unbeaTEN: a Decade of Dominance. Oh and the End of my First semester at College

Well, these past few days have been pretty awesome. Wednesday was my last day of classes this semester. Thursday was spent "studying". By studying, I mean goofing around and having a blast with my friends before we left for school. Friday, I got my bio and chem finals out of the way. WOOHOO!!!! No more chem until next semester!!!! And then my daddy came to get me and move me out of my dorm. So I am officially back home!! When I got home, I had a package waiting for me!

It's a beautiful ornament for the usnagfs ornament exchange:) Brittany made it perfectly!! And it just so happens to also have the lyrics to one of my all time favorite songs on it which is also the title of my blog! I am in love with it!!

I showered and tried to get to bed at a decent time (I failed miserably) because I was going to have an early day. Oh wait. I almost forgot. December 9th also happens to be a special day for another reason. It just to happens to be a certain boy's birthday...the first one spent at the Academy and the first of many we won't be spending together. But that's okay:) It will always be one of my favorite days of the year!! And with that being said, you must be wondering about his birthday present...

Saturday morning, I was awake at 6am. I was out of my house and into a car by 6:31. By 10:30 I was in the parking lot at Redskins Stadium, ready to freeze my butt off for the next few hours. I happened to be at a very particular football game. It is one of the biggest rivalries, if not the biggest, in college football. I got to walk around and find where my seat was. Then I went down to sit at the 50 yard line to watch students from both schools parade on to the field. Yep, I was at the Army-Navy game. And no, my boyfriend did not know. I had ridden down with his parents. His mom forgot one or two times that he didn't know I would be there and would ask whether I talked to him or knew if he was there yet. It was quite entertaining. After the march on, he said he'd be able to find his parents. I was so worried he would see me before I saw him. Uh oh. He told us he was standing where we were but we hadn't found him yet. I started frantically looking and spotted him! I told his mom and made a mad dash for it while he was looking the other way. I went up behind him and covered his eyes. He couldn't even guess who it might be! He turned around, surprised, and gave me a kiss! I couldn't be happier:) He said he had NO idea what so ever that I would be at the game. I successfully surprised him, something I never thought I would be able to pull off:) While we couldn't sit together, it was amazing to get to see him again so soon! I did get to sit next to a retired subs officer and his family. He was quite entertaining haha. And, I got to witness the 10th Navy win against Army!! 10 years in a row. One whole decade. I cannot imagine how it feels to lose that much. Kudos to Navy for kicking some black night butt. We said our goodbyes after the game, but they weren't so bad since I'd be seeing him again in exactly a week!!! And, we got to text all night, which is very rare! I was one happy camper.

Today, I slept in till 2, a record for me! I will say I was up until 1:30, and quite exhausted from the Army-Navy game. At 4, I had an interview to nanny for one of my mom's students. I got the job! I start tomorrow and cannot wait!! I will finally be making some money, but not only that, I LOVE kids. Anyone who knows me knows I kind of have an obsession. So this is the perfect job for me! I cannot wait to start!! Then my mommy and I went shopping.  I love spending time with her and really miss it at school. Then, we came home, ordered dinner since everyone was too exhausted to cook, and I worked on a little present I'm making. This weekend was very successful if I do say so myself! I now have to finish all of my christmas presents in the next two weeks and I need to go dress shopping! I LOVE getting dressed up more than anything:) And in less than one week, Patrick will be home for 3 whole weeks!!!! Yay!! I will leave you on that happy note!!

The Home Stretch

Wow. I can't believe it. The semester is almost over. I have three more days of classes, then my finals and I'm officially done my first semester of college!!! I can't believe how fast it went! And then, when I get back from my 2 month long winter break, it's time to rush!! I'm so excited!

This past week was pretty uneventful. The highlight, actually, was completing my last normal chem exam! It was such a relief (until I realized my final was a week later). For this exam, I did the most studying so far and it seemed a bit easier than the first two, so I'm hoping my grade reflects that.

Going into my first finals in college, I'm a bit worried. I've learned how to study a little bit better this semester, but I don't think my study skills are up to par (no, in high school I didn't ever have to study for tests. I think the most studying I did was for my AP bio test and I just read my notes from the year). My options for studying are pretty much flashcards or just reading and highlighting. I am also making an excuse that since I have bio and chem in the same day, 30 min apart, that if my chem grade isn't up to par, that is why. Oh boy, we'll have to see how that goes. And then a week later, I have my ex sci exam. And that's it. I'm officially no longer a first semester freshman. Wow. That was fast.

This week, I only really have classes Monday and Wednesday, a non-final exam Tuesday and then 2 finals Friday!! THEN I GO HOME!!! Now, I wouldn't be a very good girlfriend if I didn't mention the fact that this Friday is also my lovely boyfriend's birthday!! I'm so terribly sad we won't get to spend it together but I guess that is just preparing me for the future while being in a military relationship. At least he should have a CRAZY day, it being the day before the Army-Navy game! I am so upset I won't be able to go this year. It is one of the coolest games to get a chance to see. Not only that, but this year they are making a documentary out of it; "A Game of Honor". I'm so excited to watch it!! It will show many civilians how these athletes are amazingly talented sport-wise, but that they are doing a far more awesome thing with their college experience. They graduated as commissioned officers in the United States Navy, Marines, and Army. Seeing all the rigorous training they go through aside from football practice is something most civilians don't understand. Dating a varsity athlete at the Naval Academy has given me a new respect for these men (and women). But I don't want to start bragging.

Okay, well I just lost my train of thought so I am ending it here... Can't wait to write next week, when I'm finally home in my nice, comfy bed:)

Thanksgiving: a Time to Count Your Blessings

This Thanksgiving break showed me how much I truly have to be thankful for. I was lucky enough to come home a few days early. I spent the first few days shopping and spending time with my family. I missed them wayyyy too much to be healthy, especially my puppy (okay, she's 13 but still...). On Sunday, I went to Zumba with Patrick's mom and younger sister. I missed them like crazy! It's funny sometimes how you don't realize how much you missed something until you have it again. That night I got to see two of my favorite people from home, Liz and Michele. On top of that, I got ice cream. Real ice cream, not the frozen yogurt they give us at Pencader.

Monday, I got to see one of my best friends from home, Tori. We had a lot of catching up to do because we hadn't talked, let alone seen each other in forever! Somewhere in there I went to Target with my mommy.

On Tuesday, I woke up not feeling so hot. I had a sore throat and stuffy nose. Not cool. I ended up finally going to Forever 21 with my mommy. I had some awesome luck and found quite a few things I loved! I went shopping 3 out of the 4 days I was home so far. The next day was sure to be the best.

Wednesday, I woke up and knew I had some work to do. Patrick would be home later that evening and I was going to make chocolate covered pretzels for him. Originally, I had made some for Jason's birthday and was going to make more for Thanksgiving, but I realized Patrick actually does like them. After a year and a half of dating, I figured out my boyfriend likes something I make. So I was busy all day making them. Then, I had time to wait for Patrick to get home! Boy, did it feel like forever. He finally got home and a bit later, came over to pick me up. I hadn't been to his house since Sunday so I had yet to see Kara, Jason, Leah, or Nicole. And on top of that, his grandparents were there!! I love being around his family more than anything. Since it got dark so early, it seemed a lot later than it was, which is awesome when you want to spend all the time in the world with your boyfriend. Around 9 o'clock, we decided I was staying over and that I should get my clothes, toothbrush, etc so I could wake up for yoga the next day and be prepared for Thanksgiving. I got to stay in Maggie and Kara's room for the first time that night. It was pretty awesome.

On Thanksgiving, we were up and out of the house by 6:30. We basically had a private yoga class consisting of Julie (Patrick's mom), Kara & Maggie (Patrick's sisters), Jason & Leah (Patrick's brother and his girlfriend), and then Patrick & me. It was awesome, but definitely the hardest yoga class I've ever taken. It was very strength based and I could definitely tell I've gotten out of shape since I've gone to school. Then we headed back to the Dods' household. Matthew slept a bit late and so Patrick and I ran him over to the EHT football field for the pregame marching band show. When we got back, everyone had already left for the show so I showered and got dressed and we went back to EHT to watch the game. After the game, we stopped at Wawa for some iced coffee, yum. I got to help Patrick's mom (and grandmother and aunt) with the Thanksgiving cooking. I love being in the kitchen and being allowed to help out like "part of the family" was absolutely awesome. Dinner was amazing though I felt very sick after, and I still don't know why. I do have to say, my boyfriend is absolutely amazing and stayed in from the traditional after dinner walk to be with me because I felt terrible. He is so good to me, I couldn't be thankful enough to have such an amazing man in my life. I ended up feeling better a bit later, thank gosh. Eventually, it was time for me to head home after a long, fun-filled day.

