Second Summer Update

So this week has been a sort of fail, well on some fronts more than others. Physically and nutritionally, it was a huge fail. Well, not huge, but it was a setback of sorts.  I didn't really pay attention to what I ate, and physically I was not really good. I did a buttload of crunches, but my body needs more than that to maintain or lose weight.

Fun Stats ::
Start Weight :: 185 (January 19)
 Last Week :: 166
 Current Weight :: 169
Goal Weight :: 150 (October 9)

Yes, I gained some weight back.  It's not ideal, but it also isn't the end of the world.  This coming week I'll be on vacation, so I'll be able to take advantage of the hotel's gym.  And trust me, I WILL take advantage of it.  Truly, I miss the gym.  Not the exhausting mid-workout feel of it, but the afterwards feel of satisfaction.

Some other updates regarding my summer goals are a large amount of painting and drawing.  They kind of suck, but I'll probably post them up later.  I've also been taking a large amount of photographs and trying to improve. A lot of them are just self portraits I'll probably use for stock, or me being silly after watching America's Next Top Model.  Hey, if I can get down a bit more, I would try out for it. They're accepting short girls now after all.  Short girls don't win, but they're CONSIDERED. haha I probably wouldn't win.  My case of teh faces is much too severe.  Anywho, here's one of the photos I've taken:

Branches by ~zanbat0 on deviantART

Enjoy, Explore, and I'll see you later.

HEART
Zan

Discoveries

Having no real life affords me a lot of time to read articles on the Internet and generally explore and learn about the world. While there are MUCH better, healthier, more social things I could be doing with my time, there are worse things I could do as well.

For the past year or so I've been learning about the Slender man mythos and following various blogs and youtube channels.  Now, now, now, before you even start to think it, I am not going to make this a slenderblog.  My mind is not anywhere near as creative or twisted as it would need to be in order to start something like that. So keep that out of your minds!  Slender man, with Marble Hornets in particular (WARNING: Do not click that link if you get scared easily and/or it is almost night/foggy and you live near trees), provided a great introduction into Alternate Reality Games, or ARGs.  ARGs are hard to describe and undefinable, as they can take on so many different forms.  They can be blogs, videos, links, puzzles, networks of websites and people, and pretty much anything you can imagine.  Basically, they are non-linear games with interactive facets to them.

ARGs stand out to me for several reasons. One, they interest my inner nerd. I mean, what nerdlette wouldn't love a roleplay-cyber-real life fusion?  The possibilities that these platforms present are endless.  Another reason is that, after reading several *coughwaytoomanycough* articles I discovered that ARGs can and have been used by marketers in campaigns of all sizes.  As a (current) marketing major, I found this really intriguing, and I switched one of my marketing electives for the fall semester into a technology-based marketing class in hopes that I'll be able to learn more about the topic.  Well, actually I switched to that class for another reason as well, I had the professor in a previous course and she was spectacular, so this was just the push I needed to sign up.  Notice how I put Internet learnings over common sense? CLASSY, NO?

Until next time...
HEART
Zan

Some Family Bonding

Dance, like many art forms today, is severely under appreciated in many arenas of modern life.  Thankfully, wonderful organizations work to correct this, like New York Dance Parade.  In its 5th annual event, the New York Dance Parade's mission is "to promote dance as an expressive and unifying art form by showcasing all forms of dance, educating the general public about the opportunity to experience dance and celebrate the diversity of dance."  With 160 groups of 74 unique dancing styles, I'd say that they are well on their way to accomplishing this.  On May 21, 2011, over 9000 dancers hit the streets of New York, showing off their moves and inspiring all who watched them strut their stuff.  There were marching bands, ballroom dancers, pole dancers, cheerleaders, and many more parading down the streets towards Tompkins Square Park in the East Village where there were informational tents and even more performers all around.  The event itself was lovely, and the people all too enthusiastic about dance.  At times it was a little hard to walk through the crowds in Tompkins Square Park, but that's to be expected in such a large event.

After the exploring the event a bit, my family and I headed over to Little Italy for some Thai and Gelati, as we usually do when we're in that area of the city.  It was a good number blocks away, so we got a decent walk out of it. And best of all, the raptor and the cloverfield monster did not poke their heads out!

Now onto some pictures!

Summer Update Numero Uno

Now it's for another in a long line of health-related posts!  As I've mentioned before I'm extremely nervous about this summer and how I'll be able to handle my weight.  At school I'm pretty good at not eating emotionally or out of boredom or anything, but that changes when I'm at home.  This is possibly because I have food only for meals at Temple, whereas at home there are hundreds of snacks everywhere. Why? My sister is a snacker, and she needs to eat often or she'll faint. It's something medical that is way over my head, as many things are.  So needless to say, I am in a challenging situation. It doesn't help that I didn't really work out for the last week of the spring semester.  I went on a few adventures and was pretty active, but I missed the intensity of a legitimate workout.

