Day 53

Wacky crazy multi-lingual day at Fox 25!  Yep, multi-lingual... and I don't mean behind the scenes... right on air for all to see.

Our nightside commentator Jim Polito was doing a bit on one of the candidate's for the Special Senate Election here in Massachusetts.  The candidate happens to speak Spanish... and won't let anyone forget it!  Basically he has been starting every campaign stop with him speaking in Spanish, then reitterating what he just said in English for "all of you who didn't understand that."  I'm not dissing this guy, it's just what has been happening. 

Well Jim... he DOESN'T speak Spanish.  So for the few hours before the show he kept practicing his script.  Now he did run it through with people who did speak the language, so from what I have been told he was correct.  But he kept going over and over and over his script at his desk... and Leeza and I could not stop laughing! 

We found this to be so hilarious that Leeza (who helps contribute to Fox Boston on Facebook) went over and recorded him without him knowing.  It was hilarious!  Then I took a photo of Leeza recording Jim... so it was like a "Behind the Scenes" picture of a "Behind the Scenes" video.  It was great!

Love my job and my hilarious coworkers!

Check out how Jim did on the air...

Boston News, Weather, Sports | FOX 25 | MyFoxBoston

Day 52

So today was a good day, but mostly in the normal sense.  Nothing spectacular, but there was one thing that struck a chord.  Overflowing kindness.

It all began with a story we ran about a group of local mothers who just needed to unwind... with a little wine.  It was a story Sara Underwood did and she did a fantastic job on it.  So wonderful that the ladies she followed around for the story were so happy with the results, they brought in food for all of at here at the station.  Lasagna, meatballs, ricotta cake, cookies, salad... a whole feast!  Now I had ate before work so I opted out of the noms, but that sweet and sinfully amazing smelling food was just such a sweet gesture that I thought I should share it.

If you would like to check out the story Sara did on the women you like to "un-wine-d", you can find that right here!

Day 51

So today's bit of happiness all came by mail.  Unknown to me, mom had bought me clothes from Target.com and they came in the mail right before I headed out for work.  I also got in the mail all the new games I bought for my Wii.  Got my Zumba and new Just Dance games.  I tested out the Zumba and OMG was it fun!  IT comes with a belt so you don't have to hold on to the remote when you play.  You can just shake your booty and have a blast without getting Wii-itis.  :)

Also I don't think I have talked about this yet, but I have been watching a new show the Netflix recommended for me.  It is The Catherine Tate Show.  I know of her from Doctor Who.  You may know her from this past season of The Office.  She is a British comedian and her show is in many aspects like the old Tracey Ullman.  Tate dresses up as several different characters and hi-jinks ensue.  Check out below for some of my favorite characters, or just check out her show for yourself!

First, meet Lauren.  My favorite skit is the second one I have put here, but you need to watch this one in order to get the second.

Ok now my favorite Lauren skit!

And then there is Nan... OMG!!

Day 50

I'M FIFTY!!!  Okay, so not me, but the blog is.  Yay for achievements!!

Holy hell, where to begin.  Let's just give a high five to this kid for making it this far.  This was a resolution that I never thought I could keep up with, but I have to say I am very thankful that I did.  This concept did not come from me, but from my dear friend Carrie.  I thank her for being awesome, hilarious, caring and a true friend who I have greatly relied on these past few months.  Thanks for convincing me to do this.  It has been a blessing, as well as a great source of fun.

Alright, now to the actually "poopy" day that was had at work.  I'm not talking about it being a shitty day, but "Lil' Poopy" the rapper.  This was a story that came through to us about a local 9 year old rapper whose family is being investigated for some sexually suggestive moves he does in videos posted to YouTube.  More specifically, him smacking the ass of an adult woman in a club where he obviously shouldn't have been. 

Us, being in the news, we have to report this.  Though we are professionals, we are also human.  Not a straight face could be found in the entire newsroom while discussing this kid.  Come on, his name is basically "little shit!"  Best part was when Ock and Maria had to do the promos.  OMG!!!  Us, as well as the two of them were in tears.  Knowing you are saying "Lil' Poopy" for a promo that will air all across the Boston viewing area is quite ridiculous.  I wish I had video of their attempts to get through it straight faced.  It took a while, but Ock and Maria nailed it!!  Such grace, such professionalism... or at least that was what the viewers got to see.  \(^o^)/

If you would like to read/watch the full report from MyFoxBoston.com, just click here!

