I Really Miss

Writing.

Now, I don't mean my writing required for school classes. I simply mean my writing for my novel. I don't think I've touched my novel since August and I've had the biggest urge to write in it lately. It sucks that I don't have the time to sit down and write for a couple of hours. I miss writing about my characters and the "relationship" I have with them, so to speak.

I can't wait for this semester off so I can get back to writing. I want to finish the novel so badly!
On to other things:

I'm sorry I haven't really blogged lately. I've been busy with school and friends. I think this is the first weekend in a month that Eric and I have really done nothing. It's kind of nice to sit around relaxing at home. I haven't just "hung out" with Eric in a while.

Another thing I really miss is reading for fun. I've been trying to finish Mockingjay for over a month and yeah, well, that hasn't happened.  I wanted to be able to read The Shining for this month's book club. I'm skeptical this will happen as well. This is yet another reason I'm so ready for this semester to be over!

Oh yeah! I cut off all my hair! Check it out below! =]  The first picture shows the front and the second picture shows the back!

The story behind my haircut is THE best! I saw this particular style a few days ago and I couldn't make up my mind if I wanted this drastic of a change or not. Anyway - I finally said I'd go for it and told my friends to make me the appointment and not tell me when it is. Well, I figured I had a couple weeks to part with my hair! Yeah right!! My friend Brittany and Keme showed up the day after I made the decision to get it cut. So, we left and got my hair cut and I did not look the entire time! To say the least, I LOVE MY NEW HAIR!!!! I will probably keep it like this for quite a while!

xoxo,
Megan

Despite the Setbacks

Eric and I had a wonderful anniversary vacation! Our car may have broken down, we may have had to spend a huge chunk of money on a rental car, my cell phone may have gotten busted up, and my neck may have gotten injured, but it was SO amazing to be able to go on vacation and have some "us" time with my husband.

Like last year, we stayed at The Hotel Alyeska and loved every minute of it! We went mountain biking on Friday and Tuesday and it was an absolute blast. It may have been all uphill the first 2.5 miles, but it was SO worth it on the way back. We also went swimming a bunch and that was something we hadn't done together before either. It was a blast.

On Saturday, we went drove to Seward and went on our 6 hour Glacier Cruise. It was a LONG 6 hours! While it wasn't necessarily worth the money we paid for it, if we hadn't gone on the cruise, we would have probably never gotten to see humpback whales and a glacier breaking apart. The Glacier was the most surreal experience ever! It is something I will never forget! 

We ended up staying a day longer and I'm glad we did. We got the extra time together and that was wonderful. I really wish we could have stayed there forever! I'm sad we won't get to on this vacation next year because we'll be PCSing. 

Anyway - I'm sorry it's taken me so long to post on here. I've been incredibly busy with school, so, sadly, my writing is at a standstill and my pleasure reading is too. I have had the urge to write some in my book, so hopefully I'll be able to find a spare moment soon! Winter's approaching so I'll be in more and may have more time for these things!

xoxo,

Megan

Day 2: Your Crush

Today is the second (even though it's not consecutive) day of the 30 Day Letter Challenge and the letter for today is to my crush. Wonder who that might be?

Dear Eric,

I really can't call you my crush anymore, because, well, I had a crush on you in middle school. You were just the hottest thing ever, but we're not in middle school; in fact, eight years later, we're married! So, I have to say that my crush for you developed into loving you more than anything. You are so much more than my husband though, you're my best friend in the entire world and my soul mate. I am reminded almost every day, at least in some way, why I want to spend the rest of my life with you and why you complete me.

I want to thank you always being there for me, through thick and thin. We've had our ups and downs, but in the long run, we've become such a strong couple and nothing could ever tear us apart.  Thank you also for being the wonderful man you are! There are just so many things that I admire about you: the way you "man up" about your job (yeah, I'd so react different and complain all the time), you work hard and you almost never miss a day of work. I also love how you help me around the house and are patient with me. Those are just a few of the things.

I really look forward to the rest of our life together! I couldn't imagine spending it with anyone but you!

I love you, babe!
Forever and Ever!
I promise!

xoxo,
Megan

Day 1: Your Best Friend

Today is the first day of the 30 Day Letter Challenge and the letter for today is to my best friend, Steph!


Dear Steph,

You are one of the most amazing people I know and although we've only met in person once (and it was just for five minutes), we have become the best of friends and I feel like I've known you for more than just two ywear. You're always there for me and even though we may not see eye-to-eye sometimes (actually, we don't have views that different from each other; we share a brain practically), I can still be utterly truthful with you and  vice versa. I don't have to worry about hurting your feelings and you hating me; I can be blunt and you'll still love me and still think of me as your best friend. I think that's one of my most favorite things about you!

You're also getting married next year! I'm so sad that I might not be able to be there or be in the wedding, but you know I'll be there in spirit and that I wish I could be there in person.I wish you and Jon the best of luck in life and many years of happiness!




I hope some day that we finally get to spend more than five minutes hanging out. That is way overdue! So are pictures! Who knows, if Eric cross-trains we, may end back in the lower 48 after his training and will be close to you. That would be nice!

I'm sad we haven't really talked much lately, but we're both super busy. Hopefully we'll get into the grind of things soon and we'll be able to talk more!

I love you girl. You're like a sister to me and I'm so lucky to have you in my life!

