Sunday, October 7, 2018

WHY I DELETED MY INSTAGRAM

1. It's Addictive
     Do you ever find yourself checking out Instagram when you wake up in the morning, when you're going to bed, when you wake up in the middle of the night, or when you're bored? There is so much more we can do with our time than scroll through a feed of pictures or click on people's stories to see what are they up to.

2. It's Distracting
     Being on Instagram or recording something for your Instagram story can take you away from being in the moment.  We are not truly observing what is around us and enjoying time with loved ones by pulling out our phones and scrolling through our feeds. Instagram is a distraction. We need be present and dedicate our attention to the people we are with not to our phone screens.

3. Instagram Stories Have Ruined The App
     People are posting less photos on their feed and instead are sharing everything on their Instagram stories. What they are eating for breakfast, what they are doing for the day, where they are working out, what they are wearing, who they are hanging out with, where they are. Why do we care to see what people are doing all the time? Not knowing what your friends or acquaintances are up to via Instagram will give you something more to talk about the next time you see them. I was one of those people who would overshare on my story. I do not need to share everything that I am doing and quite frankly I am tired of clicking on people's stories. Instagram stories is truly what has ruined the app for me.

4. Comparing Myself To Others
     People will share pictures of their new houses, their relationships, their cars, their jobs, their vacations and whether you realize it or not, sometimes people's posts can really bring you down.. they can pick at your insecurities. They can make you feel like you're falling behind in life, or that you're not as successful or as good looking as somebody.

5.  Instagram Doesn't Show Who We Are But Who We Want To Be
    I had a great talk with somebody the other night comparing Instagram to Tinder. We try too hard to look cool or look like fun people on these apps. We are showing what we wish we were. Instagram makes us seem like we are perfect or that we live perfect lives but it does not show our authentic selves.

I have been off Instagram for almost a week now and it has been refreshing. If you have an Instagram, I challenge you to take a day off from scrolling through stories and feeds and to stop sharing things on your story. Look up from your phone and look at the people you are with, look at the things around you and truly enjoy the moment. I will probably be deleting my Snapchat next.

Best,
Andrea
    

Sunday, December 31, 2017

Highs and Lows of 2017

Highs (Listed in No Particular Order)

1. Winning Tickets to the Joanne World Tour
I have always loved Lady Gaga's music, I really wanted to see her in person. After the Super Bowl every radio station was talking about her and how she was going to go on tour. I love participating in radio contests and have won tickets to shows in the past, so I decided that I was going to try to win tickets to her show. Low and behold, I was caller 25 on Power 96.1 Atlanta. I won the tickets at the end of February and I was told that I would be called to pick up the tickets in October. Well, October passed and I had not received a call, so I called the radio station and they told me to come in and get my tickets. I won two tickets and I had the choice between sitting in upper level seats or standing in General Admission by the stage. I chose the upper level seats. JUST KIDDING. My best friend and I had the most amazing time time!! The show was supposed to start at 7:30 but she didn't actually go on stage until 8:42 P.M. We had no complaints, we never imagined we would be as close to the stage as we were. Lady Gaga blew me away. I was a fan of her before, but now I am OBSESSED. She put on one hell of a show. I am now saving up to go to Vegas to see her at her newest residency show that will begin in December of 2018.








2. Various Vacations
I was blessed to be invited to two of my friends' vacation homes, I accompanied my mom on a business trip, and we were gifted with an all-expenses-paid trip to Florida by my sister who won the trip off the radio.  I am grateful to have gotten the chance to spend time with my loved ones in beautiful places. These are memories that I will never forget.  Thank you to Julia and Jenny for inviting me to your beautiful homes, thank you Mom for letting me tag along on your business trip, and thank you to my sister, Marianna, for giving me and mom the trip that you won off the radio.

Jenny and I in Seaside, Florida
Matthew, Jenny and I at the beach!
Family and friends in Highlands, North Carolina



Beach in Florida
 Wizarding World of Harry Potter. I may or may not have cried when I went into Hogwarts. Harry Potter was one of my favorites as a child and it was so special to me to go there.







 MY FIRST TIME EVER IN NEW YORK! I loved it

3) Spending Time With Family 
My family comes first no matter what and I consider some of my friends to be my family. I was blessed to make lots of memories with them this year and to have lots of quality time with them.




One of my Bestie's Wedding!!





