Sitting still

I have been meeting the most interesting types of people lately, which is truly a blessing. I feel that I am growing by simply speaking with them. I am realizing that I still have so much to learn, both inside and outside the classroom. The broadcasting academy is unlike any other schooling I’ve experienced in the past. My intellectual nature and academic background has not been as advantageous as I thought they would be. Instead, I have to work hard to master the technical side of production, and concentrate on my creative nature instead (which wasn’t used as much in my college education). I hope to find a compromise soon. Sometimes I question the importance of my four-year degree, but I always end up with the same conclusion—very important. Most reporter jobs I’ve seen posted require a BA of some sort. The area of study does not matter, so long as they know that I have the ability to understand concepts and think critically. I have always valued education, and I have always imagined myself pursuing higher education and more degrees. It doesn’t seem to be necessary in the field of broadcasting, or perhaps I am aiming too low. Many successful people have more titles, and multiple roles. I could still aim for a master’s degree to be able to teach. I could also still pursue a law degree to be able to practice if I so choose. Or perhaps obtain an M.Div since the topic interests me anyway. I could always argue that any advance knowledge in any other field could help me in my broadcasting career.

Hmmm… I can sense myself getting too academic at this moment. It’s amazing how I can switch modes, and start discussing pop culture, and other twenty-something topics in a snap.

My vocal coach tells me that my voice gets too high pitched at times. A professional reported said I smiled too much. A local reporter told me to sit still when in front of the camera. I agree. I need to work on toning everything down a bit.

My Soiree

My Soiree was absolutely amazing! I sincerely felt so loved and appreciated. It was perfect! :-D

My Soiree 07

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Reflective moment

My 25^th year started out right, and I’m happy to report that things have been going well for a week now. My birthday party was the best one yet. Everything was absolutely perfect and even better than anything I had imagined. I have such wonderful friends!

I feel extremely blessed for my family, friendships, and accomplishments. I must admit, there have been times when my I’ve been unsatisfied with my status when comparing myself to my peers, but I also understand that we all have varying goals with different means of attaining them. I’m glad that I’ve determined my goal, and now I have to work on getting there.

Classes are getting easier each day. I have been slightly distant from my classmates, but that’s because I choose to push myself to perform beyond what has been expected. Despite all that, I still strive to remain friendly and helpful. I had an unpleasant experience when I first started, and I hope that no one else goes through that. I understand that the field in general is competitive, but I am also confident enough in my abilities to help others.

The internship with KOCE is also going pretty well. I enjoy meeting officials and politicians in the area. I also enjoy talking to the host and producers. I am less nervous now, which is great because now I can actually pay attention to the interviews and offer my two cents at the debriefing. I am very thankful for the internship because I am able to observe, ask questions, and simply shadow without very high expectations. If things go well, perhaps I won’t be moving back home afterall.

My friendships have been great which I’m very thankful for. I was saddened that some thought to be important ignored me on my special day, but many more friends remembered, which clearly outweighed the others. With many friends made, why must I strive for those who demonstrate no care? Good question. I suppose they could be just as easily forgotten.

The holiday season is upon us, and I am very excited. I have received many gift cards from my celebration, so the next couple weeks are saved for numerous trips to South Coast and Fashion Island!

Moving on

The thought of starting over terrifies me.

Six years ago, I was both scared and excited to move 5 hours from home to live in a new city, and be with strangers. Who would have thought that I would engage in some of the most outrageous and unforgettable events, and meet my closest friends in So Cal?

After my program at the Academy, I would have to move again. Reflecting back on the outcome from my initial move, one could easily argue that I could be engaging in even more unforgettable events, and meeting more close friends. But at the moment, I am not ready for anything “better” because quite honestly, who knows if it truly would be.

Making friends in your twenties is so much harder than it was when you were two. Back then, anyone who has anything you want to play with could easily be your best friend. Not to mention having your nanny right behind you whose skirt you could hide under if you get scared. Now you are exposed and have to deal with the consequences of everything.

Everything is well right now. I have a nice little apartment with all the amenities I want and need. I have a roommate whom I have known since dorm days. I have a group of close-knit friends that I can trust with all my baggage. My church is exceptional and is reflective of my own thoughts and convictions. I love my Life Group and their willingness to step out of their comfort zone. All is well.