Friday, I woke up and didn't have much to do. It was super nice out, but Patrick was at the gym so I had a bit of waiting to do. Being the awesome boyfriend he is, he surprised me with a walk on the boardwalk. We were a bit quiet, but it was such a soothing walk. When it was time to turn around (we almost got to the end of the boardwalk, so it was a VERY long walk), we went onto the beach and looked for sea glass on the way back. We got quite lucky. We got back to Patrick's house and everyone had already started on their gingerbread houses. It is a tradition for his family to make gingerbread houses the day after Thanksgiving and keep them through the holidays. I had a blast making mine. Then our friend, Cole, had people over. We got to go hang out with all of our old friends from high school. And my best friend, who, with her boyfriend, happened to set Patrick and me up, was there. I hadn't seen her in so long! I was sooo happy to get to spend time with her. I do have to say, Friday was quite the entertaining night, for multiple reasons. Once again, I stayed at Patrick's so I didn't have to go all the way home (not the 7 minutes is that far, but still).

Saturday, we went up to my cousin's house in Hoboken. She has 6 week old twin baby girls who are beyond adorable. I was the happiest girl ever getting to hold them! I'm hoping I didn't scare Patrick away too much, but he should know enough about my baby obsession not to get freaked out. It was a great day. We got back in time for my DP night that was supposed to happen around 7:30. Well, at 9:30, I still had no word on what was going on, so I headed over to Patrick's for our last night home. We watched The Changeup and then some movie about Bob, I forget the name. I didn't get home till 1, which is so weird. I am so not used to not having a curfew, because I still normally end up home fairly early anyway.

Today, I went to church with my family. It was so nice to be back in my familiar church. We ordered pizza from my favorite pizza place. Then I snuggled up to my mom on the couch and took a nap. I finished getting my stuff together and Patrick (and his dad) came to get me around 3 o'clock. They were dropping me off on Patrick's way back to the Academy. It was a nice car ride back, even though school was not the place I really wanted to go back to. It was bittersweet. After Patrick left, he texted me our new countdown: 20 days. Now if only I had a surprise up my sleeve...too bad I am not clever enough for that.

This past week has taught me how much I have to be thankful for. I have the most amazing parents and little brother who is starting to mature (minus the fact it drives him crazy I'm a vegetarian...and that he said "Go Army" the other day...he is currently disowned). I have the most perfect boyfriend a girl could ask for, and I am so thankful for him every day. I have the best boyfriend-family-in-laws imaginable, and am considered part of their family. I have a wonderful puppy who I am in love with. I have an awesome home with awesome friends. I get my education at an exceptional University. I am truly blessed with more than I deserve.

Home is where your heart is

I had a revelation in the middle of bio (maybe earlier that morning) on Friday. We weren't doing anything important in my classes Monday or Tuesday. My Thanksgiving break could start tomorrow. Why wasn't I going home?! I prayed my teacher would let us out early (she did) and promptly called my mom. For the first time, my mom was actually in the middle of doing something when I called her and didn't have more than a minute to talk. I talked a mile a minute telling her about my revelation and whether she or my dad could come get me tomorrow or Sunday. She said she'd talk to my dad and call me later. She called me to ask about buying something at the Charity league event at which she was working.Then she told me if I wanted, to call my dad to see what he says. I finally get ahold of him and he says he could probably get me Saturday morning and hopefully we'd be back by 2. He said Friday night might be a possibility but probably not. I jokingly said if he came that night, to bring my brother with him so I didn't have to drive in the dark (I had to get my car from Patrick's grandparents, silly I know but I wanted my daddy). I had a workout date with a fellow usna gf, Amanda. I was getting ready to leave, and my dad called. It was four o'clock. "I'm picking Jimmy up from school now. He doesn't want to get up early so we will be there around 6. See you soon." Oh. My. Gosh. I was so excited!! But I had a ton to pack and a workout to do within two hours! Luckily, the workout I planned was a short one. I love working out with Amanda and being with an older girl who actually knows what I am going through. Plus, she is pretty freaking awesome. I got back to my room and was completely packed by 5. I even had time to go to dinner before they got there! And then we were off.

For those of you who don't know, I've been having a kinda tough time at college. While the school is absolutely phenomenal and I've met a ton of great new people, I don't always have a blast. I am homesick quite often. I don't go out a lot because I am not a drinker and it gets old quite fast. This actually has nothing to do with my boyfriend, like most people think. Patrick has told me numerous times how he trusts me and to go out and have a good time. The sad part is, most of the time I'd rather sit in my room and have some alone time. And lately, I have been having other issues and all I can say is thank gosh for my suitemate Katie. I love her to death and she makes school a bit more bearable. I also can't say enough how thankful I am for Lauren B. She dates an older mid in Patrick's company. She has been there for me no matter what! It is so awesome to become such great friends with someone you have only actually seen in person twice. I could not be more thankful to get to know her and come out with an amazing friend, even if our boyfriends think we love each other more than we love them. (It may be true, they just aren't supposed to know...) [Wow random side note, Katie and Lauren are the names of my two cousins I was closest with growing up...] Anyway, without them, I don't know how I would've gotten through the past few weeks. I never thought I would be one to be homesick. At one point, it was so bad I was honestly contemplating transferring to a school at home. But now I am home and beyond happy:) I don't think I have ever been this happy just sitting around. And it's even not as bad as normal not to have Patrick with me. I guess I got into such a routine during plebe summer, that this doesn't seem bad at all. I can actually text him! The past few days have been pretty packed. I've gotten to eat a ton of amazing food! Yesterday, I spent the day shopping with Patrick's younger sister. I think we've come to the point where we have adopted each other as sisters. She is so awesome! And then I finally watched the Adjustment Beuarau (can't spell it?). Then today, I went to Zumba with Patrick's mom and  younger sister (and her friend). I was sooo happy to be back in Adam's class. He is the most amazing Zumba instructor and I brag to everyone about him! Then I came home for a bit and lounged around. Michele and Liz came over to hang out, which was awesome!  Michele and I went to friendly's for ice cream. It was delicious! I came home and took a nap (procrastinating my chem homework). I woke up to some worried texts/messages from Patrick because we hadn't talked all day and I didn't answer him like I normally do. I love hearing from him, even if he thinks I am upset with him.

So, being home, I have been the happiest I've been in awhile. I've spent time with my amazing family, and have seen some of the people I miss most. I am so blessed to be able to spend the holiday with my family, and that my loved ones are all happy and healthy. Now, if only Patrick could hurry up and get here...

“Sometimes you have to be apart from people you love, but that doesn't make you love them any less. Sometimes you love them more.”

Wow. This weekend was wonderful. Two banging weekends in a row is unheard of for me! Friday afternoon, my parents came down to look at the apartment complex I will be living in next year. They fell in love just as much as I did. (Thank gosh) Then we were off to my Aunt's surprise 50th birthday! It was a blast to see most of my cousins! Since everyone is getting older, it has been really hard to get the majority of us together. Out of the 17 grandchildren, I think we were missing 4 which isn't too bad at all (seeing as one just had twins and another is stationed in South Carolina with her husband). Then I spent the night in the hotel with my parents, relaxing away from my dorm.

Saturday, we went to watch (the second half of) Patrick's crew race. It was a scrimmage between Navy, Delaware, and Penn. Navy's freshman lightweights killed every piece! If I'm correct, Navy went 18 for 18 for the day. Go Navy!! But want to know what the best part of the day was? Patrick getting to come back to Delaware with me! After the race, I hung around with his mom and grandmom while everything was getting cleaned up. Then we met my family (who was buying candy to make yummy treats this winter) for dinner at a lovely Italian place. Then, it was back to my dorm!!! I never thought Patrick would get the chance to see my dorm, let alone freshman year. He got to meet most of my friends, which really meant a lot to me. He finally got to put faces with names. He happened to get mad at me once, though. I told him, after we were on our way to the dining hall, that I would've liked for him to wear his uniform. He almost turned and ran back to the dorm to change. Why the crazy dude would ever want to be in his uniform longer than necessary (regardless of how bangin he looks), is beyond me! But we had such an awesome time.

Dropping him off at the Academy was a little harder than usual. It was the first time (I think) I dropped him off when it was light out. And it was quick. I was in and out of the gate in fewer than 20 minutes. I did not like it. And in case you haven't seen my facebook, I really dislike when the Academy decides to steal my boyfriend back. But he actually loves me, not you! So take that, silly Academy. Going over the bay bridge, I got to see one of the most amazing sunsets ever. It was behind me and these beautiful clouds were in front of me. While I always hate saying "see you later", the sunset was a little piece of mind. I took it as a good sign, everything would be okay, no matter what. I got back to school safe and sound, albeit a bit tired. The weekend was well worth some heavy eyelids.