BIGGEST LOW OF 2017

  My Grandfather Being Diagnosed with Cancer and then Dementia
     This is something I never thought would happen to my mom's side of the family. I lost my paternal grandparents to lung and colon cancer and I had high hopes that my maternal grandparents would continue to live healthy lives. My grandpa was diagnosed with cancer in late spring or early summer. My mom flew to Mexico in August to go visit him, my grandma, and her siblings. Two weeks after my mom's arrival, my grandpa changed in many ways.  He stopped recognizing my mom and he was very confused about where he was, and he would start something but then he wouldn't finish it because he forgot what he was doing. He was extremely active for many years, he loved to go on walks, and he loved to read and now he can't really do those things anymore. His dementia diagnosis is something that has haunted me everyday these past four months. Not that cancer is less important, but his type of cancer is slow growing and not fatal. His dementia is hard for me to talk about. I don't want to accept that my favorite and only present grandfather that I have ever had doesn't recognize his own daughter anymore. After my mom left, he talked about her as a visitor and said, "I really liked that young girl that came and stayed with us. She likes to eat a lot, but we should buy her a plane ticket to come back and see us." I want to go see him and I want to help my family, but this is something that is so hard for me to accept. I don't know what to do. I am still in denial about it. I don't know if I will break down when I see him. I want to be there for my family and I hope I can go visit them soon.

     To say that this year was bittersweet is an understatement. I am grateful for the time I have gotten to spend with family, the vacations and the blessings but I am heartbroken at the same time that my grandpa was robbed of his good health. I also experienced and witnessed other good things and bad things this year, but these are things that I feel like sharing with you all. I would like to say thank you to Kimberly, my best friend, for being my rock this year. She is my hero. I can tell her anything. She is a true friend. Thank you all for reading. May 2018 be a year of good health, little stress, and success for you and for me. Best wishes to you all.

What Friendship Is and Isn't To Me

1) Friendship is being able to be yourself with someone.

2) Friendship is being there for your friends in times of need.

3) Friendship is checking in on your friends.

4) Friendship isn't about who buys you things.

5) Friendship isn't about who you see the most.

6) Friendship isn't about who you have known the longest.

7) Friendship is knowing when to talk and when to listen.

8) Friendship is about putting yourself in your friend's shoes.

9) Friendship isn't about comparing yourself to your friend.

10) Friendship is about respecting the title of being a friend.

11) Friendship isn't about guilt tripping someone into doing something.

12) Friendship is about being honest with your friend even though you might tell them something that they do not want to hear.

13) Friendship is about defending your friend when someone is talking smack about them.

14) Friendship is a mutual thing.

15) Friendship isn't about showing up or leaving when it is convenient for you.

Tuesday, December 5, 2017

Chronic Complainers on Set

Chronic Complainers on Movie/Television Sets
     Complainers, we all know them, we have all been them, but some people always have something to complain about. You can't keep everyone happy. Here are some common complaints I hear about on a day-to-day basis.

- Complaining About Being Bored/ Not Being Used or Picked To Go On Set
     Just because you are booked, there is no guarantee that you will be used on set. You might sit in holding all day. If you are professional background actor, you should know that. You have nothing to complain about. If you have something better to do, why did you commit to being a background actor for the day? You are getting paid to sit and snack all day. Bring a book, start a conversation with someone, learn how to entertain yourself and stop being so high maintenance.

- Complaints About Not Being Served Breakfast or Not Liking What Is Served for Breakfast
     Breakfast is a courtesy, not a guarantee. Eat beforehand or pack something to bring. Also, I hate hearing picky eaters complain that they don't like what is served for breakfast. This is not your mommy's kitchen, you are not a two-year old. Nobody HAS to give you breakfast. You get what you get and you don't pitch a fit. 

-Complaints About It Being A Short or Long Day
     You will very rarely go into a show knowing how long of a workday you will have. You can take a guess or a PA might estimate, but really you will never know. When you commit to being a background actor, learn to be flexible. Don't make plans or be sure to have flexible plans because there is no guarantee that you will make it to those other commitments. If you commit to being a background actor for the day, you shouldn't have any other commitments. There is no leaving early or asking to leave early.

- Complaints About What Is Served At Crafty
     This one kind of goes along with the breakfast one. If you are provided snacks other than cheese puffs and water, I don't want to hear any complaining. Again, stop being so picky. Bring your own snacks. It is a known fact that most of the snacks provided are junk food. If you are on a diet or can't eat sweets, bring your own fruits and veggies.

- Complaints About The Weather
     There are somethings that you can do that can better your experience if you are filming outside in the heat or cold.  First of all, ask the casting company if the scenes are interior or exterior and look up the forecast for the anticipated day. If it's going to be cold, bring layers, bring hand warmers, bring a blanket. Sometimes you have to film summer scenes during winter. If that's the case, have a jacket handy nearby for when they cut the scene. If it's going to be hot out, you can bring a portable fan, bring a cooling rag, bring a frozen bottle of water to hold in between scenes.  You might freeze or melt for a day, but remember that it is only one day and you committed to it. 

