Claudia Confesses

Moving

2011-07-11T10:07:00.000-07:00

I'm moving the blog to this address: http://claudiaconfesses.blogspot.com/
I don't know why I didn't use that URL when I first started, but anyway check out my new post there and follow if you wish

What's in a Name

2011-06-16T11:19:00.000-07:00

I just read this post by the Shabby Princess and I was inspired to write a post of my own in response...

My name is Claudia, I like it a lot.
Different people have had different nicknames for me especially when I was younger.
The most common one from high school was Claud, pretty obvious. Then my ex started calling me claw and I didn't like it but he thought it was funny and it really caught on. He is SOOO not in the picture anymore but lots of people still call me that.

Anyway I also have a very unique last name which I really like. Although it gets mispronounced very often, I still LOVE my last name. My BF/Fiance/dude/whatever doesn't. His last name is super duper common. It's the Mexican equivalent of Smith or Jones or something like that. I used to think I want to keep my last name when we get married but I would want to have the same last name as my kids so who knows...

Speaking of kids, yes I totally think of kids names. Actually BF and I have already agreed on a name for a boy. If he had his way we would probably only have one kid, if any, and it would be a boy (he already has a girl). If I have my way, we will have two: a boy first and then a girl within a year or two.

The one thing that bums me out about my name is that I don't know of any songs with my name in it. So many girls I know have songs for them. My cousin Jenny has that 867-5309 song and probably some others. One of my besties Donna has "Oh Donna" by Ritchie Valens and she gets a shout out in that Sean Paul song "Shake that thing Ms. Donna Donna"...
So many girls names even some really random ones are in songs but not mine!! Well if it is I've never heard it, not in English or Spanish.

So my point is, that I will probably choose a girls name that is in a song that I like. I have some thoughts already but BF doesn't seem to like any names that I like. We'll figure it out when the time comes.

Also, whenever there are souvenirs or random knick-knacks at stores with names, they never have Claudia. Recently when BF and I visited Jerome, AZ I saw some really pretty bookmarks with Initials and they didn't even have "C". It's frustrating! Oh but they have BF's name in like 4 different variations: Rick, Ricky, Ricardo, Rich... Geez!

If you know of any songs with my name in it, Let me know!!
Thanks

Book Swap

2011-06-15T15:39:00.000-07:00

My blog partner for the book swap was MeliFaif of MeliFaif Life and she hooked me up!!
She sent me what seemed like a brand spanking new copy of Little Bee.

*pic via goodreads
I work at a library on the side so I can recognize a popular book when I see one. I look forward to reading this and actually lent it to my friend who I'm in a book club with because she is done with our current book already and needed something to read. I need to catch up! She told me she almost bought Little Bee recently, so Meli's pick was perfect... Thanks!!

Our current book club pick is The Four Ms. Bradwells, so as soon as I'm done with that I'll start on Little Bee if I have it back by then.
I'd love to do more book swaps.

Happy Hump Day,
~Claudia

Not a Fairytale... oh well

2011-06-13T14:01:00.000-07:00

Well as excited as I was about the engagement I only told a coworker and my therapist. We were going to keep quiet about it until we got the right ring.

BUT BF spilled the beans when he was drunk... oopsie!
We were at his cousin's wedding last weekend and he told one cousin and an aunt then I guess the news spread. This weekend his dad was in town and kept asking about the freakin ring, it got annoying. Geez it doesn't fit, relax!

Anyway his family now knows I guess but mine doesn't, nor do any of my friends.
It's not about other people though. Its about him and I and what it means to us. We don't like to make a big fuss out of things or attract alot of attention.

In other news, BFs daughter graduated 8th grade on Saturday. So the family got together to attend that and support her, it was nice... she seemed happy.
On Friday night one of BFs ex-classmates from grad school was in town (he's from SAudi Arabia) so we met up with him and hit up some bars in downtown LA. Before we met I used to go out alot in downtown after work. It was fun, and the drinks were tasty! We started off at Casey's for some appetizers then headed to Seven Grand which is a whisky bar with fun lodge-like decor and elaborate specialty drinks. We ended the night at the Association. I recommend these places for a good time in LA!!

OH and about the engagement... Since I'm an independent girl who is the furthest thing from a gold digger and want to be fair, I plan on buying my man a new watch of his choosing.

I'm Engaged!