If nothing else, this weekend showed me the truth behind the quote “Sometimes you have to be apart from people you love, but that doesn't make you love them any less. Sometimes you love them more.” I have been so lucky to see Patrick fairly often. Each time I see him, I love him even more, which I didn't think was possible. I am truly blessed to be dating such a wonderful guy, who just happens to be my best friend. And, while I do have a love-hate relationship with the Academy, I could not possibly be more proud of Patrick. (and for all you rowers reading this right now, be jealous. Morrow, I know you are.)


Just for kicks, I'll post some lovely pictures of us:)

He decided to change his face last minute, thanks babe.

My Midshipman is finally at Delaware!!

Surprise kiss! I had the biggest smile on my face

Aren't your feet cold in the morning?

"Aren't your feet cold in the morning?"
"No, I wear uggs."
"You wear uggs to bed?"

This is one of the many wonderfully hilarious conversations I had this weekend when my two super amazing friends from home came to visit. Liz and Michele made a semi- last minute visit to UDel this weekend. I didn't believe they were serious about coming until last Wednesday. (And now Michele wants to come back tomorrow for another fun filled night!!)

I'm happy to say this weekend was probably the best one I've had since coming to college! Friday night, Julia and I stayed in and just had a marvelous time. We hung out in Rob and Gordy's room for a bit and decided to just do some silly things (we attempted to use "Jenna Marbles: How to make your boobs look big tricks" just for fun. And since almost our whole floor was home for the weekend, no one was here to judge. We also looked up some interesting things online with Gordy. Saturday, we went to brunch and had a lovely time. My friends were supposed to come around 4 so my day consisted of cleaning and making sure the room was suitable for guests. Michele's car broke down (though she wasn't driving here) so they were running a bit late. So I spent a lot more time on facebook and pinterest yesterday than I intended. They arrived and I introduced them to the lovely Julia. We ordered pizza and went to the George Read talent show. It was fun. I decided I wish I were black because there were some AMAZING dancers who just happened to all be ethnic. In the middle of it, Patrick called me and I ran out in the middle of someone's performance (oops). But I'm much happier he called then rather than later that night. After the talent show, we decided we were actually going to go out. Which meant I had to get dressed up. Yes, me. The girl who lives in sweats and yoga pants. Who never does her makeup or hair and has been told multiple times she is one of the guys (I don't mind at all). Then, here's the biggest surprise yet, Michele and Liz got me to take a few shots. All of my school friends were amazed! They know I don't drink at all and couldn't believe it happened. And my roommate was very upset she wasn't here to witness it. We finally were ready to go out. Us girls (sorry Rob and Zach) ended up at AEPi. They had a banging dance party in the basement. It was a good time. All I have to say is jew, vest, and hobbits. I'll leave the first two up to your imagination, but the last is hilarious. For those of you who don't know, I am 5'11. Liz is about the same height and Michele is 5'9. (see why I like hanging out with them so much?) Well, we get downstairs and 95% of the guys were 5'4 and under. Land of the hobbits. We couldn't help but laughing to see all of these extremely tiny guys. After we all decided we were tired and ready to go, we went back to the dorms. We saw Gordy in the laundry room along with Alex. We hung out for a bit (the lounge was playing V for Vendetta, love it!) and went back to Gordy's room to hang out. I ended up with one of his Concord Distance t-shirts and my friends ended up in love with him. He was a little creeped out that we found it fun just to chill in his room, but he's Gordy. Michele and Liz got him to take a picture with them but couldn't get him to stay sitting with them. Then Gordy decided he was very tired and had to be up for crew early (I get to see him scrimmage Patrick next weekend, hopefully!:). We went back to my room (a little after Julia left) and hung out for a bit. We talked and caught up and maybe did a little facebook creeping. And Michele checked her grades on Powerschool about 17 times. She and Liz were sharing Lauren's bed but somehow Michele ended up on the floor in the middle of the night. We woke up this morning very confused because my phone said a different time than theirs did. Turns out my front screen just froze a tad. I exposed them to the Pencader Dining hall (quite a lovely experience if you ask me). We went and walked around Main Street and they bought SAS cupcakes. Then we went back to my dorm and hung out. We went to the lounge and hung out with Gordy while his suitemate was giggling to himself watching TV (it is highly funny to witness). Molly came in and was exposed to my quite comical friends. Then Mrs. Rattigan came and we had to pack up the girls. Mrs. R decided to take up out to eat at Margherita's (yum) and then took me to Wawa! It was heaven! I don't think there is anything (not family related) I miss more than Wawa's iced coffee!

I've never gotten one this big before, but I might as well take what I can get! Then it was time to get dropped off (I was partially kidnapped to being with). They were on the road in a matter of 5 minutes. I had a lovely talk with my mommy right after that made me so excited for next weekend! And then only one more weekend until I'm home for Thanksgiving! Yayyyyyy!!! I didn't realize how much I missed my friends from home. As much as I love my school friends, they definitely don't know me as well as Liz and Michele do. I cannot wait for them to visit again and to hang out with them once I'm home!!! Thanks girls for making this weekend so great! Love you!

So that's about it for now. The past week wasn't eventful really (had some stress-related issues and then a chem exam) and this week should be quite boring. But I am definitely looking forward to next weekend!

Rain, Rain Go Away

I've figured out that I have the time (and remember) to write a post about once a week. Yay! This past week, not much happened... except the HUGE drop in temperature that brought the weather from fall to winter. I hate the cold! Especially when I don't have my winter coats or gloves with me. I have terrible circulation in my hands (it is called something I can't spell haha) so they are freezing, even inside!

Thursday night, I had the pleasure of playing in a soccer team. In the freezing cold. When it was supposed to rain. With people I didn't know. If you can't tell, I'm a bit bitter. It was pouring all day and freezing so I was hoping and praying the intramural soccer gane might be postponed or cancelled. But no, I got to freeze my butt off playing in a game with people I didn't know. Can't you tell I love doing things when I'm cold?

Friday night, I stayed in and did a little pampering. Yes, it is halloween weekend, but I felt no need to dress like a floozy (I am an 80 year old grandma at heart) in sub 35 degree weather. Plus, I was visiting my lovely boyfriend on Saturday and wanted to be sure I looked good:) So I showered, figured out what I was going to do with my hair, and gave myself a pedicure. Since the forecast was a rainy day Saturday, I couldn't straighten my hair like I originally planned so I left it natural in its semi-curly state.

Saturday I was off to Annapolis! I got up bright and early (sans the bright) and was out of my room by 8:30. I got to spend a lovely car ride with Patrick's Aunt Amy to get my car at his grandparents house. She had the most adorable bull dog in her car! Lulu was staying with her for a week. I fell in love:) Anyway, the ride down to Annapolis had to be the most scary car ride ever. For some reason, every huge truck in the Northeast decided to drive down 301 yesterday. I think every single one of them was out to get me. One cause me to be completely blinded by the water it splashed up on my windshield. That was hands down the scariest moment of my life. Another decided it wanted to pass ME and then slow down so I could pass him...uhm? But I finally made it to Naptown.

 By this time, I really had to go to the bathroom (thank you small bladder). Annapolis has NOWHERE you can park and just run in for the bathroom. I had to drive all the way back to the far side of town to find a supermarket and use their bathroom. I was a lot earlier than I expected. By the time I got back over and parked and walked to the yard, Patrick was strolling right out of the gate. Boy, did he look good. I was so happy to see him! Yes, I did see him last weekend, but we were finally getting the chance to hang out alone. It was almost like we were back home and it was senior year again. We watched movies all day and then went out to an amazing dinner that night! So good! Then we had a little bit of extra time before he had to be back on the yard (dinner took about 3 hours) so we sat and just talked, which is my absolute favorite thing to do. Then it was time to drop him off once again. Patrick wanted to try and get in through gate 8, which we were pretty sure we couldn't do. And we were right. We had the shortest goodbye ever. He literally hopped out of the car and was gone. Leaving this time was the hardest, for me, that it has ever been, next to I-day. I'm not sure why but I'll just say the ride home was a long one.

Unfortunately, the weather prohibited us from getting the pictures done I had been SO excited for. But, we can reschedule and hopefully the next day we plan will be picture perfect.

My life in a nutshell...

Okay, so keeping up with my blog hasn't been the easiest. I have tons of studying and homework to do (thank you, chemistry) along with tons of other things. I made it to the gym the other day after my run. I decided I was going to do a killer work out with Amanda (poor her). So we actually lifted. Like track practice lifting. Now my shoulders are so sore and have so many knots, I really need a back rub! And my feet are not very happy with all of this walking. I can't really remedy that too easily though. I refuse to take the bus unless it's absolutely necessary because it gets me at least a little work out.