My eating so far has been pretty bad, doughnuts and candies and such things, but I've been keeping pretty active.  Each day I walk my dog several times, I run around the house like a crazy person, I do butt exercises, and I do a disgusting amount of ab exercises.  By disgusting I mean upwards of 200 reps of various exercises. And amazingly, so far, it's worked out pretty well.

Fun Stats ::
Start Weight :: 185 (January 19)
Last Week :: 169
Current Weight :: 166
Goal Weight :: 150 (October 9)

Now these results are probably due to not taking in enough food, but I'll take it for now.  I started eating better yesterday (hummus!!) and I hope to continue in this pattern.  I also need to up my exercise, so I'll probably ride my bike once the rain stops and it's less gross outside.

What about my other goals, you ask? So far, I've been checking out websites and blogs on real estate, and I've even arranged to shadow a commercial real estate agent soon!  Although it's quite a lot of information to take in, I've been reading a lot in order to try to let it sink in.  I've also been planning some art projects, and even begin some of the preliminary work.  From collages to water colours, to hopefully some secret customized projects, I hope to get a lot done this summer.  Some of the other goals have gone virtually untouched, but I hope to change that soon.

HEART
Zan

Self-Improvement Summer

Many people have plans for the summer, whether they be internships, jobs, classes, traveling, or whatnot.  What do I have planned? Apart from a week-long vacation and a 7-credit summer session -- nothing.  I had applied to various jobs and internships, but as of this moment, they've all fallen through (India! D:)  What does that mean for me? I have a long amount of time and not much to do.  Once classes start up my life will have a lot more direction of course, but until then my schedule is pretty much clear, and that is intensely frightening.

In the past, I have sort-of wasted my summers between the Internet and attempting small projects and ultimately failing at them.  Well, failing in my own eyes at least.  For this summer, I will change that.  Following is a list of things I hope to devote some time to over this break.

1. Learning more about real estate and becoming more familiar with the market in PA
2. Improve myself artistically through photography or other media
3. Play some music, or properly learn one of the instruments I have lying around
4. Improve my body through proper diet and exercise
5. Clean
6. Stay in touch with my friends and hang out with them
7. Learn more about technology whether it be use of software or general knowledge
8. Learn or re-learn a language

Now, to be realistic, I will might not hit all of these. In fact I probably won't do half of these, but I am going to at least try.  I know that number 4 will be much easier when I go back for school in July because at home I am so lax with my habits.  I will push myself to be better though and to look at my decisions before I regret them.

Although I wish I had an amazing internship to learn from this summer, I will use this time to improve myself nonetheless.  This summer is my last real time to be free and not have to worry about the real world (too much), so I need to use it to focus on myself so that when the time comes (in 12 months) I will be ready for the world.

HEART
Zan

Never Say Goodbye

There almost always comes a time where people transition from one phase into another.  Everyone experiences these changes, and they're a very normal step in everyones lives.  So, on this day of Graduation for so many of my friend, I would like to congratulate them and wish them well.  I will always remember what ridiculous shenanigans we caused, and I hope that we'll make many more in the future.  We'll be separated by many things (trees, towns, land, seas, time) but I know that we'll find a way back to each other some time in our lives.  Whether it be continuous contact online, an occasional meet-up, or me watching you through your window, we will find a way.

Being the endless geek master I am, I can't help but think of a song for this situation. Now, I know what you're thinking. "OMG She's thinking of that Vitamin C song rabble rabble izpooop" and, my friends, you are wrong.  Well, you would have been right last night for a short while, but there's a song that I find much more appropriate to the situation.  While the Vitamin C graduation song blabs about remembering back and is all sad and depressing and horrible, the song I'm thinking of gives promises of friendship and the future.  So what is this amazingly appropriate song? "Days of Summer" by Darren Criss from A Very Potter Sequel.  Yeah, I know, I'm a little obsessed with Starkid, but it's just so appropriate!  I know that for the past few days when I've heard it I've started to well up before I realized that it's not an end, it's just a change.  Now, this acceptance of change and the future will probably not stop me from crying my guts out, but it will help me to keep in contact with these people (a problem I have sometimes).

The real moral of the story is that while this is a huge gigantic milestone in their lives, I know one thing that will not change, and that's my love and support for them.  They are all fantastic, beautiful, talented people with amazing dreams for the future that I know that they will achieve and probably exceed.   So today is for them, for their families, and for their futures.  I may miss them terribly in my everyday life, but I know that they will be there for me when I need them, and I will do the same for them.  Goodbye is not an option for us.

RON:

We've got these days of summer

To remind us of each other...

HERMIONE:

The time we have to spend apart

Will keep us in each other's heart...

