The List: Part 1

Today's blog is a little bit different than the norm. Instead of talking about Michael and addiction, you will be able to get to know more about me. Browsing around on Pinterest, I came across a Pin connected to this blog, Hopes and Dreams. The blog outlines a series of 30 questions everyone should ask themselves. I decided that I would take the so called challenge. If you would like to answer the questions as well feel free and send us a link, so we can read them. We would love to get to know you as much as you are getting to know us. This will be a 3 part blog. Today we will answer the first 10.

The List: Part 1

1.) List 20 Random Facts about Yourself.
Left-handed, heritage is Greek, cheese is an entree on my plate, music soothes me, deficient in vitamin D, nickname SpiffyTiffy, been in 2 local television commercials, take baths instead of showers, swam with dolphins, Methodist, clogged at Dollywood, reality tv junkie, met Adam Sandler and David Spade, made straight A's one semester in college, named my grandmother geg-geg, HUGE Kenny Rogers fan, Audrey Hepburn is my idol, legally blind, lives at home with my parents, and loves to laugh.

2.) Describe 3 legitimate fears you have and explain how they became fears.

Frogs-I absolutely cannot stand them! I use to work at an aquarium as well. Ever since high school biology class and dissecting them, I don't do frogs.

Someone breaking in my home-Growing up, we thought someone was breaking in our house in the middle of the night, but it was the house settling and it cracked the glass on the door. Been scared of that since.

The dark-I think this is a fear for most people. I like to be able to see if anything is going to get me. LOL

3.) Describe your relationship with your parents.

My parents are THE BEST! I couldn't ask for better ones. They have taken care of me from birth and even at the age of 33, still continue to help and support me. I love them. I don't know what I would do without them.

4.) List 10 things you would tell your 16 year-old self, if you could.
Don't grow up so fast, Save money, Go off to college instead of staying home, travel, travel, travel, keep exercising in your twenties, don't worry about what others think, live at home as long as you can, volunteer more, be more outgoing, and use sunscreen (you are a child of the 90's if you get this reference.)

5.) What are the 5 things that make you the most happy right now.

My niece and nephew. They are 3.5 years old. They are a blast to hang out and play with. They make me feel like a kid again.

Friends. My friends are awesome! We always have a great time laughing and making memories.

Family. Without the love and support of my family, I don't know where I would be. We maybe a crazy bunch, but we all have a fabulous time.

Travel. I love to explore other cities and cultures. It makes me happy to go somewhere for awhile and just forget the day to day and take in the new ambiance.

The future. The thought of the future I have for myself makes me happy. It excites me to know that I can achieve all my goals and dreams.

6.) What is the hardest thing you have ever experienced. 
This one is easy. Michael's death. When you lose the one you love your life really does change upside down. The constant support isn't there anymore, the day to day interaction and bonding, the making memories, and most of all the love is gone. Definitely hard.

7.) What is your dream job and why?
Over the years I have had a couple of dream jobs. I use to want to be a news anchor for CNN. Didn't happen. Could possibly still, but I'm not holding my breath. I, then, wanted to be an author, which is still one of my dream jobs. I love writing and want to publish a book someday. Currently, my dream job is to become a licensed professional counselor and work in a rehab facility helping others with addiction.

8.) What are 5 passions you have?
Writing, traveling, cooking, dancing, and inspiring.

9.) List 10 people who have influenced you and describe how? 

My parents-They have supported me and have gave me such advice throughout my life to be who I am today.

Michael, my late boyfriend-His addiction influenced me on how I view others with addiction. He taught me patience along with a plethora of other life skills, and his constant support and love was amazing.

Grandparents-My grandparents were like my parents. They took care of me throughout my life and my grandfather, who is still living keeps his word to my grandmother to look after me. Without them, I wouldn't have learned great lessons of life.

Dance-All my friends that I took dance with along with my dance teacher. We were like a close tight knit family. We still keep in contact with each other. They all taught me how to be a part of a team and that we all work together for the common good.

Family-I have LOTS of family members. Each and everyone of them have shaped me in some way. I continue to look to them for guidance and  support.

8th grade English Teacher-I had an 8th grade English teacher that I later had in 10th grade as well. She not only cared about her students, but she went above and beyond. Her kind words and gentle soul really taught me that life is precious and to enjoy every minute.

Audrey Hepburn-A stunning classic. Her personality could charm anyone. Not only was she beautiful and a great actress, but her role as a humanitarian definitely puts her on my list. I hope one day I can be as successful as she was and a leave a long lasting mark on the world.

Friends-Each and everyone of them not only supports me, but gives me a reason to love life. Making memories with them is what life is all about.

My niece and nephew-They are 3.5 year old twins. They teach me to not be so serious. To have fun and just enjoy life. If you look at life from a toddlers point of view, life is grand. I want to have that feeling again like I did growing up. Not a care in the world.

God-Having faith and trusting in God is a wonderful feeling. My life might not all be roses, but God has a magnificent plan for my life and for that I thank him.

10.) Describe your most embarrassing moment.
In high school, it was pouring down rain. My friends and I had to walk from the gym outside to our next class. The rain was so bad that my umbrella flipped upside down and we got soaked. When we made it to our class, I looked at my teacher, but was talking to my friend and said, "Feel my pantyhose, they are soaking wet!" The teacher's facial expression was priceless. He said that was the best offer he would have all day, but he had to turn it down. I told him I wasn't talking to him, but he said you were looking at me. Pretty funny and embarrassing at the same time.