2011-05-31T08:42:00.000-07:00

Blogosphere... you are the first to know.
BF and I are now engaged. We went away this weekend and he gave me a ring...
He wants to talk to my parents before I start wearing the ring, and it's too big anyway so we need to either resize it or trade it in (i'm leaning towards trade)

This has been a long time coming, and although we have problems like all relationships, we are planning on working through them and spending the rest of our lives together.

We wont be planning an actual wedding for quite some time, if at all. We'll start by moving in together sometime in the next year and take it from there. It's reassurance that I'm more to him than just a 'girlfriend'.

Jerseycentric Boob Tube Babble

2011-05-20T10:34:00.000-07:00

Good Morning All!

Remember I shared that since I'm super frugal I don't want to pay for cable at my new place?

Don't fret, I'm still able to stay current thanks to the cable & DVR at my mom's house. The parentals are on vacay this week so I've been staying at there to tend to my oh so high maintenance dog. (she's on a schedule for thyroid & liver disease meds and she's just not used to spending too much time alone)

Well This week's stay luckily coincides with the premieres of RH New Jersey & Jerseylicious.

Let's discuss...

NJ might be my fave housewives show, they are just so entertaining. So we have two new cast members and they are Teresa's relatives that she doesn't get along with. It seems to me like the women featured on these shows stop being "real" somewhere along the line. Caroline keeps it pretty real, but Jacqueline and Teresa and most of the women in the other cities get caught up in their pseudo celebriti-ness. Anyway, to me that seems to be the issue between Teresa and her family. Although I also suspect good old fashioned greed to be at the root of it. Greed for money and greed for fame and attention.

Maybe there is some sort of business partnership gone bad between Teresa's brother & husband. Her brother seems really jealous of the relationship between his father and Joe Guidice. This will all be pretty interesting.

Meanwhile, Caroline Manzo's boys are moving out. EEEEK!! She wants to die! How old are they? Alot of people might think this is odd, but I'm Mexican so I can relate. Lots of us stay in our parents house until we get married. Actually even then alot of people move their new spouse in with their parents.

The same issue came up on the Jerseylicious reunion.

Vivica Fox was hosting and asked Filipo & Lorenzo why they still live at home... I forgot what they said exactly but it was something along the lines of they like being taken care of. Then, Anthony mentioned he bought a house that connects to his mother's house. Tracy chimed in and said all her family live on the same block. Alexa, said "what is this? Everybody Loves Raymond?". I also love that show, btw.

Again, people may think it's odd but I totally get it! I guess that's something Italians & Mexican's have in common. Very very close families. Even if we are all annoyed by each other we can't go too long without spending time together. At least that's my experience and my opinion.

And I was so shocked about Gigi & Frankie not being together?? How did that happen? why!!
I wasn't as super sad about it as Vivica, but still.
At one point they were talking about haters online bashing some of the cast members. I figure any public figure deals with this but just now as I was searching for pictures to include in my post I saw some really nasty comments on the Style network site. Style should really monitor that and delete the inapporpriate things.

So that is my current boob tube update, I'm looking forward to see the drama on both these Jersey shows this season.
Go to the link up to what everybody else is watching... and Happy Weekend to all!

*Images from Google

Currently...

2011-05-19T13:51:00.000-07:00

Joining Link ups will keep my posting more regularly
This is from Perfectly Imperfect

Current Book(s):
The Four Ms. Bradwells... haven't actually started yet but it's our first book club pick
Inspirations: Selections from Classic Literature
Also my therapist recommended The Five Love Languages so I'll be picking that up soon

Current Playlist:
Mary J. Blige playlist on Pandora

Current Color:
Purple

Current Drink:
Water

Current Food:
A train mishap ruined my plans of meeting up w/BF for lunch :( so I grabbed a tuna sandwich instead

Current Favorite Show:
Mad Men!

Current Wishlist:
A new TV
smartphone (finally!!)
new sandals maybe these, but they're so expensive!
for my bookcase and TV cart to be built

Current Needs:
I need (& deserve) a promotion

Current Triumphs:
signing up for an aerobics class, next step... actually show up!

