tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86454429418182459352024-03-12T21:11:37.667-07:00The Traveling VagabondThis project was born in an attempt for me to keep my sanity. It also has the added bonus of encouraging me to write at more regular intervals. I will attempt to document my life in a way that is at the very least entertaining to me. I’m choosing to share this with the world; it is my gift to you, the reader. If you don’t like it you can’t really take it back, sorry.
Some names have been changed to protect identities. Except for mine, I really am Sara.Sara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.comBlogger96125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-12285054050470092982015-03-20T19:59:00.001-07:002015-03-20T19:59:37.180-07:00Fall is my favorite time of year... but I hate September....Recently, I've received a lot of great news. I was able to acquire a new job, doing something similar but on a less intense scale. I've been able to travel south and see a Braves game. I've made a new friend. I biked 23 miles with my mom and her boyfriend. I've been doing really well in school. I turned 26. And I may have made amends with someone. <br />
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Even still, this time of year is always miserable for me. I don't know why but September reminds me of death. It's the weirdest thing, perhaps its because I'm always reminded of death in September. I'm still not sure when my dad's mom died, but I always think about it in September. I had a friend commit suicide in September, I knew a girl I went to summer camp with who was hit by a car and killed in September. My mom's mom died in September. As often as I try to avoid the subject I always find myself surrounded by it. Most often in September. Even when I try to start new things, try to forget about the inevitable, I am reminded. I know that death is just another part of life, but I think it still hurts. I just wish that I didn't have to face this pain ever year. I just don't want to be reminded anymore. I don't want to remember how stupid I was. I don't want to be surrounded by the pain. Cause it hurts to think about missing someone, it hurts to think about missing a part of yourself.<br />
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Happy Birthday, Richard.Sara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-22596425222701199172015-03-20T19:10:00.003-07:002015-03-20T20:07:56.292-07:00So I'm Married now... I completely forgot about this blog thing because I had a whirl wind of a year or two. However, long it's been.<br />
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Here's a recap:<br />
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I realized how awesome I am, and then I met someone who realized it too. We fell in love. I got a promotion he made some video games. After a year of dating we got engaged and married in what seemed like rapid succession. In reality we wouldn't have had it any other way. That was February of last year, in the meantime we bought a house and moved to the suburbs. We also expanded our family with a puppy. She's adorable<br />
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I took another job at work and am much happier with a job that requires minimal desk work. I've realized that I'm not the desk job type. I also finished a Master's degree program and am starting a PhD in July. </div>
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I am no longer a vagabond, but I still travel (when I can afford it). </div>
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Life is a glorious adventure. And the lemonade is getting easier to make in time.</div>
<span id="goog_526596754"></span><span id="goog_526596755"></span><br />Sara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-75703759057711357012012-12-09T19:09:00.001-08:002012-12-09T19:09:22.703-08:00An Update of Sorts.I feel like I owe this blog some attention so here it is an update:<br />
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January - Made new friends went to meditation pretty regularly, started a relationship with this guy. Things were going pretty well, until I got really sick. But I made up for it by going to Geek Bowl.<br />
February- Went to Geek Bowl it was awesome! Had a pretty cool valentine's day and I learned to ski.<br />
March - things went well, I still have no idea what I did on St. Patty's day. I continued the meditation thing and started planning a birthday party that turned out to be pretty stellar.<br />
April - hosted said birthday party, went to Pax East (unless that was in May, it was easter, that was fun).<br />
May- Got dumped started exercising, began going to Church.<br />
June - continued exercising, finished my first year working in an Elementary school.<br />
July - Had an AMAZING fourth of July with my friend Jay. Fourth of July is turning out to be my favorite holiday because it always seems that I'm on some wild adventure on these days.<br />
August - took up running with the sole intention of running one race and then being done with it.<br />
September - ran my first Obstacle course and signed up for the Tough Mudder. Got a job back at my old company being a job coach for kids with special needs. Also had a pirate birthday party, and got new roommates who are awesome.<br />
October - ran my first 5k. Went to New York City to see my favorite Canadian. I missed her. I still do, she's amazing.<br />
November - managed to run 7.61 miles without stopping. Went home for the first time in two years and spent Thanksgiving with my mom for the first time in like 10 years. (Thanksgiving is my dad's family thing, although I haven't been home for that either).<br />
To date: preparing for a 5k that I'm running next Saturday. I've lost 50 lbs since May, which is pretty impressive. But I'm feeling kind of awesome these days.<br />
This post is poor. But you know it was about time for something... also this should probably get edited at some point and I should stop writing after 9pm without the aid of my glasses.<br />
<br />Sara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-38545397318285279542012-12-09T15:57:00.002-08:002012-12-09T19:10:14.300-08:00How to lose 50 pounds: the getting dumped diet.Disclaimer*** I started writing this back in August, and just recently finished it.<br />
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So you want to lose weight you say? Well I have the trick for you! It's gonna take a while, some dedication, some hard work. The first step is to go out there and live your life; do things, join a book club, or a softball team, or host pub quizzes. Make sure life is awesome so that way men (or women) whatever the case maybe are attracted to you. People are attracted to people with a life it's a proven fact (or at least one I just made up). Think about it you like people who do things, you don't like people who do nothing. Unless your me, in which case you like practically everyone (at least that's how I used to be, I find myself to be a tad bit picky these days). Anyway life will be going great, you'll meet a guy (or girl), preferably Canadian. You like Canadians they're stereotypically nice. Date this person for a while, stop doing the things you were doing before because you're young and you only live once so you're up to trying new things. Try new things. Everything he does you should do. He's gonna always invite you along cause he's nice and you won't decline the invitation because you're nice. That's just the way nice people are, anyway eventually you'll stop doing all the things you like doing in order to do the things he does because well, that's just what you do. Things will go great. Seriously you guys won't ever fight. That would be silly. He's Canadian and Canadians don't like fighting, you don't like fighting either (you may actually be part Canadian, but you're not entirely sure). He's gonna make you feel like he wants you around all the time, so you'll be around all the time, for him. Although in reality, you both need personal space. Then he should go away so that way you can get your personal space. A two week trip would be really great. While he's away you should go to the gym. You're shower's broken, and you're roommates are really weird about the shower and you're too nice to argue, so it will just be easier to shower at the gym, make sure you work out first. While he's gone, start doing your own things again. Don't worry you're really gonna enjoy doing all the things you've been avoiding because you're too nice. Seriously go to the gym everyday, or do some kind of exercise. When he comes back from his travels (you should definitely pick him up from the airport, and you should definitely take the day off unpaid from work, because you're nice). Then he'll dump you, because you're too nice. Then only eat like half a meal a day don't worry you won't have an appetite anyway, but continue to workout; it will help you to get your mind off of him. Because if you did it right you fell head over heels for this kid, so when you break up it will really really hurt. But don't worry it does get better. It does. It takes a while, 6 months later you'll still have dreams about him, but you won't look him up anymore. You'll eventually delete his number from his phone, after you send him a text message that he never responds too probably because he hates you, but only because you're too nice, which must be saying something because he is Canadian after all. Keep exercising, begin eating again, seriously you can only do the not eating thing for like two weeks if you do it any longer you should consider getting some help. But when you do start eating again, eat five small meals a day. Seriously, and work out. 5 days a week, it doesn't have to be hard just move go for a walk, take a spin class, ride your bike, everywhere. Sign up for races, become obsessed with beating your race time, you'll start at 14 minute miles but by the end of the summer you'll be down to 10 minute miles, and that's impressive. The weight will fall off, every time your mom comes to town she'll have to buy you new pants, you'll really like that because your mom has been obsessed with your weight, since fourth grade when you came home crying everyday because the boys called you free willy. But you were to nice to do anything but cry and eat more ice cream so it was a perpetual problem. Now though, your mom will be happy with you, you'll be happy with you, you'll hate yourself a little bit for caring, but you'll really love how great it feels to be a girl and wear a dress. You never knew you could love wearing dresses, and even though you still wear shorts underneath them, you like the way it feels. Keep making goals for yourself, at first you wanted to run 12 minute miles, then you want to run 11 minute miles, then you'll want to run 9 minute miles. You'll start off running your first 5k, and you'll kill it so then you'll want to run a 10k, then you'll want to run a 1/2 marathon. Just keep going, you stop thinking about who you might spend the rest of your life with and you start thinking about who you have to spend the rest of your life with: yourself. You've always been a pretty cool person, you're too nice, but don't hate yourself for it, embrace it. You just you know have to get better about letting people take advantage of your nice.Sara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-3378262754283909732012-03-25T15:43:00.000-07:002012-03-25T15:43:09.532-07:00I fell off the map again.I'm really good at falling off the map. I've been doing it more regularly as of late. It feels good to avoid social networking sites and focus on other things, but it usually means that I'm the last one to know things. Here is what's been happening over the last few months<br />