I can't wait until we're old and living next to each other with our pink and blue flamingos in our yard ;-) That was you wasn't it?! I'll feel dumb if it wasn't. LOL.

xoxo,
Megan

30 Day Letter Challenge

Today, I ran across this thing called the "30 Day Letter Challenge," and basically you're given a list of 30 letters you are to write for 30 days. Now, you could opt to actually send these letters, but for the most part, I believe you're supposed to post these letters to your blog. So, starting tomorrow, that is what I'm going to do for the next 30 days. This should be interesting. =]


xoxo,
Megan

 

The Hunger Games

Synopsis: 
The Hunger Games, as seen in the picture, was written by Suzanne Collins. The story takes place in the nation of Panem (also known as the Capitol) and it's 12 districts, located in what used to be the United States. There was also a thirteenth district but it was obliterated after it's people held a rebellion against the Capitol . As a result, every year, two children from each district, a boy and a girl, from the ages of twelve and eighteen, are chosen to participate in what is called The Hunger Games. The Hunger Games, which is a fight to the death battle between twenty-four children shown on live television throughout the nation, was created to keep the districts in check and is a way for the Capitol to show their control over the districts. But most of all, the Games are a warning to the districts to show them what the Capitol is capable of if another district were to rebel again.

In steps Katniss Everdeen, a sixteen year old girl from District 12 who stepped forward to take her younger sisters place in the Games. Will Katniss prevail and win the games for the first time in thirty years for her district? Or will she become another victim in the Games? Are her survival instincts strong enough to let her win and return to her life in District 12 and live quite comfortably for the rest of her life?

The Hunger Games is a story about life, humanity, love, loss, murder, deceit, suffering, and most of all, strength among adversity.

Opinion:
Let me just say that I have officially found a new series that I love! At first I could not get sucked into this book whatsoever. Honestly, I was very terrified that I would be the one person out of a lot of people I know who would not like the series. However, about 100 pages in, and it is a very fast read, I found myself loving it. I teared up in some parts, especially the ending. The book made me mad in some parts, but completely compelling in its entirety. I highly recommend this book! I cannot wait to read the rest of the series!

What I found most intriguing about this book is the fact that the very situation described in the book, could very well happen. There could be a time where the United States is no more and instead, a harsh and cruel Capitol could almost rule a bunch of smaller cities or districts.

I hope you all take the time to check this series out! It is definitely one you do not want to pass up!

Next Novel:
Book 2 in The Hunger Games Trilogy: Catching Fire.

xoxo,
Megan

Update

Well, it's been a while since I've posted so I figured an update was way overdue. =]

I've been SO busy lately it's been insane! I had my colonoscopy and it went well! No problems whatsoever. I'm glad it's over. I definitely don't want to drink the prep stuff EVER again! It is utterly disgusting! The actual procedure part was a piece of cake.

Since then, I've been busy enjoying the short break I've had from school! I've gotten into scrap booking, which I love! I'm better at it than I thought I was, but I think that's due in part to Brittany and her guide books! ;-) Brittany and I have also been hanging out and started movie days together. We have this pile of movies to watch and I'm looking forward to them. She and I have also started going to the gym together, well we started and then life got busy. But we're starting again this upcoming Tuesday and I'm excited for that!

I've also been busy with the ESC! We've been planning some fundraisers to discus at this month's meeting and the social's were doing! I'm very excited to be involved in the ESC. I don't know why I ever waited so long!

I haven't been doing much writing though. I've been too busy enjoying time with my friends and what little bit of summer we have left! I did have to change some things around concerning one of my characters, which also meant that outlines/planning had to be redone for the last half of the book. I'm not sure how I like it so far, but we'll see. Things always change when I start writing.

As far as reading goes, I'm currently reading the series called The Hunger Games! At first I couldn't get  into it, but then I got sucked in and I LOVE the series! In fact, I'm going to go buy the books tomorrow! =] I can't wait to post on them!

Lastly, my classes for the fall semester are starting to begin.  On Tuesday my Seminar in Shakespeare Studies and Introduction to Security Management classes will begin Then on the 20th of September, my Novel in America Since 1914 and Medical and Legal Investigations of Death classes will begin. And, finally, on October 10, my Modern Poetry class will begin. As the semester rolls on, it will be more difficult to post and work on my book, but I will do as much as I can and post as often as I can! 

xoxo,

Megan

So Nervous

Tomorrow, bright and early, I have a colonoscopy. For the most part, at this point, I'm SO ready to get it over with. I haven't  been able to eat all day and I had to do the prep thingy. Let me just say that I would not wish that on anyway. I got a migraine from not being able to eat, using the bathroom every five minutes sucks, and dowing sixty-four ounces of gatorade mixed with nasty ol' miralax is utterly disgusting. After about the third glass, well, I didn't think I'd be able to get anythinge else down. I cannot imagine having to drink it with just water. Ew; today has not been fun.

 I'm really nervous about the procedure. I don't really know what to expect. I've been told that I won't remember the procedure, but that I'll be in and out of consciousness during it. So, I'm wondering if, during the procedure, if I'll realize what's going on and then after I come off the medication, if I'll not remember it. Very intriguing to me, in a way, if you ask me. It's neat how that works.

Surprisingly, my anxiety hasn't been too bad concerning this. I think that's because of changes in my lifestyle. I'm so happy and thankful for that. I visited a church on Sunday down in Fairbanks and I absolutely loved it! I don't remember the last time I looked forward to going back to church. I don't remember the last time that I actually didn't want the preacher to stop preaching. Needless to say the preacher actually spoke on fears a bit and I believe this helped with my anxiety a ton. I wish I could find the words to better explain it, but as long as it makes sense to me, and helps, that's all that matters.

I will try to post an update to the colonoscopy tomorrow. Keep me in your prayers. Hopefully all goes well and nothing is wrong. =]

xoxo,
Megan

Weight

Currently, I weigh a healthy 130 to 135 pounds and you'd think I'd be happy with the way my body is, but the truth is, I'm not. I have some big self-esteem problems and I hate that I do, because I'm not overweight. But, in my mind, I feel like I am.


Growing up I never weighed over 115 pounds. I worse a size three jeans and didn't have an ounce of fat on my body. However, this was probably due to the fact that I played soccer for almost ten years and had practice for two to three hours a day. So, in reality, I probably burned off every calorie I ate that day during practice.


