Fall Madness

Well, yes, it HAS been forever since my last post.  Quick synopsis of the past month.  It's been a heck of a series of LOWS interspersed with some HIGHS.  Nothing like a roller coaster ride to keep yourself sane, right? That answer would be NO.

     School is school.  There's never been enough time in the day, there's always something more you can be doing to prepare for class, and there's always a feeling of not being an adequate class performer.  But thoughts like that get you in the dog house... and quickly.  It's best to just move on, buck up, and try harder.  And if that doesn't work, set some goals!  Like,  a snack break... or TV show (hello, BRAVO network)... or trip to the gym.  Sometimes, you just need to make a "reassurance call," which means you make a quick dial to a friend or parent that will affirm your action plan for the day.  They'll help you see through that you truly ARE trying your best, even though it doesn't feel like it at the time.

  It's hard not to go crazy, and it's hard not to miss home.  Just this past weekend at Mass, I was suddenly saddened when I couldn't hold hands or have the sign of peace with any of my Family after the Our Father.  It dawned on me that I was one of those people with whom others shake hands with because it's the nice thing to do since that person appears lonely.  But then, I had to snap out of the impending tears and realize that I wasn't alone.  Isn't there a saying... "I carry your heart, I carry it in my heart."  I think that rings true here.  My best friends have been the ones that check in with me every three to four days, even if it's just to share a story of the day.  I never have much in the way of gossip or stories to contribute, but just hearing from them makes the long days bearable.

  I don't think you can ever stop learning about yourself.  Being in this small town away from all that is familiar has cemented some things for me.   For one, I know now, more than ever, that I truly can bribe myself to do just about anything.  Pep talks to myself are completely necessary.  Social event-planning is what makes my clock tick.  I am a people person.... even though I really enjoy my time alone.  Some days are made better by just taking an hour to work out at the gym and read a gossip magazine.  

Life is all about learning.  And sometimes, that doesn't include books.