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January - I got really sick but managed to make it to Geek Bowl (in Austin, Tx) and I painted a wicked cool 6ft by 3ft banner. I'll have to upload a picture later.<br />
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February - I actually had a valentine. That was really cool and special. February vacation consisted of me hanging out. I got the boot from one of my pub quiz venues, but picked up another one rather quickly. I still really like hosting pub quizzes. I went skiing.<br />
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March - I'm writing a grant, for class, but am secretly (well not so secretly) hoping I can submit it. I'm skeptical about it's success but it's cool. I started going to meditation regularly. It's supposed to help me focus, although I'm skeptical as the results so far seem to have surged this internal war. I find myself to be spiritually confused right now. I feel really lonely again. I sometimes fantasize about going back to Georgia, not because I had a lot of friends there but because at least I had family and it wasn't Florida. I keep pissing off my roommates, but not intentionally. I feel really isolated even though I'm probably around people more often now than I was before. I think it's just more apparent how distant I am from other people.<br />
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I've read several books already this year, these are outside of class. That's good for me. I'm almost finished with like the 2nd or 3rd book. I should do a book count or something.<br />
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I wasn't intending for this to be some kind of downer piece. I have a lot of really awesome things going on for me. Like Pub Quizzes, hanging out with the Shambhala kids from meditation, the guy I'm seeing. (I don't really want to write much about that though, because I'm superstitious). But there is something missing... and I can't place my finger on it...<br />
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</div><div>I have homework to do so I'm gonna go do that. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Sara</div>Sara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-73491866624469656672012-01-12T19:05:00.000-08:002012-01-12T19:05:04.857-08:002011 a Year in ReviewThis year wasn't particularly easier. I lost my gall bladder. I've gotten really sick several times. I had some pretty big blow outs with people that were really close to me. I went from working 40 hours a week, to anywhere between 48 and 62 (mostly averaging 54). I work four jobs (my taxes this year are gonna be a mess, not because of anything illegal, but because of all the jobs). I stopped eating meat. I made a lot of mistakes this year.<br />
It's weird, 2011 started out with a bang! It was crazy awesome, but then I got sick. And then sick again. But then things turned around for a while. My friend Allee came to visit. We went on a wacky adventure. My buddy Jay moved to town and we rode bikes. I acquired three bikes this year. (I'm not allowed to buy anymore bikes in 2012). I got a pet frog. She's still alive and she seems happy. I played league softball. I got really into pub quiz (playing and hosting). I met up with a bunch of friends, in NYC. I made it to Maine. I road my bike all over the city of Boston. I saw a Braves game in Turner field. I made new friends. I read a bunch of books. I stopped eating meat. I made a lot of good choices this year. And had a lot of crazy awesome adventures, e.g. riding bikes until 4 in the morning with Jay, or going to three concerts, or driving around the northeast with Allee, or going to Maine on a whim, or riding my bike all over Boston. (I know I mentioned the bike thing a lot but it's wicked cold and I can't wait for the weather to warm up). <br />
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The good and the bad seemed to balance itself out in a nice neat way. (At least in the end it's nice and neat, in the midst of it all it it's a mess). <br />
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Before 2011 ended I read a book called <u><b>The Happiness Project. </b></u>The book was awesome it was about this ladies personal adventure to try and find more happiness in her life. She made a lot of really interesting points on happiness and I think it was a great way to end such a challenging year. There was something more specific that helped to end 2011 the right way. In any case, I look forward to the year ahead.<br />
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I'm excited to see what 2012 has in store for me.<br />
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SaraSara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-63299089230907858642011-12-19T20:18:00.000-08:002011-12-23T21:24:59.606-08:00Santa Clause is coming to town?I don't have a chimney, and I'm pretty sure the fat man doesn't deliver to anyone over the age of 25. Fortunately, I'm finally at that place in my life where I don't feel like the world will end if I don't get that Super Nintendo. It's weird. Momma Pens is coming to town tomorrow. I'm stoked although I don't really know what to do for Christmas in Boston. But at least I can avoid Christmas in Florida. Unfortunately, it doesn't look like it will be a white Christmas. Last year there was a blizzard right before Christmas. This year, it's clear skies and no sign of the white fluffy stuff. Maybe, I'll get lucky and Santa will bring me snow for Christmas. (Although, I'm pretty sure my mom would rather he didn't).<br />
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Life is good. I feel like I'm getting better at recognizing when things are going well for me. Right now, things are going really well. I like my jobs, all four of them. I like my friends, new and old. I'm keeping busy. Like really busy, this is the first week in several months that I had 3 nights free. Even with all the extra free time, I still didn't get enough sleep, but I think sometimes it's okay to trade sleep for experience. I mean you only live once after all, and looking back ten years from now I'll be more interested in remembering the experiences I had as opposed to the times I've slept.<br />
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Plus I love having the opportunity to connect with other people and I definitely had that this week. This experience was timely as it reminded me of a few points that I think I sometimes lose sight of:<br />
<ul><li>No man is an island. Connecting with different people on any level is important. </li>
<li>Sometimes, I can learn more about someone if I just ask questions. </li>
<li>Communication is essential, although can be very tricky. </li>
<li>It's really a wonderful feeling to let myself be happy and to focus on happiness as opposed to focusing on the things that make my unhappy. </li>
<li>Sometimes I remember things differently, and looking things up can change my opinion on things I thought were very true (or conversely, solidify my opinion). </li>
</ul>It's weird to think it's almost Christmas. I'm looking forward to writing this years 2011 review post.<br />
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I want to say more about Christmas. I want to talk more about this holiday but to be honest, it doesn't have the same meaning for me as it used to. I'm not gonna lie, when I was a kid, Christmas was all about the presents. That fat man better eat my cookies and leave me everything on my list exactly. (This feeling has slowly started to fade). But I think it's interesting how entitled, I felt as a kid and sometimes feel now. I think I need to define what this holiday means to me. I think I need to remind myself of what is important. I know that I have labeled myself as Christian on this blog before, that hasn't really changed and I understand the belief that Christmas is about the birth of Jesus and celebrating him and stuff. And I think Jesus was a cool guy, who did a lot of awesome things for people. Even if you took out the things that are difficult to believe, e.g., he walked on water, brought Lazarus back from the dead, fed a whole town with a couple of fish and loaf of bread. Even if you took all of that out, the guy was willing to love people no one else would, and that is not something everyone can do. However, I never really bought into the Jesus was born in December thing because there is no factual evidence that this happened. Also, Jesus didn't really like all of the traditions of the church. Hence why there are a lot of Old Testament practices that are no longer followed. Further more, if you really look at Christmas it is an amalgamation of a lot of different holiday traditions. The Yule Log, the Christmas tree, the giving of gifts, the decorations, the Jolly fat guy, also the Jesus' birthday thing. I mean if you break it down Christmas is supposed to be about giving and stuff. Giving time of yourself to spend with the people you care about. Sometimes giving presents to others to show your appreciation, you know that whole experience of spending time with people you care about and enjoying that time together. I think this year, I want to focus more on the fact that I get to spend a few days with people I care about and never get to see anymore. <br />