And if you want to watch his rap video, you can click here... because I'm not posting that shit directly on my blog.

Day 49

It was Oscar night, and that means shenanigan's were had at work!

Joe, Leeza, Nina, Tim and I... all having a ball making fun of the outfits, the people and maybe enjoying the show just a little.  The best moment of the night, "GOLD FINGAH!!!"  If you don't know what I am talking about, here's the deets. 

The Oscars paid homage to the James Bond series.  This year marks the 50th anniversary of busty Bond girls, his signature Walther PPK, and of course martinis shaken... not stirred.  Part of the tribute included performances from the singers who have sung some of the most memorable themes for the series.  First up... and a shock to us all who were not really paying attention... Shirley Bassey and her bold rendition of Goldfinger. 

The 76 year olds performance was magnificent (see above).  However us being the smart asses of the newsroom that we are, made it into a laughable event.  All of us started our own rip-roaring renditions, screaming out "GOOOOOOLLLLLD FINNNNGAH" throughout the newsroom.  Though it was all in good fun, I honestly believe there is a special Hell reserved for all of us in the newsroom.  Just sayin'...

In a way for me to help share my happiness with the people I love at work, I was nice and brought one of my favorite family cakes in to work to share with my friends.  Yesterday, I had a hankering for my mom's peach upside down cake.  I got the recipe from her and tried my hand out it... NAILED IT!!  The photos I posted to Facebook and Instagram also proving positive as many people found it very appealing. 

One of those people was my buddy Jeremy from work.  He is honestly one of the sweetest guys you will ever meet.  He also gives great hugs.  :)   It was Jeremy who gave me the idea to bring in most of the cake to share with my Fox Family.  Not like I could eat the whole thing on my own anyway.  I saved Jeremy one of the best cake bits (an ooey gooey corner piece) and brought tons more for everyone else.  Let me tell you, it was a huge hit, especially with everyone hanging out and watching the Oscars.  The warm peachy pieces on a cold Sunday night brought happiness to those of us stuck at tiny cubicles.  It was nice to help bring joy to those who constantly make me smile.

Want to try the cake yourself?  Here's the recipe straight from Momma!!


Peach Upside Down Cake

Ingredients:

• 1 large can of sliced peaches (including juice)
• 1 stick of butter
• 1/3 bag of brown sugar (light or dark)
• box of yellow cake mix and the ingredients needed to make it

Directions:

1. Put first 3 ingredients in a sauce pan and bring to a boil.
2. While waiting for that to boil, mix up yellow cake mix.
3. Once ingredients in sauce pan aer boiling, put peaches in bottom of cake pan. You will have some juice let over. Save it for after the cake is done cooking.
4. Add the cake batter over the peaches in the cake pan.
5. Bake in oven per box instructions.
6. When done, remove from oven and let it sit for a few minutes.
7. Take a tray and put over the cake pan and flip it upside down.  You have to hold it tight so it won't fall all over you.  Remove the cake pan.
8. Pour left over juice from sauce pan over cake.
9. This is the most important instruction to follow... EAT AND ENJOY!!

Day 48

All the excitement from Friday made me very tired on Saturday.  So I took this day to rest, relax... and do my nails!

I have signed up on a few websites, all of them devoted to fashion.  One of my goals if you remember from a previous post is to try new outfits.  Either by adding some jewelry, doing my hair differently or hell, even buying something new and fabulous.  So I decided to go loco and jazz up my finger nails.  I stuck with one of my favorite reds, a silver and silver sparkle.  The challenge... tedious.  The result... amazing!  I love them!  It also made me feel good that I created such beauty on such a small canvass.  Ok, so I'm no nail Matisse, more Picasso maybe.  But hey, it was fun and kept me entertained as I recovered on my couch. 

If you are interested in following me on my path to fashion, sign up at Pose.  Pose is basically a site (and awesome smartphone app) that let's users take pictures of outfits they love and where to find what helped create that ensemble.  Or if you want to just look at photos and read articles on what's hot, check out Beautylish.  It has great articles on makeup, exercise and photos galore! (Also comes in a fab app for your smartphone)

Part of that recovery... watching a TV series a coworker suggested on Netflix.  The Increasingly Poor Decision of Todd Margaret.  All I can say is wow!  It's from IFC and only lasts two seasons, but you can't stop watching because Todd's "poor decisions" really have a massive domino effect on not only his life, but the world!  Seriously, check it out!