Current Bane(s) of my Existence:
hmmm well not quite current (yet, thank God) but I'm sure fireworks will start soon and they make my poor pup very scared & anxious I HATE it, and seriously they go on for months in my neighborhood

Current Celebrity Crush:
Paul Rudd, I just saw "How Do You Know" the other day... he is adorable (but akward) in it

Current #1 Blessing:
My health and that of my loved ones

Current Indulgence:
I may have some ice cream this evening

Current Outfit:
brown slacks from JCPenney, aqua & white striped sweater from Target and my everyday work shoes: crocs ballet flats

Current Excitement:
Memorial weekend trip with BF to Sedona, AZ

Current Mood:
pleasant

Take a Peek

2011-05-18T10:21:00.000-07:00

I don't take enough pictures ever, and I realize my blog is a total bore compared to most others that I follow. So I figured I'd do a post to let you have a peek into my life. These pictures are all sort of old but I'll try to make it a point to take more from now on and share.

In no particular order...

BF and I summer '08

My cousin, like a sister to me. Too bad she lives 5 hours away...

I love volunteering, I've been participating in the Revlon walk for the last 4 years.

My fave comedian is Nick Swardson, it may not show in the pic but I was super excited to meet him.

BF and I at my first opening day Dodger game, 2008. We love sports, especially baseball. I just went to my first game of the season last night. It was Clayton Kershaw bobblehead night.

My precious pup Crisp, she gets her hair did on the regular. Those pretty bows don't last long on her head though. Sometimes as soon as we walk out of Petsmart one is missing.

BF and I at a wedding in Spring '08

This is the most recent of all the pics and it's a year old already. BF got his masters degree in real estate development from ASU in 2009.

Oh it's Crisp again, we go short on her hair for the summers.

Longish/keep it naturally shaggy the rest of the time (grooming is expensive).

So there you have it, a peek into my life. I'll try to stay current.

Meanwhile, I couldn't get any pics into my man candy monday post... wierd. So I didn't publish :(

I'll try again next week.

I Confess

2011-05-13T11:03:00.000-07:00

I confess that I'm super frugal! Moreso than necessary. I've been resisting the extra expense of a smart phone because usually either at home or work or even at BFs house there is internet access. Can I afford it? absolutely! And soon I will convert.

Since I moved about a month ago, I haven't set up internet or cable at my new place. Yesterday I downloaded and started playing words with friends on my iPod touch. so much fun! I wished for a smart phone to keep up with my games when I wasn't near an internet signal. My contract with Verizon is ending in early June. Since BF is with Tmobile and I talk to him the most, I had been thinking about switching over, but I'm not so sure about their service.
I'm a little confused about the rules for words with friends... alot of times it rejects my attempts at a word, I don't know if it's because of placement or what. And people use some words I've never heard of! Do they use dictionaries? Either way, I'm into it. My username is clawgv if you want to play.

I also confess that I've been a total dud for too long. For a long time, it seemed like I had lost touch with all my friends. I would get discouraged when plans fell through and have a pity party thinking nobody liked me. Lately, I've been pretty busy first with moving, and then either volunteering or work on the weekends, family events and time with BF, but I'm really trying to arrange dates with friends. Its pretty lame when somebody doesn't have their own life outside of a relationship and I'm guilty of doing that for too long.
So on that note, I have plans to meet a friend after work to watch Something Borrowed. I'm so excited for this. Also, we have started a book club and chose "The Four Ms. Bradwells".
Tomorrow I'm supposed to hang with a friend after work. I hope BF doesn't feel too neglected :/

I hope everyone has a great weekend and stay tuned for my man candy post on Monday, I already chose my subject.

Man Candy Monday - Manolo Cardona

2011-05-02T10:33:00.000-07:00

Good Morning friends!
Like I mentioned I have a special treat. Manolo Cardona maybe unknown to most of you but he is definitley man candy or as we say in spanish "taco de ojo"
His look is different depending on the TV show or movie, so in particular I think he is hottest on the Spanish soap opera "El Cartel de los Sapos"
Feast your eyes on this:

who me? yes you!

This 'novela' is about a Colombian drug cartel that Manolo's character Martin is a part of. Here, he is probably thinking about the dilemmas that come with a life of crime.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7YTq6HgGSY
I don't know how to add video but click here if you are interested in seeing the man candy in action

So there you have it, my contribution to man candy monday. Enjoy.

He has ventured into American film work with Beverly Hills Chihuahua, but I'm not too fond of his look in that movie so the only pictures I'm posting are of him in El Cartel. I think that is his best look. Perhaps I have a thing for bad boys.