On a different note,  a few different issues, both good and bad, have caused me to really start getting to know one of the other usnagfs. While we talked before, I can't believe how close Lauren and I are getting. She's beyond amazing and so helpful! I'm so thankful to have her to talk to! In other usna news, Patrick and I are having a wonderful opportunity next weekend! I cannot wait. I've had my outfit picked out for two weeks already! And I am so excited to finally meet Miss Megan! I am so so so EXCITED!!!

In a little bit, I get to go to the mall! I am pumped, it is way better than my mall at home! I love trying dresses on:) After that, I need to be sure I have all my stuff ready for tomorrow! I get to go to the Navy homecoming game vs. ECU with my second mother, little sister I never had, and best friend. I am stoked! (yes, I did just say stoked.) I'll be rocking my Navy crew t-shirt, ohhh yeahhhh:)

My decision to try to stand up while on facebook, twitter, blogging has become an epic fail. You burn a significantly greater amount of calories standing as opposed to sitting. I did dance around my room today! Thank you exercise science for teaching me so much awesome stuff, then making me feel really terrible about myself hahah.

Like Nike says, I need to "Just Do It".

        So blogging has been put on the back burner for awhile for a few different reasons. They aren't really important right now, so I won't go into detail.
       Two weekends ago, I went home to surprise my dad for his 60th birthday! (Old right? No one ever believes me!) It was so amazing. I came home before he got home from golfing (newly retired, what else would he be doing?). I waited in our family room with my mom and brother until he got home. I was nervous because I didn't exactly leave for school with him on good terms. When he got home, my mom and brother hid me from him (Jimmy decided sitting on top of me would be appropriate). He finally realized I was there and he gave me the biggest bear hug ever! It was the best feeling in the world. He also has a new thing where he is trying to give Jimmy and me a hug every day (obviously not while I'm at school) and tell us he loves us at least once a day, because you never know when one of us might not be around anymore. The four football players our community lost really took a toll on our community (I found myself hysterically crying when I saw a minor car accident the other day on my way to lab). Anyway, back to the weekend. The next day, I got to see Patrick's first race for Navy! It was exciting:) I love watching my man do what he loves to do. He ended up getting his Chit approved to come home for the weekend! It was great. I didn't want the weekend to be over.
        Last week happened to be stressful but ended up going by really quickly. I got my Chemistry exam back and was not too happy, but I can't say I expected any better. I just don't understand Chemistry.
       This past weekend was amazing though! Well first, it was parents weekend so I got to spend the whole weekend with my family which is always great. Plus, I got to stay in their hotel room to get a break! I loved it. Aside from the kind of stuff, my cousin finally had her twins! She's the first of my paternal cousins to have children. She had two little girls, Ella Grace and Addison Taylor (I am IN LOVE with the names!). I cannot wait to finally meet them! Also, bright and early this morning, my cousin's husband came home from his deployment! I am so so so happy for her! First, they didn't think he'd be home for Thanksgiving! And also, they spent probably eight, if not more, of their first year of marriage separated! I know thats what you sign up for in a military relationship but still, I couldn't be happier for her! Her 3am text saying she was getting up to shower made me so happy!
       Well, there is my recap of the past two weekends. Now to the current stuff. My parents have started worrying about how much I'm eating and whether or not I'm losing (too much) weight. While being a vegetarian in the dining hall is doable, it definitely isn't the easiest thing and isn't made any easier by having my classes interfere with open hours. And, since I haven't been working out as much as I used to (no dance classes 3 nights a week and no track practice), I don't burn a ton of calories and therefore don't need to eat a ton. I just need to be sure what I'm eating is healthy and worth the calories I take in.
     Which brings me to my next issue. I, for the first time in my life, do not have a flat, almost 6-pack stomach. I am beyond embarrassed of it, but hopefully knowing someone (I hope) is reading this will make me nervous that someday they might see the aforementioned stomach and be grossed out. So I am hoping it motivates me to get moving. Finding time to work out (the way I'm used to working out) is extremely hard. I've attended triathlon club meetings, but since I'm not a swimmer, don't have a bike, and haven't ran in who knows how long, I'm not quite ready for that. I went to the gym twice last week along with a Zumba class in the lounge. Go me! Finally getting some exercise in. I am in such a workout lull that I can't even get motivated to make up workouts (poor Amanda is stuck with the same old workout). So I decided I NEED to change things. While there isn't much I can do diet-wise while eating at the dining hall, I refuse to lose my body that I think isn't too shabby. I am planning to run before class Tuesday and Thursday. I also plan to go to the gym at least two days this week along with doing workouts in my room when I don't have time for the gym. I really have trouble with self-motivation and holding myself accountable so we'll see where this goes. I really need a training buddy, maybe who doesn't live here, who I can make this a competition with. All I know is that I'm getting pictures done next weekend and I really don't want to have to pick a different dress out to wear because I don't look as good as I did when I bought it...

The Longer the Waiting, the Sweeter the Big, Wet, Sloppy Doggy Kiss

Okay, in reality, I think dog kisses are disgusting. I love my dog and all, but I don't need her lovely tongue on my face. It's dirty. I don't care if "studies have been done and dog mouths are cleaner than human mouths". People don't lick me. But that's besides the point. I am FINALLY home for the first time since I went to school! I am one happy clam right now. (and yes, I did just say happy clam). Sunday is my dad's birthday and my mom, brother, and I managed to keep my home coming a secret from him! It made me so happy that he was so shocked to see me. And he gave me the biggest, longest hug I've ever gotten from him, which makes me happy because I didn't leave for school on the best terms. It's amazing how one thing as common as a hug can make your night.

Along with coming home to see my amazing family, I also get to see my boyfriend's first crew race rowing for the United States Naval Academy! Not only do I get to see him in his sexy uni (okay, not everyone agrees they are sexy...) but I get watch him race against my school, which is pretty fricken sweet since one of my guy friends rows for us. In other sporting events, I would be "reppin" my Delaware pride, but since Patrick is actually COMPETING, I guess I can sport my Navy gear:) I am also hoping everything works out and he gets to finally come home! He would be so happy to come home after four months! And to wear civies again...ahhh must be a great feeling. But we'll see how that works out:)

Otherwise, not much has been new. I had a very lovely chem exam Thursday. Not my favorite thing in the world but its over now. Though my chem teacher decided not to tell us until today that our labs went out of order, so I got to write a new procedure for next weeks lab. Just when I thought I finished all my homework for the weekend...

Okay, the fact I'm sitting here actually listening to "Anchors Aweigh" shows how much Patrick is rubbing off on me. I downloaded it for a project and never thought I'd listen to it again, except at Navy events. The perks of being a Navy girlfriend...

Oh! So the dork in me is coming out...I got wayyyy too excited that I found more sweaters to take back to school with me than I remembered having! I am one happy camper!

Food for Thought: If things are meant to be, they will happen. Maybe not when you want them to, maybe not how you expect, but things always work out how they are supposed to. Just have faith. And remember, “There is no joy without hardship.  If not for death, would we appreciate life?  If not for hate, would we know the ultimate goal is love? … At these moments you can either hold on to negativity and look for blame, or you can choose to heal and keep on loving.” -EKR

chemistry: a slow and painful death

Okay. Everyone has one. That terrible subject you just can't get a grasp on, no matter how hard you try. For me, this subject happens to be chemistry. And what is worse, my chemistry professor is probably the worst professor I have (not that she's completely terrible, all my other professors are just amazing!). Well, I have my first chem exam tomorrow. The more I study, the more confused I get, which is really quite wonderful. Better yet, she moved on this week to a bunch of organic nomenclature that won't be on the test! Oh how I love getting confused. I have presently decided as long as I get a C- for the semester (the grade I need for it to count towards me major), I will be ecstatic! Luckily, I only need 2 semesters of chem to graduate and they are both 100 level classes (my bio is a 200 level class, yet I find it easier?) I don't know. What I do know is that I am NOT destined to be a chem major.

But, I will say I love all of my other classes. My ex sci professor is probably one of the coolest guys I've ever met. My psych professor should be  a comedian. And my bio professor is adorable with her quirks. I actually enjoy going to their classes. I've decided, from ex sci, that this is definitely the major I want. From psych, I decided I want to have a psychology minor. And from bio, well, I decided AP bio last year wasn't such a bad idea. Thank gosh all of my classes aren't like my chem class, or I don't know how I would survive this semester.