Day 47

Though I was sick, I mustered up the energy to get some tasks done that I had scheduled. 

First, I got my hair did!!  Let me tell you about how much I love the little salon I go to by my house.  They are phenom!  I see one of the newer hairdressers there named Laila.  She is so sweet and very precise with her cuts.  When I first came to her she took the time to learn about my hair, how I style it, what products and styling tools I use.  She was very thorough with learning all she needed to know to get the right style just for me.  I may have only had her cut my hair twice, but each time she is very precise, almost OCD (gotta say I can appreciate that!) with her technique.  I have not been disappointed yet... and with a price of $35 a haircut, I am hooked!!  

I highly recommend everyone check them out.  MiAlisa Salon is on Facebook and gives great incentives on its page.  I also got a wonderful gift bag at my first visit which included a 15% off coupon.

After I got my hair done, it was time for a much needed nap. 

Then, it was dinner date with my friends Purvish and Emily!  I haven't seen them in forever, so I sucked it up and ventured out into the cold (with a cold) and enjoyed National Margarita Day with them and Axel.  Totally worth it!  We hit up one of my favorite Mexican restaurants called Jose's.  Never a disappointment.  Tasty authentic noms all the way!  Their Jalepeno Poppers are to die for... just sayin'!

Dinner with this group was amazing.  Even though it has been literally months since I have seen PPat and Em, it's like we just saw each other yesterday.  That is what makes a true friend.  Time can pass, things can change, but you pick it all back up like you have seen them everyday of your life.  I love them.  They make me smile.  I have the most amazing friends in the world.

Day 46

So today was a little crumby.  Last night I started getting a sore throat at work and woke up with a full blown cold.  Runny nose, cough, sore throat, congestion.  Blargh.

I took the day off and hit up urgent care just to make sure it wasn't anything terrible.  This was the third time I have had this same sickness since Christmas.  After 3 hours of waiting, the doctor spoke with me for 5 minutes and said there is nothing that can really be done but to just wade it out and deal with the symptoms.

So as such, I took the day to rest and relax... along with cleaning.  I have decided that I will start cleaning the house in sections.  I have been terrible lately and neglecting my beautiful home.  The obsessive compulsive in me keeps on screaming... but I just haven't been listening.  So today I started with the living room.  One, because it was really bad!  Two, because I wanted to watch movies while I cleaned.

I took my time doing laundry, dusting, cleaning my makeup brushes and picking things up... all the while I enjoyed some wonderful movies... ALL FOR KIDS!!

First up... The Lorax.  I am a huge fan of Dr. Seuss and have been meaning to see this new flick.  I was not a fan of How the Grinch Stole Christmas with Jim Carrey, so I was praying this would at least be decent being my favorite Seuss story.  It did not disappoint!!  They did a great job translating the story for the big screen.  Very enjoyable!

Second... Hugo.  This movie was not what I expected at all.  All I knew was it was about an orphan boy living in a train station in Paris.  I thought it was supposed to have a more magical tone, but it did not.  Instead, it was more about technology and the glory of the human imagination.  There were lots of famous actors, all of whom I am very fond of so I was very thrilled from the beginning.  It also focused on the history of film which made it extremely enjoyable for me.  I highly recommend this movie for both children and adults.

Finally... The Adventures of Tintin. I use to watch the cartoon before school when I was younger and was very fond of it.  This version did not disappoint.  And the computer animation was phenomenal!! They left the ending to where another movie could be made and I am kind of hoping they do.  It was very very good!

So even with the sickness bearing down on me... I still had a great day full of rest, movie therapy and cleaning therapy.

Oh and also, I ordered in food because God knows I didn't want to cook.  Ordered from Thyago's in Watertown.  They are fantastic!  The food is very good, they are uber fast at delivery and the restaurant's portions are INSANE!!  I ordered a cheeseburger dinner plate from there.  Foodler said it would be about 45 minutes for the food to get to me, but it wasn't.  Thyago's had my food at my door within 20 minutes!  It was piping hot and delicious.  And to my surprise, my $9 cheeseburger dinner was more than I bargained for.  I got rice, a salad and not 1, but 2 cheeseburgers!!!  It was great!  So happy because I got 3 scrumptious meals out of it!  So much food for so little, and it was SOOOOOO tasty.  Nothing more could be said for it but GROM NOM NOM NOM NOM!!!