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I'm certainly not perfect and I still have sense of selfishness around Christmas. I'm stoked that my dad gave me money for Christmas (I totally need it to pay for school). I'm excited to know that I'm probably gonna get to open some stuff on Christmas morning, new stuff is cool. But then I also think why do I care so much about stuff? I should care more about the people who gave me the stuff. Which is why I'm at a point where I want to reevaluate Christmas. I'm so appreciative that some of the kids at my school gave me presents. It was really bizarre and so sweet to be on the receiving end of a gift from a child. It was such a surreal feeling. I also love that I get to spend time with my mom. I'm grateful for the break from 50-60 hour work weeks. Yet I still managed to work over break, but it could be worst. I'm happy about a lot of things right now but that whole not avoiding sleep to experience life does not apply to blog entries. And I keep getting distracted so I'm gonna go prepare for Christmas. <br />
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Anyway, I hope y'all have a happy, or merry or whatever you celebrate Holiday Season.<br />
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Sarapens<br />
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p.s. to my dad... I love you. Thanks for the things you do for me. It's cool to know that someone has always and will always think I'm special.Sara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-25984389148564229662011-11-21T18:36:00.000-08:002011-11-21T18:36:28.918-08:00It's Almost Thanksgiving...Here's what I'm thankful for:<br />
I'm thankful for my new jobs. They make life more interesting.<br />
I'm thankful for Geeks Who Drink: which is like a a hobby I get paid for. You can follow my weekly pub quiz recaps at <a href="http://www.geekswhodrink.com/373">http://www.geekswhodrink.com/373</a><br />
I'm thankful for the kids I've worked with over the past year and what they've taught me. (lots and lots and lots of patience).<br />
I'm Thankful for my family. <br />
I'm Thankful for my brother, Joe, who picked me up from daycare in the little red wagon. And did a bunch of other things for me when I was a kid. And he gives pretty good insight now that I'm an adult.<br />
I'm Thankful for his wife because she's new to the family and she already treats me like she's known me for years.<br />
I'm thankful for my friends near and far even the ones I don't talk to anymore, because I know that they were there when I needed them and I am forever appreciative of that.<br />
I'm thankful for my mom's boyfriend because he's pretty funny and has been good to me over the years. Even though I'm probably not his all time favorite person.<br />
I'm thankful for my dad, who even though he doesn't always know how to be there, I know that he has and will always love me and I know he's really proud of me and that means a ton.<br />
I'm thankful for my mom who listens to me when I'm sad, and loves me no matter what mistakes I make, and has shown me tough love sometimes, and has been lenient on me others. And who always encourages me to do the miss piggy flip whenever I'm nervous or intimidated.<br />
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Anyway, I hope all of you have a happy Thanksgiving. I will be up here serving at Father Bills. It should be a fun adventure.<br />
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SaraSara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-74847503779973472802011-10-29T15:24:00.000-07:002015-03-20T20:03:38.372-07:004 Jobs is one job too many.This past week I have been inundated with work. I worked 8am to 10pm almost every night this week with the exception of Thursday. It's been nuts. However, I'm super happy with three of my jobs. I got my glasses broken again at work this week, so the fourth job (which is actually the first), is not my favorite right now. Anyway here is the break down of my new jobs. <br />
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Job 1: Kindergarten 1:1 aide. I get to work with kids. It's awesome, who wouldn't love this job?<br />
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Job 2: Extended day lead teacher, (of sorts). I work with kids on the spectrum and provide a quiet structure place to go before they embrace the insanity of extended day. Which isn't really insane at all it's just snack time that might be a little taxing. I play games, read books and ensure everyone is okay. The program is new so I get to be involved with the development of it. This is very cool. I like building programs, it's fun for me.<br />
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Job 3: Quizmaster for <a href="http://www.geekswhodrink.com/">Geeks Who Drink</a>. In November I will be hosting at my very own venue. I will be blogging weekly from there and of course post a link for y'all, so you can follow that blog too. (To my two, maybe three faithful readers and anyone who wants to join them in reading this). I'm pretty stoked about this gig. If you're looking for a pub quiz (or a trivia night) in your area I recommend you check them out first. 8 rounds with 8 questions each and prizes for the top teams. How can you go wrong? Also you could be famous, because all of the Quizmasters post weekly blog entries and you or your team could get mentioned. Internet fame is still fame right?<br />
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Now I must attend to my studies but at least I put something up here for you.<br />
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SaraSara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-86914979777374415722011-10-08T17:03:00.000-07:002011-10-24T04:20:13.387-07:00That was awesome.I kind of wish I had one of those Staple's easy buttons but instead of saying "that was easy" I'd like for it to say "that was awesome"<br />
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Here's an update:<br />
I have a new job (I work with Kindergarten and first grade students as a 1:1 aide). I'm still a vegetarian (I think I'm still trying to come to terms with this fact). I continue to love Boston (it just feels like home to me). I'm in the middle of midterms. I really need to focus on that. But I also wanted to update because it's been a month and I've gone to Atlanta and back and not shared anything. I was sad that the Braves didn't get the wild card this year. They always choke. :( <br />
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That is all. :)<br />
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Update: Yesterday was probably the best day I've had since I moved to Boston.<br />
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Here it is the long and short of it.<br />
I woke up early fully intent on having to spend my morning working. I came in the door greeted by "Heeeeeyyyyyy Sara" by one of the students I work with. (He's really funny and cute, if not sometimes persistent about getting things he cannot have, (i.e. candy bars in grocery stores). Anyway, this guy is one of the reasons I want to continue working part time. I then realized that we were overstaffed, so I called my supervisor and volunteered myself to go home. I set the staff up with places to take the students and left to go do homework. So I scored six hours of gloriously beautiful time, which has become a precious commodity for me these days. <br />
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Around 4pm, I went for tea. This prompted me to think about wanting an awesome button and spurred me into a good mood that carried over for the rest of the night. This is really all the information you need about tea. <br />
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Following teatime, my buddy Jay and I rode bikes into Allston for dinner. We walked the streets in search of a dive bar where I could play wing girl for him. I did a terrible job of playing wing girl and instead we got caught up on each others lives and discussed the excitement of the possibility of a Blue 4 reunion (the AmeriCorps team we were both on, for those of you who have come in late). Hanging out with Jay is always a good time, he is so full of life and always craves adventure. And Jay at 1 in the morning after the bar closes when he has access to a bike, leads to once in a lifetime adventures.<br />
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The bar closed because they close super early here. We arrived at the bikes and Jay had this look in his eyes, and said "we could go back, or we could ride into Boston." Who am I to deny Jay or anyone of a bike ride? So I said lets go. We rode down Commonwealth all smiles. Happy to be on bikes in Boston at night time. Jay greeted every pedestrian he could with a joyous "hullo" We came upon Boston Public Garden (for those of you not keeping up, my favorite park in the entire world). So of course it is mandated by the laws of my own happiness that any time I am within a mile of Boston Public Garden, I must venture towards it. And what luck that we did because we encountered a band of bikers. Known as <a href="http://www.scul.org/skynet/index.php">SCUL</a>.They ride on modified bikes and have created a subculture that Busts the funk and spends Saturday nights navigating Boston and it's surrounding cities. They allowed Jay and I to tag along on and Bust Funk with them. We danced in a park, watched a rousing game of Derby (where they knock each other off their modified bikes but in a nice way), and rode through the most beautiful parts of Boston until almost Sunrise. Jay and I discussed the possibility that our waiter may have dropped hallucinogens in our beverages because the whole experience was surreal. I've never met a group of individuals more free and unafraid of excitement. Their energy was magnetic and if we weren't both craving greasy diner food we may have followed them until the end of time. We didn't end up making it to an open diner because I'm almost positive that 24 hour diners don't exist in Boston. However, we did ride along the Charles River from Cambridge to Watertown enjoying the worlds most beautiful skyline the whole way. We cheered and shouted and eagerly discussed our amazing experience.<br />