Since I got married and moved to Alaska, I've gained twenty pounds, wear a size seven, and my boobs are now up to a size D. Actually, I'm a lot healthier now and I have curves. But still, at the back of my mind, I think I'm overweight. Every little stretch mark, every little piece of cellulite sticks out to me and I cannot get past it. I think it's ugly and well, you can't really do anything to eliminate them. They can be diminished, but they'll never totally go away.


I blame society for my self-esteem issues. If society wasn't so freaking obsessed with skinny, skinny girls who wear a size zero, I probably wouldn't hate the way I look or feel like I'm overweight. As women, we grow up in society and are told how to look and how our body should be. We're told that we aren't pretty unless we're super skinny. I hate it. 


I'm tired of feeling like this. I want to be able to love my body and be confident. I used to workout everyday and I was finally to the point where I enjoyed working out. Slowly, I began to feel better about myself, but then things got busy and I stopped working out. Now I'm back to hating how I look and obsessing over my weight/looks on a daily basis. It's ALWAYS at the back of my mind; it's ALWAYS haunting me. 


I need to find a workout buddy and I hope I can talk my husband into it getting up earlier before work and working out with me everyday, because if I don't do it at the beginning of the day, I know I won't feel like doing it at the end of the day. Also, if I don't have anyone to work out with and hold me accountable, it is so much easier to slack off on working out. I also am thinking about keeping a food journal and keeping track of everything I eat. I've stopped buying junk food and started eating fruits and celery, things like that, for snacks.  I'm going to research other ways to build my confidence as well.


I'm determined to become a confident woman and not look at myself as overweight. I don't think I'll try to lose weight, but I'm going to try and maintain it and love the way it looks right now, because after all, I am at a healthy weight, considering my height and body build. Wish me luck! 


xoxo,
Megan

Church

I grew up in the church as a child. Ever since I was a little girl I can remember getting up every Sunday morning, getting dressed up and heading out to church. As I got older I began to feel like church and Christianity was shoved down my throat. So, after I got married and moved to Alaska, I was kind of slacking on finding a church up here. I felt that I had to find Jesus and God on and own and I believe that I finally have.

In the time that I've been out of the church, I've realized how different my life is and how I was really naive to think my parents were shoving Christianity and church down my throat.  Not many people know this, but I struggle with anxiety. And, honestly, I believe that has a lot to do with my not-so-good relationship with the Lord. It's caused me to worry about things I never worried about when I was actively involved in Church. I am sure this has to do with growing up, but, personally, it also has a lot to do with God/Jesus and not being the Christian I was raised to be. I cannot explain it and well, it would seem like I was crazy if I tried to because words just can't be found to describe how I know. My life was just so much more positive and hopeful when I had a relationship with God and Jesus. 

I saw a quote the other day I spoke to me and made me open my eyes even more: Feed your faith and your fears will starve to death.

To put it mildly, my anxiety has a lot to do with various fears that I cannot control; things I should never be worrying about (i.e. death, sickness, etc). I don't want to go into too much detail right now because it would make this post extremely long, but these anxieties hinder my life in ways nobody can imagine and I'm tired of living that way. Ultimately these are things I should leave God in control of and honestly, I do not do that. I've tried counseling, twice, which seems to not be helping much. So, I'm seeking God and Jesus, like I probably should have been all along. It all makes me realize I need a better, strong relationship with the Lord. So, I'm going to start changing my ways and living the Christian life, that I deep down, know to be true; serving the Living God.  I'm going to feed my "faith" and make it stronger. In doing so, I hope to bring myself and my husband (and other people as well) to know God better, as well as Jesus.

Now, Eric and I have visited a few churches and nothing's really stood out to me. But, on August 22, my friend Brittany and I are going to be visiting my friend Laura's church. I think I'm going to leave Eric at home for this one and get a feel of the church for myself. If I find that I like it, Eric and I will visit together the next Sunday. 

xoxo,

Megan

Stone of Tears

Terry Goodkind's Stone of Tears is the second installment in his "Sword of Truth" book series. After defeating Darken Rahl, Richard has now become a Rahl himself and has discovered that being the Seeker is not his only destiny. Upon learning of his new found power and the destruction he unintentionally caused by destroying Darken Rahl, Richard must now leave with The Sisters of the Light in hopes of controlling this new found power and also saving the world from utter destruction at the hands of the Underworld's Keeper. Can he succeed once again, or are his abilities going to be thwarted? 


Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was rather lengthy and some parts moved slowly (or so it seemed, it could be because I got in a phase of where I didn't want to read), but the slow parts were essential to the overall story and its ending. Once again, there is love, destruction, torment, hope, loss, and many other elements that the reader will experience throughout the events that fill the pages of this book. The end picked up considerably and I found myself holding back some tears as I reached it. It was a very good read and I cannot wait to read the next installment of the book. 


xoxo,
Megan

High School

I never thought I'd miss high school, but now, I'm not so surprised that I do. I don't miss high school because my life is bad; in fact, my life is far from bad. I miss it because I had a great time and met a lot of wonderful people who changed my life forever. These people shaped me into who I am today and are a large reason as to why I want to become a high school English teacher.

I played the clarinet from fifth through tenth grades and was in marching band; something I don't quite miss as much as the other various activities I was involved in. I do, however, miss playing the clarinet from time to time. Music is such a profound thing and it can impact anybody. It did bring me joy.

As most people also know, I played soccer for about eight to ten years. I don't know the exact number because, well, that's a long time to keep track of. I started out in LASA and moved on to play on Coach Green's travel team (an all guys team, apart from me of course), then in eight grade and ninth grades I played JV soccer for my high school, and finally, in tenth through eleventh grades I played Varsity. I think my most favorite years playing soccer were the years I played on the travel team with Coach Green. Looking back, however, I also have some great memories from playing Varsity under Coach Mehan. I learned a lot about myself, not just when it came to the sport, but when it came to my abilities and what I could endure. I'm a very strong person simply because of the many years I spent kicking a ball down a field or defending our end of the field. This is something I hope to give my own kids someday.