     By no means am I perfect, I complain here and there, but I know what I sign up for when I commit to being a background actor and I usually arrive prepared. I would also like to enforce that sometimes Extras Casting companies are unaware of certain issues, because nobody tells them. Sometimes you need to reach out to them so that they are aware of things that can be fixed. 

Here are some things you should complain about...

- Sexual Harassment/Assault on Set
     If anybody touches you or talks to you inappropriately please tell the nearest PA, AD and mention it to the Extras Casting Company.  A lot of people keep these incidents to themselves because they are afraid of being blacklisted for turning someone in, as someone who has worked in casting before, I will tell you that is not the case. Turning someone in can prevent it from happening to someone else.

- Safety 
     If you are asked to do anything that you know isn't safe, don't do it. They might hate you, but who gives a crap. Don't put your safety at risk.

- Getting Mistreated
     Sometimes crew members are just cranky and they let their frustration out on you, but there are times when lines are crossed. If anyone starts cursing you or insulting you, let someone know.

- Getting Breaks
    If you are on set for a long period of time and you need to use the restroom, let the production assistant or assistant directors know. Nobody expects you to not use the restroom, but at the same time know your limits and don't be drinking a gallon of water a day knowing that you will be needed on set .Also, if you are wearing high heels and have been standing for long periods of times, it's ok to sit down or ask to. Sometimes the crew is so caught up and their business that they forget or don't think about these kinds of things. It's not that they don't care, but sometimes you just need to ask or remind them.

-No snacks
As mentioned above, don't be picky about your snacks but let's say you've been there a few hours and there have been no snacks put out..  reach out to the extras casting company or PA and ask if snacks will be put out. Breakfast is not a guarantee but snacks usually are on well budgeted film and TV sets. Again pack your own snacks if you're not sure that there will be any and in case the movie or show won't provide any.




    

Sunday, January 1, 2017

Resolutions for 2017

1. To read at least one book a month.

2. To practice on Duolingo for at least 150 days.

3.  To hike at least once a month.

4.  To remember many people by name.

5. To get 10,000 steps in every day for a month.

6. Take an acting class.

7. Go on a family vacation (with mom and sis), even if it's only for a weekend.

8.  To better my health.

9.  To drink three liters of water every day for a month.

10. To sing in a musical or in front of a crowd at open mic night.

11.  Meet new people.

12 . To take more chances.

13.  To Curse less

14. Spend less time on my personal social media pages. (Work requires me to use social media)

15. To do more to achieve my dream.





Sunday, December 4, 2016

Are Chip and Joanna Gaines Anti-Gay?

Quite frankly, I do not know. I don't think they've come out and said anything about these allegations, but from my personal experience, going to any church does not necessarily mean that you agree with everything that is preached. I'd like to think the same for Chip and Joanna. I was raised at a Catholic church. That does not make me a Catholic, a Christian, or an anti-gay person.  I currently do not belong to any religion. I disagree with a lot of things that are preached at church. That doesn't mean I assume that everyone who goes to church is close-minded, homophobic, anti-gay, etc . It is 2016. Let's try to be a little more accepting of people. Let's agree to disagree. Speak up if you don't like something, but be sure to do some research before you jump to conclusions. For the record, I will say that I do not believe that being gay is a choice and I am against gay conversion therapy. I have stood up against bills that are against gay rights. I am not trying to defend Chip and Joanna or their parish.  I know nothing about them and I don't watch their show. I am simply stating my opinion. Don't judge a book by it's cover. I also have nothing against the Catholic church or church in general, it is simply not for me.

Sunday, October 9, 2016

Tips to fight Acne

For about six years, I struggled with acne. I tried everything. The dermatologist prescribed me antibiotics, topical acne creams, and even prescription face washes. I even tried Proactiv. Nothing worked for me. I was in college when my sister told me about a girl in her class who took some medicine called Accutane and that her skin was flawless. I went to my dermatologist to talk about the option of taking this miracle drug. The doctor told me it was not going to be an easy process. It would be a six month thing. I had to get my blood drawn once a month to make sure my body wasn't reacting in a bad way and to make sure I wasn't pregnant. They make you agree in writing to use two forms of birth control. There are many negative side effects to this drug, but if you ask me, it was so worth it. I now feel comfortable enough to leave the house without foundation and I rarely ever have severe breakouts anymore. Not everybody has a good experience or reaction to this drug. Some minor side effects are bad dry skin, chapped lips,  There are severe side effects like depression, liver damage, birth defects, miscarriages, but I still think it's worth the risk and that the positive stories outweigh the negative. If your acne isn't severe, here are some other tips I have for you.