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I couldn't have asked for a better day. It was one of those days where I was reminded that You Only Live Once and to enjoy joy.Sara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-37595390000259952262011-09-09T19:00:00.000-07:002011-09-09T19:00:46.303-07:00Love sickI'm at work, I should probably not advertise that I'm writing this at work but my employer seriously doesn't mind as long as I stay awake and have all of my other work done. I do I do have all my other work completed. I'm actually ahead in my duties.<br />
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It's been two weeks. I don't like relationships, I find them to be confusing. I'm trying to focus on finding a new job. If anyone is hiring I'm seeking employment. I am trying to focus on my upcoming trip to Atlanta. I leave on September 11 and return on the 13th. I hope that my flight is safe. I'm nervous to fly on that day. I'm sure it unsettles most people.<br />
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I don't know where I'll be in ten years and that scares me. However I do know where I want to be. I've been trying to focus on my nonprofit and let the rest play out. I like school. I'm a nerd. This post is stream of conscious. I'm still a vegetarian. I don't know what I'm gonna give up next month... it's ten so I'm gonna go home.<br />
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Night.Sara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-22451428103163980642011-09-06T17:32:00.000-07:002011-09-06T17:33:51.114-07:00Hurrilame Irene and other news to date.So, I'm gonna lay it out straight for you dear reader there have been several things that have happened since I've last updated.<br />
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The good:<br />
School started again - I love school, I'm a big nerd and believe that a good education is a vital part to a full life.<br />
My softball league started and my team won a game, partly thanks to my amazing catching abilities and vicious banter (mostly because my team rocked).<br />
I still have a job - this is good news. There are lots and lots and lots of people without one.<br />
I am single - which means that I can date whomever I want, whenever I want, however I want. I also get to do the single ladies dance, I think I can rock my hips and shake my hands better than Beyonce (others can feel free to disagree).<br />
I have really amazing friends.<br />
I am going to Atlanta in less than a week.<br />
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The Bad:<br />
School is already starting to overwhelm me.<br />
Working with highly behavioral and sometimes violent special needs students is challenging. Not intellectually challenging, but physical and stressful. Not always, when my kids are good they are the best kids on the planet. When they are not good, I sometimes get scared. I think it helps to admit that I'm not perfect and that I do get scared. I think it will eventually help me to recognize how to get over this looming fear.<br />
I have to get new glasses cause one of my kids broke them (see above).<br />
I sometimes feel alone. The single ladies dance is only fun by yourself for so long, eventually I don't want to be a single lady.<br />
I don't have very many friends in Boston and I've now officially been here for 365 days. That is sad.<br />
Going to Atlanta costs money, and I feel poor. However, I am not actually poor, I can feed myself, I can clothe myself, and I have a sweet apartment with awesome roommates.<br />
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In reality, I have no reason to complain. Still sometimes it just feels good to complain, and to cry and to want better for myself.<br />
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In other news, I've been thinking a lot about my nonprofit as of late. I am in the process of redesigning the logo, which seems like a futile task cause if I ever gather a board and get this thing off the ground, it's going to be redone again. My penguin may never get approved, but I like it. In reality the logo doesn't matter as much as the mission and I feel like I have a lot of hurdles to climb. It seriously feels like someone stacked Mt. Kilaminjaro, Mt. Everest, Mt. Washington, and Sugarloaf Mountain, and said "hey you should try and climb this beast" and I said, "Absolutely". I'm still gathering supplies for the journey. There are a lot of supplies you need to climb a mountain, but when you're gonna climb four mountains stacked on top of each other, you might as well just hire a jet plane or a helicopter. I guess I said screw the helicopter I'm gonna do it the hard way. So I'm here you know gathering supplies, and supplies get expensive. I've also come to realize that you shouldn't climb a mountain by yourself, so you know I'm trying to convince friends that they want to climb four mountains with me. I still haven't found anyone to take the bait. So I guess this is me asking the internet if anyone is interested in creating a nonprofit determined to promote creative education techniques for teachers and provide interactive yet educational performances to students. I kind of prefer to help American children but if people from other countries are interested in my idea and the prospect of climbing* four mountains stacked on top of each other sounds fun to you. <br />
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If you want to learn more shoot me an email at sara@sarapens.com and I'll let you know what I've got.<br />
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Of course I don't mean literal mountains, figurative mountains will do. Mountains sounds more dramatic than jumping hurdles, there are lots of hurdles to jump. The idea though, the idea is solid. <br />
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Well I look forward to my upcoming trip to Atlanta, possibly finding a new job, finding a second job, making friends, going to school, and being a single lady.<br />
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Also in case anyone is wondering, Jeremiah is still living.<br />
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Until next time,<br />
Sarapens<br />
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I also realized that I titled this post Hurrilame Irene and never mentioned it, that was about as much impact as the storm had on Boston. However it was fun. Sara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-16208882031652141552011-08-19T09:23:00.000-07:002011-08-19T09:23:56.950-07:00Summer Adventures continuedHere are some things:<br />
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I have completed many of the things on my summer bucket list. I raised one tadpole into a frog. And in spite of me wanting to give a gender specific name, I named my frog Jeremiah (it's a girl). The other tadpole died :(. I went camping by myself, but it was fun. I met my brothers wife. She seems cool. I am still working and the semester is about to start. I moved to a new apartment. It was a last minute thing. I am happy with the move but since graduating high school, I have still not managed to live in a place for longer than a year. I guess I don't understand stability. I saw many of my AmeriCorps friends and it was nice catching up, I still need to make my way down to Maryland. I haven't eaten meat since June 27th and my stomach pain has decreased tremendously. I also found out I may not have had to lose my gall bladder. I'm considering owning fish. I'm still single and available, although not necessarily looking anymore. I have a lot in store for me these next few months as I apply to new programs and positions. I am hoping to get something cool. I also joined a softball team but the first two games were rained out. I think that's it for now.<br />
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SaraSara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-1618048005726798082011-06-14T19:06:00.000-07:002015-03-20T19:53:26.074-07:00Summer AdventuresSo it's been a while since I've posted. Here are five things that have happened since I've last wrote:<br />
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1. I had an organ removed (my gallbladder for those of us who weren't paying attention).<br />
2. I bought a bike. I ride it to work on days it doesn't rain and other places too. I took it into Boston last week, this week I'm riding to a concert.<br />
3. I made straight A's (which isn't too difficult considering I only take two classes a semester but it is grad school and I'm still proud of myself.<br />
4. I have seen ever member of my team post AmeriCorps sans my TL (for obvious reasons). In being able to see them all I went on an epic adventure from Boston to New Jersey, to NYC, to Philly, back to NJ, and then back to Boston.<br />
5. I have decided to give up Facebook for the month of June. This has led to me wanting to finish the year with a new personal challenge each month. Next month I'm going to attempt to not consume meat. I don't know what I'll do after that, whatever I fancy I guess. I'm open to taking suggestions. <br />
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Here are three things that I've decided I'm going to do:<br />
1. I'm going to Clambake on Thursday. It's a street/indoor show with 8 bands. It's sponsored by WFNX and I've been hearing about it since before my gallbladder removal. I'm stoked. I'm riding my bike down to House of Blues. I'm going by myself but it should be a good time anyway.<br />
2. I'm going to Atlanta to visit my family and see a Braves game. I've already bought the ticktes. I'll be there Sunday 9/11 through Tuesday 9/13<br />
3. I'm going to raise tadpoles into frogs. I have the tadpoles and one of them has already sprouted legs. The other one is lagging behind a bit. I can't name them until they have arms. Cause I'd prefer to give them gender specific names. I'm also kind of afraid one won't make it through metamorphosis and I'll be quite sad.<br />
