Summer Lov'n

Today is officially the first day of the Fall season and that means a big good-bye to summer 2010! And although I am more than happy to leave behind the humidity, the burning seatbelt buckle, and unflattering swimsuit, summers always seem to bring a renewing effect -- projects get done, vacations, down-time (this is mostly from our school years), big movie releases, the infamous summer love that can occasionally (or frequently) come your way. A lot happens in summer.

Movie: INCEPTION

Among the horrible sequels of Iron Man and Sex and the City came a movie whose enticing and original premises of implanting ideas within the human mind drew me in immediately. Inception was everything a summer movie should be -- a visually stunning, intectually stimulating thriller with characters you root for and a storyline complex enough to keep you debating after the credits role.

Book: THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO -- This trilogy by the late Stieg Larsson of Sweden has been sweeping the world with millions of books sold, one Swedish movie version, and an English movie currently filming. Who wouldn't be intrigued? And for good reason because I could not put this book down. I don't know if it was the compelling characters of Mikeal Blomvist and Lisbeth Salander (who has been called the new feminist hero of the decade), the edgy and dark subject matter that blows any fluffy romance off its rocker (a warning to sensitive readers -- there is some disturbing content), or the great storyline mystery that keeps you guessing (no skimming pages or skipping boring chapters). Oh, and P.S. -- if you like the book, the Swedish movie version is available which I would highly recommend.

Project Finished: I have caught up on my scrapbooking of newspaper articles and movie ticket stubs from the last 3 years and have successfully created my own recipe book to put the infinate number of recipes I've collected and thrown carelessly into a shoe box. No more!

Fear Conquered: In my ever-evolving quest to conquer my anxiety of driving in populated areas, I have successfully driven almost the whole length of Interstate 355 --even with the constructions that I'm betting will be completed when the Apocalypse occurs.

Makeup Trick Learned: For all the pale faces out there, I learned that putting a bit (bit is the key word here) of blush across the hairline at the top of the forehead does give you a sun-kissed, bright face. Don't knock it til you try it! And don't use a dark blush....lighter is better.

Beverage: Sparkling Water -- I found this treasure by accident when I thought I had bought plain bottled water. Refreshing and without the sugar and heavy syrup of soda.

Go-To Summer T-Shirt for Lazy Days: It was all Blackhawks love since they won the World Cup and a bright red shirt with the mascot in front was this summers perfect tee.

Television Show: GLEE -- Summer television is not my thing as reality television gets dumber and many of the shows worth watching are on hiatus til fall. However, I was pushed to watch Glee by a friend and through my stalling and procrastinating I finally did.....and was hooked from the 1st episode. I'm a Gleek and proud of it!

Music: GLEE SOUNDTRACKS -- See above....they go hand-in-hand. For those of you who are just getting into Glee, I recommend the wonderful mash-up songs of Halo/Sunshine and It's My Life/Confessions and of course the song that started it all Don't Stop Believing.

Place to Go: A Cubs Rooftop game -- Yes, it is a bit pricey but it is an experience that every Cubs fan should have. The one price you pay includes the game, all food (better than any food you will find inside the park), and all drinks, including alcohol. Still not convinced? With 3 floors to choose from (one indoor, one partial indoor, and the rooftop with stadium seating), it fits for everyone's preferences. It is never crowded inside and there's no fighting the 40,000 people trying to squeeze their way out of the exits after the game. The best part? The bathrooms! And if you've been to the bathrooms at Wrigley, you will understand this immediately.

New Drinking Haven: Marina Bars -- the down-to-earth feel, hanging lantern lights (or tiki torches), and great summer night weather make drinking by the lake the comforting place to be. Add some great music and I'm there!

New Guilty Pleasure: Pedicures -- I've been avoiding them as I believed my tickilish feet would result in some poor girl's broken nose. I'm so glad I was wrong.

What I Learned This Summer: To let go -- There are people and things that were only meant to be in our lives for a little while....to help us grow and get us to the next part of our journey. And it wasn't meant to last forever, even if we wanted it to. Keep moving forward and remember those things as great memories. It may not make sense now but looking back later in life, connect the dots and realize that it happened for a reason.

Goodbye Summer 2010. Thanks for the memories. :)

Stephanie

Everything I Need To Learn, I Learned From Andre Dawson

I've been a Cubs fan all my life and being a fan of sports, I can say it is easy to remember the bad moments. I'm sure every Cubs fan can remember the Sammy Sosa "cork-in-the bat" scandal, the Kyle Farnsworth caught-sleeping-in-the-dug-out incident, the Milton Bradley whine-a-thon of last year, and more recently Carlos Zambrano's berating his entire team and getting suspended. It makes you wonder if all baseball players have become classless, overpaid athlethes whose sportmanship abilities have all but flown out the window.