1. Watch what you eat.
The food and drinks that you eat really do affect your skin. Caffeinated drinks make you more prone to breakouts. Everybody's body reacts different food, but pay attention to what makes you break out.

2. Wash your sheets once a week.
Or you can be crazy like me and use three different pillow cases a week.

3. Use face washes and shampoos that are sulfate free. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate are also known to cause breakouts.

4. Make sure your laundry detergent is sulfate free.

5.  Drink 3 liters of water a day.

I hope some of these tips and ideas can help you get the skin you want.

Tuesday, September 6, 2016

25 Things About Me

1.  I've never smoked anything in my life.

2.  I am an outgoing introvert.
     I like to socialize but I also like to be alone. I don't need/want to hang out with people every single day. If I hang out with people a few days in a row, I need alone time afterwards. If I think you are clingy, I will distance myself from you.

3.  I am not a texting/phone person.
     I rarely ever text or call anyone. Don't take it personally if I barely speak to you on the phone or text you. I rather hang out/catch up in person than talk over the phone. I like low maintenance friends who you don't have to talk to or see all the time and when you meet up it's all love.

4.  I love to sing.
     I used to be a decent singer, but my voice changed and I'm not as good anymore. That doesn't stop me from singing in the shower, performing at karaoke bars, and singing in the car. 

5.  Horror and drama are my favorite movie genres. Zombie movies are my absolute favorites.
     My mom took my friend Marcela and I to go see the Dawn of the Dead remake when I was thirteen and I've been hooked ever since. 

6.  Chicken Pho is my favorite meal.

7.  I'm a morning person.

8.  I don't drink too often.
     I don't really order alcohol when I go out to eat and I don't really buy alcohol unless we are celebrating a holiday, birthday, engagement, wrap parties, etc. I guess we can say I drink socially, but I don't drink if I don't want to. I'd also rather spend my money on food than on alcohol.

9.  I hate shopping.
     I like to get new clothes, but I hate the whole process of going to the store, trying clothes on, etc.  I can't shop for clothes online because most of the time the things that I order do not fit me.
  
10.  I am obsessed with watching sunrises and sunsets. 

11.  I am an optimist.

12.  I show up extremely early to everything except for parties.
     I show up forty five minutes to an hour early to work, if I'm hanging out with someone, I'm usually ten to fifteen minutes early and I just chill in my car and wait. I show up thirty minutes early to the movies. My best friend Kimberly is one of the few people that beats me every time. I love her for it.

13. I hate waiting on people.
     If I make the effort to show up somewhere on time, please do the same. It's not hard to set an alarm and leave early if you know there will be traffic etc. If I am having lunch or dinner with someone, I plan my breakfast and snacks around it, don't make me wait to eat. I also hate waiting for people to RSVP to things or plan activities.

14.  I have an eating schedule. 
      I'm starting to look a bit neurotic. Haha. By schedule, I mean I like to eat breakfast between 7:30-9:30, lunch between 11:30- 2:30 and dinner between 5-7:30. That schedule changes when I'm on set, but if it's the weekend or my day off, I prefer to eat at these hours. It's recommended that you eat your last meal no later than three hours before you go to sleep.

15. I could live a happy life as a single lady.
     I always wanted to get married when I was a little girl, but now I'm perfectly okay with the fact that I may never get married. It's not that I don't think I'll meet somebody, but marriage is just not a priority or necessity for me. There's nothing wrong if that's one of your ultimate goals in life, but my goals have changed. I have a lot of strong role models in my life who never got married or are divorced and happy and I know I can be happy without a husband. With that being said, I hate being asked if I'm seeing anybody or if I am interested in anyone. It's nobody's business but my own. I will say that I've always wanted to be a mom one day. Marriage is not a necessity, but kids are. I am not afraid to adopt and raise kids on my own. I will be a great mom or foster mom one day.

16. I am not interested in American football.
     I've gone to a falcons game and to some bulldog games and I had a great time, but it's not something I am interested in watching on television every weekend.  I just can't get into it. If I had to pick a favorite team, it would have to be the bulldogs because my sister goes to UGA. I also own a few bulldog shirts because I think they are cute and I love to wear red. 

17.  I love the beach and mountains equally. 

18.  I am deathly afraid of Tsunamis
  After the Boxing Day Tsunami, I've had this terrible fear of tsunamis. I know that the chance of me ever experiencing one is slim, but I think about them constantly. Whenever there's an earthquake or landslide near the ocean, I check out the tsunami warning website to see if there is a chance of one occurring anywhere. 

19.  I don't go to church.
     I don't believe that going to church every Sunday makes somebody a better person. I don't believe that your religion makes you a better person. I believe that our words, actions, and how we treat other people is what matters.