HARRY:

I'm hoping that the good ole' days are

Something I will dream about at night...

DRACO:

Don't matter if it's soon or later,

I know that it's gonna be alright!

HARRY, DRACO, RON, HERMIONE:

I don't wanna see you go,

But it's not forever, not forever!

Even it was,

You know that I would never let it get me down.

You're the part of me that makes me better,

Wherever I go!

So I will try

Not to cry--

But no one needs to say goodbye...

[DANCE BREAK]

ALL:

I don't wanna see you go,

But it's not forever, not forever!

Even it was,

You know that I would never let it get me down.

You're the part of me that makes me better,

Wherever I go!

So I will try

Not to cry--

But no one needs to say goodbye!

Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts

Listening to :: When You Believe - Mariah Carey

Art is an indescribable presence in our world.  From every blade of grass, to The Scream, to a child's smiling face, art is present.  This is why events like the Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts, or PIFA, is so critical.  It brings art in many of its forms to the limelight, which is something that is of utmost importance at a time where art and music programs in public schools are in jeopardy or already cut.  Reminding the general public that art is indeed important can only help in such situations.

This year, PIFA paid homage to French art, focusing on Paris from 1910-1920.  As a result, there were many French products, food, and acts to be seen at the street fair.  Within the Kimmel Center itself there was a large illuminated Eiffel Tower that was nothing less than beautiful to behold.  Although there were many incredible acts at this year's PIFA, the finale really stole the show. And my camera's memory.  The world renowned circus artists La Compagnie Transe Express performed Maudits Sonnants, an act where they are hoisted over 100 feet in the air.  This alone isn't impressive until you mention that while being lifted into the air, they are playing gorgeous percussive music with a mixture of drums, cymbals, and bells.  And to top it off, three extremely talented acrobats are performing amazing stunts on ropes in the air.  And all of this is happening over Philadelphia's beautifully paved Broad Street.  To try to describe the act in any further detail would do it no justice, especially with my lack of eloquence.  Therefore, following I have two videos as well as some photos.  I hope that you enjoy and decide to (or continue to) support the arts.

(If link doesn't work click here)

Day of Darkness, Day of Light

Today is a day that brings up many emotions.  Commercial America has decided that today is a day to celebrate Mother's and all the work they have done to take care of their children.  Fate has decided that this date is to be a year after the death of my own mother.  This first year without her has been a long, hard journey, and I know that it will not be getting easier any time soon.  I have cried, laughed, raged, loved, remembered, and tried to live a life my Mother would be proud of.  I try my best, knowing that she is watching me, and most likely laughing every time I do something ridiculous, which is pretty often.

My Mother and I. She loves babies and children the most.

After my Mother's passing, I went online, trying to find something to help me in any way.  Healthy thing to turn to the internet for comfort, isn't it? In any event, I didn't find much, but that could be contributed to my less-than-sparkling mental state at the time. I did, however, find a poem written by Mallissa A. Moore that I did relate to deeply.  I had thought about writing my own poem for my Mother, but if you know me, you know languages are NOT my forte. So here's the poem that I found:

"I just thought I’d say
I love you and goodbye
We will miss you dearly
I promise I won’t cry.

I will never forget our talks
Conversations on the phone
How happy you were to see me
When I finally came home.

You worried so much about me
I worried about you too
I know this is the hardest thing
We've ever had to do.

I know you'll always be with me
Wherever I will go
No one needs to show me
I will always know.

I don’t know what to do Mom
I never thought I’d lose you
Where I'll go from here
I still haven't got a clue.

I hope you'll watch over me
Be my guiding light
Giving me the strength I need
To win this endless fight.

You're my guardian angel Mom
Sitting on my shoulder
Whispering your words of wisdom
To use as I get older.

I don't want to say goodbye
But we'll meet again someday
We'll pick up where we left off
Before you went away."

So on this Mother's day, exactly one year from the death of my mother, I celebrate my Mother's life and her dedication to her family. Of course, I'll also selfishly cry here and there in between the reminiscing about the past, but I won't let that get in the way of my love for her.  I miss you, Mom, and I cannot wait to see you again one day.  Till then, every time I trip or mess up my words, it's for you, I hope you enjoy the show I put on for you. 

O God, who hast commanded us to honor our father and our mother; in Thy mercy have pity on the soul of my mother, and forgive her her trespasses; and make me to see her again in the joy of everlasting brightness. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.  

May God bless you and your Mothers.  I hope that you appreciate what you have and that you let your loved ones know how you feel.  