However, sometimes we need to think of the future. Though the status quo is fine and dandy, I will need to establish a career and make money to support myself. Unfortunately, Orange County is not media central and I will not get a job as a news broadcaster here. Hence the need to move.

If only more television stations were in Orange County, my dilemma would be resolved.

Future plans...

I have decided to jump into broadcasting 100%. That means no Plan B. I will give this career 2 years to take off, and think of nothing else. I thought about taking the GRE just in case and then apply to grad school if I don’t find a job. Or perhaps asking my UCI professors to start writing my letters of recommendation for law school and actually follow through with it this time around, but I have time for those in 5 or 10 years. Knowing me, if I have a Plan B, I end up using it, and frankly, I don’t want to. I want to focus on improving my speaking skills, bettering my on-screen appearance, and being technical savvy to increase the likelihood of getting hired.

I am also deeply aware of the consequences of this plan. If I don’t find a job, I will be unemployed again, and without compensation this time. I also know that I may end up taking on a job I don’t like for the meantime while trying to re-establish myself, while my peers are moving up in their respective fields.

If I do end up getting a job, it may start off at some rural location with very limited news coverage. It doesn’t matter. I can use that to my advantage to put together incredible footage for my reel and use it to get hired at a network or national show. This could also mean being away from my family, friends, and church. This will be the most challenging because I value my relationships. Unfortunately, the media industry is unlike other occupations where you can work anywhere. There are only so many news stations and not all cities have them.

These are all hypothetical. Who knows what will actually end up happening. God, help me.

Reporting live from...

One week prior to moving down to Orange County my freshman year, I called the UC Irvine Humanities department because I couldn’t find the journalism classes I wanted to register for. That was when I realized the strange predicament I was in. UC Irvine did not offer journalism classes, and thus my dream of becoming a news anchor woman may never become a reality.

For the next four years, I held on to my dream as I studied Political Science hoping that one day I would still become a political correspondent. I wrote articles for the paper and various newsletters. I was asked to host and emcee several events. At one point or another, I prayed that those little experiences would still pave way to me becoming a broadcaster.

By junior year, however, mass communication became just a dream. Too distant to ever become anything worth announcing, I focused on other things. I chose out of law school and pursued a career in public relations instead. In the midst of it all, I still craved the spotlight. I attended live tapings whenever I could. I volunteered at major media events in the area. I continued to take journalism classes elsewhere.

For the past month, I worked hard to convince potential employers to hire me as the Public Relations Specialist. I know what I’m doing, my portfolio is impressive, but when asked where I see myself in 5-10 years, I can honestly say I do not envision myself behind a desk drafting up press releases for some other people. I cannot imagine myself contacting the media publicizing another up-and-coming star. I want to be the media. I want to be the star.

I have lived a life pursuing to be someone else. I pursued law because my family think I am intelligent and will do well in the legal field. Then public relations was something I was becoming good at and some talents could be honed and utilized. But my childhood dream was to become the host of a national morning talk show. It has always been. I know the competition is keen. More is needed than just proper speech. One must be attractive, sociable, versatile, and very persistent. I will give myself two years.

There's no business like show business

Glitz and glamour. Red carpet events, celebrity interviews, and VIP treatments. These have always fascinated me, and living in Southern California, not impossible to attain.

I’ve had my share of the red carpet, some fashion shows, and mingling with local celebs, but I’ve never really pursued anything beyond that.

But now I have the opportunity to explore this exciting world.

I attended my first casting call in Hollywood today for a radio broadcaster. I’ve never really thought much about the radio, but I was reminded that Oprah Winfrey and even Ryan Seacrest started in this field prior to their television fame.

Hollywood, famous for its television studios and stars is unimpressive and dirty. It took me three hours to get there from Orange County, and another 45 minutes to find parking remotely close to the American Radio Network studio. There were homeless men and women everywhere. I wonder if they were aspiring stars once.

I arrived right on time, but I was apparently late since many people were already there before me. There was a good mix of people ranging in age and color. I loved the diversity. Unlike television, radio seems to be more accepting because voice talent is more crucial than looks. Nonetheless, people still showed up well-dressed with headshots. There were also tons of really hot-looking people. "Welcome to Hollywood," I muttered to myself.