**Images from google

Busy Weekend Ahead

2011-04-29T10:52:00.001-07:00

Greetings Interweb peeps,
This is what I've got going on this weekend:
Tomorrow I'm going to be confirmed in the Catholic Church. Its one of the sacraments.
I'm a little late. Most people do this (if they do it at all) in high school. But I'm glad I waited. It means more to me now. Honestly, back then I decided to wait because the teen classes are two years and I knew adults could do it faster (about 3 months). But also I feel like back then alot of kids do it just because that's what's expected or becuase everybody else is doing it. Regardless, I'm glad and I feel I've learned alot and will continue to grow spiritually.

I was expecting to wear a robe type thing for the ceremony (kinda like a graduation gown) and just this week I learned that those plans have changed. So now I needed a nice, church appropriate outfit. I'm the rare girl that doesn't exactly like shopping. Especially when I need something for a specific event its a drag! I prefer to shop online. But anyway I was in a bind so I went to the H&M nearby, no luck. I decided to check out other stores in that shopping center (Citadel in Commerce, CA) and actually scored at Charlotte Russe. I got a dress and a thin wrap/long sleave cardi sweater type thing for $16... woah! I don't love the dress but its good enough for the short amount of time I had to figure this out. I don't want to stress about what to wear.
After the mass my fam & BF asked me what I wanted to do. I don't like being the center of attention so I said nothing. But it IS a special occasion so I decided to have my mom make one of my fave meals, Birria. I just wanted it to be my immediate fam, my one uncle and his fam and BF. My uncle will be my 'sponsor' its like godfather. Then I hear BF called my mom to let her know to make enough food for an extra 5 people... hmmm? I wonder who he is bringing. I told him I didn't want anyone else to be invited and mainly I was referring to my parents inviting other people.
Our families have not really had much interaction. My bro has met his sibs briefly and my mom met his dad and stepmom again briefly, but nobody in my fam has met his mom yet. Maybe that is who he is brining, I guess it had to happen sometime. Its not a big deal its just that we've been dating for almost 4 years and it's never happened so it might be awk-ward. Meh we'll see and I'll let y'all know.

NOW Sunday I'm going to volunteer at the L.A. Times Festival of Books! I LOOOOVE books and reading and all things related. This is a great event that has always been at UCLA (my alma mater) but this year and I guess for now on? will be at USC (our rival). I don't care about the rivalry and actually USC is closer, so I'm excited about that. I love to volunteer for my favorite causes, and maybe I'll meet some authors. A couple years ago I met Arriana Huffington among others.

On Monday I want to link up with Man Candy Monday and post. I have somebody super hot to share with you guys, I gotta figure out how to post pics and link and all that sophisticated bloggy stuff.
wish me luck.
~Claudia

Annoyed, Can't Get no help!

2011-04-26T11:52:00.000-07:00

Geez! Its so hard to get any help from so called loved ones. Moving is a drag!
Its more of a drag when people who you do so much for are soooo busy (allegedly) they can't help you move. I try not to be a person who keeps tabs but it seems like anytime I need help or a favor people disappoint me. Trust me, I'm not tooting my own horn b/c that isn't my style but I really am very generous and helpful. Especially with my BF and brother, I've done sooo much for each of them!!

I will give credit where credit is due:
My BF gave me a few hours of his Saturday to help me move in the kitchen table, chairs, a lamp and some other random things.
My Bro and his friend gave about an hour of a Sunday morning to help move my bed & dresser.
Everything else I've done on my own and I'm glad. I like being able to take care of myself and not depend on anybody but unfortunately for bigger things I do need help.

The real struggle has been getting the couches in. I'm buying couches from a friend. She lives in Whittier, I now live in Alhambra. LA County traffic is nasty, duh. I need a truck to be able to move these things. My BF and bro both have trucks. Trying to coordinate for a time when my friend will be home and my 'helpers' available, also a drag. Then she said she'd leave us her key. BUT BF doesn't want to deal with traffic so he'd rather do it during the day. (He is unemployed, Bro works at a school so is on Spring Break). I left a key to my place and tried to coordinate getting the key to my friends place, but these boys keep changing plans, in other words flaking! I know this may seem like small potatoes to some but I was so frustrated I cried a little. I wanted to just forget it, who needs couches? BUT my friend is moving out of her place and needs to get rid of them and I had told her a long time ago I'd take them.... SO here we are, me venting to the blogosphere and planning to just hire people next time I need to move.
PS This is why one of my requirements while apartment hunting was that the big appliances be included.

On my own?

2011-04-22T15:18:00.000-07:00

Hmm I find that now that I'm on my own I don't really know what to do with myself. Its just taking time to adjust I guess. I'm still VERY happy with the move but have so much to do to get organized and totally settled.