Day 45

OMG... I was suffering from a major case of Wii-itis today.  My right arm was hurting so bad and I couldn't figure out why... then it hit me.  The massive amounts of dancing I did as a form of exercise.  Hey, no pain, no gain right?!?

Also had a wonderful chat with my coworker Maria.  I opened up to her about how hard this past year has been for me and how I only realized recently how bad I was treating myself.  She is a wonderful and thoughtful person who has helped me immensely.  I am very grateful that Maria and so many other people have come into my life in the past year.  Without them, I don't believe I would be where I am today. 

On a separate note... I am astounded at how much weight I have lost since last year.  It actually occured to me this morning while I played my "Biggest Loser" game on the Wii.  When I started that game 2 years ago... I was an insane 170 pounds!  I almost hit the ceiling.  I guess you never realize how big you are until it is there in black and weight.  Around this time last year, I was at least better.  Averaging around 157 pounds on my good days.  I was never happy with my weight, but it wasn't like I didn't try to drop the weight.  Diets galore, eating heatlhy, cutting portions, exercising daily... I did it all.  The best I could get down though was to 148, but I always boomeranged back up.

I guess I could say I was okay with my weight, never happy.  But being happy in a relationship and my job made me not care.  I always had someone to tell me I was beautiful, even on my worst days.  Deep down though, I always felt like a failure.

Back in September, I had a major event happen to me.  The stress overwhelmed me.  It caused me to physically get sick.  I couldn't eat, got sick when I tried, had no appetite to even want food.  It was really bad.  Thankfully, I am getting better.  The experience... almost life changing.  Also why I started this life-changing journal.  Since being sick though, I have lost all my weight.  My petite figure now down to a healthy 133 pounds.  Though I didn't lose it in the healthiest of ways (to no fault of my own), I want to make one of my goals through this journey into appreciating myself be to take care of myself in the healthiest of ways.  I plan on getting at least 20 minutes of exercise in a day.  Just getting out of the house, even just up off the couch, SOMETHING!  Even if I don't want to leave the couch, I will use my hand weights to work my arms. 

I want to be the best Alicia I can be... healthier, happier, more proud of the woman I am and all I know I can be.





Before - Karaoke 2012



Before - August 2012

After - February 2013

Day 44

It's Tuesday. You know what that means... TUESDAY PINTS!!

But before the nightime shenanigans could take place, I had to get through the rest of the day.

Today was the start of me getting my butt back in gear and get on the fast track to fit.  As the weather has been so wonky, I have chosen to stick to aerobics of an indoor nature.  More specifically... Just Dance on the Wii!  Love this game!  In fact, since I have been neglecting my runs outside, I hopped online and bought a couple more fitness games for the Wii.  Ordered the newest Zumba game along with the remote holster, as well as Just Dance 4.  Can't wait to get those!

Work was the usual... singing, dancing, laughing, yoga... you know, what you'd expect in any major cities top newsroom.  Have I mentioned lately how much I love my job and coworkers?   :)

Alright, best time on a Tuesday night, PINTS WITH MY FRIENDS!  Love hanging with Bill, Nancy, Siobhan, Kevin and Alex.  Oh Alex... we spent the whole night chatting about local bars... while at the bar.  And not just any bar, our fave bar... The British Beer Company.  It was hilarious.  I convinced him he needs to check out Trina's for the Chicken and Waffles and specialty drinks.  Made me get a major craving for them.  Seriously... EPIC!! 

If you've never been... you should!!

Trina's Starlite Lounge

Day 43

Things that made me laugh.  I washed my cat... he looks more like a rat.  Poor little guy.  I do have to say though, he is so cooperative when I need to clean him or give him meds or anything like that.  I think he understands that I'm the momma, and he's not gonna win!  Still such a wonderful boy.  Never bites or fusses.  Just sits back and deals.  Love him!

Poor wet Indie Gibbard

Then at work... the laughter continued from the day before.  Joe has been in rare form the past couple days. So after all the hectic, crazy shit was done with... the night smoothed over and it was time for the jokes and music.  He continued with the Newsroom Yogi bit... and continued to make fun of me for meeting men.  Hey, I'm good looking... it's gonna happen!!