But, during my senior year of high school I decided to do something a bit different. I decided to not play soccer anymore and I had already stopped with band. Instead, I became involved in Advanced Theater. I mostly was stage manager and I loved every minute of it (despite the insane amount of stress encountered). I was good at it though and it paid off well; our plays went off smoothly and nothing catastrophic happened. 

Even before I auditioned for the class and made it into it, I was already close friends with almost everyone who was in the class or going to be going into the class. But during that year I grew considerably closer with every single person in the class. The plays we did and the things we experienced together: the laughter; the drama, no pun intended ;-); and all the times Mrs. Sadler pissed us off were all very, very worth it in the end. I cannot explain the overwhelming joy I had being involved in theater that year. It made my senior year. 

Everyone from the class I was in has graduated and we've all gone our separate ways, but I'll never forget the people I worked with on a daily basis, nor Mrs. Sadler. I look forward to being able to tell my children about the amazing people I knew in high school and the amazing things I encountered. I only hope my children can have the experience I had.

All in all, I think the great experience I had in high school is what has made me want to be a high school English teacher. My teachers were wonderful people, many of whom, who also changed my life forever. They made me realize my love for English and education in general (Ms. Fletcher, Ms. Wilmoth, Mrs. Sadler, Mrs. Woodward, Mrs. Lonce, I really could go on and on). I hope I can someday impact someone's life the way my previous teachers have impacted mine. 

xoxo,

Megan

4 Years

On August 28th,  Eric and I will be celebrating four amazing years together. 


It amazes me how fast time has flown by and where life has taken us in the past four years. In fact, if you asked me four years ago where Eric and I would end up, I'd probably say in Virginia still, with me attending college there and him working. I would have never guessed we'd be going on our third year in Alaska and second wedding anniversary/third year of marriage.


Eric and I did not plan to get married so soon. But, as many of you know, the military can cause you to rethink plans and change them in a heartbeat, at a moments notice.


Eric left for basic training in April of 2008. At this point, I was a senior in high school and had been accepted into Virginia Commonwealth University's Forensic Science program. Well, high school graduation came and went; BMT graduation came and went; and soon enough, orientation came and went.   


Orientation for me at VCU is where everything changed for us. I got the phone call that Eric was going to be stationed in Alaska, as opposed to Korea, for three years. Instantly my mind was racing. I hated orientation at VCU simply for the fact that I quickly realized it was not where I wanted to be. I wanted to be with Eric, in Alaska. The six month separation due to BMT and Tech School had been enough for me. My heart just wasn't into VCU anymore, it was with Eric.


So, Eric and I talked about things for a week and finally, I called my mom (who by the way was on a business trip to Illinois at the time) and told her I had disenrolled at VCU and Eric and I were going to get married when he came on leave from Tech School.


After huge fights and an emotional roller-coaster with my family, the wedding planning was soon underway. We planned our wedding in a month's time, changing the date two or three times. When all was said and done, our wedding cost less than $1,000 and I loved every bit of it; the simplicity, the elegance.  


Two weeks after we got married, we moved to Alaska and the rest is history. 


Getting married at 18 and moving 4,000 miles away was the best thing I could have done for myself and for Eric. We are closer now than ever and most importantly, he is still my best friend. 


I am so blessed to have somebody like Eric. I could never find a better man to spend the rest of my life with. 

12.5

Here's just a tiny update on my writing progress. =]

As of tonight, at the time of this posting, I have about 12.5 chapters written in my book. I have to say it's progressing rather quickly. I've reached the climax of my book and I can't wait to see what direction it takes. This also means I'm almost halfway done with my book entirely. When all is said and done, I will have about 27 chapters and an epilogue. That's pretty impressive if you ask me.

My worst fear for it though is that it won't become published. I've heard it's so difficult to get published and I'm so scared of rejection. But I guess I'll never know if I don't ever try, right?. Hopefully between now and then, I'll gain more faith and more optimism. Who knows, this book could very well be my big break into becoming a published author!

xoxo,
Megan

Adrenaline

Tonight, I almost got killed by a Momma Moose. No. Joke.


I went over to my friend Alicia's house to hang out with her and Stephanie and watch Dear John. Well, at one point, Alicia's dog, Harley, started barking and going nuts. So Stephanie and I got up to go see what he was barking at. There were two baby moose and a momma moose not 50 feet away from us. Stephanie and I were going to go out on Alicia's front porch to get pictures, because, well, the moose were so close and right in the middle of a housing loop.


Harley got out the door. I have never panicked so much in my entire life. I knew I couldn't just stay in the house and watch Harley go after a big momma moose, especially a momma moose who would be extremely protective over her young! I could just imagine Momma Moose hurting Harley and killing him. So, Stephanie and I run out the door and down the steps to go get Harley and the next thing I know, Momma Moose is charging. I have never run so fast in my life. 


Stephanie and I finally made it up the steps and into Alicia's house and looked back and the moose was less than 30 feet away from us. Probably a lot closer than that. Had the moose REALLY wanted to get us, she would have had us in no time. As big and bulky as those suckers look, they can move rather fast! It's unbelievable at how fast they can move.


Anyway - when people say that pretty much anything can be accomplished when someone's adrenaline is pumping, I now believe it to be 110% true. I cannot tell you the way my body morphed when my adrenaline started going. While the circumstances were frightening, it surely was interesting to feel my adrenaline going through my body. It was definitely unreal and made me feel "alive." 


Just thought it was an interesting story and now, after the fact, it's kind of comical. Good think I love Alicia and her dog!


xoxo,
Megan

Screw You!