20.  My mom is my hero and my favorite person ever. 

21.  The Secret Scripture by Sebastian Barry is my favorite book.

22.  I am really good at quoting movies. 

23.  I don't like being photographed.
      I don't like being in front of a regular camera, but I enjoy acting in front of a video camera. I think I look better in selfies than regular photos.

24.  I speak pretty good French.
     I have Mademoiselle Steinhauer and Madame Girard to thank for that. Best French teachers ever!!!  Merci! Je vous aime.

25. I believe there's a solution to most of the things we complain about.
 For the love of God, let's stop complaining so much.  We can fix most of the things we complain about.

-Unhappy with your weight? 
If you're underweight, go see a nutritionist or a doctor to see healthy ways to gain weight. Overweight? Watch your portions, exercise, also go see a doctor about a healthy diet. This does not apply to people who are sick and cannot control their weight due to medicine, treatments, injuries or disabilities.

- Hate your job? 
Find a new job and quit your other one. 

-Too Tired? 
Don't stay out so late partying if you know you're going to work the next day.

 -Unhappy in a relationship? 
Breakup or try to fix the problem. 

- Too hot/cold?  
Layer down or layer up. Drink some water. If you know you are gonna be outside in the heat, hydrate a day in advance. 

- You're Broke
Watch what you spend your money on. Get a second or a third job. Save your money instead of wasting it on things you don't need. 



 



Tuesday, August 9, 2016

A Letter To My Future Kid

Hi There,

This is your twenty-five year old mom. I don't know when I will meet you or when I will give you this letter, but I want to talk about what kind of a person I hope you turn out to be. Let me get one thing straight, I don't care if you're a boy, girl, gay, straight, trans, democrat or a republican, Christian or atheist. I care about the kind of person that you will turn out to be. If I raise a respectful kid, I will be proud. I want you to form your own opinions and beliefs and I will do my best to be a good example to you.  Here are some of the hopes I have for you/things I want for you.

 I want you to be the kind of person that....
- Gives up their seat for older people.
-  Holds doors open for people (even if you're a girl, it's a nice thing to do).
-  Calls people "ma'am" or "sir."
-  Educates themselves before going out and voting. I won't care if you have opposing political views from me. I just care that you look into all the facts from all the parties and make your own educated opinion. I don't want you to vote for someone just because that's who I am voting for or because that's my political party of choice and you grew up knowing that.
-  Stands up for what they believe and also stands up for others.
-  Goes after their dreams.
-  Always tries their best.
- Gives things a chance.
- Respects their elders.
- Questions everything.
- Does what they want to do regardless of other people's opinions as long isn’t harmful to others.
- Has good table manners.
- Is Cultured.
- Is respectful of other people’s beliefs and opinions.
- Is open-minded. 
-  Knows that a person's worth is not defined by their salary, house, job, other people’s opinions of you.
- Is proud of their culture.
- Doesn't let people disrespect them.
- Knows the Importance of Family.

  I have a lot of time before I will meet you or give this to you, so I will probably update this as time goes on. I look forward to meeting you in the distant future and seeing what kind of a person you turn out to be. I am sure I will love you no matter what.

Love,
Yo Crazy Mama from 2016 <3 <3 <3


Monday, May 30, 2016

A Few Reasons Why I Am Single


 1. I like to be
      I don't feel the need to be with somebody to be happy. I feel that being in a good relationship is a bonus, but not a necessity in life. The moment I got out of my last relationship, I felt like I was released from jail. I've been so happy ever since and I know I could continue to live a great life as a single lady. I know that I don't need to get married to live the life that I want to live.  

2. I'm very picky
     I know what I want and don't want in a guy. I am picky about how I want to be treated. I want to be respected. Also, if I'm not interested in a guy, I'm not just gonna go out with him to go out. I don't want to waste anyone's time.

3.  I'm tired of guys not making an effort
    I feel like guys don't pick up the phone to call you or ask you out in person anymore. Phone calls can be awkward, but it's a nice touch.  Guys don't organize the first dates anymore.  The last two dates that I went on were planned by me. So annoying.

4.  I enjoy my own company/ I am comfortable with my ways
    I like to do things alone. My "me" time is everything to me. I don't want to lose that. 

5.  I have trust issues
   Those who are close to me know that my last serious relationship was not a healthy one.  I was mistreated. It's hard to trust people again or to let people get close to me. I'm afraid to let people in. I push people away.

6. I am not interested in the guys who like me or the guys I like aren't interested in me
     I am not good at reading people. If someone I like likes me. I usually never know.  If you never ask me out or if you don't tell me how you feel, I won't know. If the guy I like doesn't reach out to me or takes days to communicate, I'll take that as disinterest.