4. I'm going to complete everything on my summer bucket list. I made a summer bucket list, I stole the idea from a friend who made a Boston bucket list with her roommates. (It is my belief that most solid ideas are stolen from other people). <that as="" been="" belief="" else="" from="" have="" may="" nbsp="" someone="" stolen="" well=""></that><br />
5. I'm going to go camping this summer. I haven't quite figured out the details on this one. It may end up that I go up to a campsite and do it all by myself. Who knows, I'm hoping I can convince some friends to come with me.<br />
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So I think that's about as much of an update as I can offer right now. But life is alright. Bumpy, sure but definitely alright.Sara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-69622192521812929642011-03-09T19:26:00.000-08:002011-03-09T19:26:40.255-08:00PromotionsI applied for a promotion at my job. I was offered the position and have now accepted it. So that's cool. I go back and forth every day about what I'm doing here. For awhile, I was kind of over it. The kids were challenging me on a daily basis, I was frustrated with school, my gall bladder had developed a stone and I was dealing with some serious pain and I had a tug in my heart string to move back to the great state of Georgia. Yup that's right I admit it, I was ready to move back to the south and sew my oats (or whatever the saying is). Now not so much, things got better. The kids make me smile more, I've learned to live with the constant pain and I got a handle on school. However, I still miss Georgia. I find this weird as I had only lived there for a few months, if that. I think perhaps I'm missing my family. I miss having friends closer to me.<br />
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Often times I feel alone up here. That kinda sucks. I'm making friends but nowhere near the speed I was making them last year. I haven't volunteered since the end of July. Granted I work for a nonprofit organization. I miss the work I did last year. I miss traveling the country with 9 other people. I'm supposed to meet up with some of those wonderful people in the next couple of months and for that I am excited.<br />
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Life is what it is right now. I can't say more I can't say less. Perhaps, I should invest in a more private avenue to share my thoughts.<br />
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This post is kinda lame, but promotions are cool and I still love Boston. I also appreciate the friends I've made since I've moved up to the great state of Massachusetts.<br />
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That is all<br />
SaraSara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-81221264468493943742011-02-22T12:05:00.000-08:002011-02-22T12:13:17.032-08:00Save AmeriCorpsThe Corporation for National and Community Service is in jeopardy. Congress is considering cutting funding for this program which would eliminate several programs nationwide, it would mean job cuts, it could mean that certain nonprofits will fail due to the lack of help that they were previously receiving. At the end of this post I have provided several links so you can better inform yourself about what's going on. But here is a link to sign the petition to Save AmeriCorps: <a href="http://www.change.org/petitions/save-americorps">http://www.change.org/petitions/save-americorps</a><br />
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AmeriCorps is part of the Corporation for National and Community Service. Corps members give up a year of their life to help people in need. There are several organizations that stem from the Corporation for National and Community Service including: SeniorCorps, Learn and Serve, and AmeriCorps. These programs help millions of people across the country. They provide people and resources to help lead volunteers, institute new programs, maintain current programs and sometimes even provide disaster relief. While I personally am not a fan of large government programs, the Corporation for National and Community Service provided me a valuable learning experience that I will take with me for the rest of my life. It changed me for the better as it has thousands of others who have been through one of the programs. I wish I could give proper statistics and numbers for how this organization has helped our nation to be better, stronger and smarter. Instead all I can do is tell you about my experience in the program I served. <br />
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Over my ten months as a corps member for AmeriCorps' National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC). I documented much of the work I did in this blog. I worked with several nonprofit organizations, helped with flood relief resulting from the Nashville Tennessee Flood of 2010. I helped rebuild houses and better school systems in New Orleans; a city still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, and now from the Oil Spill. I tutored failing kids in California, I built houses for migrant farm workers, who would otherwise be living in squalor. I even got to build playgrounds with KaBOOM! In ten months, I feel that I accomplished more than most people do in perhaps a lifetime. <br />
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Before I joined AmeriCorps, I had negative feelings about America and the state it was in, but had no idea of how to make changes. I didn't know what I could do to make a difference. I applied to the organization for several reasons, but probably the most compelling reason for me was I didn't have a job, but I wasn't ready for Grad school or the working world. I was able to spend 10 months doing community service work instead. I was able to learn new skills that I've been able to take with me. I learned how to be a better team player, a better leader, and the value of communication and flexibility. All skills most people need to be successful in the working world. Sure I could have gained these skills anywhere, but I was able to do it faster and possibly better in NCCC.<br />
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People who are in favor of cutting the program usually have this to say:<br />
"The Corporation for National and Community Service was started by democrats, and we all know that they just want to frivolously spend government money on things that don't matter."<br />
"AmeriCorps is a waste of money, it costs millions of tax payers money and what is there to show for it?"<br />
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This is what I have to say. <br />
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First and foremost, what many people don't know is that the organization has bipartisan support. George W. Bush signed the bill that allowed for people who completed the program received more money, John McCain voted for it. It's not just a democratic organization for bleeding hearted liberals. In my experience, I met all kinds of people in the program. I am a libertarian, I don't like big governments, I didn't vote for Obama in 2008. I certainly didn't consider myself to be apart of "Obama's Youth" or whatever Rush Limbaugh want's to call the program. It's not a brain washing organization. I still feel the same way about Obama, as I did before I joined the program. I still feel the same way about our country and how it should be run as I did before. I do have a little bit more pride for this country. I do feel that we as a people need to step up and work together to make it a better place. I don't think that's a bad thing. I don't think that it's horrible that in 2009, I would've done whatever it took to get out of this country, and in 2011, I think we as a people should do whatever it takes (in a positive way) to make this country a better place. That is a positive paradigm shift, if I've ever heard of one. <br />
My AmeriCorps NCCC class was composed of Democrats, Republicans, and Independents. We had Christians, Muslims, Jews, and Athiests/Agnostics. We had people who came from rich backgrounds and those who grew up in less than desirable means. People from all across the country came together for 10 months to make a difference. My point being, it's not a democrat or republican thing, it's a people thing. The program helps people, not just bleeding heart liberals. <br />
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Now about the money. CNCS is expensive. I won't argue that. Making this country a better place, helping people, isn't free. It can't be. Yet CNCS isn't taking the millions of dollars it receives and paying for Presidents of failing banks to take vacations or fly around on private jets. Instead it's taking the money and using it to help children who are failing, to help cities who were impacted by national disasters, to help people get back on their feet.<br />
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Here is how AmeriCorps NCCC spends some of it's money to make that happen:<br />
Corps members are given a modest living allowance (less than $150 every two weeks). To work over 40 hours a week. Not at a desk job, no I was covered head to toe in dirt, pulling out insulation, I was covered in sweat putting up drywall in New Orleans in the summer time. I built houses in the desert. It was hot, and I worked hard. One week we spent hours raking leaves in a public park because the park couldn't afford to do it. We helped make that park beautiful. We helped people get back into their homes after they experienced disaster. We helped people in need for 40+ hours a week. And we were paid less than $2 an hour to do it. Correction, not paid it's a living allowance. But can anyone really expect people to give up 10 months of their life completing over 1600 hours of service for nothing? Personally, 1.88 an hour isn't enough for some of the work I did last year. Yet, I did it anyway.<br />
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Now we aren't expected to live off of less than 150 every two weeks. We are also given a modest food budget. $4.50 per person per day. Yep try feeding 10 people on $45 a day. It's tricky and I ate more peanut butter and jelly sandwiches in the last year than I ever wanted to.<br />