I will never, ever live in military house ever again!!! Today was the final straw for me and somebody, somewhere on this military base better do something about these crappy people I live next door to!


Today, I get home from the commissary and I walk out to my car to get my groceries. Guess what I find? 30+ cigarette butts by my front door/car. Guess what? They're my neighbor's cigarettes too! So, I call housing because I'm quite tired of this.  I tell them I've put up with the yelling, screaming, fighting, slamming of doors, running up and down the stairs, and whatever other crap my neighbors, for a year. I cannot do it anymore. I can't do my homework in peace. I can't take a freaking shower in peace. It's just ridiculous. I tell them about the cigarette butts. Guess what? Housing can't do a thing about it. They said our best best would be to go to Eric's first shirt and get him involved. Yeah, only problem is, my husband works 12s, which means his first shirt probably works 12s to. Lovely. Plus, it would be a bunch of he said/she said crap and that's not crap I have time to deal with.


Is it really so hard for housing to be like "Look, you signed a contact stating that you would get along with your neighbors and be courteous, if you can't follow it, you'll be made to move off base?" Give them three effin strikes and then kick them off.


Ugh! I'm just so fed up with this bullcrap. I have had a mind to pack up my crap and find a place to live off base, even if it means I have to move twice within a year. 


I'll post again later with something much more happier than this. I just had to vent.


xoxo,
Megan

Hearts

Today has been an impeccable day! 


Eric and I went into Zales to get my wedding finger sized because my wedding rings need to be resized pretty badly. It's gotten to the point where I don't really wear my rings anymore because they are so hard to get off! Anyway - while we were waiting to be helped, Eric and I were looking around at the wedding sets, for future ideas. I ended up finding this set that I really, really, really LOVED. It's the same size karat as the ring I have now, but that's okay! I've never really been the type of girl to want a "huge" ring, as long as I loved it. Eric isn't 100 percent satisfied because it's not "big" enough, but eventually he may get that "dream" of his. Haha!


I'm so thankful for my husband. He is so good to me and I could never find a man who is as wonderful as he is. 

Changes

I had a realization tonight. I can talk about a certain someone I have loathed for years and not feel the anxiety I used to feel, nor the anger and hatred I felt toward that person anymore. I won't go into details about what happened or who it is, because that isn't important. The important thing is, is that I'm proud of myself for that. It shows I improved and changed quite a lot since we've been in Alaska. I even think that if I ran into that person one day, I would be somewhat okay with that and try to be civil. A year ago if you told me I'd ever say any of this stuff, I'd tell you that you were lying and were crazy. I never thought I'd see this day. 


I'm also slowly, but surely, learning to realize that as long as I do my best on assignments for school, then it doesn't matter what grade I got. I mean obviously the grade matters, but if I put forth my best effort, then I should be proud of that. It's a hard thing to learn, but hopefully I'll learn it in time and I won't be so disappointed when I don't always get the grades that I want. 


I'm also glad to report that I'm not nearly as stressed as I was at the time of my last posting! Somehow, I got two weeks of work done this week (including my huge forensic anthropology project), even though I hung out with Annie almost everyday. I didn't think I'd get so much done, but I did and I'm quite proud of myself. With all the work I got done today, I only have two more chapters to read in forensic anthropology. I hope to get that done this weekend, since note-taking isn't involved, which means, I can focus solely on studying for that class until my final. I also don't have much left in my forensic biology class either! The light at the end of that tunnel is getting brighter and closer!!


xoxo,
Megan

Game Plan

This might be long - bear with me.


About three or four Saturdays from this upcoming Saturday, I will officially be done with my summer classes. Even though the light at the end of the tunnel is there and I can see it, I still feel like I have an eternity until I reach it or until it gets brighter even.


I wish that I had it in me to stay focused these last couple of weeks, but honestly I don't. I think the main reason for that is because, well, the weather's been so lovely here and I'm tired of being stuck indoors doing homework. However, in order for me to get everything done, I have to do homework from 3:30 to 9:00 everyday; this includes studying hardcore. Another reason I don't feel focused is because I feel overwhelmed about how much I have to finish. It's all listed below

• Hundreds of notecards for Anthropology
• Notecards for Biology
• Study group project for Biology
• Case study project for Anthropology
• 6 chapters to read for Anthropology
• 6+ chapters to read for Biology
• 3 homework assignments to do for Biology
• Conferences for both classes

I'm dreading the projects. I HATE study group projects. I'm dreading even looking at my case study. I'm just dreading it all. But I can do this. I have to do this. 

I keep telling myself, "It's only 3 more weeks, only 3 more weeks," but that does no good; because I have an insane amount of work to do in three weeks. My head hurts just thinking about it all.

Another problem I have is the fact that I have it drilled into my head that I NEED to get "perfect" grades in my classes. I have a 3.919 GPA and I really do not want to get B's in either class, simply for the fact that it'll bring my GPA down. I blame this issue on the fact that people told me I would never go to college after I got married. I guess I drilled it in my head to prove them wrong with everything I have. In the end, that's backfired considerably; I feel like a failure if I get worse than an "A" on anything.  I hate it.

I'm just drained. And then three weeks after this semester ends, I'll be starting the fall semester and taking 5 classes. Although, I don't think any of English classes and the two Criminal Justice classes I'm taking will be as dense as forensic anthropology, I'm hoping my English classes be just the break from the Criminal Justice world.

BUT. I think I have a game plan to get through all this. While Eric's still at work tonight, I'm going to do as many notecards for forensic anthropology as I can. Then tomorrow, I'm going to look over the study group project information, see what needs to be done and see if I can get organized somehow and get an email out to my group members. After that, I'll be doing the last minute HW assignment my teacher assigned me in Biology and do more notecards. Friday -  you guessed it; more notecards.