  


   

      
     

Thursday, April 28, 2016

Stalked Part 3

     Today has been an interesting day to say the least. I walked my usual five miles and reached the road where I had parked my car. The street that I parked on had no cars on it except for mine and a  1990s Red Ford F-350 truck parked directly behind me. I found it bizarre that people would park right behind me, when I parked so far away from the trail entrance. Nevertheless, I started to walk toward my car and I noticed there were two guys sitting in the red car. I went ahead and I took a picture of the car behind mine and I decided to walk back to the trail entrance and wait for them to leave. A few minutes passed and they were still sitting there. A friendly old man walked by me and started a conversation. I told him what was going on and he offered to walk me to my car and I accepted. He said, "I'm going to hug you. Don't act freaked out." I pretended he was my dad and said, "Bye, Dad. Love you." I unlocked my car and started it. The second I turned my car on, I heard the truck behind me turn on. It had a really loud engine. I quickly made a u-turn and thanked the old man through the window.  The red truck also made a u-turn and the old man yelled for me to go fast. I sped off as quick as I could and made sure to pull into a place where they wouldn't suspect where I was. Apparently that's something you're not supposed to do, but it saved me. I called the cops and they sent someone to me. I gave them the description of the car and of the driver. I got a really good glimpse of the driver and was able to describe him perfectly. It wasn't anyone I knew. I got a quick glimpse of the passenger, but not enough to really describe him well. The police officer thanked me for paying close attention and asked me to e-mail the picture of the truck to her.
      I always pay attention on the trail to each person and I am constantly looking over my shoulder (something else you're not supposed to do). Now that I remember properly, I think I saw the truck drive by me when I was entering the trail.  I am a bit shaken up. This isn't my first time at this rodeo. If you look back through my old posts, you'll see two other ones talking about other encounters that I've experienced. Luckily, I have come out okay of each situation unharmed, but that doesn't take away from how unsettling it feels to experience this. 
   The moral of the story, again, is to be aware of your surroundings and do not walk alone. I need to practice what I preach. I always nag at my little sister and tell her to be careful at her college and to be extremely careful about walking alone at certain places. Also, it is extremely important to not be looking down at your phone, but to always look people in the eye and pay attention as you walk.  I'll be bringing my special friend, pepper spray,  on my next walk and I won't be going to the same place for a while. I'd also like to give a shout out to my best friend, Melissa, who came over and calmed me down after this happened.

Update: Five days since the incident and I still haven't returned to the same place. I am still rather shaken by the whole thing. Having pepper spray doesn't make me feel any safer. If a bad guy was double my size and grabbed me what good would the pepper spray do? I am not going to live in fear because of my gender, but I am going to take extra precautions.

Here are some tips on what to do if you suspect you're being stalked...
http://lifehacker.com/5960699/how-to-tell-when-youre-being-followed-and-get-away-safely



Sunday, April 17, 2016

Things You Should Stop Doing By The Time You're 25

 I saw a list of things you should stop doing by age 25 and I thought it was stupid, so I decided to make my own list.

1. Comparing Yourself/ Your Life to Others'
I've talked about this in another one of my posts, but honestly it's unhealthy to compare yourself to others. You don't have to do everything like everyone else. Someone got engaged, married, had a baby, moved in with their boyfriend, moved to Europe, got a $100k salary job? Great! Just live your life and good things will come to you if you stay positive. You don't have to follow a certain timeline or accomplish things at a certain time. Be happy for people.

2. Flaking Out On People
Don't commit to something or say you will do something if you don't want to to do it or if you know you won't be able to. If you're too busy or if something comes up, at least have the decency to tell them that instead of not showing up all together. I am not perfect, I've been a flake before, but I straight up tell people if I don't want to do something or if I won't be able to. I've never stood someone up. I have come to realize people will eventually give up on you if you always flake out.  I am not a high maintenance friend but I believe in common courtesy. At the very least give people a heads up. Sometimes you're going to have to cancel, but that's different than constantly not showing up.

3. Taking Your Parents for Granted
You're getting older and so are your parents. You never know how much time you will have with them. Appreciate everything they have done/ do for you. Thank them. Call them. Take them out to eat. Visit them etc. 


4. Playing Games (Dating wise)
I am so picky when it comes to dating that I don't just talk to anyone. I'm not a needy girl, I like to be single and don't need a relationship to be happy, but for the love of God don't play games if we start talking. I hate it when people play games. Just be real and be upfront.  Don't take days to respond to texts.  If you're not feeling it, be honest. That's all.  Don't waste my time. Everyone checks their phone at least once a day. If you've got time for Snapchat, Instagram and Facebook, you've got time to send a darn text. We aren't in high school anymore, y'all. Games aren't cute.