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We are also given a place to sleep. Now don't get confused. Some of my friends lived in tents, I lived in a variety of living situations. I lived in a dorm. I lived in a 4 bedroom apartment with 9 other people. The room was large enough to fit two beds and a cot. I lived in volunteer housing in New Orleans, I showered in a trailer, I ate in a large cafeteria, and I slept in a class room with 20 other people. I was not put up in a 5 star hotel. During training I slept in a cabin with no heat in Mendocino in October. It was freezing. <br />
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I got to do a lot of really cool things, but it wasn't a vacation. It was a year off of sitting around. I worked and I worked hard, and so did my friends. I feel better knowing I made a difference. And here's the thing, I didn't leave AmeriCorps to go work some cushy job. No, I decided during the program that I wanted to dedicate my life to helping others. I want to work for nonprofits. I want to continue to make a difference. Most of my friends are doing the same thing. You can't spend 10 months of your life and go back to the way things were before. This program made me more aware of my surroundings, of what people go through when they don't have help. It made me want to actively participate in helping others. I don't think it's a bad thing.<br />
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CNCS is one of the few government funded programs that I actually believe in. It's better than welfare. It's better than the government bail outs. Not only does this organization help people in need, it helps to train the next generation of leaders. It teaches young people how to do better, work harder, and work together to make a difference.<br />
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Here are some links if you want to learn more:<br />
Sign the Petition to Save AmeriCorps<br />
http://www.change.org/petitions/save-americorps<br />
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The Corporation for National and Community Service<br />
http://www.nationalservice.gov/<br />
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AmeriCorps<br />
http://www.americorps.gov/<br />
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United Way's Stance<br />
http://www.uwpiedmont.org/advocacy.php<br />
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An Article about the BiPartisan nature of AmeriCorps<br />
http://blogs.wsj.com/capitaljournal/2009/03/27/the-real-story-of-how-americorps-became-bipartisan/<br />
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The video one of my teammates made for our time in Mecca, CA.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/WIuPK3TSkNM?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
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You can also read about my previous adventures in NCCC on this blog.<br />
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This post is strictly my opinion and is not the views of CNCS, AmeriCorps or any other program I mentioned. I can't speak for them, I can only speak for myself and the good I saw in my 10 months of serviceSara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-76838133743096841902011-02-08T19:08:00.000-08:002011-02-08T19:08:38.945-08:00At a loss for words...I've been kind of off the map, well slightly off the map. Certainly off the map for me.<br />
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This is due to a few factors:<br />
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<br />
1st. I was sick, went to the hospital with a 104.1 degree fever. I got carted around on a wheely bed (gourney? who cares wheely bed sounds cooler) and taken to different rooms for testing. Mostly I laid in bed waiting for the doctors to figure out what was up. I learned a few things, one I have a gall stone and will eventually have to get my whole gall bladder removed. I'm not excited about losing a body part. Even if I still don't quite understand its purpose. Something about bile. I dunno. I don't want to just toss it out like I'm not appreciative of it's efforts in my 25 years of life. It's done some good work I'm sure. I don't just want to toss it away like a used towel. Finding a surgeon is taking more time than it should. Mostly due to the fact that I'm not comfortable removing one of my organs.<br />
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2nd. The semester has started and I have school work. I should be constantly reading but I haven't been. I have been reading and doing my work, I'm too much of a nerd not to. But I've been doing it last minute thus feeling over whelmed.<br />
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3rd. Increased amounts of sleeping, for whatever reason I'm having trouble sleeping. So I spend most of the night waking up a bunch and then the sun rises and then I go back to sleep. I think I spend more time trying to sleep than I do actually sleeping. Either way I've been having really vivid dreams. So vivid that I'm not sure if I'm asleep or awake. It's weird. So I guess I've been sleeping but not very well and for too long.<br />
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4th. Apathy... I've felt an overwhelming since of apathy ever since I got back from my conference in Orlando. The conference was underwhelming. I think my apathy stems from the fact that I came back feeling like people in my chosen field don't care. So why should I care. I know why I should care I just am having trouble caring. I think that might be because of the weather.<br />
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5th. I don't have a 5th but I like things in 5's and 0's. It's kind of a weird trait but everyone has their quirks.Sara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-79061272617018486352010-12-31T22:15:00.000-08:002011-01-02T22:15:56.715-08:002010 My Year in ReviewIf you don't feel like reading all those entries before this, here is a recap of my last year. <br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"> 2010 was probably one of the best years I’ve had. I traveled the country met hundreds of people, made tons of new friends and got to work on several different volunteer projects. I was able to fulfill not one but two of my goals: the first to donate a year or my life to community service, and the second to move to Boston, MA. This year has certainly been a roller coaster ride to say the least, I made friends, I got into arguments, I made up, I got into more arguments, I burned a few bridges, I reconnected with old friends, and I built a few playgrounds a long the way. I experienced love, heartbreak, depression, elation, I accumulated more debt, and I paid off some of that debt. And did I mention that I got to travel the country. </div><div class="MsoNormal"> This year was certainly memorable, and I’m doing my best to end the year the way it started. Today, I flew to Tampa from Boston, Ma with a layover in St. Louis Missouri. Traveling on the last day of the year seems so perfect considering I spent the last year of my life traveling. I’m hoping for an exhilarating night filled with fun, making new friends and hanging out with old. But who knows, this year has been crazy and unpredictable and I wouldn’t be surprised if I ended up driving to Miami or something instead. In any case here is a listing of my year in review. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Cities I’ve lived in 2010:</div><div class="MsoNormal">Sacramento, Ca – on a retired air force base</div><div class="MsoNormal">Mecca, Ca – in a four-bedroom apartment with 9 other people, most of my neighbors were illegal immigrants. I got to wake up to the most beautiful sunrise on the planet. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Chalmette, LA – in a once flooded School turned into a volunteer housing camp, walking distance from the Ninth Ward.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Nashville, Tn – in a church, with cable T.V. a giant movie projector and the most comfortable couches I’ve ever sat on. I also spent the majority of my day-covered head to toe in mud. It was phenomenal. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Chalmette, La – this time in a 3 bedroom duplex where I shared a bedroom with four other people. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Loganville, Ga – in my dad’s guest room while I searched for Jobs. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Watertown, Ma – in my new apartment, 10 miles from the most beautiful city in the world. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">States I’ve traveled to or through in 2010</div><div class="MsoNormal">California – Not only did I live hear, but I traveled up and down the coast. I got to experience both northern and southern California. Also, I got to go to Disneyland, how awesome is that? </div><div class="MsoNormal">Nevada – for a fun filled, weekend in Lake Tahoe, as well as a stop in Vegas on the road trip home. </div><div class="MsoNormal">New Mexico – Most of my time in New Mexico was spent in a 15 passenger van, but I did get to do some minor site seeing and go to a swimming hole. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Arizona – Again, I traveled through Az on my trip to New Orleans and back. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Texas – I finally was able to see Texas. I hate Houston, in case you were wondering but Austin was pretty cool, and I hope I can go back some day. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Louisiana – I was in New Orleans for several months, working with the Recovery School District. I was able to build playgrounds with KaBoom, restore bikes and experience the dirty south. As much as New Orleans will never be home to me, in the months since I’ve left it’s finally rooted itself into my heart. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Mississippi – I don’t like to think about Mississippi, because I went here with a guy I was dating and he broke up with me while I was there. I still had fun and I picked up a new pair of rocket dogs, which are in a land fill somewhere cause I wore them out. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Alabama – I drove through Alabama on our way to TN.