Plus, I really liked my outfit today.  I bought a new dress and was able to sass it up.  I love that my mom is home right now from her surgery.  I think everyday since she got home I have Skyped with her about my outfits.  It's such a blast... almost like I have my own stylist to assist me.  I have especially been trying new outfits and hairstyles.  My wonderful friend Kelle is a coach/shaman/thought alchemist/goddess/sex kitten.  She has been a Godsend for me these past few months.  Along with her guidance, I have been able to start becoming the woman I am... the woman I should be... the woman I can be.  Part of her teachings included "adornment."  So everyday I try to go out of my way to do something new or different to myself.  Either with my hair, outfit or makeup... I try it.  It is a wonderful thing to go out of your normal comfort zone and expand on the beauty you already have.  Just trying something new gives you an unexpected confidence... especially when people notice it and compliment you on it.

Ok, off to bed for this lady.  I have lots planned for tomorrow and hope I can do it.  My appetite has slowly been coming back to normal and my stomach not bothering me as much.  So I am hoping to get back on track with my workouts.  Fingers crossed!!

P.S.  If you would like to learn how to truly love yourself and accept love, check out Kelle's website.  She is incredible and I can personally say she has healing powers, she knows what she is doing, and she can help you.

www.kellesparta.com

Day 42

Sunday... work day.

After waking up at Axel's from the fun we had for Dawn's birthday, I actually felt fantastic.  Poor Axel who currently can't drink somehow woke up with a hangover and I was absolutely fine.  I felt wonderful!

Coffee was had with him and his roommates, then off I had to run to write the news.

As always, my coworkers are hilarious.  Joe teased me all night for going out and meeting guys.  Thus, songs were sang in reference to the shenanigans of the night.  :)

I am not the only one he teases... Nina also was poked at.  All of us have started these blogs and her's is about Yoga.  You see, Nina is a trained yoga instructor.  Lady knows what she is talking about!  Anyhoo... Joe started posing in "newsroom yoga" poses.  OMG!!!  I was crying I was laughing so hard.  Love my job and the hilarious flippin' people I work with.

Oh and another funny thing... before I left tonight, Tim our kick ass weekend Assignment Editor showed me a comedic short from Funny or Die.  Here it is, I know others will appreciate this:

http://FunnyOrDie.com/m/7ry2

As Joe the Newsroom Yogi says, "Namaste MOTHERFUCKERS!!!"


P.S. I highly recommend you check out my coworkers blogs.

Nina's Blog - Meet Me at the Bindu

Joe's Blog - Eat Up New England

Day 41

Birthday celebrations!!

Tonight I went out with the ladies (and Axel) to celebrate our friend Dawn's birthday.  We first had drinks at Carrie's house, then proceeded to downtown to The Tap.  I had never been there so it was fun to try out a new joint.  Drinks were great, prices pretty good, and the live cover band was fantastic!!

I was especially excited because I was able to drink.  Seriously, I haven't been able to have more than 2 drinks since September without my stomach bothering me.  But tonight... the drinks were flowing and my belly was cooperating.  I got drunk... had a blast meeting new people (many who teased me for looking like Carly Rae Jepsen)... and had a sleepover at Axel's!!  Lol.

All in all... it was an amazingly fun night.  HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAWN!!

Lindsey, Jenny, Calvin, Dawn, Me, Dani

Day 37/38/39/40

I apologize for my late blog posts.  Have to say with all the good still comes the bad, so I have shirked my resolution of posting.  I must strive though to continue on my journey of seeing the good every day.  So getting back on the wagon and updating you on the days past.

Day 37 was a Tuesday.

God do I love Tuesdays!!  This is the day my coworkers and I go to a bar down the way from work and just relax.  Today was extremely wonderful as two other coworkers came to the bar and joined us in the fun.  Thank god I am a nerd and post stuff to Facebook.  They saw where we all were and came and joined us after their shifts.  It was so much fun.  Siobhan and I also got up to sing tonight.  We rock the stage together!  We sang "Fuck You" by Cee-Lo.  It was such a crowded night too at the bar, but we made the crowd get up and sing along.  Such a blast.  I have met some amazing people while working at the station.  Truly blessed that they are just as wild and crazy as me.

Also... funny thing happened at work.  Somehow 6 of us ladies wore pink... totally not planned!  It was hilarious so we took a pic and posted it to Fox Boston's Facebook page.  Got tons of compliments.  My favorite was "Now I know why you guys are called FOX!"  It was awesome.  A coworker also told me I should be a model.  I don't think so, but it was a wonderful compliment.