I realized how unprepared I was for this audition. My headshot is nearly a year old, and my look has definitely changed. I need to get it updated. My last couple headshots cost several hundreds dollars per hour for the photographer and his crew of hair and makeup artists. A shoot is usually 2-4 hours. I suddenly empathized with all the struggling folks trying to break into showbiz. I now understand how some end up doing compromising acts just to make ends meet and with the great hope of breaking into the industry one way or another.

My resume is also practically bare. I have no “real” broadcasting experience except for the morning announcements in highschool, which I left out. It has been nearly six years since. I do recall turning down a 2am slot for my university radio station because it was "inconvenient" for me at the time.

The audition itself was not intimidating. We each got our own studio with a microphone and all the broadcasting gadgets and we read a script to be recorded and listened to by the director and producer. We’ll know by tomorrow if we made it to a callback.

This could very well be the start of something new… or just another interesting experience.

The Ten

1) Line dancing is totally cool. Learning steps and the music they go with is a bit complicated, but people are generally nice and willing to dictate steps to newcomers. I now need to save up for nice country boots and a cowboy hat.

2) Chivalry is not dead. I was walking behind an elderly couple in their 70s and the man still opened the car door for his woman. In the past, I’ve only observed this act on first dates, or newlyweds, but I don’t think it was the case here.

3) I can’t tell people’s age. A 31 year old acts like he’s mid-20s and a 24 year old acts totally mature. Or it could just be context of our meeting. It does make me question whether or not people think I’m my age when we meet. I had a couple people ask if I were still in college. This could go either way.

4) You can never be too old to pick up anything new. Given my indefinite free time, I was able to take up four new activities and actually am enjoying them. My body is a bit sore from it all, but it’ll be fine.

5) Good friends will always be there. :-)

6) My daddy loves me. :-)

7) I clean out my closet each week, but I continue to have plenty to wear. I don’t get it.

8) The library is an awesome place. I have to halt expanding my book collection due to recent personal budget cuts, so I have just been borrowing books instead. Not having money won’t stop me from my love of reading!

9) I’m an expert on giving dating advice, but I can’t seem to help myself in this area.

10) Quarter-life crisis is a pain!

Questions of the heart

Once upon a time (as the story goes) there was a beautiful maiden, an absolute enchantress. She might be the daughter of a king or a common servant girl, but we know she is a princess at heart. She is young with a youth that seems eternal. Her flowing hair, her deep eyes, her luscious lips, her sculpted figure – she makes the rose blush for shame; the sun is pale compared to her light. Her heart is golden, her love as true as an arrow. But this lovely maiden is unattainable, the prisoner of an evil power who holds her captive in a dark tower. Only a champion may win her; only the most valiant, daring, and brave warrior has a chance of setting her free. Against all hope he comes’ with cunning and raw courage he lays siege to the tower and the sinister one who holds her. Much blood is shed on both sides; three times the knight is thrown back, but three times he rises again. Eventually the sorcerer is defeated; the dragon falls, the giant is slain. The maiden is his; through his valor he has won her heart. On horseback they ride off to his cottage by a stream in the woods for a rendezvous that gives passion and romance new meaning.

Every man is haunted by the question, “Am I really a man? Have I got what it takes… when it counts?”

Every woman is haunted by the question, “Am I lovely? Will you pursue me? Do you delight in me? Will you fight for me?”

Planning ahead

I was never one of those girls who dreamed about getting married. I haven’t planned my wedding day, chosen flowers, centerpieces, gown, or even bridesmaids. I’ve always considered myself to be too independent and much too ambitious to settle down. I still get reminded of a comment I made at Disneyland, “I don’t plan on having children, they are simply deterrents to my career,” while observing the mothers pushing strollers around the park. I also never understood the girls who simply wanted to be housewives. I remember sharing where we see ourselves in 10-15 years and I proudly stated that I am going to be a politician or host of a national morning talk show, as a handful girls announced that they see themselves staying home and caring for the children.

But lately, I’ve felt a tug in my heart and I don’t know what to do about it.