This weekend BF is out of town so in that sense I'm on my own. He, along with his daughter, brother & nephew, is visiting his Dad in Arizona for Easter. I decided not to tag along because I didn't want to take the time off from work. Then I was offered to work a few hours at the library on Saturday. I'm glad for the opportunity because extra cash always comes in handy!! So my plan for the weekend is go to church this evening with my mom and probably hang at her house since I don't have cable at mine yet :/ and the lame converter box doesn't work UGH

Tomorrow I'll sleep in, get up and get ready, go to work and then go to my place to do some more organizing. Sunday I'm taking my doggie to get her hair did at Petsmart and go to church again and probably hang at my mom's for a while.
Nothin special, just a laid back, relaxing and sorta productive weekend planned.
I'm supposed to get The Town delivered tomorrow so I'll probably watch that in the evening. Monday its back to the grind and then get to see BF in the evening I hope.
I tell ya, dating someone with kids is challenging but we deal.

On my own

2011-04-20T11:09:00.000-07:00

I moved out on my own this past weekend.

I'm almost 30 and had been feeling kinda lame about still living with my parents so I had been planning on doing so for a long long time. But, I live in LA and dayum rent is expensive. I'm a super frugal gal so I won't live beyond my means and I was getting real discouraged seeing craptastic places galore that were in my budget. There was also a debate with BF and I about potentially moving in together. Obviously splitting costs would make it more affordable but since he has a kid, we'd need 2 bedrooms and after a lot of back and forth with that I just found something on my own. I'm really glad I did, I love having my own space and peace & quiet. My family isn't rowdy, nor were we crowded in a tiny house but still. Its just better this way. Moving is a hassle and I'm not totally settled in yet but I'm already very comfortable.

I was concerned about my commute to work being longer but its not a big difference so that's great.

I've done most of my shopping for random things I needed at Ross, Dollar Tree and 99 cents store, but it adds up. I scored on a set of pots & pans for under $50 at JC Penney and picked up a few things at Target. I still need some furniture. So far I only have my bed & dresser in the bedroom and a table in the kitchen. The place had a fridge and stove in there which was one of my requirements. so that has been keeping me busy the last couple weekds and will continue to do so, but I'm very happy with this move. I will visit my family and pup often but not being there every day will improve our relationship I hope since there is less opportunity for me to be irritated and annoyed by the things that bother me.

Stay Tuned

2011-04-19T15:57:00.000-07:00

I'm such a bore... I haven't blogged in forevah! But I'm getting motivated, some changes have been going on in my life and I'm looking forward to sharing.

Hospital Visits

2010-11-16T15:27:00.001-08:00

Today I'm leaving work just a tad early to make the looong trek out to see my favorite baby (BF's niece) in the hospital. She is 8 months old and had heart surgery yesterday. I want to see her but at the same time don't, I just know it will be difficult and heartbreaking.

I've been lucky to not have much illness in my life or those of loved ones when I was younger. However in the past few years things haven't been so good. It may be my lack of experience with illness in myself & loved ones that I never know what I'm supposed to do. I think to myself, should I visit? will I just be in the way? I don't want to burden people who are already dealing with so much...

About 2 1/2 years ago my Aunt was diagnosed with breast cancer, this branch of the family lives 5 hours away in Nor-Cal. My mom and I visited after her masectomy. Then a year ago, my cousin (her daughter) who is like a sister to me was also diagnosed. This time, I was there during the surgery. I debated whether to go and realized later that it was the best thing I could do for her. I stayed with her that first night so her mom could get some rest. It was exhausting and emotionally draining, but I'm so glad I did it. I wish I had stayed longer though. I figured I'd be back soon, and tag along with her to chemo. But I haven't. Well I have visited, but it never falls on her chemo week. I was just there this past weekend. We are an emotionally handicapped family. We aren't very open with our feelings. We don't talk much on the phone and especially not about what she is going through with cancer. Its great to see that she seems fine and has her hair and is starting grad school online but I wish we knew when this would be over.

I wasn't sure whether I should visit the baby or not, but decided to just go. I have heard all good things about the surgery and that she is recovering well and will likely go home Thursday. Even if I don't get to see her, or she is asleep or whatever apparently being there for her parents may provide some sort of comfort. I wouldn't know, like I said I'm slightly emotionally disabled. Either way off I go.