Then - next week, I'm starting the week off with finishing my project for Anthropology. That will happen on Monday. Then Tuesday hopefully I can get a pretty decent start on the study group project (I hope I hear back from my group members rather quickly). After that, the rest of the week will consist of doing the readings and notecards. 

With this game plan, maybe after next week things won't be so difficult. At least I hope. 

XOXO,

Megan

Bones, Trauma, and Dirt - Oh My!

Ah, yes, a lovely post about Forensic Anthropology. 


I swear, that class might just kill me! I cannot imagine how those who work in the career field learn EVERYTHING they need to know for this job. Well, I guess when it's your career, you have no choice. But gosh, I think I have over 200 notecards from the first two weeks of class. I have 10 weeks left of readings to go through and notecards to make. I am dreading to see how many notecards I'll end up with! 


With that said, I won't be able to do much writing for my book during the week. The majority of my time from 3:15 pm to 9 pm every night, Monday through Friday, is going to consist of homework and hardcore studying. Thankfully, finals are in three to four weeks. So, I can see the light at the end of this tunnel starting to appear! Exciting!


However, I am going to at least try and write some on the weekends. So we'll see how that goes. I'm glad I'll get about three weeks off between the summer and fall semesters to focus on things I enjoy doing and things I need to get done around the house. Although, I'm dreading the things I need to get done around the like, clean it really, really, really, really well, clean out my cabinets, organize my closets, and clean out my email folders. Oh well, gotta do what you gotta do, especially when your husband is going to do most of the cleaning during the upcoming fall and spring semesters. LOL! Just kidding, he is pretty good at cleaning the house; it just feels weird when I can't clean it. 


Other exciting news. Hm, well, actually I don't have any. I'm a hostage to school right now and don't have time for much of anything else. Story of my life, most definitely. Oh, wait, I forgot I'm having a girls' night next weekend sometime. Brittany, Moriah, Laura Ann, and Jodi are going to be there and we're going to have fondue and watch chick flicks! FUN! It will definitely be a much needed break from all this studying. 


Well, that's all for now I suppose. I'm going to go relax in my bubble bath and have a date with my book, Stone of Tears. There is no better way to relax than in a hot bubble bath with a book; except for the beach, that is!


xoxo,
Megan

Vent

Okay, so bear with me, I am going to vent. 

Before I begin, I want to state that I understand this was a luxury, not a right,  and that I am thankful for the money I did get from the program, but I still find what is happening unfair.

As some of you may know, there is a program called MyCAA. Before the new changes took place, the spouses of active duty military members could receive up to $6,000 in tuition assistance that did not need to be paid back. My plan was to use this money for this school year, which would helped out tremendously sine I would not have had to use a lot of my student loans. Obviously, this would save me money in the long run. 

Well, today I get online and check my email and guess what?! Starting October 25, those members with an active account will no longer be able to request money for tuition. This means, that I will be gipped out of $1500 that would have been used to pay for two of my classes in the spring semester. This is money they promised me and quite frankly, it's stupid they're taking it right back. 

It is also frustrating when I planned the tuition fees for this upcoming school year around the program and then now, I can't use all the money I was told I would get. 

Not only is this unfair to me, but with these new eligibility requirements, people who create accounts on October 25 cannot use the money toward BA's. That's another crappy stipulation. A lot of people are pursuing BA's these days and honestly, a lot of those people have a hard time paying for their degree. Why should they not be allowed to use that money for their BA's??

That's all I want to say about the matter, because well, I just had to get it out. I'll post another general update about things later tonight. 

xoxo,

Megan

Salem Falls

I am very excited to post about this book! It is probably one of my favorite Jodi Picoult books and as with any of the other books I've read by her, I LOVE it! 


Salem Falls tells the story about Jack St. Bride, an accused serial rapist who was just released from prison because of a plea bargain he was pretty much forced to take to avoid spending life in prison. After being released from prison, Jack finds himself working in a small town (Salem Falls) diner and falling hard for Addie Peabody, the daughter of the owner of the diner. 


However, rather quickly, Jack finds himself facing as second rape accusation. This time it's Gillian Duncan , the daughter of the man who "owns half the town," accusing the sexy former school teacher of rape. Little does Jack, Addie, or his defense attorney, Jordan, know, Gillian Duncan and her three friends are witches of the pagan religion, Wicca, who have specially targeted Jack. Is Jack innocent? Or, did he really rape Gillian Duncan?


In a lot of ways, Salem Falls is a modern day adaptation of The Crucible and this is precisely what first caught my attention to the novel. I have to say that I found myself getting attached to Jack's character and Addie's character rather quickly. The novel engulfed me so rapidly that I could hardly put it down. When I reached the end of the novel, I was surprised to find myself tearing up. In all the books I have read, this has only happened two other times. Thus, I highly recommend Salem Falls to anyone! 


Next: Terry Goodkind's Sword of Truth Series, Stone of Tears. 


xoxo,
Megan

100

Yep, that's the magic number today, well, last night actually. I reached 100 pages in my book last night and I'm half way through with chapter 10. That means, I'll be sending my best friend, Steph, chapters 8 through 10 of my book very soon! I am so thankful to have someone like her, that I trust fully and completely, to read my book before anyone else does! =] =] =] 


I'm really excited (as always) about the direction my book is going in. However, I'm at a place in it, where I didn't anticipate it being hard to write. For whatever reason, it's extremely difficult to write this part of my book for various reasons. I honestly wish I could go into detail about it, but I can't because, well, that would give a crucial part (which happens to be the turning point or climax) of my book away. But hopefully, it becomes easier with time. I know once I get through this part, I'll be proud of myself for writing it and will give me more of a push to write other various novels in this way.


Anyways - on to other news. I'm currently reading Salem Falls by Jodi Picoult. Once again, it's a book I cannot put down. It's got me so intrigued that I'd even put off writing in my own book to read it; that's just how good it is! I cannot wait to write a synopsis for you all about it.