Confusions Galore

Listening to : The Lazy Song - Bruno Mars

So do you remember that plateau I talked about two weeks ago? Well last week I broke it, and then this week I lost one additional pound.  Exciting, yes?  I was especially surprised the first week when I lost three pounds, especially because that was Easter weekend and I didn't really exercise much or watch my caloric intake.  Then, the week when I get back into working out regularly, I only lose one pound.  My body is so odd, but it's what I have, so I love it. Following is the data:

Fun Stats ::
Start Weight :: 185 (January 19)
Last Week :: 173
Current Weight :: 169
Goal Weight :: 150 (October 9)

With such positive results over the course of this semester, I am starting to get a little nervous about the future.  Next week is my last week at Temple till summer session 2 which means that I have no access to a gym until July.  I'm thinking I'll probably do calisthenics and try to do youtube videos, run, or videos my sister has.  Hopefully I'll stick to these plans or come up with some even better plans, or else when I step on that scale in July I'll be horribly disappointed.  I'm going to do my best to not let myself get to that point, but only time will tell what I'll be able to accomplish.

In other news, I recently went to Center City and my tummy had the rumbles that only human hands could satisfy.  In order to cure this horrid affliction, I experienced something I have never had experienced before. Chipotle.  I know, it's a big chain or something, but I'm a weird kid. I mean, I've never been to Qdoba or a bunch of other places either. So let's just say Chipotle was an experience.  When I walked in I had no idea where the line was supposed to be or how to order, so I just stood around awkwardly watching others order for a while.  And although I was very appreciative with the effort to inform their consumers about the caloric value of the foods that they eat, the format that the information is displayed in is quite confusing.  After much consideration and watching others order their meals, I ordered a chicken bowl.  Now, just because I successfully ordered food at this establishment doesn't mean that I didn't thoroughly embarrass myself in the process.  My inability to understand people served me well, to say the least.  The servers kept asking me about adding stuff and what I wanted, and I would just shake my head yes or no, or otherwise confuse myself and the servers.  However complicated and confusing the rest of the experience was, the food was pretty darn good. My chicken bowl had the hot salsa, and I added Tabasco sauce as well because nothing is ever hot enough.

So what am I really saying in this post? I'm kind of slow and easily confused. But it's entertaining for myself and for those around me, so I like myself just as I am. :)

HEART
Zan

:: A Quote To Leave You By ::

"Anyone who isn't confused really doesn't understand the situation."

~ Edward R. Murrow"

Typical Experimental College Kid

Listening to :: The Way I Do - Starship

That's right, I admit it.  I like to experiment.  Now, before you think I've become some loose typical college stereotype, let me illuminate you on the meaning behind this.  When it comes to experimentation, food has been my most recent medium.  Whether it's trying out a new recipe, creating a recipe, or going out to a restaurant and trying out something new, I love it all.  Of course, being a poor/cheap college kid, the first two are the one I prefer at the moment.  There's no problem with that, my time will come when I can go out, but on a student's salary (negative dollars) I'd rather just save what I can.

Trying out different types of food and preparation are important in understanding what's good and bad, and what your palate likes.  This is why I am constantly on food websites, trying to see different combinations of flavors and which ones I like.  Sometimes, however, I just get bored with the recipes I find and I want to do my own thing.  That is when experimentation comes into play.  Over the past week or so, I have become incredibly bored with the food I've been making. So what do I do? I put random stuff together and hope it turns out well.  So far, I haven't really come up with anything that makes me want to vomit or anything.  That being said, I suppose I'd classify my experimentation as successful for the moment being.

Well, with all of this talk of food, you think I'd show some pictures by now, don't you?  No need to worry, they're coming right up.  First up is my most recent experiment, based loosely on this recipe.  I altered it, however, by using two boneless pork chops, a half a red onion, a half an orange, and plenty of curry powder and salt and pepper.  Not too odd, or experimental, but the taste is definitely worthy of a post.  Looking back, I could have used the entire orange, but I was worried about it being super-citrus-y.  Overall, it was a success, although, as I said, it could have used more orange, and I could have let the meat suck up the curry powder a little longer.  I coupled the pork with rice, of course, and corn as sides. Enjoy!

Now here is the more outlandish of the two experiments.  A little while back I made tilapia and coated it with a mixture of mayo, vanilla extract, curry powder, and cinnamon.  Yeah, sounds weird, huh? And to think, I was considering peanut butter as well. Perhaps next time...  In any event, after some time in the oven, out came a beautiful spectacle.  I have to admit, as I cut it up and went to take the first bite I was a little nervous.  Seriously, what was I thinking?!  Luckily it tasted alright.  It was still a little bland for my tastes, but it was edible, and most importantly, enjoyable.  While it will most likely take a while for me to perfect this recipe, I do not doubt that this will eventually become a favourite of mine.

Although I have made a few other things since I last posted about food, I am going to save them for sometime in the future as they aren't really experimental at all.

HEART
Zan

:: A Quote To Leave You By ::

"Nothing would be more tiresome than eating and drinking if God had not made them a pleasure as well as a necessity."

~ Voltaire ~