Wee bit of me Wednesday

2010-10-21T10:57:00.000-07:00

Yes I'm late with this as its Thursday but I love borrowing these prompts because sometimes I just can't think of stuff to blog about and I'm gonna try to do it more regularly

>
{one} have you ever crawled through a window?
geez I have a horrible memory so I'm not sure, but I vaguely remember going into a window at some point because we locked ourselves out, I just don't know who "we" was or what house
{two} what’s one subject that you wish you knew more about?health
{three} who’s your favorite villain?again, with the bad memory I think there was a character named something Khan who was a bad guy on tail spin waaaaay back when... I just really like the name Khan
{four} have you ever hit a jackpot on a slot machine?how much is considered a jackpot? I think I won like $200 dollars once in palm springs and I was REALLY excited about that. the best part? I wasn't gambling with my own money... when I was about to walk away from that machine a guy sitting next to me said wait play some more and put money in it for me! and he didn't even try to hit on me! awesome!
{five} what is your favorite disney movie?bambi, I think just because I received it as a gift when I was a kid (I think from my dad)
{six} if the whole world were listening, what would you say?I think the world would rather not hear what I have to say, so I'll spare you
{seven} if you could choose one song to describe you or your life, what would it be?"be happy" by Mary J. Blige b/c that's all I really want but why is it so hard?
{eight} your desk: messy or organized?relatively organized
{nine} have you ever had surgery?yes, oral surgery to get all 4 wisdom teeth out. they were impacted
{ten} if you could have any animal as a pet, what would you have?a dog! I always want to have at least one dog, a female dog, preferably an adoptee and a mutt
I currently am on my 2nd and have had her for over 13 years!

this is from leigh ashley's blog http://www.myleighashley.com/ I tried adding the button on top but am not sure that it worked... I need a blog tutorial, my blog is plain and boring compared to lots of super cool ones I follow

Therapy

2010-10-20T14:22:00.000-07:00

Today I started therapy... well not according to my therapist, she says today was an evaluation and our sessions will start next week.

Either way it is a pretty big step for me. I have issues, (who doesn't) and I'm doing something about it! I'm proud of myself and looking forward to an improvement in my emotional well-being.

Alot of people consider blogging therapy, and sure I sometimes do it to vent to. Sometimes I notice the blogosphere can be very supportive of others, but even still I think I need a professional. I think alot of people can benefit from therapy. There is still a sort of stigma against therapy although I know alot of people think of it as no big deal (as I do). I recently read an article in Glamour about anxiety and just how common it is. I already knew I may have it or at least some symptoms of it by then but it was reassuring that Glamour was putting it out there and raising awareness, encouraging their readers to seek help if they needed it. Going to therapy does not mean that I am crazy or anybody else who goes is crazy.

Talking to friends or family can help, but sometimes you just need to vent and not worry about offending anybody. I think the blog is a great avenue for this. I don't want to offend any readers either but what I mean is that you don't know me, I don't know you so if we understand each other great, but if we don't that's OK too. Times are tough, I'm kinda having a quarter life crisis and I worry alot about sooo many things. If anybody reading this thinks they may have anxiety, depression or other emotional issues that could benefit from seeking treatment with a therapist I encourage you to do your research. You will realize that these problems are very common, and are treatable. I pondered taking this step for several months and made an appointment once I found a therapist that I thought would fit my needs and be understanding about my background. I'm looking forward to being able to relax, sleep better and improved relationships with my loved ones among other benefits.

Q&A

2010-09-20T15:15:00.000-07:00

I've seen this on a few other blogs, so although I'm not 'tagged' I'm taking these prompts as a post idea

1. BLT or PB&J?
I like both but prefer PB&J (with coffee!)

2. If you had to choose, would you give up your home Internet access or cable TV?
Since I can use the internet at work or at libraries if absolutely necessary, I'd give up internet at home if I had to choose.