I've also decided that, despite how much I love the Enlisted Spouse's Book Club here at Eielson, I feel like reading the books assigned for the group is like a school assignment. The reading doesn't feel like it's done for enjoyment anymore. Yeah, I'm weird I know. But I decided to just go ahead and attend the Book Club meetings and read whatever books I want to read on my own time. I love the free enjoyment of reading. It's such a stress reliever for me.


Well, as you also know, when I was in Anchorage for the July 4th weekend, I bought a Nook. I loved it at first and I still think it's really awesome, but I found myself really, really missing holding a physical book. I mean I knew when I bought it that I would miss holding books and the smell of them, etc, but I didn't think it would be as bad as it got. So, this past Sunday, the hubby and I took a trip to Barnes and Noble and returned my e-reader. I really should have listened to him in the first place, but oh well, you live and you learn.


My husband and I started P90X this past week and I LOVE the workout. It wasn't as bad as people made it out to be. I went in with the impression that I would be completely and utterly exhausted and honestly, I am exhausted, but I'm not to the point where it makes me want to take a nap immediately afterward. Maybe that's because I'm already in shape. But, that's okay because I still get a great workout with it! I have to say my favorite one is the Ab Ripper X. I hate it, but at the same time I LOVE it. 


Well, I guess that's enough for an update tonight. I'm so sorry for being such a slacker at updating, but I've been super busy with school and my marriage and just life in general! I'll try to update tomorrow. 


xoxo,
Megan

A Lil' Update

It's been quite a while since I've posted a general update on how things are going with me. Therefore, I think it's time I did so. =]

Part of the reason I hadn't posted in so long is because I was extremely busy getting school work done for our short get-away to Anchorage this past weekend. I'm so glad I decided not to take Forensic Anthropology in the fall or spring semesters with four other classes because I would, putting it simply, be screwed. That class is so much work it's not even funny. Plus, I'm really, really slacking on my study cards. =[ So, I've decided that instead of handwriting every study card, I'll just cut up my notes I've been taken and tape them on study cards. I hope that doesn't come back to bite me in the butt. The great news though, is that I'm halfway done with these two classes. Which I'm very excited for because I should have never taken summer classes.

My husband and I just got back from Anchorage yesterday and I had an absolute blast! I bought some summer clothes that I desperately needed and I even buckled down and bought Barnes and Noble's ebook reader, the Nook. Needless to say, I LOOOOOOVE the Nook. I have so many books it's not even funny and being that we're military, I wasn't looking forward to having a crap ton of books and moving them wherever we are sent. The lady who was talking with me about the Nook in Barnes and Noble said she had 125 boxes of books when she moved one time and honestly, that scared me because at some point I would have that many books! With the Nook though, I'll have all the books with me and won't have to worry about shelf space. Plus, the ebooks are cheaper than physical books. Of course, if I really love a book, I'm sure I'll still buy the hardcover copy (that's only if I really, really LOVE the book or series) and not all books are ebooks at the moment. For example, J.K. Rowling hasn't released the Harry Potter series to be ebooks. Now I just need to decide if I want to sell the books I don't necessarily want in physical copies and use that money to buy them on my nook. Actually, I might not do that, it'd probably wast money. Lol.

Overall, I had a blast in Anchorage. It was definitely nice to get away from Fairbanks and have some one on one time with Eric, without having to worry about school work and such. I really can't wait to go back in September. I'm counting down the days!

As far as my book goes, I think I'm either writing the ninth chapter or have finished that chapter and started the tenth chapter. I can't remember (it's been a few days since I've written). Lol. Anyway - the progress for my book is coming along greatly. I've reached the climax (for the most part) of my book and things are starting to really play out. I love it so far.

Well, that is all for now,

xoxo,
Megan

The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner

First off, I apologize greatly for taking so long to post this! I've been extremely busy and have now just found somewhat of a down time to post this. Look for another post about my most recent updates!; it will be posted after this. =]

So, I finished The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner a couple of weeks ago, right before Eclipse was released to theaters, and I have to say that I loved the book. It was awesome getting to know the "other" vampires from the Twilight series who aren't necessarily "good."

The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner follows a 15 year-old girl, recently turned vampire, who battles with right and wrong as the impending battle between Victoria's clan and the Cullen's and Werewolves arrives. Bree is introduced only briefly in Eclipse, but even then I found myself  feeling sorry for her. She didn't want to be bad, but it was all she was ever taught and that itself is heartbreaking and tragic. You'll see even more reasons why her demise was saddening as you read The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner.

Overall, I loved the book, but wished it had been longer! Be sure to check it out! =]

Next book: The Neighbor, by Lisa Gardner. It is the book we are reading for book club. =] 

~Megan

Eclipse

So, in light of Eclipse hitting movie theaters in almost exactly two weeks (I have tickets to the opening show YAY!), I decided to reread the book. I seriously could not remember a single thing that happened in this book. It was like my mind jumped straight from New Moon to Breaking Dawn. I definitely needed a refresher and let me tell you, I had such an eye-opener while rereading it.