On a lighter note, this weekend I GO HOME!!!!!! I have not been home since I left for school at the end of August. I miss everything terribly. AND, I forgot to bring a picture of my dog with me to hang in my dorm:( I am so excited because I'm surprising my dad for his birthday, which is on Sunday. I'm a little worried because we haven't talked much since I left for school because he was very upset with my decision not to jump for the track team. Yes, it may have been a great experience, but I do not regret my choice. I would not be able to even THINK of passing chemistry. And, I am able to join the triathlon club and hopefully compete in my first race in the spring! But anyway, back to my dad. I'm hoping it's kind of a forgive and forget situation. I do think it is very funny that he keeps asking my mom if they are going to Patrick's race on Saturday so they can see me (I will actually be going from home with Patrick's mom). She doesn't know what to tell him because they don't have to go anymore since I WILL SEE THEM FRIDAY!!!!!! The crew race will be another highlight of my weekend. I will get to see my boyfriend in non-Navy attire (not that I don't find him highly attractive in his uniform). AND that means PDA is allowed! yay:) I will have to figure out how to get all of my homework done, especially if his chit is approved to go home this weekend! I am beyond excited to be around my favorite people in the world this weekend. Also, my roommate will be venturing to the crew race to watch the Mid she has been talking to. It will be an interesting story to see how her travels go. She will be meeting his family (uh-oh) along with meeting my second mother (Patrick's mom)! I am so excited. AND we get to see one of the guys on our floor race, and get crushed by, Navy. I am so excited! Uhm, have I said yet that I am so excited?! I will be home until Monday morning which is the most wonderful thought in the world!!!

Welcome to my super busy month of October!

because you had a bad day, you're taking one down...

So have you ever had a bad day just out of nowhere? With no rhyme or reason? I've had two or three of those lately and, really, they suck. Let me tell you. What stinks even more is for most of today, I was abnormally happy! Sometimes those little things that kind of bother you, but you normally would ignore, just add up. And you can't really help it. They add up and add up and add up and it frustrates you. You get frustrated about all these little things, and then start getting upset and turning them into even bigger things, and then maybe even getting angry and turning them into really big things!

While I don't want to rant and rave about my bad day(s), I will say I have discovered it is a lot harder at college to make yourself happier than it is at home. I can't just lock myself in my room and cry. I can't hold Patrick close or cry to him or yell at him (well, not at him, just getting my emotions out which he is very good at helping with). I can't sit with my mom or pet my dog or read a new book. It is a lot harder. And while I wasn't homesick for the first month, finally having a pretty darn bad day has made me really homesick. On top of that, there is nothing I want more than normal food. Not dining hall food and not restaurant food but a nice, homecooked meal.

I know I have to find new ways to deal with my emotions, because I physically can't do the things I used to do. And being a Navy girlfriend, I can't even call Patrick to feel better. But new adventures mean new worries which means new ways of dealing with problems. Hopefully I'll start finding my "niche" or try out different ways more experienced people deal with their emotions. I just hope it happens soon so I can go back to being an all around happy person,

Jersey girls don't pump gas!

Okay...this post isn't going to be all about pumping gas. We will get to that later. Yesterday, my roommate, Lauren, accompanied me on an adventure to the Naval Academy. It started out with me awaking bright and early (for a saturday, 8am) to walk over to the Marriott and pick up my car which Patrick's grandparents dropped off (I keep it there to save on insurance and parking at school). They are so sweet to let me keep it there! When I got back to my dorm, Lauren was trying to get Katie, our suitemate, out of bed. She had a rough night and kept, uhhh, getting sick all morning. She ended up staying at school, forcing Lauren to be stuck alone with Patrick and me. We finally left around 10 but only a short while later, we stopped at Wawa for breakfast and coffee (if chips, for Lauren, and a soft pretzel, for me, count as breakfast). Then we were on the road! I do have to say, they couldn't have more signs on 301 for the Bay Bridge. They are quite literally every 2 miles! But, it was awesome once the numbers started getting down below 18 miles! Oh! And in Delaware and Maryland, the speed limit is 55 freaking mph. What?! In Jersey, its 65 and no one goes below 80! Anyway, we finally got to the bridge which happened to be really scary because it was a lot longer than I remembered. Then we were almost there! We parked by St. John's college and rushed onto the yard. For someone who only drinks water, the diuretic effect of caffeine in coffee was not a good thing. We ran onto the yard and into the closest bathroom. Then Lauren and I walked around the gift shop while waiting for Patrick to be ready to go. We met him at Tecumseh, well a little south of him. Lauren Boudreau was coming as well so we waited for her (we technically weren't in T-court, which is where I said we were, so it took her a few minutes to find us). Then Josh snuck up on her and they scurried off to walk around. She is one of the sweetest girls I've ever met! Then Patrick, Lauren, and I walked into John Paul Jones' crypt and tried to spot the bride of the wedding that was going on later. We walked into town and had lunch at Moe's. We decided to go to the Marine Base and look around. I decided I didn't want to try the O-course which meant putting Patrick's pants and boots on. We tried to figure out what we wanted to do next. One of the other lightweight rowers, Nordgaard (I have no idea how to spell it), invited us over to his sponsors house. We got to hang out there for a bit, and play with their kids. I also do have to say I beat Lauren in air hockey, Helllll yeahhhhh! The sponsor family left us to go to a block party. We hung around the house for a bit. Patrick was his silly old self and I found myself hysterically laughing the whole time we were in the kitchen. He tried to make easy mac, which he thought was a poor excuse for mac & cheese. He was appalled I LIVE on that stuff at school. Then Lauren and Nordgaard (Erik-I think he's a viking...) came up from the basement to eat on the deck with us. It was gorgeous. After that, we went to the block party for a bit. Lauren decided she wanted a tour of the yard so we dropped them off. We went to Patrick's real sponsors house so I could meet them. They are hilarious! We were laughing the whole time! Then it was time for Patrick to go back on the yard. The goof left his bag with his ID at the house so we turned around to go back and get it. Then, we got lost (I made a wrong turn) going back to the yard. We didn't get to Gate 1 until 23:30! oops. But he made it back safe and not  in trouble, and Lauren and Erik were there waiting for us. We said our goodbyes and were back on the road. We stopped at Wawa again so I could get a coke (I never drink soda!) and some candy/food to stay awake. I also needed gas. Little did I know, I'd have to pump it myself! We spent about 15 minutes trying to get the gas cap off of my car. It had to be the funniest thing for someone to watch. Finally, we figured it out and we were pumpin' away! Then we were on the road once again! Lauren (who said she can't sleep in the car) passed out. I was all alone on this creepy road, not another car in sight, with a ton of fog. I was pretty darn scared. Then, all of a sudden...we were on a bridge?! We had already gone over the Bay Bridge when Lauren was awake. I was scared to death when all of a sudden the "cage" was over my car and I realized we were on a bridge. Don't ask how I didn't notice, I don't know. But I have never been so scared in my life. I know I shouldn't admit this, but I had Patrick text me for awhile to be sure I was wide awake. Thank gosh for him! He stayed up way past lights out to make sure I was safe. We got back to Newark and had to find the parking lot I was keeping my car for the night. We were totally opposite from my dorm and had to take the Hen after 10 back with all of the lovely drunk kids. We didn't realize how long this bus route was and got off at Trabant to walk back. We were exhausted. I finally got to bed at 3am after 19 hours awake! And boy, did I need some sleep. Today, I had to drop my car off at Patrick's grandparents and forgot when I needed gas that I would have to pump it again, this time without the aid of Lauren. Oh joy! But I was slightly less challenged at it this time. Overall, the past 24 hours were amazing! I had a blast and can't wait to go back! Plus, I guess I enjoyed seeing my boyfriend too... <3

Ms. Williams, I must strongly disagree...

I just finished reading a post from a midshipman about our newly appointed assistant director for national security, and boy am I fired up. Assuming what was in the post is true, she believes our servicemen and women do not deserve a pay raise and that they are being paid quite enough. There was a response from a guy in the air force. He is currently getting paid a little over $13,000 a year, where guys in Washington D.C. with the same job and experience (network technician) would get between $70,000-80,000. I don't understand how this can be getting paid too much. (I know, I'm very opinionated and a sucker for anything military). But, how can anyone say that a person who is WILLING TO DIE FOR YOU is getting paid too much? I know that I could never do what our servicemen and women do. I am not cut out for it. I have the utmost respect for these people, a few who I have the pleasure of knowing. And, on top of that, I just researched the poverty threshold in the U.S. For a single person under 65 (in 2009), an income of $11,161 was the threshold. The serviceman was only making $2,000 over the poverty level! Okay, $2,000 sounds like a lot, but when you think about lower middle class income being about $30,000, it really isn't that much. I could keep going on, but I'm ranting and raving. And I can't quite think coherently.

a spoon full of sugar makes the medicine go down!

I wish it were as easy as Mary Poppins made it sound. Yesterday, I felt not quite up to par. I figured I needed some sleep since I was stressed over my psych exam this morning and I didn't sleep well the night before. I actually didn't sleep at all for that matter. Luckily, I didn't get any sleep last night either. I was able to rest slightly more, though, and when my roommate woke up early, I decided to lay on my back and fell asleep for about an hour! I was so sad when I had to get up to study for my exam.