3. Do believe in astrology?
I wouldn't say believe, but I'll read my horoscope in magazines and stuff.

4. What is the last CD or iTunes single you purchased?
hmmm I don't have my iPod with me so I can't check for sure what single song, but I do recall the last whole album I bought was M.I.A.'s new one, right when it came out(July I think) and actually I have yet to listen to the whole thing

5. If you could trade bodies with one celebrity, who would you choose?
Maybe Rachel McAdams b/c BF thinks she's super hott, (I guess I agree a little) How tall is she though? If I trade bodies I'd want to be shorter than I currently am

6. How many pairs of shoes are in your closet?
good question, I'd guess over 30

7. Do you make your bed every day?
No, I'm always running late

8. What college football team are you rooting for this season?
UCLA!

Another Set:
1. What's on your to-do list this week?
Wash my car, go for a long walk at least 3 times

2. If you found a $100 bill in a coat pocket, what would you spend it on?
Maybe a new purse

3. What is one new item you want to splurge on for your home/apartment?
I don't have my own place (yet) but when I do, I want to splurge on a high end vaccum

4. What are you most looking forward to about fall?
cuddle weather!

5. What's the next book on your reading list?
I just started Last Night at Chateau Marmont and up next is The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

6. What fall TV premiere are you most looking forward to?
Modern Family

7. What is your LEAST favorite household chore?
Cleaning the Toilet

8. Which section at Target always sucks you in and forces you to buy things you don't need?
Cosmetics or Clothing

Starting a new Journey

2010-09-17T13:18:00.000-07:00

So now that I'm done with my accounting class and have completed all the requirements for a certificate in Business Management, I've decided to start a new endeavor.

FYI, I'm Catholic. I went to Catholic school from Pre-School to High School. I'm not super duper devout in the sense that I go to mass every single week, but I have never "lost my faith". Most catholic kids (I think) get baptized as babies, do their first communion around the 2nd grade and get confirmed in high school.

I'll be 29 soon and have not yet been confirmed, but I went to my first confirmation class yesterday. It was a bit odd. As much as I love God and Mary, the holy spirit, and the saints... Its very hard (for me) to embody the teachings of the church in the world we live in. I felt guilty sitting there hearing about what you are supposed to do knowing that hours earlier when a pregnant woman asked me for money on the street I lied to her and said I didn't have any. This is Los Angeles, and if I gave money to every person who asked for it, I'd then be the one panhandling.

Yesterday after class, I was in a bad mood, and unsure if I even really wanted to go through with it. Today I feel a little better. Although "the church" may not agree, I think God is understanding of my position. I am not a bad person. I may not be as good a person as I should be, but I am definitely not a bad person. I'm jaded. I'm disappointed by alot of things in this world. And I think to myself, why should I help others who have made bad decisions? what's in it for me? who bothers to help me?
I do alot for my loved ones, friends and family and for charity. But random strangers? I'm sorry but I have too much mistrust.

I'm good to my loved ones, and very supportive in times of need. This journey may have me feeling conflicted at certain points but I think it is the right thing for me. I know at the very least, it will make my mom happy and will then allow me to be married in the church when my time comes.

Let's try this again...

2010-09-01T15:23:00.000-07:00

So I started blogging a while back and then wasn't so pleased with my rants... Initially I thought it would be good to vent by writing because some of my feelings I can't really share with people I know as they'll easily be misinterpreted and/or be taken as offensive... I thought the blogosphere would be safe since nobody I know or nobody at all really seems to actually read my stuff. But you never know, so I deleted one post in particular and hadn't really written anything in 6 months.
Anyway I have kept reading other blogs and figured I'd give this another shot.

So its September 1st and I'm feeling pretty hopeful about the next few months and especially about next year. I'm finally feeling like my relationship is moving forward. I never thought I would be the type to give a dude the ultimatum, but I kinda did. So I'm not engaged yet, and actually I'm not so concerned with being engaged at all. But We do have plans to move in together no later than January, and probably getting married about 6 months later. It will be difficult financially since he does not currently have a job, and I don't make very much. But it will be oh so worth it. I'm happier with the simple thought of having that to look forward to. We currently both live at home but when we get time alone its awesome! I am absolutely un-domestic but I will learn and do my best (luckily he isn't picky about what he eats).

In other news, today I will be taking my final for an online accounting class I'm currently enrolled in. This is the last in a series of classes that I've been taking for the sake of obtaining a 'certificate' in Business Management. I hope this will do me some good in eventually getting a better job. I like my job, but I think I can do better. It would be nice to stay in the same company but be challenged, and make more money of course. These days I'm glad to have a job at all. So I will wait my turn for bigger and better things.

I'm looking forward to the long weekend, reading for leisure, watching movies, taking walks with my doggie, having some nice meals and cuddling.

Q&A

2010-03-03T14:13:00.000-08:00

I found this set of questions on a blog and decided to borrow it since I haven't posted in some time.

I'm actually not as tech/blog savvy as most of the bloggers I follow so I'm afraid my posts are actually just boring, plain text. I'll try to incorporate pics in the future but for now...