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Georgia – Not only did I live in Georgia for several weeks, I drove through it several times. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Tennessee – I was here for flood recovery.</div><div class="MsoNormal">North Carolina – I went on a trip to North Carolina, with the guy that dumped me in Mississippi. Looking back, I’m happy that the short lived fling is done and over with. Florida – A good place to visit, but I wouldn’t want to live there, anymore. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Virginia – My disdain for this state goes beyond words, but I had to get to Massachusetts somehow and it was on the way. All I can remember about Va are crappy drivers and stupid people. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Maryland – I got to visit Annapolis and hang out with a friend and sing Karaoke. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Washington, D.C. – Which isn’t necessarily a state, but they do have their own license plates so I guess I should put it on. I also got to celebrate 4<sup>th</sup> of July in the nations capital. Now that’s a story for the ages. </div><div class="MsoNormal">New York – I went to upstate New York, and Brookyln, I also spent an hour and a half on the George Washington Bridge. I liked Rochester, but could do without seeing NYC ever again. </div><div class="MsoNormal">New Hampshire – I was able to spend the night in New Hampshire, before my job interview, I went to a Podunk town, but I have a feeling that New Hampshire is mostly country. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Massachusetts – I live here now. I was able to visit western mass, on a road trip and of course I live near Boston, so you know life is good. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Vermont– I drove through Vermont on my way to Montreal. I don’t remember much about Vermont other than, I stopped for coffee and was surprised to see snow covering the ground. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Quebec – I went to Canada with my best friend, we hung out in Montreal for a few days and I got to try Pouitnne. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Pennsylvania– I had to drive through Pennsylvania, on my northeastern road trip and again on my move. I still haven’t been able to do Philly like I’ve wanted. </div><div class="MsoNormal">New Jersey– Again, I only drove through New Jersey, but I did have my gas pumped for me. Weird. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Missouri– I had a layover in Missouri on my last day of the year. It probably counts less than the states I drove through this year, but I’m adding it to the list just the same.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Connecticut - I had to drive through it on my way up to Mass, but I've also been there a few times with a friend, on such travels we always stop for Rein's Deli. </div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Places I worked for in 2010</div><div class="MsoNormal">WJUSD – Tutoring and mentoring high school students at Woodland High School in Woodland, California. </div><div class="MsoNormal">CVHC – Building houses and working in an after school program in Mecca, California</div><div class="MsoNormal">RSD – Doing a variety of projects for the Recovery School District, including painting murals, helping with fun days, and shredding documents in New Orleans, La. </div><div class="MsoNormal">FEMA – Mucking and gutting houses in Nashville, Tn after the flood. </div><div class="MsoNormal">SBP – mowing lawns, and doing whatever else the Saint Bernard Project asked of me in Chalmette, LA.</div><div class="MsoNormal">PG – Working with kids with multiple disabilities, in Watertown, Ma.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Things I had never done before in 2010. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Framed, mucked, gutted, and roofed houses, picked apples, skied , ate poutine, served crab to people, built playgrounds, organized a fundraiser, back country camped in Joshua Tree, visited Disney Land, ate a pastrami sandwiches and probably a lot more. </div>Sara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-51732184852023778092010-12-24T21:33:00.000-08:002010-12-24T21:36:28.457-08:00Merry GrinchmasI'm in Beantown for Christmas. The good news I get to spend it with my best friend, the better news I have a few days off from work. But the bad news is that I have Canadian Moose Flu, which is what I've decided to name the illness that I contracted in Canada. I went to Canada Sunday night and came back with the Canadian Moose Flu on Wednesday. It was awful I spent the last few days trying to convince Comet and Cupid that I wasn't related to them. I am certain I'm going to grow antlers or something, and the next thing I know I'll be clinging to Dasher or Dancer yelling at Santa to turn the damn sled around! Okay not so much. I've never had the flu before but I haven't been able to eat or drink or indulge in any of the things people indulge in over the holiday season, like eating chocolate covered peanut butter balls, or cookie dough. I'm getting sick just thinking about it. I haven't felt this way since I got food poisoning in Summer 2009, that was embarrassing. Although I didn't get this sickness on my own it is the only thing I've been able to think about for the past few days. In all my focus on trying not to turn into a moose, I forgot that Christmas was coming. I bet Santa's left the North Pole by now, traveling the globe passing out presents to all the girls and boys of planet Earth or whatever it is that he does. I dunno, he stopped bringing me presents a few years ago.<br />
<br />
Sometimes, I miss being a kid. But then again, you have to grow up sometime.<br />
<br />
I forgot what I was going on about, the moose are at it again. Night all, Merry Christmas, or whatever you celebrate.<br />
<br />
SaraSara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-91964816727959026192010-12-14T22:09:00.000-08:002010-12-14T22:09:25.063-08:00Life is goodWell sort of... nothing is perfect but my writing has been slowed. And will continue to be slowed until after Christmas I bet. Happy HolidaysSara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-82510879339562330292010-12-04T20:38:00.000-08:002010-12-04T20:38:03.381-08:00Lacking Consistency<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0RsOsuuPzV86X_107ufuVINEa1xGbVACPjHplB6kTrhlzuPza51KPA12ry_jQofxivfoJgBlEf36FShn9Al5VfOKvFw8FGWflDE2e6funCO25eTk-Vet7dHutcY7g6wO6l6IuJvjx-MJZ/s1600/imageswtf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0RsOsuuPzV86X_107ufuVINEa1xGbVACPjHplB6kTrhlzuPza51KPA12ry_jQofxivfoJgBlEf36FShn9Al5VfOKvFw8FGWflDE2e6funCO25eTk-Vet7dHutcY7g6wO6l6IuJvjx-MJZ/s1600/imageswtf.jpg" /></a></div> <br />
I just came to the realization that my life is lacking consistency, and it's been that way ever since I can remember. Perhaps, everyone has realized this at some point, which is why I'm realizing it now. Although, now that I'm thinking about it, I've become frustrated. My desire for a sense of stability has been ever growing since I graduated college. I have moved several times over the last 6 years. By several I mean 18 or so times. On average I move three times a year. In 2010, alone I've moved 9 times. Although the majority of those 9 are from AmeriCorps, but if you don't count my 6 AmeriCorps moves, I've still moved 3 times this year. I anticipate moving again, not before the end of this year, but eventually I'll have to move. Perhaps next September, I'll move farther from work and closer to the city. But I don't want to think about moving because my already frustrated move has now soured. I'm sure I will, it's inevitable, but I don't have to worry about it right now. Not right now, which is what has saved me from dwelling on stability, because all I have to do is think about right now. Right now, I'm relatively safe. Right now, my bills are paid or will be paid. Right now I have food in my belly or the ability to put it there. Right now, I have the ability to put my clothes on my back, if they're not already there. Thinking about the here and the now has saved me from thinking about the what ifs, thinking about the what could be's, the future. <br />
It's a scary thing, the future. Anything can happen between here and tomorrow. It's unpredictable, it's unstable. And I suppose, it's that way for everybody. At least there's solidarity in numbers.<br />
<br />
It's before midnight, did you expect something that made sense?Sara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-10196268972731427722010-12-03T20:08:00.000-08:002010-12-03T20:15:14.508-08:00Sara Plain and TallThere is nothing of interest going on in my life right now.<br />
<br />
So here's 10 things I've done or have been working on: (I really just like making lists). <br />
1. It's finals week so I've been working on Case Studies.<br />
2. I was asked to come up with and start a regular group for the kids at work. We'll probably do a ton of arts and crafts projects.<br />
3. I may have acquired a new gaming system, and if I did I've probably been playing COD Black OPS and Assassin's Creed<br />
4. I ate a Pastrami Sandwich from Rein's Deli. (It was delicious).<br />
5. I watched teen drama shows on ABC Family and Teen Nick. (Everyone is allowed to have a guilty pleasure, right?)<br />
6. I used Consequentialism to justify poor decision making in a paper. (I sometimes use this thinking to justify my own actions in real life).<br />
7. I wore shorts outside, in 30 degree weather.<br />
8. I purchased boots that I can build snowmen in.<br />
9. I decided that I'm awesome. (Or at least I decided that I'd start telling myself that, in hopes that I'll believe it. It's starting to work. I feel like I'm awesome).<br />
10. I drew pictures of hamburgers for one of the kids at work.<br />
<br />
It was really hard to come up with this list. I really need a hobby, but right now my hobby needs to be writing this case study.<br />
<br />
Here's a list of 10 things I should've done:<br />
1. Read the case for my case study.<br />
2. Take the final exam for financial management.<br />
3. Make Christmas presents.<br />
4. Paint the painting I owe my best friend.<br />
5. Write the proposal for the weekly group I've been asked to start.<br />
6. Clean my room.<br />