My counselor had me verbalize my short-term and long-term goals last week. Career-wise, it sounded fine. I’m on a roll. But then she asked about marriage. “Umm, I guess that would be nice,” I replied. “But where does it fit in?” she asked. “Umm, after I become an associate, and before I am declared partner.” “When would you have kids?” she added. “After I become a partner.” Gosh, this is way too easy. “But would you have time to care for the kids once you become a partner?” Pause. I’ve considered staying home for the first five years, because current research in brain development indicates that the emotional, physical and intellectual environment that a child is exposed to in the early years of life has a profound impact on their overall well being. And because I plan on becoming a good mother, I simply cannot rely on some nanny to provide my kids what they truly deserve.

I looked her in the eye, and declared it is way too soon to be thinking about kids. I don’t even have a significant other.

But apparently, these are things one should plan for. And for someone like me who likes to plan ahead, it is a good idea to figure out some things for my future to prevent additional pain and heartache down the road.

Needless to say, I had a long drive home from my appointment. There is so much more to consider. I want to be the best at whatever I do. But at the moment, it seems quite impossible to be the best at everything, because something is bound to be dropped. I must figure out my priorities and plan accordingly. For someone as ambitious as I am, the thought of staying home to care for the children still does not appeal to me. And currently, thinking for the welfare of little people I do not have is a bit farfetched. Perhaps my mind and heart will change when it actually happens.

An unusual weekend

This was the first weekend I had nothing major planned.

It was so weird to wake up and actually have the option of going back to bed. So that’s exactly what I did. I pulled the down comforter over my head and rolled around under the covers like I was six again. I enjoyed being wrapped in the fluffy padding, inhaling the sweet smell of mango-pineapple, and listening to the muffled sounds from the outdoors.

I laid in bed for another two hours before getting dressed and going to the gym. I usually read my British-chic lits (a guilty pleasure), but I was content just thinking. I thought about the boys from my past and if I will ever run into them again. I also thought about my future… but there’s really not much to think about. When I was younger, I used to daydream a lot. But now that I am slightly older and more realistic, I’ve come to realize that some things may never be. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a major optimist, but lately I’ve been contemplating the things that could potentially happen and those that could not.

I thought about everything on my drive home, as I took a shower, and got dressed to do the grown up stuff. I took my car for its quarterly check up. By now its become a routine and the people pretty much know what to do with it. Because it took a couple hours, I decided to walk around.

I found myself in a Latino supermarket. The smell of the meat department made me nauseous. But everything else was pleasant. I love observing the Latino community interact with each other. A couple women came up to talk to me, but I just smiled. I don’t know Espanol. I spent a good portion of my time in the bakery. The pastries, cakes, and bread looked so good. Too bad my carb intake is restricted for a couple months. How I survive Cinco de Mayo will be a miracle. Why is it that the year I decide to celebrate this glorious holiday, is the year I decide to stick to my diet? Pathetic.

As I slowly walked to pick up Grace (my car), I thought about the time that I could have had another car. I got into a major car accident at an internship the summer I graduated. My parents were going to purchase me my dream car, but certain convictions at the time compelled me to ask for a more practical one. This was a difficult decision, because it goes against everything else I know and used to. But each time I drive Grace, I am reminded of the importance of that conviction and my relationship with God due to it. He continually challenges me.

This morning I woke up super early, but instead of staying in bed like yesterday, I decided to get up to play tennis. I still haven’t found a partner, but the wall works. I took a break a couple times to watch a father and son challenge. The little boy looks about 8, and had the fiercest backhand I've seen in months. His forehand was adequate, but his backhands kept surprising his father. He also grunted everytime he returned the ball, which was rather cute. After about an hour of hitting the wall, I decided to test the track. It felt so good to be running outside again. I started thinking what a waste of time my gym membership is sometimes. I hate being cooped up indoor running in place. I love the feel of air against my face. I love the smell of fresh grass. I love feeling alive, and free. I love that there was no one else but me, and I can run as fast or as slow as I want and not feel like I’m being watched and critiqued by others.

After the workout, I decided to walk around again and noticed masses of people walking towards something. Curious girl that I am, I followed. There was a swap meet on the other side of the courts. There were hundreds of vendors selling antiques, cheap housewares, imitation purses, and randon materials. Most clothes were only 50 cents or $1. I enjoyed walking around, watching what people purchase. Some people went there for groceries. A man had an entire shopping cart filled with toilet paper, maxi pads, fruit, vegetables, and a couple shirts. Children roamed the area unsupervised. People kept coming up to speak to me, but I was unable to communicate. I must have looked lost or something in my tennis outfit and bag. Next time I’ll come more appropriately dressed.

