - you will run into a random hardcore redneck from time to time, but that is not the majority of the population.
For my readers in Egypt (and other places around the world) - let me illustrate for you the actual geographic area that the "South" makes up:
Personally, I don't consider Oklahoma, Texas or Florida the "true south." Nor do I think any real southerner would. I see TX & OK as (moving more toward southwest) and Florida is really nothing more than transplants from NY. LOL
You have two divisions here also - North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia VS Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana. (Tennessee is excellent mountain country. Kind of in a class all their own.) The Alabama group is more of the DEEP south. The Georgia group is more of the coastal south. Totally different.
I grew up in Georgia. I now live in Alabama. Yes, I have spent a large amount of time in each state listed. Beautiful part of the country, amazing vacation options, scrumptious food.
There are a few key things you need to know before you head down (and we love to entertain, so please, come down!)
1. Mind your manners. (The southern phrase.) Oh yes, we can turn very genteel and expect you to do the same. A southerner can turn their nose up at you very quick if you are not completely polite. We expect the kids to say, "Yes, Ma'am. No sir." You must use please and thank you, and if you are a guy - you must be a gentleman.
2. Expect to smile... a lot. Southerners are BIG on the smiles. If you do not smile in return, you are immediately coined as a "not so nice" person. And it's all about being nice down here.
3. You must say hello to everyone. You cannot walk down a street without smiling, and saying hi. I am so serious. In the smallest of towns, people will wave from their cars. You think I am kidding?
4. Here's the one that is hard for some to understand. Southern women LOVE to gossip. Everybody knows everything about everyone. When you come for a visit, everyone is gushing all over you... head to the bathroom, and someone is whispering to the group some tragedy you may be going through (or someone in your family is going through.) When you return to the group, they will throw pity your way and expect you to spill the beans. That's just the way it is.
5. People get married and have babies early. A good southern girl, goes to college, meets a nice boy from a nice family, should be engaged soon after graduation, gets married and buys a house, and starts having at least a few babies. Yep.
6. When invited to some one's home - BRING A GIFT. Flowers, a souvenir from your last trip, just something. Also - always bring food with you. Plus, you better follow up with a thank you card within the week.
7. We don't appreciate it when you tease us about our accents. What you don't realize, to us - you have an accent. You may try to reproduce the southern drawl.. but please know - your nasal screeching is just as distasteful to our ears.
8. Yes.. you are a Yankee if you reside north of the mason dixon line. And yes, you will be reminded of it.. often. No, we do not say northerner. It's Yankee. And it was not the Civil War - it was the War of Northern Aggression.
9. Most southern cities will have a large festival in the spring. These festivals are usually named after a flower, plant, or vegetable. We will claim we are the _____ capital of the world. Just go with it.
10. Civil War reenactments are common. You have to see one to honestly believe it.
11. College Football is king down here. The home grown boys are bred to toss the pigskin around. Pick a team before you visit. Also - make sure it is the team of your hosts.
12. Invest in antacids before you visit with someone for Sunday lunch. Fried chicken will more than likely be on the menu.
13. Yes, we know it is hot. Not only is it hot - but it is humid. THAT'S why we move a little slower.
14. The mosquito is sometimes referred to as the state bird.
15. If someone invites you to church on Sunday - that's a huge compliment. Or they think you are going to hell. Whichever the case, make sure to go. It is a major slap in the face to decline an invitation.
16. Don't be fooled by a southern woman. We smile, we are always polite, and we go out of our way to make sure you are comfortable and happy. But they don't call us Steel Magnolia's for nothing.
17. Do not bring up politics or religion with a southerner. We have very strong opinions - and it can turn ugly - fast.
18. Poverty is alive and well in the deep south. (Usually the southern most cities of the state will have more farm land.) Don't assume someone is a backwoods redneck because they wear overalls, have little teeth, and tattered shoes and an old beat up pick up. Some of these people are simple very, very poor. Yes, they are not educated, and you may not be able to understand them when they talk. But would you put down someone in a poor village in africa or peru? No. So - don't treat these people any different.
19. Some of the finest institutions (colleges and universities) are located in the south. We are very proud of this. Most people you will meet are college educated. Just because we may talk slow - doesn't mean we are stupid.
20. And finally - I am not a slow talking, thich accent, genteel girl. But I know the rules and you better believe, I turn that accent on or off when I need to.
I highly recommend you visit some of our fair cities. I know you are aware of the BIG ones - but here is a list of hidden jewels I highly recommend for your next visit:
1. Savannah, Georgia 2. Jekyll Island, Georgia 3. Helen, Georgia 4. Charleston, SC 5. The Outer Banks, North Carolina 6. Black Mountain, North Carolins 7. Chattanooga, TN 8. Nashville, TN 9. Memphis, TN 10. Atlanta, GA 11. Birmingham, AL 12. Mobile, AL 13. Biloxi, MS 14. New Orleans, LA
What are your thoughts on the Tea Party and Coffee Movement? If you don't care - why?