Enter Andre Dawson, who was just inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame this past week. Not only was he a respectful and classy guy, but his message was stuff that works not only in the game of baseball but in life as well. I had to share!

"Love the game and it will love you back." -- Apply this to life: Love life and it will love you back. Simple right? Putting it in baseball terms makes it all the sweeter.

If One Door Closes, Find Another One -- When Andre Dawson's contract was up in Montreal, they did not renew it and no other team seemed too interested. Instead of continuing to face a closed door, Andre Dawson wanted to play for the Cubs, so he sent a blank and signed contract to the Cubs manager in Chicago, said this is the team he wanted to play for and he didn't care what number they put down for his salary. This is where he wanted to play. The Cubs signed him and he became one of the most beloved Cubs players ever at Wrigley Field.

Show Thanks -- Cubs fans made a ritual of bowing to Andre Dawson as he ran out onto the field at Wrigley. Andre has since said there are no fans as great as Cub fans and on his last home game, he in turn bowed to them.

You Always Have a Choice -- Andre mentioned briefly about his disappointment in the use of steriods that has plagued the Major League Baseball teams and caused numerous scandals. It is one of the greatest gifts we have -- the power of choice.

Play Hard. Be Thankful. Be Respectful. Love the Game and It Will Love You Back.

Living In Low Gear

I am sooooo bad at keeping this thing up.....and the thing is...I love to blog and read other blogs! But at times, especially lately, I feel I have nothing to contribute to the blog-reading world. Life has been a bit stagnant for me since I have graduated college. I am currently unemployed, single, and living with my parents. The one thing I owned that was truly mine (my beloved 1998 Hyundai Accent car) unfortunately met its maker last November so I have also been driving my mom's car. I feel like I own nothing in my own life. And plus, living at home means living in the middle of a small town where your high school friends have moved on to bigger and better places and your college friends live hours away, so the loneliness gets to me sometimes. Sorry, just laying it all out there -- what are personal blogs for right?

I am determined not to let the depression sink too far into my mind and heart like I let it a few years ago where it took a fair amount of counseling sessions to bring me out of it. I just wish I could clear my head of all this doubt and anxiety and feel at ease....balanced....happy. I wish I could regain an apetite for living my life. Embracing it. Loving it. Actively pursuing it and fulfilling it. Kicking it into high gear instead of settling for low gear the whole time. That's how I feel now -- puttering along with no clue as to where I am. But how do I do this? Something needs to change....I need to change. I don't know. Wow, it is late!! And I gotta get up in the morn. I promise my blogs will get better so don't count me out if this one is a downer and hopefully I can blog sooner this time than later. Take care!

Having a Passion for Hauntings

So, me and a very good friend of mine Emily recently took a trip down to Decatur, IL to attend the Lucky 13 Haunting Conference. It is basically a gathering of paranormal groups, investigators, and paranormal fans like me and Em who come together and talk about the paranormal. They had different speakers on many different subjects (one of them sex...go figure!) and lots of stories to tell. We were unable to get onto any of the sold out haunting tours that were happening, but it was still something to experience. Best of all, I was able to meet with Troy Taylor. He's like the king of paranormal. He's traveled all over the country holding investigations and has written over 60 books on the subect. And to my deligtful surprise, he is one of the most down-to-earth and coolest people to talk to. By coincidence, he was staying in the same hotel as us and came into the bar where we chatted a bit. I met so many different paranormal groups..ordinary people/friends who get together and check out haunted places. I met the owner of the Bartonville insane asylum that me and Em toured together back in November. We bounced back and forth our own stories of our haunted experiences and it was excited to have people who have a passion for this as much (and sometimes more!) than I do. I've loved learning about hauntings since I was a kid in front of the television watching "Unsolved Mysteries" while others were tuning into "Party of Five." To do this for a living would be such an experience -- to travel and meet people and hear their stories and try to get them some validation. We had groups with techology galore, others with matching T-shirts, and little ole me and Em, who probably looked outta place, but we soon got comfortable with the atmosphere. There was one other highlight of our weekend and that was the reading we signed up for with the famed psychic Ken Berg. Though I will not say what he told Em (in case she'd rather keep that to herself), I will share some things he saw for me:


1. I will be taking an exciting trip within the next two months and will have a great time

2. There is a change of residence within the next year

3. I will be getting more responsibility at my job but I will not hold that job or stay on that job path by the next year