I also found time to finally do my laundry. I have enough clothes to last me a couple months. The laundromat is an interesting place. I don't think you'll ever see such ecclectic group of people in such close proximity. There was a man doing half a load. He sat on the bench near his 7-series BMW. He was reading the LA Times. I questioned why he wouldn't have his own machine at home; he certainly looks like he can afford it. And why do just half a load. It definitely looked suspect. There was also a couple in their late twenties. They could be living together in an apartment closeby. They weren't speaking to each other, just going through the motions of folding clothes. They may have had an argument earlier and were giving each other the silent treatment. It was just unusual. The best thing though, was a mom and son in what seems to be a little laundry business. They had plenty of loads to do and they kept going. The 8-year old boy was extremely polite and cooperative. He also smiled a great deal and whistled to random tunes. He unloaded and loaded the machine, then helped his mother fold the clothes and place them in neat stacks to wrap and label. The mother kept telling him to take a break, but he just kept on going. I was extremely touched by their actions.

In her shoes

I saw them midweek while at the Mac counter at Nordstrom. They looked classy, yet trendy, sexy, but also comfortable. They were obviously the newest set of “it” shoes of the season.

After my purchase, I headed to the shoe department to purchase the shoes, but it didn’t look like Nordstrom sold the pair. Hence the beginning of my quest for the season’s hottest shoes.

Most department stores had a similar style, but not the exact pair I wanted. I was looking for espadrille wedge sandals with a peek toe design on a black canvas upper trim. The choices either had sling backs, covered toes, extra ribbons, shiny material, or a different color. I was so determined to find the pair I wanted; I decided not to settle for anything more or less.

I visited every mall and department store in Irvine, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, and Newport Beach. I also visited discount stores, thrift stores, and even Payless Shoe Stores. I also searched the web, but I could not find them.

Even more determined now, I decided to dedicate a portion of my weekend to finding the shoes. I was also open to the possibility of visiting stores in North County, or even driving over to Los Angeles again in search for these shoes.

On the 405, I remembered a coworker speaking fondly of another store that usually carries brand name items. I saw the store, so I exited immediately and went in.

Lo and behold, there they were. Exactly like the girl’s. Perfect!

I hurriedly found my size and tried them on.

I turned around to face the mirror and gasped.

The bloody shoes did not look flattering on me at all!

All that time and energy spent on researching, finding, driving around, looking for these pair of shoes and they end up not looking good on me. Needless to say, I did not take them home. (I did consider purchasing them anyway because I have searched for them too long—but what’s the point if I don’t wear them? I developed this habit of only purchasing items only if I absolutely love them).

Though this particular situation deals with something materialistic and perhaps even superficial, my determination to reach a goal, and getting what I want was reinforced. At least now I know I shouldn’t get those shoes.

Through various experiences, I learned to set goals and work hard on achieving them. Though some may argue that it was not worth it and I ended up wasting valuable time and effort; I beg to differ. I think it is better to find a closure on things. Instead of constantly daydreaming about all the “what ifs”, whether it be a boy, a job, a degree, or God knows what else. At least now I can put an end to it and deal with the reality, though often times it's harder.

$100,000 richer

While over 24,000 marathon runners returned to work today, two runners' lives are forever changed.

It was a privilege to watch the 22nd LA Marathon in the media center room, just a few feet from the finish line, observing all the camera shots, while the rest of America watched commercials, or whatever NBC chose to show on air.

I was in awe of 29 year old Abebe Tola as she ran the first 19 miles alone, and several minutes ahead of everyone else. I saw in her a strong, determined, and highly capable woman.

The commentator questioned her strategy and whether it was a good idea to break away from the rest of the elite women runners.

I didn’t care for strategies. I was simply rooting for Tola.

As the race came to a close, I walked out of the media center, proudly displaying my all-access pass. My task was to wait for the Elite winners and escort them back to the media center for the press conference.

I excitedly waited for Tola to cross the finish line, but Fred Mogaka crossed first, taking with him the title and $100,000. A few more men crossed, then two women… then Tola.

Camera men swarmed her immediately while I introduced myself. “I am Mary Joy and I will be escorting you to the press room.”