1. How many piercing's do you have?
Just the standard 2, (one in each ear obvs) its been that way since I was a baby but I hardly ever wear earrings

2. I love the sound of.....?
I ADORE the sound of my dog walking around our tile floor, she also sounds super cute on wood floors.

3. Favorite city?
wow I dunno San Francisco is pretty great

4. Colts, Saints, or could care less?
I guess this list is kind of old but I didn't care

5. Frozen yogurt or ice cream?
Ice cream (but I can't have any until Easter)

6. Favorite appetizer?
This is also hard to narrow down, I like calamari (when done right) and bruschetta

7. What item in your closet currently makes you the happiest?
My Bass tote bag b/c if I'm using it, that means I'm going away probably to visit BF

8.Favorite facial moisturizer?
hmm Cetaphil b/c its so simple and non-irritating, but I'm exploring more antiaging options now that I am *gasp* 28

Not so Hot

2010-02-04T10:20:00.000-08:00

Some background on me: I'm 28 and have a decent job, but this is not where I saw myself when I graduated college. I expected bigger and better for myself.
Hence, I am taking graduate business courses. Business is not exactly my cup of tea but I'm doing it to make myself more marketable.

I started off working toward a Business Management Certificate which consists of 7 courses. So far I've taken 5 including Management, CIS, Marketing, Statistics and Econ. I wanted to try this out first and decide whether or not to pursue and MBA. The verdict, highly unlikely. I've done well enough so far but I'm just not into it.

Now, on to the not so hot part of the post:
This quarter I'm taking Finance. Yesterday we had a quiz and I didn't do so well. I often get discouraged and think that taking these courses will do me no good and I'll be stuck as an assistant forever. The BF usually makes me feel better and just tells me to be patient and what not. I know that in this economy and particularly in super competitive Los Angeles I am lucky to even have a job. My job is good and I do acknowledge that but like I said, I want bigger and better.
Therefore I will try to do much better on next week's midterm. Wish me luck blogosphere... thx!

Pledge to Read

2010-01-27T14:04:00.000-08:00

In my random blog browsing I came accross this button that I have now added to my own blog. I wholeheartedly support this sentiment and would encourage others to do the same. I abvolutely LOVE to read!
Mostly I'm a fiction girl, but ocassionaly there is a non-fiction book that is good enough to keep my attention and also of course there are magazines & newspapers for keeping current. I used to work at a library and my favorite task would be processing new books into the collection in part because I love the smell of new books. On my first date with the BF he actually schockingly (to me at the time b/c I wouldn't expect any guy to and also to anyone who knows him)agreed to accompany me to a book signing. I love receiving and giving books as gifts, especially to babies/kids. Also, I love chatting with fellow book lovers about stuff we each have read getting and giving recommendations. So on that note I will recommend a book in case anyone ever reads this blog.

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a short, and I think highly relatable story. I think anyone from say middle school onward can appreciate the simplicity of this inspirational tale.
Since reading The Alchemist I have read several other works by this author and while I have enjoyed all, I do believe this is his best.

Just my luck

2010-01-20T14:36:00.000-08:00

Annoyance: Angelenos are pretty spoiled when it comes to weather. This week has brought some crazy storms. For a long time now I had thought about buying rain boots but figured it would be a waste.
Well today I have class. I have taken only online classes this past year and it just figures that the quarter I decide to go on campus coincides with the worst storm in recent history. Fingers crossed that a tornado doesn't hit right when I'm walking from the car to class.

Actually rain isn't so bad. I consider it cuddle weather. My cuddle buddy (BF) is out of town :(

Hello e-World!

2010-01-14T14:10:00.000-08:00

I LOVE BLOGS! I read blogs all the time and occassionaly comment on them but had always considered myself too private/reserved to actually write a blog myself.
Well I'm giving it a shot. I figure I'll post a little and see how it goes.
I want to be able to vent a little to people I don't know and who won't judge. Well some of you may judge but that's OK since we don't actually know each other. And if you don't like the blog, just don't read it, easy peasy. The internet is great isn't it?
I'll just randomly share what I find amusing and also what annoys me. LOTS of stuff annoys me.
But also lots of stuff makes me happy, I have a great-ish family & BF, an awesometastic pup, and I'm relatively healthy and need to remember that I have lots to be thankful for and pleased with in life, so not all my posts will be about annoyances, (let's hope). So.... hello blogosphere, I have officially joined.
-Claudia