5.  Caring What People Think
I have altogether stopped caring about what people expect from me or think of me. It's my life to live and I'm going to do it my way. People always have the nerve to comment on my film industry work and how it's not stable income or a "real job." If they aren't your bills to pay, it's not your business.  Don't worry about me. "Worry bout yo self." LOL

Tuesday, April 5, 2016

50 Things That Make Me Happy

1. Hiking

2.  Being outside

3. Spending time with family

4.  People that say thank you

5.  Buying books from the bookstore

6. Eating ethnic foods

7. Zombie movies

8. Riding bikes

9. Swimming

10. Kayaking

11. Going to the lake

12. Going to the beach

13. Going to the mountains

14.  Appreciative people

15.  Accepting people

16. Passionate people

17. Getting a handwritten note in the mail

18.  Zumba class

19. Singing

20. Being in front of a video camera

21.  Getting 10,000 steps a day in

22. Watching sunrises and sunsets

23. Getting 7-9 hours of sleep a day

24.  When dogs greet you when you get home

25.  Well-mannered people.

26.  Getting popcorn and a coke slushy at the movies

27.  Practicing French

28. Standing in on set

29. Hugs

30. Getting to the finish line after a race

31.  Shopping at Tj Maxx and Marshall's

32. People who don't have to drink to have a good time

33.  People who can have fun without going out

34. Optimists

35. Encouraging people

36.  When people mind their own business

37. People that smile at strangers

38.  The smell of fresh linens

39. Anything lavender scented

40.  Musicals

41.  When people don't count calories

42.  Sweet tea

43.  When you laugh uncontrollably and can't stop

44. Winning money off scratch-off tickets

45.  Good dreams

46.  Low maintenance friends

47.  Word-search puzzles

48. Pinterest

49.  Braves games

50. Cooking but having someone else do the dishes


Thursday, March 31, 2016

What I Look For in a Guy

   I wrote the same blog post about four years ago. My taste in men has changed since then, but I still want most of the same things. Here's an updated list on what it'll for me to not be single. LOL

Maturity
    I'm too old for games.  Don't be the guy that plays games or takes days to respond to texts or to call. If you're not feeling it, just tell me. Be upfront with me, please.

- Positive Attitude (Preferably an optimist)
 
- Confidence
    Conceited ain't cute, honey. There's a difference between being confident and cocky.
   
- Understanding
     I don't have a set schedule with work. I jump from movie to movie, job to job, anything to pay the bills. I don't want a "real" job. I like working in the film industry. I cannot sit in a cubicle or behind a computer for 45 + hours a week and be happy. That is just not me. Also, I've been single for so long that I really enjoy spending time with my friends or having "me" time. I am not the clingy type and clingy guys scare me.  I look forward to meeting a guy that I will want to spend a lot of time with, though. I need a guy who is okay with all of that.
   
- Gentleman
   
- Has A Social Life
     Hopefully he'll have lots of his friends of his own and can do his own thing when I need space.

- Has Ambition

- Family Oriented

 


 

Tuesday, March 29, 2016

HB 757- It Ain't Over Yet

    Part of me is celebrating that Governor Deal chose to veto House Bill 757, but the other part of me is still very concerned. A couple of senators have said that if Deal planned on vetoing the bill, they would fight to override the veto.
     Our fight to prevent religious discrimination isn't over yet... To convince Senator Crane to let the veto stand, call his office at 470-400-9455

Friday, March 25, 2016

HB 757

     For those of you who don't know, there's a possibility that a bill that would discriminate against many people could be passed in Georgia. It would also allow faith-based companies to fire people for their sexuality and it would allow them to deny services to those whom they do not support based on their religious beliefs. If you don't support the LGBT community, that's on you, but even the Pope has said, "The Church must search out these persons, welcome and accompany them, for a Church with closed doors betrays herself and her mission, and, instead of being a bridge, becomes a roadblock.”
     This bill wouldn't only affect the LGBT community, but also unmarried couples, women, racial minorities, religious minorities, people living with disabilities and many more.  For more specific information on the bill, click here ( http://www.legis.ga.gov/Legislation/en-US/display/20152016/HB/757 ) It's imperative that this bill does not get passed, not only because it's the right thing, but also because a lot of people's jobs and livelihoods depend on it.
   
Companies That Have Threatened to Leave Georgia If HB 757 Gets Passed

  • Disney
  • Marvel
  • AMC
  • Viacom
  • Fox
  • Time Warner
  • Salesforce
  • Telecom
  • Lionsgate
  • Comcast
  • Sony Pictures 
  • Starz
  • DISCA
  • Netflix & many more
         I have heard a lot of people say "Governor Deal probably won't sign it." That doesn't make me feel any better. The fact that the bill is even an idea or that it has made it to the governor's desk makes me sick. I refuse to wait and see what Governor Deal ends up doing. We need to voice our concerns and be heard. Discrimination of any kind is unacceptable.We have come too far for this nonsense.