She smiled faintly, and murmured, “water”. Then I noticed she looked fatigued and unable to walk. I cried out for the paramedics and asked for water and blanket. We guided her to the infirmary where the professionals took care of her.

I stood by her side, worried to death. There I was, a complete stranger to the woman I had just watched and adored on television. The woman who looked so powerful and strong just an hour ago was now laying on the bed shaking.

I prayed for God to rescue her.

She was dismissed half an hour later and we trotted back to the media room. People who had watched the beginning of the race, then ran over to the finish line were sure Tola had won and congratulated her.

I could not imagine what was going on in Tola’s head. I was so sure she had the title and the $100,000. I would have been thinking about the ways to spend it. In Tola’s case, how she would support her family and young children back in Ethiopia. For twenty long miles, she was on a roll. Just a few more miles and her life would have been changed forever.

Another person’s life is forever changed. His name is Fred Mogaka, 26 and from Kenya. His sponsor told me in the bathroom that before coming to America, Mogaka had asked her husband for $50 to feed his family while he was away. Now he has $120,000 and a car. Mogaka called his wife when he recovered and said, “honey, you know that vegetable garden you’ve always wanted? You have it… and as big as you want it to be!”

$100,000 would have changed some aspects of my life. I would probably buy a new car. A better dresser. Get my hair done. And purchase a year supply of MAC makeup... and yes, a vegetable garden would be nice.

TV Break

A fabulous weekend lands me on national television.

From celebrating with a sorority sister on winning a happy hour party at a pub in Newport, to watching a brainless movie on materialistics girls, then an elegant wine and cheese birthday party, to a relaxing spa treatment-- I didn’t think my weekend could get any better!

Boy, was I wrong!

I drove up to Hollywood with two of my closest friends for the premier taping of NBC’s newest show, Thank God You Are Here! It is an improvisational comedy showcasing the comedic skills and styles of four celebrities as they compete to outdo each other’s performance in various unexpected situations.

Right before the first skit, the woman sitting next to me was replaced by a cast member. Cameras suddenly surrounded us, as the cast members instructed the cameramen to “make sure she’s in it” pointing to me. Fran Drescher played a ruthless park developer sabotaging the pristine ocean front while my “friend” was the community member and an environmentalist questioning her plans. All the while, I had a stupid smile on my face thinking this was going to be on national television-- I need to be on my best behavior, while trying to appear natural. Unfortunately, the camera did not capture my good side (left). I could not look at the camera, nor the screen, but I felt the hot lights and the stares. Good God, it was weird!

I was one of the few people who received a free shirt from the emcee-- I think it was for lending the network my wonderful tv face. :-)

Thank God You Are Here! premiers in the Spring on NBC.

A first time

Last night, I joyfully baby-sat for my mentor’s children as she and her husband attended a wine-tasting event for work. This was an exciting and rare opportunity! I definitely found it worth giving up a Friday night to spend time with two of my favorite kids.

There was a slight challenge though. I have no baby-sitting experience. I am a 24 year old woman with no baby-sitting experience. Never had I changed a diaper, washed a child, nor put a child to bed... prior to last night.

Due to my sheer excitement, I rushed out of work at 4:55 and arrived at the family’s home 15 minutes prior to my desired arrival time. The parents were just getting ready. The younger of the two, a one-year old, looked suddenly nervous upon my arrival. He carefully watched me for a good half an hour. After awhile, he warmed up and showed me books and stuffed animals. He happily waved goodbye to his parents as they left and the two’s evening were now dependent on me.

We watched a Winnie the Pooh movie, which they apparently loved and sang along to. The four-year old knew all the words. The little one just followed along, his tone expressive, but words were slurred. Then it was time to warm up the milk and put him to bed.

I was nervous. So was he.

His night attire, fresh diaper, and baby wipes were all layed out on the counter. I looked at all the items briefly. Looks easy enough, I thought. So we proceeded with the evening ritual. My hands started to shake. He must have sensed my novice approach because he started to whimper. I struggled with the diaper for a couple minutes, and then decided to call my roommate for a demonstration. (She arrived after dinner and was playing with the four-year old). She told me I had it backwards. Poor thing. I thanked her. Then I was alone once again with the toddler as we tried to figure out the onesie. I was shocked to see that he knew exactly what he was doing. He knew to fit his arms through the holes. He knew to raise his feet for the pants. He knew to stay still as I buttoned up the shirt. It was wonderful.