I honestly didn't know I was that far away from the group. Lol!

Day 38 - Wednesday

Treats were going around like crazy today at work!!  I kept my wills about me though and only snagged one from our anchor Ock... A CHOCOLATE COVERED STRAWBERRY!!  How can you say no to one of those?!?!  It was amazing!  However I highly recommend not eating one whilst prompting.  Quite messy. :)

So tasty!!!

Day 39 - Thursday

Valentine's Day.  Deep depression.  Still can see the good in the day.

I have the most amazing, supportive friends.

Seriously... hands down... no debating it.

My coworker Leeza noticed how I was down and gave me very kind, uplifting words.  Same with my buddy Kevin... and Carrie... and Axel.  It is incredible to hear the same words from people, but sad when you don't believe them.  It's so inspiring to me when people see things in me that I can't even see in myself.  But when those people tell me these wonderful things, it makes me want to search for it more.  I have a long journey ahead, but I know if I am showing these things to people, that it must be in me... I just need to start believing in myself.

I am a wonderful person.  I have a big heart.  I care about people.  I am brave.  I am strong.  I am beautiful.  I have a fantastic job.  I am very well educated.  I am a catch.  I kick ass at video games.  I make awesome blanket forts. I can make people laugh.  I deserve to be loved.  I will find someone who will give me the love I deserve.

My friend Carrie sent me a very thoughtful email:

Hi Girlie! 

Just wanted to send my love to one of my favoritest people on this lovely valentine's day. I'm sending along a virtual hug and hope you have a great day!! 

I am so blessed and happy to have you as a friend- you are not only there for me when I need you, but you also are always around to have fun times and go on some fun adventures. You always have a smile on your face and you are such a great influence-- you put down everything to move here and have made yourself a wonderful life in Boston so fast! I heart you lots and hope this day brings you lots of happiness!
You don't need a guy to be loved- none of us do. Use today to think of all the friends and family and coworkers that you have and love and love you back. That is a true reflection of who you are. Anyone can get some guy to give them roses, but very few people can have dozens of good friends and family members that care about them so much.

She is a fantastic friend.  Heart your face "Gary!"  :)

Day 40 - Friday

Today I made a very difficult decision in order to help myself heal.  I thought I was stronger and could handle everything on my own, but I couldn't.  Even though this decision was painful and heartbreaking, it had to be done.  One day I hope I can return from here and be better, but only time will tell now.  

Once again, very thankful for my friends and family.  As I have been able to admit more to them and how I view myself and the world, I am learning that I have the most amazing support system.  It's hard to feel unloved when I have so much love all around me.  Makes me wonder how I could ever feel unwanted.  

Besides that, I went and got myself a massage and facial in Brookline.  Went to a place called Rosaline's that I got a Groupon for months back.  God was it fantastic!  I wish I could afford such lavish treats monthly.

Day 36

Today's bit of happiness is more of an ode to technology.

Early this morning... and I mean very early.  I spent nearly 3 hours Skyping with one of my best friends.  He lives across the world, but thanks to computers and the interwebs, we can chat it up whenever.  Not just chat, but see each other, in real time.  And I have to admit, the two of us are very animated people.  So video Skype makes conversations a lot more lively and fun.  But besides the hilarious conversations... we share videos we like, memes that make us laugh... all available to us at the tips of our fingers.

Speaking of sharing videos...

Such a crazy coincidence happened today.  My coworkers and I have been laughing the past few days at the "Sweet Brown" video.  We have seen it before, but it just happened to come up again and got us all laughing hysterically.  Producer Joe took today though to make sure EVERYONE at the office saw it.  Surprisingly most had not!  The laughs slowly moving across the newsroom... heads bobbing to the sweet, auto-tuned voice of Miss Brown.

That laughter could not have happened without technology.   The same technology that allows me to stay up to date with the latest news, with my family and friends, with the world around me.

Technology... today you helped make me happy.  As well as several other people at the station.  :)

For those of you who don't know about Sweet Brown, enjoy!

Day 35

Typical Sunday...

Had a blast laughing with coworkers as we wrote about all the crazy shit that happened during the storm.  As the weather has been windy and nuts, I have been wearing hats to work.  Just so much easier than doing my hair all pretty then having it go flat or get messed up from the walk to my car into the building.  However my coworker Joe keeps making fun of me for wearing them.  It's all in good fun, and even better because he makes up songs about them.  He is flippin' hilarious.