My guess is that everyone on the planet has heard of the Twilight Saga and a vast majority has read the books. So, I'm not going to sit here and give a synopsis that doesn't give any crucial information away. If you haven't read the books and I spoil them for you, that's not my fault. Just proceed to stop reading this now. =]

I'm going to elaborate on my thoughts about this book and the character's within it. They are listed below: 

• Bella is a freaking baby, for lack of a better word. She is so dependent on Edward it's not even funny and to be honest, it's quite disgusting. It infuriates me that she is so selfish, she practically begs Edward to refrain from fighting the Newborns. Give me a freaking break. This is exactly why Jacob is PERFECT for her. She could be independent and still be a couple with him. Her capability of being independent and "dating" Jacob is all too evident in New Moon. Bella's also extremely, extremely whiney. I mean come on now, grow a pair!
• For goodness' sake, I cannot figure out for the life of me, why everyone loves Edward so stinking much. He is a freaking controlling boyfriend, for most of the book. Honestly, he reminds me of my ex and maybe that's why, whenever I think of Edward, I get a bitter taste in my mouth. Ugh. Please, trust Bella....don't keep her from Jacob just because of your own insecurities. If I were Bella, I'd want to be around a hot werewolf (no pun intended, haha) too. In fact, I'd much rather BE with a hot werewolf, than a cold, controlling, psycho-vampire boyfriend who babies me. Bella needs to get her head straight with this one.
• Jacob, oh my, how you are so awesomely amazing. =] He might seem a bit immature at times, but let's remember, he is younger than Bella and we all know boys mature slowly than girls. Anyways - hands down, he is a MUCH better fit for Bella. I listed one of the reasons above. Plus, he lets her have her life and doesn't baby her. He makes her put her grow a pair and deal with whatever is thrown her way. Yeah Bella, you made a huge mistake. Not to mention, he's pretty darn noble when he decides to practically GIVE Bella to Edward. That's part of the definition of a hero, in my book anyways. =] Psh, Edward who?? =]
• Lastly, my best friend Steph and I think the the last book should be completely rewritten. It should incorporate a HUGE twist on the plot where Bella chooses Jacob instead. I mean why, why, why, why choose Eward?! He's just....ugh!

Okay - that's the very shortened rant I have about Eclipse.  It might seem melodramatic, but that's my intention. =] For the life of me I cannot figure out what goes through Bella's mind. I mean seriously?? I think this is one that I will ponder over for the rest of my life.

In conclusion, despite my insides cringing and yelling out "CHOOSE JACOB!" every time I read it, it's still an enjoyable read, even though I know the outcome will always be the same. 

Next book: The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner.

~Megan

I'm so excited. . .

. . . and I just can't hide it!!!


This summer is going to be amazing. I don't think I've looked forward to a summer this much in a while!  I have a lot of things planned!


Two weeks from this Tuesday, Brittany, her sister, Moriah, Alesia, Aleisa's daughter, Kylie, and I are going to go see Eclipse. I'm kind of excited to see a movie on opening night because it's something I've never done  before and it'll give me a good idea on whether or not I should go see Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 on opening night or sometime during the opening weekend. Anyway - we're going to be making t-shirts to wear to the showing and I think I've already figured out what to put! It's one of my favorite quotes from the series....plus I'm am totally Team Jacob! He's such a babe and Edward is just controlling. *insert eye rolls* So, I'm really excited to do that. I don't think I've made a t-shirt in a long time!


In July, I'm probably going to go and visit my best friend Steph for about ten days! I haven't seen her in two years and we are WAY overdue for some best friend time and WAY overdue for some pictures! =] I'm going to be treating her to Eclipse because she definitely deserves it for the way she's been there for me in the past two years! I love her to pieces and I'm so stoked to finally be getting to spend time with her! =] 


I've also got book club to look forward to, the ESC meetings, and whatever else is in store for my friends and I! Like I said before, Alaska is getting a little better to handle. =]


I've written a little in my book this weekend. I'm hoping to write more tonight, before the week begins. I've really had the urge to write lately. This would usually be a good thing but the work week starts tomorrow and I really should get ahead in my work....I kind of slacked off on that last week. The summer has just been way too nice, so it's been hard to concentrate! 

Oh yeah! I also pushed my fears aside and sent the first chapter to Steph to read. She said she loved it and it sparked some curiosity. That makes me feel really good that it's got her wanting to know more! Yesterday I went ahead and also sent her copies of chapters two through four. I don't know if she's read them yet, but I'm really in no rush for her to. =] 


I need to finish planning out chapter outlines. I'm only on Chapter 20 and I've been thinking here and there about to put in later chapters. I need to write those ideas down before I forget them!


Lastly, I'm about halfway through with Eclipse. I don't know if I'll ever finish Eat, Pray, Love. I kind of lost interest. I guess I just like fiction work better and that I'm really picky when it comes to nonfiction work. Historical non-fiction really fascinates me and well, Eat, Pray, Love isn't exactly historical non-fiction!. Haha. I will probably try and sell this book on half.com or give it away.


Anyway - time to make dinner! 


xoxo,
Megan

Great Start To The Weekend

So tonight, my new and awesome friend Brittany hosted a social event for the Enlisted Spouses Club. We got together, had great food, played Bunco, and had many, many laughs. I have to say that it is probably the most fun I have had in a while. At first I was hesitant to get involved with the ESC, but I have to say that I don't regret it one bit. I think there are some rather fabulous ladies who are a part of the ESC and they make everyone feel welcome! I'm really excited about the next ESC meeting and the book club meeting that is coming up at the end of the month! =] 


Alaska is improving quite a bit for me. I think it's mainly due to the fact that I've found some pretty awesome people to hang out with. Alicia is pretty freaking rad and she cracks me up constantly. The same goes for Brittany. Get all three of us together and man we'll be laughing hysterically for hours! =] Alicia's little girl is turning one year old on Sunday and I'm super excited to go to the birthday party! 


On to other business, I'm halfway through with Eclipse. Yeah, it's a really quick read! I have to say that this go around, I'm really noticing how freaking psycho Edward is. Oh, it's annoying. I did find one of my most favorite quotes in the series: "Sorry....I don't have leeches on speed dial." Jacob Black cracks me up! 


I have written a little bit in my book. The next goal I want to reach for it is to write 20 more pages. So hopefully I can get some of that done this weekend! =]


Well, I'm going to go write for a bit before bed. Just wanted to post a quick update! =] 


Much love,


Megan