4. No sudden deaths or health problems within my family for the next year.

5. I will be a mom someday -- he is saying 3 kids

6. I have a fear of rejection

7. A relationship dynamic will change within the next three months

8. I really hold back with men and should put myself out there more. The results will be good if I do.

I think that was the gist of it. I was kinda unprepared because he does a tarot card reading and then you can ask him questions. I would like to do it again and have questions prepared. I would like to learn more about what areas he thinks I would be good at with a career (since I'm stuck on that right now). I know maybe I shouldn't rely on a psychic to find that out but another opinion wouldn't hurt. He had some good insights with not only me but on Em as well. Wouldn't mind doing it again sometime. He's back in October. :)

I've attached a couple articles that explains more about the various speakers and activities that happened over the weekend. He does a really good job at reporting the details of the events and tells it better and with a better memory than I have.
http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.action?articleId=281474977718294
http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.action?articleId=281474977718310

If you are interested in coming with me on future endeavors, I get the ideas from this great website. They have overnight excursions, haunted tours, conferences, and other events. Take a look and let me know if you want to go! Visit http://www.prairieghosts.com/
Later Dayz,

Steph

Where Have All The Signs Gone?

It is getting nearer and nearer to the end of my first year as an event coordinator. I'm technically a graduate assistant meaning my pay is really crappy but I do get my grad school paid for. I actually really enjoy my job, am learning more and more, getting more responsibility, and love the people I work with. The bad news is that this position is not a summer position, so from May 18th to August 31st, I am unemployed and am not taking any classes. So from going to being really really busy to having nothing......is going to be a change and it's making me a little nervous. I have some summer plans including a couple weddings, two small road trips, my birthday (23!), a concert, etc. But I really do not like the prospect of being unemployed -- I feel so....unaccomplished...lazy...bored. And I like having a schedule. I'm not the free-spirited person that I wish I was (I'm so envious of you people) who can get up with no particular plans and have the best day. My internship and job searches have yielded nothing so far but now that my graduate class is over as of this week, I can devote more time to it.

I do have enough money saved up to get by for the next three months, but somehow I want this summer to be different. I recently read a book called "When They Were 22...." It is a collection of very short biographies (a page or two) about famous people (singers, authors, actors, Noble Prize Winners) and how their life changed when they were 22. I feel as if this job and other factors in my life have changed me in the past year -- I feel older, more independent, and growing into my own. Not saying I still have a lot to learn and a lot to experience. But I feel like this summer should be different. I'm hoping for a sign because my future seems so unclear right now -- but maybe I need the break from the university (among other things......) to stretch myself a bit. Sometimes I feel like my life is too small..........like the town I grew up in....

Get Out the Bats and Gloves

Every day I drive past this small town which houses an area of three baseball diamonds. And from now until the middle of summer, when I drive past I will always see either a baseball practice or game happening. I love it because the sport of baseball is something that is sentimental to me. It was a part of my childhood since I started playing softball in the 4th grade and continued until my last year in high school. There's just something about playing on the summer nights.....its starting to cool off from the hot day, the endless supply of gatorade bottles line the bench, and it's much less political than high school sports. I miss it and watching those kids play as I drive by makes me miss it more. There are memories there of games and teammates and after-game ice cream runs and practices and the coaches that meant more to you than you know. I want to get out of my car and tell those kids to let loose and not worry and enjoy every game and not let one bad moment ruin their entire game because sooner than later you become the person driving by and reminiscing. And hopefully one day, I can be my kid's coach or at least the parent dragging around my fold-up chair and extra gatorade bottle. I will revel in those days. I

Things I Learned at the South Side Irish Parade

For those of you who don't know what the South Side Irish Parade is, let me fill you in. The Sunday before St. Patrick's Day is designated as the South Side Irish Parade that takes place down Western Avenue on the South Side of Chicago. It consists of a parade featuring all things Irish including kilted-men playing bagpipes, curly-haired Irish dancers, and lots of knitted Aran sweaters and there is lots and LOTS of green. Plus, it is about the only day and place where you can witness a parent pulling their child in those little red wagons along with a 24 pack of beer. And this is the one day that it is absolutely OK to drink in the morning, afternoon, and night. So in the Irish spirit, let me share with you what I've learned from being a part of this momentous event.

1. Wear Green -- there are boas and hats and shirts and tuxedos.....get in the spirit!
2. If you are taking the train, get in the first or last car -- everyone congregates in the middle
3. Even if you aren't Irish, you are allowed to be and say that you are on this day
4. If you are a Cubs fan, be a Cubs fan on the inside -- you are on the South Side.....
5. Wear comfortable shoes -- You will walk (or stumble or crawl..) everywhere!
6. Be an excellent maneuverer -- the crowds at this parade and at the bars are worse than Black Friday shopping
7. Tip the bartender -- they are working their butt off...show some appreciation
8. Apologize and Forgive -- If you spill your drink on someone or bump into them or anything that could start a fight...apologize and offer amends. The battle or fight isn't worth it and the most people usually get is some blood splatters, bruises, and get thrown out of the bar that they just paid a $10 cover to get into. And if you are the person who gets bumped into or spilt on, ...forgive and move on. Another way to put it -- If you are a mean drunk, don't bother coming.
9. Do watch some of the parade -- the Irish dancers are fun to watch and the bagpipe players really show off the Irish culture with music
10. Meet People! Everyone around you is most likely there for the same reason you are....to celebrate and have a good time. Talk to people. Laugh with them. Drink with them. They are your best friends for that day. Be joyful and be happy.