Then he finished his milk and started to rub his eyes. I held him for awhile, soothing him to sleep. Then I layed him on his crib as he fell asleep to the sound of lullabies.

Thrifty living

Finances used to never be a problem... until I started living on my own. Rent, utilities, car payments, insurance, and food are manageable. Then there are those unexpected expenses such as wisdom teeth removal plus anesthesia, car maintenance, and high interest rates on credit cards. Additionally, there are those frequent trips to the hair salon, nail spa, and personal enrichment meetings. At the end of the month, I cringe at the accumulated costs. Welcome to my world...

Holiday overspending and an upcoming trip to the Big Apple compels me to manage my finances better. It’s been challenging, but it has also been very fun.

I am approaching an entire month devoid of shopping. Despite this, I still managed to put together new sets of outfits. It’s interesting how resourceful I become when forced to be. I also found a large amount of “new” clothes, with tags still attached. It was also surprising to find many similar clothes. At least my taste has been consistent.

Expenditure for outings is also controlled. I like to equate “thrifty living” with “becoming aware”. One begins to look for fun, yet affordable activities. This then leads to becoming cultured. Who would have thought entrance to the Getty Museum was free? What a great way to appreciate art, spend the day with others who are just as mesmerized, and come home truly inspired. There are also plenty of independent films that are not only good, but intellectually stimulating. The DVD place near my apartment rents movies for only $1. The choices are a bit limited, thus compelling me to look outside my usual movie genre.

Then there’s community. I have been inviting friends over for dinner instead of eating out. This works out perfectly because I enjoy hosting, and I get to cook.

Books and Shopping

Everyday after work, I look forward to sitting by my little heater, snuggling under the pink blanket my mom crocheted years ago, and reading one of my books, while sipping a glass of wine. It is a drastic change from my once chaotic schedule, but I definitely welcome it.

When I am not reading my self-help, or character development books, I happily crack open contemporary adult novels in the likes of those by Sophie Kinsella. These would be the pink paperbacks usually with a graphic of a shoe or a shopping bag on the front cover.

I find myself laughing out loud at the hilarious antics of the 20-something young character trying to make it in the world of journalism or marketing. The best part is that I can relate full-heartedly with the protagonist.

Most of these novels are pretty much the same. They are about a young woman, finding herself in her mid-twenties nowhere she had imagined herself being years ago. She struggles to make it big, but is confronted by her own insecurities and self-doubt. Also illustrated are her family troubles, supportive friends, celebrity sightings, boy drama, and financial problems. Welcome to my world.

Last night, I wrote a check for an extremely large sum for late fees. The amount I saved for opening a card for a couple department stores did not even come close to the amount I paid for the fees. Lesson from this: pay on time and charge less.

Earlier this year, I was inspired by an article I read about a group of friends who successfully refrained from shopping for an entire year. As a result, they saved tons of money, developed healthier perspective on worldly materials, and were resourceful with their belongings.

I have had many friends go on “shopping fasts” as a result of a conviction to be good stewards of their money, and to give to charities or ministries instead. For some reason, I never joined these friends (I do give, but I have never joined them on their fasts). So honestly, I was a bit surprised to find myself intrigued by an article featured on a secular online journal. I wanted to go slow, so I decided to aim for three months… and what a challenge! It has been an incredibly difficult two weeks! Just yesterday, I found the most perfect pair of Sevens jeans for a fraction of its actual retail price. A $244 pair of Sevens jeans for less than $50! While my mind was screaming this bargain only comes once in a blue moon, and I must grab it right away or I would dream about it for months on end, I decided to stand by my goal to not make any purchases. Sure, I would have saved $200, but I think sticking to my "fast" is priceless.

I feel my life slowly changing by simply adhering to this otherwise simple plan. For lunch, instead of heading over to the mall, I have been going to the park to reflect and journal. I return to work feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. I have also determined that I have all the basics for my wardrobe and have no need to make any additional purchases. I need to better utilize my wardrobe to maximize their use. This past weekend, I cleaned out my closet, giving away items I’ve only worn twice and have no intention of ever wearing again. It was difficult parting with a couple DKNY tops and Express jeans, and the thought did cross my mind that the homeless probably would not even care nor notice the brand names, but I do know that they need these clothes more than I do.