I thought I looked pretty cute today.

Day 34

Allowed to leave the house, I took my SUV for her maiden voyage through the snow!  I bought her 2 years ago just for the crazy winters here in Massachusetts, and that's when the snow stopped.  Sheesh... but yeah. So she did amazing.  Big Red took the tight snow ridden street corners like a boss..  Had no problem driving through the 2 feet of snow.  It was a beautiful moment.  Teared up a little.  

Well, so the reason I took Big Red out was because my friends and I decided we needed to have a game night.  So Ben and Lori invited Bert, Marina and myself over for some pizza and fun.  We spent the whole night playing Cards Against Humanity.  So hilarious the crazy shit you learn about your friends and the way they think when you play that game.  I found out that Ben and I have the same twisted sense of humor.  Lori is more logical and sweet when picking her choices.  And Bert and Marina are just... WOW!!  Lol.  We were all crying the entire time because we were laughing so hard.  Such a wonderful night.  Here is a good example of how nuts it got.  

Day 33

Banned by the Governor from leaving the house.  Man did I get cabin fever!!!  Have to say though I made the best of it.

First I talked to my family via Skype.  Always amazing!  Best part, my little niece started crawling to me while we were all talking!!  I made her crawl!  Best feeling ever... seriously.  I took screen images of the event.  I totally started crying too.

Then on another, and I may add more ridiculous note.  My 6 yr old niece had the most amazing idea that I ran with during the storm.  I made a fort!  Yep.  A good old-fashioned blanket fort like I use to when I was a kid.  However being an adult, I made it hard core amazing!  I built it around my entertainment center so I could still play video games and watch shows.  Indie also loved it.  We both slept in it that night too.  Hard to believe I am 28.  Lol.

Day 32

Here comes the snow, and I am actually kind of thrilled about it!  However, disappointed because this is the kind of stuff I love to work on, but it's my weekend.  So it's nice I don't have to go out in the snow... but I would love to be at work for this!  Crazy?  Why yes I am!  ;)

Ok, happiness for the day.  

House is finally cleaned.  If you know me... this is a big deal.  Lately I have been shirking my household chores.  It feels great to have it all bright and sparkly.

Spoke with mom.  Finally happy she is home.  My sister-in-law Megan text me later saying she was cuddling in bed with mom and they were watching trashy TV.  So jealous!  

I had a Massachusetts State Representative tell me I have a wonderful smile.

I had a coworker tell me they were sad I wouldn't be working tomorrow during the storm because I would make it fun.

Something a little off topic.  That TV show I mentioned before that my last quote was from, it's Bones.  Love that show.  It's one of the shows I watch on repeat.  Watched an episode tonight that had another good quote.  This is what I will leave you with tonight:

Bones: So you're saying that love is foolish and illogical. 
Booth: No. It's - it's thinking of someone before yourself. It's giving your life, if necessary, to that person. It's - it's, uh, love. 
Bones: And if that person falls out of love and meets someone else. Those selfless acts would suddenly appear to be dangerous and irresponsible, wouldn't they? 
Booth: No. It's still love. 

Happy outfit for a happy day!!

Day 31

So today was rough emotionally, but we aren't going to get into that.  This blog is about finding the happiness that happens everyday.

So though I had a rough day, I had my friend Carrie to help me through.  I stopped by her house before work to talk and help calm my nerves.  She's awesome.  What's even funnier... her roommates cat.  She didn't want to be bothered, just wrapped up and snuggled in a blanket.  She made me smile.  Silly kitteh!!

Oh!  Also got to talk to my mom for the first time since her surgery.  I love her.  She's mah favorite!



Babushka Cat!!



Day 30

I've said it before and I'll say it again.  It's my friends who help me through.

Today granted was a little crazy and hectic with work and mom, but my friends helped me pull through.

A friend cheering me on through my journey.  A simple hug from a coworker to help me through the day.  A pint with friends after work.   Texts from across the world just to ask how everything is going.  I can honestly say I have an amazing support system.  I don't know how many people can truly say that, but I can.  I never realized it before, but I can say with the greatest of confidence that I have an amazing rag tag team of friends who I can count on.

Love you all... now do the Sloppy Swish!!!

Day 29

Alright, crazy amazing day in so many ways.  