I really hate being sick. Not that anyone likes it, but I just get miserable. I have every possible symptom of a head cold. I raided walgreens after psych so I'm hoping the many cold remedies I bought will help me get over this fast! Especially if I end up going to visit Patrick this weekend! I don't want him to get sick, especially from me. His workload along with crew are tough enough as it is!

Despite being a little under the weather, I am pretty confident I did well on my psych exam!! And it is curved so hopefully I do better than everyone else so even if I don't have a perfect score, it counts as an A!

But, I do need to nap so I can make it through chem workshop...no fun:( Hopefully I can start posting more regularly!

oh what a night

Sorry guys, tonight wasn't that eventful but that song just popped into my head. The best part, though, had to be finally facetiming with my boyfriend!!! Aside, from when I visited him labor day weekend, I haven't seen his face at all! I love talking on the phone, but seeing him is just that much better. So, my night was pretty amazing. My friends, who decided to go out again after an eventful night last night, talked me into going out with them. The one place we went, some guys started fighting and it was one of the scariest things I've ever witnessed. I did get to meet a 19-going-on-20 marine who is on leave and in a few months will be shipping out over seas. I do have to brag a little bit and say as soon as I saw him, I called that he was a marine before I even knew he was in the military. It made me so happy that when I told Patrick that I saw this guy, he wanted me to thank the guy for his service for him. Unfortunately, I didn't get the chance.

I'm so happy Patrick finally got to go hang out at his sponsor family's house and he likes them! I have heard some horror stories, but so far, so good. He also told me a bunch of things that made me really happy! He is the best at making my day better, regardless of whether it sucked or was absolutely amazing. I also heard he has some friends who actually read my blog, which is surprising because I doubt any of my friends do. But hopefully I keep them entertained...I'm open for suggestions.

Next weekend I get to go to Annapolis!! I am so exited! My roommate and suitemate have been convinced to come with me. They also have heard some wonderful things about my Mid and are hoping to find a Navy boy for themselves, any takers? I can't wait to meet Patrick's friends! Hopefully they are actually as chill as he says they are because otherwise there might be some issues...just kidding.

Well, I am off to bed as I have been completely exhausted this week and need to get up for church in the morning. I really hope I'm not getting sick because I don't know why I'm so tired!! Sweet dreams.

thank you high school for teaching me how to slack

For the first time in my life on Sunday, I did more than an hour of homework. All for one class! I can't remember the last time I had homework I actually had to do at home, let alone having it take more than 20 minutes. College is a total wakeup call. I, for one, get so stressed over the littlest things. I really need to change that this upcoming year. I just a total cranky mess the past two days over a stupid lab write up. With all of the homework I've been doing, I haven'r had time to do any of the things I LOVE to do. Which really sucks because that is the reason I was beyond excited to get to college. I can't wait to finally get used to things and have time for more activities. Thank gosh I have a best friend who knows exactly how to make me less stressed:)

I can't help it; I'm a sap and a proud American

Most people think I'm crazy for going away to college with a boyfriend, especially one who is a Midshipman. Today, a light was shed on how happy I really am to be dating him. All of my friends here worry about who is getting with who, what to do when they bring someone back to their room, along with a slew of other things. My biggest problem was whether Patrick was going to call while I was at our football game. I am so proud of his drive to follow his dreams, and how he will stop at nothing to attain them. I don't mean to brag, and you don't need to read on, but he is beyond amazing. He always knows how to make my day better. Though I will only get to see him about once a month, I would not trade our relationship for the world (and trust me, none of the guys I've met so far can even compare to my boyfriend).


Anyway, the football game tonight was fun for the time we were there. I had wonderful comic relief the whole night. After the game, I got to talk to Patrick for the SECOND time today! I was so excited:) I went and hung out with the guys in our dorm until Lauren came back and we ordered pizza (thank gosh!).  Then everyone started feeling sick from the place they went out to eat. I'm so happy I didn't go, though since I don't eat meat, I wouldn't have gotten sliders anyway. I went outside and kicked a soccer ball around with Alex until he felt better, which was a blast:) I also got to talk to two of the guys on my floor for a little bit today who want to join the marines. I honestly think it is so cool for people to enlist or  go through training to become an officer. It is not my calling in life and there is no one I can think of that I respect more. And with tomorrow being the 10th anniversary of 9/11, I can't help but pray and thank God for the men and women who are willing to do whatever it takes to keep us safe. And the craziest part is, they are fighting for people they don't even know.

I really am a sap when it comes to the military because it is something that is so close to my heart. I have a boyfriend at the Naval Academy, along with a cousin who was a marine, one who was in the army, and two grandfathers who both fought in WWII. My one grandfather has a crazy but adorable story from his deployment. Well, quite a few actually, but this one is my favorite. Before he left, he met my grandmother. She LOVES to dance (guess where I get it from) more than anything. While he was over seas, his leg got ran over by a jeep I believe while he was helping one of his fellow servicemen. His leg was pretty destroyed and the doctors wanted to amputate it. He refused to let them remove his leg because "his girl back home loved to dance". I am such a romantic and that story makes me tear up every time.

With everything going on in the world today, I could not be more proud to be an American. I hope everyone can take a few moments out of their day to pray for those who lost loved ones and those who are currently serving our country. God bless America <3

beware of the freshman 15....

Today, I was told that the salad, which was the healthy option for dinner last night, was 500 calories! Healthy? That is 1/4 the calories of an average diet and no one eats just a salad for dinner! Finding healthy things to eat around here has been pretty hard. Sometimes, I just make myself a peanut butter sandwich because my other vegetarian option is pizza. Its crazy.

After my classes, I dragged Lauren and Julia to zumba!!! Megan and Karra were there also! I am so glad Megan is in most of my classes because I now have a running buddy who won't wimp out on me. I do think he boyfriend should apply to the Naval Academy though, even though she isn't too find of the idea;)

Now gaining weight as a freshman is something that worries me. I'm not eating the best food and I haven't had the chance to get a workout in (I am not running at 11pm when I'm writing this). So I decided I want to walk everywhere. Well, no one else from my dorm has the same brilliant idea, even though we live the farthest from all the academic buildings and the other freshman dorms. So I was coerced into taking a bus to Zumba tonight. And the bus didn't let us off anywhere near where we wanted to go. It was my first and hopefully last bus experience (unless for inclement weather).

Anyway, I love my days though there isn't much to report. I can say I am glad I don't have a boatload of homework yet.

home sweet school?

(weird picture, I know, but it was the only one I could find of my two favorite schools!)

Last night, I got back to school from the most amazing weekend ever! Patrick got TWO overnights! What?! It was such an amazing surprise for all of us! Not to brag, but he really is the best boyfriend anyone could ask for. We lounged around, watched movies, and hung out in DTA. Its so gorgeous there! I can't wait to go back! It was just such a perfect weekend, I can't even describe it!

Then I get to come back to the best roommate ever, my lovely suitemate, and Alex. Even though I've only known them for a week, I missed them already!!! Thank gosh they were up for a snuggle sesh and a walk:)  Plus all the girls on my floor filled me in on the goings on of the weekend. I love our floor <3

I have one class today at 1230 and its psych which I love. I can't wait for more picture perfect weekends with the boy and more drives back to see my amazing friends <3 I can already tell how amazing this year is going to be...

Whattup A-town?!

WE FINALLY MADE IT TO ANNAPOLIS! Labor day weekend 2011!!!! I don't think I could be more excited if I tried. After my second day of classes, I met Justine (finally!), Mersadi, and Lisa for lunch. It was quite lovely:) Morgan came to see my dorm! She is sooo sweet! We left my dear dorm mates for the weekend. The ride to Annapolis was super fast and super fun. We got to the gate and found out we needed an escort, thanks guys. Well Josh, being a sweetheart, came and got us so we could go on the yard. (Thanks Patrick). We had a little bit of time with the boys and then went back to our car. The parking lot was flooded and Mersadi's car didn't like it. We had to stop at the mechanic on the way to target to see if something was up with Mersadi's car (it was fine). Target was entertaining, especially the attempt to leave the parking garage. We got lost on the way to our hotel. It was pretty sketchy. But we got to meet Nataly!!! Yay! She is soo super sweet. I'm missing out on the conversation so I'm going to get back to the bonding!!

UDay one:)

Today was the first day of classes for the blue hens here at UD. It was actually really fun for me because I only had one 12:30 class so I got to sleep in and have the rest of my day!! I finally met Lisa and I'm like in love with her. Our shopping trip was pretty sweet. After shopping, I finally met Karra and then Anderson after talking pretty much all summer! Ahh! So exciting! Then Lauren and I hung out with the guys down the hall. I convinced the one to go on runs with me but in exchange, I have to climb the rock wall. Uh oh. I'm scared of heights. They're really chill but also challenged with their schedules so they came back for help as we were getting ready for bed (well, I was packing for ANNAPOLIS!!!!). haha I love them.