It Really is a Small World....

So after spending five years on my university's campus as an undergrad and now working there while obtaining my grad degree, I didn't think that my home life had any connection to the university. I went there knowing no one -- students or faculty -- and many had never even heard of my town.....until today. Today I found out that a teacher, who had a meeting with a co-worker of mine, knew that small town of mine. In fact, her father had taught at that school -- had taught me. He was one of my favorite, most memorable teachers in school. After he retired when I was in high school, I found out that his young granddaughter contracted a rare illness and died very suddenly. Although I didn't know the family personally, I still remember her name and how upset I was that something so tragic could happen to someone so young and happen to the granddaughter of someone who was so genuine and had such a down-to-earth enlightened view of life. That really stuck with me......so here comes the revelation that had eluded me for the past five years. On my campus is a tree. I have past this tree so many times without a second glance but I don't think I can do that anymore. I found out today that this particular tree was dedicated to the memory of that little girl. I guess it really is a small world and we are all just a a couple connections away from each other. And, honestly, I don't think I'd want it any other way.
Until Next Time......

You Need To Go....

This past weekend, I went to a wake. I have always felt an obligation to go to wakes, even if I only knew a surviving family member, and I now stand firm in that you should, if at all possible, attend them. I really did not know the man who died. He was the father of my uncle and I remember very little about him except a few snippets from when I was a kid. My parents debated whether we should drive the hour and a half to go but I felt that we needed to be there....and I was right. As much as I wanted to be there to pay my respects to the man who had died, I especially wanted to be there for my uncle, who just lost his father, and my aunt, who lost her father-in-law, and my younger cousins, who have lost their grandpa. It is just as important to be there for the people who are still living as it is for the person who died. And it seems I am not the only person who feels this way because after I hugged my uncle and saw his tears and felt my own tears, he said something that will always stay with me. He said "it is times like this where you find out who really loves you."

So even if you feel uncomfortable and are debating whether to make the trip.......make the trip. You have no idea how much just showing up will mean to that surviving person. And even if you can't quite find the right words to say and all that comes out is a meager "I'm sorry" and a hug, that is really all it takes. Because everything else that you may have wanted to say or that you believe should have been said is being said. It is being said by your presence there. By showing up, you are saying "I'm here because I love you and I want to help honor the life of someone you love. You are important to me and your pain and sorrow are mine as well. I will always be here for you." It doesn't need to be spoken. In fact, sometimes it is the silence and the "just knowing" that makes the bond even stronger. So just be there. You never know what an impact you may have.
Until Next Time!

Stephanie

New Beginning

I bet you are wondering what "It Happens" is all about. What is "it"? Well, it is life. Life happens. Whether we want it to or not. It does not stop for any one. It doesn't slow down or speed up. It keeps its own pace. So we need to make the most of it. We acknowledge that it's happening and we make the most of it. We should enjoy it. I have always wanted to do a blog but have put it off. So, I have finally gotten my act together and created two blogs. You can find my other blog "Inspirational Madness" under my profile. I encourage you to read, comment, or email me at it.happens247@gmail.com.

2009 has already started off with some new beginnings in people's lives. I recently attended M&R's wedding right after the new year. Two people starting off the new year as a wife/husband and ready to tackle life together. After trekking off on their honeymoon, they are moving clear across the country to the east coast to begin a whole new life in Maryland. Then, I celebrated with friends when a former roommate of mine, J, moved into her first place outside of home -- her first apartment with her boyfriend. She is switching out her need for ramen noodles and jeans to frying pans, towels, and a place to finally call her own. When I met her at the door with a house-warming bottle of wine in hand, I could see her excitement at how she has built this new part of her life. I don't think I have ever been so proud or happy for her. This year is her year of new beginnings. And finally, while we were out celebrating, J's friend had stopped by to announce that her boyfriend had proposed to her. She whipped out a bottle of champagne and showed off the ring. This is their new beginning. And......it's only been......what.....two weeks! One new proposal, one marriage, and one new home to start out the new year. If January is going to be like this, I can't wait to see what the rest of the year has in store for the people in my life!


Later Dayz,

Stephanie