My mom had to have surgery today.  My stomach had been in knots all day and night because of it.  It's a pretty intense surgery, but very few complications occur.  It was just the fact that I couldn't be there with my family at this time that drove me nuts.  But mom did great!  The surgery went well and by 7pm I started to get texts from her... nice, sometimes incoherent auto-corrected texts.  Love her and am very happy she is on the track to healing and will hopefully be much better after this.

On my career track... I STARTED PRODUCER TRAINING!!  Eeeeeeeek!! If you know me, this has been my goal for a while.  Yeah I produced at my last job, but the variations between producing for news compared to movies is completely different.  I know my OCD and love for spreadsheets and perfection will really work out well when producing for news.  I'm a total geek... sue me.

Also had a nice chat with a very dear friend.  They had sent a text saying they had been thinking of my mom the past couple days knowing her surgery was coming up.  It was something they didn't need to think about, nor did I think they remembered... but they did.  Life is complicated.  Life isn't fair.  Yet no matter where we are taken, where our paths lead, you can always count on the fact that there is someone out there that loves you and cares, and that should be enough to get you through the day.  

One of my favorite TV shows has helped me through this new journey I'm on.  Last night there was a quote said that I felt related:

"You love someone, you open yourself up to suffering, that's the sad truth.  Maybe they'll break your heart, maybe you'll break their heart and never be able to look at yourself in the same way.  Those are the risks.  That's the burden."  

Side note:  Below are the pictures from my shopping excursion the other day.  One goal I'm trying to keep... add more color to my wardrobe.  I think I am doing a good job.  :)

Day 28

It's the Super Bowl... and guess who doesn't care... THIS KID!!

Ok, not completely doesn't care.  I do like to watch the half time show.  This year at work, I got to watch it with my coworkers and almost peed at my desk I was laughing so hard. 

Here are just some of the awesome things that were brought up:


Producer Joe:   Baby, we CAN'T see Beyonce's halo anymore.
       (as half the power went out in the stadium during the game)

Producer Joe:  I think the girls who were forced out of Destiny's Child are somehow behind this power outage.

Assign Guy Tim:   I was under the impression that football is played in all conditions.

Assign Guy Tim:  Overheard in the Newsroom: "That's how I dance, stomp my feet and slap my ass."
    (this was totally about a comment I made)

Writer Leeza:  The exorcism of "Eat Up New England."
    (This is in regards to a coworker's blog and the crazy steps I had to go through just to post a comment!!)

You know... we may work in a crazy stressful industry, but we still know how to laugh and have a good time through all the badness.

Day 27

Couple things...

First, had a wonderful 2 hour long conversation with my mom.  She is going in for surgery on Monday and I unfortunately can't be there with her.  So I wanted to make sure I got in some good momma talk time.  I love her.  She is amazing and strong and I can only hope to be half the woman she is... but those are some pretty big (and amazingly stylish) shoes to fill.

Second, something that would normally make me sad doesn't anymore.  Crazy how we grow and things change.  I guess I am just learning that I deserve better, am better, and I have a lot to offer.  I'm actually kind of grateful for the pain I have had to go through to get here.  I am learning about myself and what I need in life. 

Already feeling so much better just from the steps I have taken.  Can't wait to see what new things are in store for me on this journey.

“I'm selfish, impatient and a little insecure. I make mistakes, I am out of control and at times hard to handle. But if you can't handle me at my worst, then you sure as hell don't deserve me at my best.” 
~Marilyn Monroe

Day 26

It's my weekend!!!

First thing I do, hang out with my bestie Carrie and hit up the mall.  Though she couldn't hang for long, we walked around the Forever 21 near my house.  It's huge!  A two-story Forever 21... LOVE!!  Got myself a new marigold colored fall coat (half off!) and a cute red blazer. 

Now the reason this makes me happy, well besides hanging with my friend, I was able to wear sizes I have never been able to fit into.  In the past few months I have lost 30 lbs., mostly from the stress from which this blog was developed off of.  So to be able to wear dresses in styles that never "looked right" on my body before, it was something that made me smile. 

I think any woman can feel me on this one!

Day 25

So I have been sick lately and it just blows my mind how animals can sense your emotions.  Feeling pretty shitty and just lounging around mopey... my little guy Indie just came over and would not leave me alone.  He makes me smile with unconditional love and tons of kisses.

I will warn you right now readers... I love to take pictures of Indie.  He will be prominent in these posts.   :)