So funny story. We have a fairly attractive RA, not gonna lie. (I do believe I'm not the only super obsessed girl on our floor. I do have a boyfriend I love more than anything so I'm only here for guy friends). Today, my roommate's printer was not working and I'll vouch for that. He came in the room to help her (with one of his friends). We were all talking and waiting around for him to fix it. The second he tries to print something, it works. So he goes "Were you guys just trying to get me in your room?" (there were four of us in here). I was being a goof and not paying any attention at all so I didn't know he said that until after. That doesn't sound funny at all,  but knowing how in love with him most of the girls on my floor are, I could not believe how oblivious he was to that and the fact that her printer really didn't work all day until he got here!!! Haha love it!!!

There's No Place Like Home

So my first real day on campus was filled. I can't even remember all the stuff we did! We went to get my suitemates books, went to eat, went to a dorm and floor meeting, went to dinner, and then walked around. It was pretty darn fun. We went to a sports/rec night in the Little Bob. I got to find so many sports things I want to do, hopefully I can decide! I also got to finally meet Amanda, an older Navy gf who I've been talking to all summer (she's also one of my bigs). She is awesome! I'm so glad there is more than just me here:)

Tomorrow I start class. I only have Intro to Psych because the other class is a testing period. And psych starts at 12:30. Win. Then I get to go shopping! I'm so excited. I'm going with Lisa who I've been texting for like weeks and we're finally meeting AND doing something amazingly fun!

I do have to say I have a wonderful roommate and LOVE my one suitemate. We also have a super chill RA and tons of awesome girls on our floor. The only sucky thing is that we only have 5 guys on the whole floor (not counting the RA). I am sure they love it though hahaha. I can't wait for the rest of the year! It hasn't really hit me yet that I won't be going home soon. It's such a weird feeling! (Oh, I seem to have an affinity for Wizard of Oz themed titles. Who knows why haha)

welcome to dela-where?!

So today was quite the hectic day. I started out by attending the funeral of one of the four football players who passed away. my dad and brother of course took their good old time so we got there way later than I wanted. We waited for two hours in the hot sun (my face looks like a tomato) to get in the church. But it was worth waiting.  I do believe Casey was a truly amazing guy, from the one or two times I'd hung out with him. I'm glad I was able to attend the last funeral. But, I NEVER WANNA GO TO ANOTHER "KID'S" FUNERAL AGAIN! It was so heart-wrenching. I was nauseous the whole time.

After that, we went home, packed the car, and were on our way to school! (We were already two hours late) Route 40 was completely backed up (we later found out because 322 was closed) so we had to get on the expressway and go that way. We finally arrived around 5 o'clock. It was so stressful attempting to set all of my stuff up that half way through I left to get my books and take a breather. Then I had to drop my car off and got to eat pizza with my wonderful family:)

I got back to my dorm and all the girls on my floor decided to go to a highlighter party, so I was dragged along. I was the only person I saw the whole night (all 30 min we lasted) who wasn't drunk haha quite entertaining if you ask me. But I love all the girls we were with already!

I was super nervous and had anxiety about being here alone, where no one had to care about me for any reason. Patrick told me I made him feel old. He said since he is already two months ahead of me, its fresh in his mind of what to do when you think like that. He knew exactly what to say to make me feel better. I am so thankful for him. Hearing the other girls I've met say how they broke up with their boyfriends so they can party at college made me sad. I could never imagine breaking up with Patrick for that reason. But I guess we aren't your typical college relationship. (That was a given from the moment he became a Midshipman).

While I am nervous for this upcoming year, I'm kind of excited about it all. I can't wait to meet a ton of new people (any guys need a snuggle buddy?) and be more independent. Guess we'll see how this all works out. Oh! I can't wait for Delaware to kick Navy's butt this weekend:)

Earthquakes and hurricanes and tornados Oh my!

Well, I must say that wasn't all it was hyped up to be. Hurricane Irene hit us (I think?) and we didn't even lose power. I am glad I was at home with my family instead of moved into school, but I still want to move in ASAP! Somers Point did have a tornado last night - so crazy! But it wasn't near my house so unfortunately (or fortunately) I did not get to witness it. We did have a tree fall on our fence with minimal damage. If that's the worst from Irene, I'll take it. I was so worried we'd be without electricity and therefore couldn't charge our phones, laptops, find out when I move in, etc, and it was all for nothing!

I did get to talk to my wonderful boyfriend for a bit last night, which made me super happy. I guess I should be thankful for the fairly minimal communication because then when we do talk, it is that much more special (to me at least. I still believe the Academy brainwashed all feelings out of him...but that's another story). We're both so excited to get to see each other next weekend! Yes, we did spend some time together plebe parent weekend, but his whole family was there and while I love them to death, we got zero alone time. So this upcoming weekend will be great! Plus, I don't know about you, but I LOVE going to football games. And the fact that this one is my school against my boyfriends school makes it that much better. Now just to figure out what to wear....

To keep up to date with the move in fiasco, they are still unsure when we get to move in to beautiful Newark, DE. Some kids have been emailed syllabi from their professors which had this Thursday as the first day of class. Hopefully that means the professors know something we don't, and we get to move in this week! I am so excited to move in and meet everyone!! Classes can wait, but everything else needs to hurry up and start already!!! That way, my wonderful weekend, which starts on Friday, can be completely stress-less. I get to spend time with the lovely Mersadi, finally get to meet Justine, Dakota, and Lisa, and get to go on a wonderfully entertaining shopping trip! It should be interesting enough.

I guess I should finally start to get my packing done...Move in day should come soon enough, unless another natural disaster gets in the way. What's next, a volcano?

And the rain, rain, rain came down, down, down...

Today was pretty much hurricane prep  and debating whether we're staying or leaving. I got woken up early (for me) to go out to breakfast with my family. We came back and discussed the impending storm and I ended up curling up for a nap. I decided I don't like the idea of no electric and the issue this causes in the restroom. I'm not sure if I want to stay and hope it's not too bad or go evacuate and have access to running water. I guess we'll find out tomorrow what my family decides to do. It's crazy because we live two blocks west of the mandatory evacuation line. Two blocks!! That's not a lot.


After I woke up, I went to Patrick's family's house to put music on his ipod and pick up some clothes. I ended up staying there and watching almost 2 hours of spongebob. I hate spongebob but it tells you how much I love being around his family. It probably will be the last time I see them before I leave for school:( Though his mom, at least, will be at next weekend's football game!


So, I come home to my mom making these wonderful lentils! And she asks me to make the "pancakes" that go with them (my brother yells at me for calling them pancakes because they aren't like breakfast pancakes, more like tortillas). I am so excited because this is probably my favorite dish ever! I have to let the dough rise for a bit so I start doing other things. And then it starts...


My neighbor comes over to sit on the porch with my mom and they invite me to sit with them. Then my  neighbor's husband comes over to hang out. Next, my dad comes out of nowhere to sit and talk with us. After it starts to get buggy, we go inside. My neighbor then realizes her daughter is home and there aren't any lights on and she hasn't gotten a text or anything. So she goes home to check on her and they both come back. Well, by now I'm in the middle of cooking the "pancakes". A little bit later, my brother comes home with his two friends who happen to be ravenously hungry, which is always quite delightful. And his friend's mom, who is a family friend, comes in to hang out with the adults. A little later, one of my brother's friends goes to get the other friend's younger sister and walk her over. So now its really turning in to a party! In the midst of all this craziness, I get a phone call from Patrick!!!! The first one since Monday!! So I rudely run into my room and barricade myself in there, holding the phone like its pure gold. The whole night was highly entertaining!


While on the phone, I got a real taste of what the Academy was doing to Patrick. He didn't seem nearly himself. He had short, one or two word replies, and seemed to have trouble holding a conversation. I felt bad that I was "forcing" him to talk to me. I hate knowing he's so tired and cranky and there isn't anything I can do about it. Hopefully, I make him feel better and not worse. I used to always lean on him for support and now that the roles are reversed, I hope he knows I will be there no matter what, and I understand if he is too tired to talk. I just am so proud of him and have a million questions to ask and plans I try to make that I don't want to overwhelm him. I guess I'll just sit tight and hope he doesn't get too stressed. Thank gosh I get to physically see him next weekend!


Tomorrow should be interesting. Instead of moving in to my dorm, I get to hope and pray the hurricane doesn't take out the electricity for hours and get stuck in my house with my goofball family! Hopefully everyone stays safe. I'm nervous about Patrick being at the Naval Academy. He literally has no idea what is going on and thinks he will have town liberty. I hope he is told he has to stay safe in Bancroft Hall. But I also hoped he would evacuate so you never know. Guess we will see what happens!