7. Find a primary care physician and go for an annual check up.<br />
8. Finish reading 3 cups of tea.<br />
9. Update my website.<br />
10. Make and write postcards that I've been promising people. <br />
<br />
Yay! Case studies.<br />
<br />
Also it's apparently choose your favorite cartoon character week on Facebook or something. Here's my choice:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnnJW4Z5LILc0pbD9b9WEy07ABhuyyNrXYrPvwXrFNKTSVnLtdQeU_nCjaRH1b2ge1LhHlMFStiaDhNNjTTvSYDbSn5h6GNhKukHpcqR_ergSPPLWTVy6Yqw4z5XHteDxNiLfY7tgaur8O/s1600/3416389594_91283d54e1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnnJW4Z5LILc0pbD9b9WEy07ABhuyyNrXYrPvwXrFNKTSVnLtdQeU_nCjaRH1b2ge1LhHlMFStiaDhNNjTTvSYDbSn5h6GNhKukHpcqR_ergSPPLWTVy6Yqw4z5XHteDxNiLfY7tgaur8O/s320/3416389594_91283d54e1.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is probably an obvious choice. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoSsa4tyAb4FFbQN6S6dIfKsiwtuBT8dGPpoBNGY5u2EbZ4nAaHq_T-zFkCJlU1NuM6ir03Hl2XGGZNaVR4beARyJwZc68KaURKHLy4abpDOk-Gk9edmN2iBag4wa9vdfYXPXYj9qUtRpo/s1600/Photo+138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoSsa4tyAb4FFbQN6S6dIfKsiwtuBT8dGPpoBNGY5u2EbZ4nAaHq_T-zFkCJlU1NuM6ir03Hl2XGGZNaVR4beARyJwZc68KaURKHLy4abpDOk-Gk9edmN2iBag4wa9vdfYXPXYj9qUtRpo/s320/Photo+138.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's a picture of the Rocket Dogs I ordered a few weeks ago.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Sara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-23998611251367632822010-11-26T10:56:00.000-08:002010-11-26T10:56:41.155-08:00Thanksgiving Turkey, Past and Pumpkin PieThis year, I had Thanksgiving dinner at work. It was surreal. I celebrated the holiday with several students and staff from work. Our spread was bountiful, we had pasta, and tuna sandwiches, turkey, green bean casserole (my favorite) and pumpkin pie. I stood in the hallway watching the kids play with each other. I was sad at first thinking about how this was not the Thanksgiving tradition that I had grown up with. I hadn't watched the Macy's Thanksgiving day parade or any of the football games. Instead I slept until 2 preparing for a potential overnight shift. Luckily, I didn't have to work the overnight. All of the kids at my house were able to go home and spend the holiday with their family. I however, spent it at work. I missed my Grandmothers sweet tea and waking up early this morning to cash in on all the Black Friday deals. I missed out on the family gossip and sweet potato casserole. But Thanksgiving hasn't been the same in my family since my Grandmother died all those years ago. I no longer spend the holiday in Ga with my dad's family. In fact I can't remember the last time I had Thanksgiving dinner with any of my relatives. The holiday doesn't have the same magic as it used to. These last few years, I've done it a little different each time. But there was something about this year that was special. Perhaps it was because I didn't feel alone even though I was sure that I would. I thought that there wasn't any possible way for me to be able to connect considering that everyone I care about is so far away.<br />
<br />
Another list for you, my top 10 favorite Thanksgiving memories:<br />
<br />
1. Waking up at 3:30 am the day after Thanksgiving and going to Shoney's before hitting up the holiday madness and being the first in line to tell Santa Clause what I want for Christmas. (This year I want games and puzzles for the kids at work).<br />
2. Handing out high fives to runners at the Sacramento Turkey Trot.<br />
3. The Safety guy putting out fires in the 943 kitchen.<br />
4. Mimosas and the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.<br />
5. Riding four wheelers.<br />
6. Making my first snowman and enjoying the weekend off with my friends in Tahoe.<br />
7. Hanging out with my Grandmother in the kitchen drinking the best sweet tea known to man.<br />
8. Fighting with my cousin over who owns the Popple*.<br />
9. Explaining to Londoners why it was so important to make Green Bean casserole on the last Thursday of November. <br />
10. Spending time with my mom on one of the few days of the year she doesn't have to work.<br />
<br />
Well, I hope everyone had a great time with their friends and families. Try not to get into a fight over Black Friday deals.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2okoTZHSXaJpeQT7-I42V6ZEKTWrQK-HXF3Tt1pl9repBzBLcpruFIA6eRIV4a-56lUiegXnZwmdxtC7sRlPd40jhhCdw5Cxl3s9lgEttGpOvO-uvIgqcRqq1_QGd67lgo39huysxbyVK/s1600/popples.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2okoTZHSXaJpeQT7-I42V6ZEKTWrQK-HXF3Tt1pl9repBzBLcpruFIA6eRIV4a-56lUiegXnZwmdxtC7sRlPd40jhhCdw5Cxl3s9lgEttGpOvO-uvIgqcRqq1_QGd67lgo39huysxbyVK/s320/popples.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Sara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-91772798754714783312010-11-24T21:47:00.000-08:002010-11-24T21:47:04.570-08:00The Pilgrims crossed the ocean and stole the land from the Indians and for that I am thankful.Okay so probably not the best thing to be thankful for, but I am thankful for other things too.<br />
<br />
Here's a list of ten things I'm thankful for:<br />
1. My Best friend and very supportive family. <br />
2. Having a job in this economy.<br />
3. The new friends I've made in the Northeast.<br />
4. Being young and not having anything to tie me down.<br />
5. Having a roof over my head.<br />
6. Finding a place to call home.<br />
7. The last year of my life, I traveled the country with 8 amazing people and got to do things most people could never dream of.<br />
8. My new city.<br />
9. Pastrami Reubens from Rein's Deli. <br />
10. and connections with other people. <br />
<br />
Of course there are more things I'm for which I am thankful but it could take years to name everything I love about the world.<br />
<br />
Last year for Thanksgiving I got up early and volunteered for the Sacramento Turkey Trot. I cheered on hundreds of runners and distributed so many high fives my hands were red. Afterward I sat down for a homemade feast. I spent the weekend with friends at Lake Tahoe and experienced many firsts. My first sled ride, my first snowball fight, building my first snowman.<br />
<br />
This year I'll be breaking bread at work, eating dinner with the kids whose parents didn't come to take them home. We'll eat turkey and stuffing and watch cartoons instead of football. I'm positive that nothing will top last thanksgiving, but I look forward to be able to share the holiday with strangers and new friends.<br />
<br />
Perhaps for me this year Thanksgiving will be more like the first one, the one when the Indians and the Pilgrims sat down together as strangers and left as friends. I mean they were friends for a while until the Pilgrims took land, passed on new diseases and tried to enslave their new friends. Why do we celebrate this holiday again?<br />
<br />
Oh yeah, to give thanks. Thanks to all of you for reading my late night ramblings. I hope your holidays are happy and safe and your relationships turn out a lot better than one between the pilgrims and the Indians.Sara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8645442941818245935.post-37711694395344183172010-11-14T22:02:00.000-08:002015-03-20T19:36:02.444-07:00That insanely hard level that you just can't get past.I've been playing this game on PS2. I don't play video games enough to get a PS3. I also haven't made enough money to buy a PS3 until recently, and well after all those years of not being able to afford a more advanced system, I can't really find a reason to run out and buy one. Maybe in a few years, or after I get my student loans figured out. Anyway, after spending more time and energy than I care to admit on this video game, I'm stuck. The game is God of War, and I'm at the part where you have to dodge these <a href="http://guides.ign.com/guides/661321/page_17.html">stupid moving gates</a> to get to the next stage. It seems as though every time I try the level I just get hit by the gates. Every few times, I get to the first depression in the floor and I find a sense of safety. I feel better about trying it again because I got to that first part, but the next part just seems impossible. No matter what I do, the freaking gates hit me. I looked up cheat codes and stuff, but decided against it. It just doesn't seem right to cheat on a game. And quite frankly I haven't found any that will actually work. I've looked at tips too. I have done my homework on this game; I just can't figure it out. I've thought about playing a new game and starting from the beginning, but for some reason I really like this game. I keep thinking about how much I enjoyed it when I first got it. It was new, and exciting, even perhaps dangerous at times. Now I just feel stupid for continuing to get hit over and over again by the gates. I mean really, isn't the definition of insanity trying to do the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. You'd think I'd try a new tactic or at least start a new game. I'm not so far along that I'm going to feel bad if I never beat it. I mean it would just be between me and my memory card (well now the internet) that I can't beat this level. I think I just still have that glimmer of hope. Sometimes, I wish that I never made it to the first depression; I think if I just kept getting swept away by the gates, I would learn that I just won't ever get past the level, and I'd move on. It's not as if I didn't try. I did, I looked up guides and Google searched and what not, but those freaking gates just hit me over and over. Maybe my frustration is finally getting to me, I'm obviously not going anywhere with this game. I could be at this level forever, and who wants that? You can't really tell people that even after a month that you're still on the same level. Serious gamers will laugh at you, and your regular friends, well, they'll never understand. I mean most of them have told me that I should try a different game.<br />
<br />
I guess, the beginning was too much fun and I really just want to see what happens next, so here I go again back to the gates, watching the character get destroyed over and over again. Good thing this kind of thing never happens in real life.Sara Penshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06282875233520738673noreply@blogger.com0