          For those who do believe that people should be turned away/discriminated against, here are some bible quotes for you.

    1 John 4:20 - Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.

    Hebrews 13:2- Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.

    Matthew 7:1- Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.



    To encourage Governor Deal to Veto this bill....

    1. You can call his office and leave a message and ask him to veto the bill.
    you can call the governors office 404-656-1776 and say you want to tell the governor to veto bill 757!

    2. You can e-mail his office by following the steps on this page.
    http://action.gaunites.org/page/speakout/fadasenvote

    3. You can also attend a rally on April 5th at the capital.
    http://action.gaunites.org/page/s/hb757rally
    If I am not working that day, I will be there to show my support for the LGBT community and for many other people that this bill would affect including all my friends that work in the film industry.

    Wednesday, February 17, 2016

    The Importance of Sunscreen

    *UPDATE*Biopsy results came back. I am skin cancer free! I lucked out again! Thank the Lord!!!

        Early last year, I had my first skin check at the dermatologist. I had two moles removed from my back first as a shave biopsy. One of the results came back fine, the other lab for the other mole had detected abnormal cells, so I had to go back in for another biopsy. That time they did a punch biopsy and I had to get stitches to close the area of the removal. Thank goodness the punch biopsy removed all the bad cells, but I now have a scar that looks like a cigarette burn on my right shoulder. I now go every six months for full body skin checks because I have a history of having atypical moles which have a greater chance into turning into cancer.
         I went back to see my dermatologist two weeks ago and had a mole removed from my leg and one from my arm. The one on my leg was mildly atypical, so I didn't have to get a punch biopsy only a skin biopsy, but the one on my arm turned out to be mildly atypical. It's been a week and I am anxiously awaiting to get back the test results. Those who know me well know how pale I am. In the summer, I love being outside, but I don't lay out to tan much . I am always careful to use sunblock. If I barely sit outside to tan, imagine the risk for those of you who tan all the time. Please go to the dermatologist and get your skin checked out. It's better to be safe than sorry.

    Saturday, February 6, 2016

    Pet Peeves

    1. Loud Eaters
         My poor mom and sister have received a love of crap talk from me over the years. They have great manners and it's not that they chew with their mouth open, but I have gotten annoyed with them for making noises they can't control. Like breathing too loudly out of their nose or if I hear them swallow a drink.  Although I haven't been diagnosed by a professional, I'm pretty sure I have Misophonia, which means hatred of certain sounds.  Misophonia causes you to have negative emotions like anger or fright when you hear certain sounds. Some of the sounds that drive me crazy are: people chewing with their mouths open,  people breathing too loudly, people crunching on chips or popcorn, people who smack their gum, my mom saying "ahhh" after she takes a sip of orange juice, when you're in a movie theater and you hear peoples hands in their popcorn, when people sniffle in a quiet room etc.

    2. People Who Don't Make Eye Contact With You As You Speak To Them At The Table
         There is nothing more insulting to me than when I am talking to somebody they are only half-a**ing their conversation with me. By that, I mean that they are either looking down at their phones or they turn their back to me mid-conversation. So rude. I would rather make awkward eye contact with somebody or be bored with what they are telling me than be rude to them by not listening or looking at them as they are speaking to me. I'm not saying we have to look at each other the whole time in a conversation, but if you're at a table with somebody, I think it's the polite thing to do if you're being spoken to. If you're both looking at the menu, that's different, but I think you get the picture.

    3. People Who Stick Their Nose Into My Non Existent Love Life

         I am happily single and I want to explain my mentality to some people who may not understand it. When the right person comes along, I'll be open into seeing where things go, but I am not one of the those girls who needs to have a boyfriend to be happy. I have some really great role models in my life. One of my aunts never got married, and she is an extremely happy and successful lady. I believe that you are in control of your own happiness. You shouldn't only rely on being in a relationship to have a high level of contentedness. It's okay to be alone. Alone doesn't always mean lonely.

    4. When People Do Nice Things For Others And Grow Big Headed About It
         If you're going to do something nice for somebody, I think you should do it because you want to make someone happy. There's nothing I hate more than when people list what they have done for people and make a fuss about it. For me, that takes away from the sincerity of the  kind action.

    5.  People Who Take Days To Respond To Texts
         Everyone has their phone on them. If you are too busy for someone, send them a courtesy text instead of leaving them hanging for days.