Why try to fix something that isn't broken?

Today. Well today was interesting. I was so wonderfully persuaded to take a ride down to UDel this morning. (I missed the funeral I wanted to go to but that is because I set up a meeting before I realized it was today:( ) Anyway, I go down there to talk to the track coach, who finally showed some interest in me. And she was really sweet. But, after thinking for so long that I wouldn't be able to jump for Udel, I had decided a million other things I wanted to do instead. Now I was just thrown a curveball. Yay for stress! But I did get to spend some quality time with my dad and stalk my dorm, so even with the added stress, the trip was worth it (until the coach creeps on me because she knows who I am if i don't jump for her)


Of course, there is hurricane Irene. What a pitiful name for a hurricane. Anyway, now I don't get to move in to school on Saturday. Move in and classes are postponed indefinitely! I was so excited to move in, it was such a let down! All of the islands around me are having a mandatory evacuation. And half of my town must evacuate as well, which is kind of scary. My boyfriend who is at school right on the water isn't evacuating which kind of scares me. But I'm betting they predict this huge storm and we get a little drizzle. I'd laugh haha.


(Sorry about this rant, I got a little carried away).
On my school's facebook page, one of the other incoming freshman asking everyone's opinion about relationships in college. I was surprised at the positive responses from everyone else in relationships, but I was a little worried when one kid posted he broke up with his girlfriend of a year and a half because he wanted to "live it up" his first few weeksn of college, and then wait for the perfect girl to find him. I'm kind of disturbed at what goes through our generation's mind. Ditch your s.o because you want to party? Screw love so you can screw random people? Starting my freshman year in a relationship with a Naval Academy Midshipman, I know I am in a tough relationship. And its not for everyone. But, my boyfriend is foremost my best friend. He is the one I can tell anything to, who always knows how to make me feel better, who I can talk to about anything or nothing and he makes me happy. Why would I ever give that up because of college? Not saying other relationships aren't tough, but the Academy has so many rules, regulations, and restrictions and relationships have made it through that! So anything is possible. I understand sometimes relationships really might not work out. The person might not be your soulmate or there might have been other issues, such as trust or loyalty. But to hear that someone broke up with their s.o because they want to party in school is pathetic to me. Since when has partying, getting drunk, and sleeping around been able to make you happy? When has it become okay for these things to take the place of real relationships? I'm kind of disgusted thats how kids think these days. You can't have a college experience in a relationship. Since when? You tell me.

"One Family. One Love. In Our Hearts Forver. Proud To Be a Mustang."

So, I spent part of my morning at Verizon, while my brother got a new phone activated (no, this will not be a boring recap of my day). It just so happened our high school football coach, Coach Coffey, was in there getting his phone fixed. Seeing him while he seemed so positive and upbeat really got me thinking. Everyone is mourning the football players we lost this weekend. But what would they want us to do? They want us to be happy. They started playing some football up there and gave us an earthquake. I heard someone saw four shooting stars the other night. They got to have their names up on the scoreboard at yesterdays Phillies game AND have Jimmy Rollins tweet about them. If you ask me, that is any teenage (Phillies fan) guy's dream! So yes, the accident was absolutely tragic, and yes their lives were short. But, they never suffered, never got into debt, never witnessed the deaths of their parents, never got divorced. They lived amazing lives and were loved by everyone. They got to see their whole entire community come together to support their families at Sunday's vigil. What more could someone ask for in their life? Those boys will be remembered as forever young.


I know, not everyone could look at this situation in a positive light, but its my outlook on life and how I don't turn myself in to a hysterical mess. That being said, I really do appreciate the small things now. Yes, my boyfriend is living three hours away. I can't talk to him whenever I want. And I get stressed out hearing about other girls relationships. BUT I HAVE HIM! I CAN talk to him sometimes. I WILL feel his arms around me again. And I DO pray every day thanking God he is safe and sound. Getting that text from him at 6am when I'm asleep is amazing. Or getting a text before bed when we haven't talked all day saying he's thankful for me means even more now. Also, spending time with my brother (who I haven't always gotten along with) and my mom and dad is even more important to me. How do you know when things will change in an instant? My dad drove where those boys had their accident and saw how easily it could have happened to anyone. He told me it just as easily could have been him or my mom who got in that accident. For something to hit so close to home really re-awakens your thoughts and emotions. While I will never know why God chose to take those four wonderful guys that day, I do know he would never do anything without a reason or purpose.


Never go to bed angry, and always say "I love you."

Toto, I don' think we're in Kansas anymore

  

"There's no place like home. There's no place like home. There's no place like home."

Okay well I know technically it wasn't a twister, but an earthquake is something new for me. Who has earthquakes in south jersey? While everyone else was scared to death, I didn't realize what it was until after the fact, so I think it is sooo cool I can say I've lived through an earthquake (I know, I know it wasn't even bad here but whatever). I actually thought my dog was shaking behind the chair I was sitting on until I turned around and she wasn't there! That was probably the highlight of my day. I actually didn't feel well most of the day which was not fun. But when I finally got to work, I got to work with two clients I really like and even got done early! So that was sooo nice! And I came home to see my brother hanging out with his friends, watching the Phillies game, finally being happy! It's been so upsetting so see this fun loving, invincible high school sophomore so depressed after this weekends events. I can't recall the last time Jimmy wasn't giving one of us grief about something. But he has been super silent and withdrawn since Saturday. A terrible once car accident caused the deaths of four of the football players from my high school's team. It's hit our community pretty tough, and started this whirlwind of emotions that have been brewing in me all week. But God has a plan, and these boys will be forever young. They are probably up there now playing football or saying "Hey man, they talked about us at the Phillies game tonight!"

Aside from that, today was tough. Not feeling well caused me to mope around the house till work (at 5). It made me miss Patrick even more than normal because I just needed someone to hug while not feeling well and seeing my whole family upset and going through the mourning process. He's the one person who can tell me everything will be okay, and that I'll truly believe. And he had the pleasure of scaring me by telling me how some buildings at school didn't like the earthquake too much. Thank gosh he was safe. But, he sent me a lovely text after barely talking all day that made my night. This morning I found and old love note from this past school year. He really knows just what to say to make my heart melt. And I thank God for him every day. I don't think I've mentioned yet that I had the pleasure of stealing his teddy bear (not really stealing-he told me to do it) the other day. He'd probably kill me for saying he had one but it was in his closet, not on his bed. So now I have something to snuggle whenever I feel lonely.


Whew these next few days are going to be crazy. I have my last day of work tomorrow, Thursday I go to dinner with my mom, Patrick's mom, and his two sisters, and Saturday I move in to my dorm!!!!! I am so excited!! Then classes start Tuesday, Justine and Mersadi come down Friday, and Saturday I GET TO SEE PATRICK!!!! and finally meet other USNA girlfriends. I can't wait!


I guess I shouldn't complain how I didn't feel well today or that I didn't talk to my boyfriend too much. I should be thankful that I still have my life to live and have my loved ones. But I do have to say, I'd rather be remembered as a healthy young adult as opposed to a decaying old lady. Maybe thats a terrible sense of humor, but maybe its the truth...

Chapter 2: College life?

"True love isn't being inseparable, it's being separated and nothing changes."

Okay, well this is my first time EVER using a blog. Why start now? Well this week is the transition period between one chapter in my life and the next. Patrick (my wonderful boyfriend) finally completed plebe summer! And he started his first classes at the Naval Academy today. He's starting to get used to technology again but its still so weird actually hearing from him once in awhile! It's been a crazy ride through the past 7 weeks but we made it. The hardest part is over, right? Aside from all of that wonderful stuff, I am packing for college! Getting my stuff together (well, I'm still in the process) has been everything from fun to stressful, which is not great because I get stressed soooo easily! And without my favorite stress reliever here, how do I cope? Well for one thing, I've met a ton of wonderful USNA girlfriends throughout the summer. Thank gosh for them. But that's being sidetracked. I move in on Saturday to the University of Delaware, moving away from the only home I've known my whole life! But I can't wait to start my year as an exercise science major! I find working out and the human body so fascinating! Wednesday is my last day working at a personal trainer at the gym Patrick's mom runs, so I've got a little head start. Though I feel like I haven't done too much this summer, it definitely hasn't gone to waste. I've met so many amazing, new people! And I've grown and changed so much since graduation, I can't believe it. I have more confidence since I can't rely on my boyfriend for support with "in the moment" type things, I've become even more outgoing, I've matured, and I have decided I might even want a tattoo! (What?!) I'm excited to see how things work out trying to keep a blog! I hope I can keep my blog balanced between college, working out, being a navy girlfriend (really need to try not to make this ALL about that), and all the other amazing stuff I'll encounter!