Liberty and justice for all

UPDATE: Here is a link to sign the petition for Ryan to receive his Eagle Scout award. Sign the petition HERE

(This post isn't meant to offend anyone. It's purpose is simply to make you think. You may disagree with me entirely. I'm okay with that. You know why? Because that is your right as an American and as a human being. You and I are each entitled to our separate opinions, no matter what the other says.)

I pledge allegiance to the flag

of the United States of America,

and to the republic for which it stands, 

one nation, under God, indivisible, 

with liberty and justice for all.

Those are some beautiful words right there. Taken at face value, they are something that we are so used to hearing that we forget how truly inspiring and beautiful they really are. It's about love and respect for our country, patriotism for the ideals that we were founded upon, and the promise of a just and fair world for the people. 

"With liberty and justice for all." 

According to Google, liberty is defined as: "The state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one's way of life," while justice is defined as: "The quality of being fair and reasonable." 

The state of being free within society. Not being oppressed by restrictions imposted on one's way of life. Fair and reasonable. Remember those words while you read this post...

Last night, I had a conversation with a very dear friend. A former Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America (BSA), he came out during college. That's right. He's gay. He became an Eagle Scout while growing up in North Carolina, years before his sexual orientation would become a part of his life. He was a kid, who loved joining with his fellow troop members and doing what kids love to do. Be themselves. Unfortunately, the Boy Scouts of America have recently come to the conclusion that they will not recognize or admit young men who are gay into their organization, because they believe that homosexuality is morally wrong. After listening to the message broadcast by the BSA and the hurt and humiliation that they have inflicted not only on scouts, but on homosexual parents attempting to be troop leaders, my friend has made the decision to return his Eagle Scout award. I guess you would have to know a little bit about him to see how passionate about this he is. Fortunately, with his permission, he sent me the letter that he is enclosing with his award to the BSA:

Boy Scouts of America,
When I was in middle school and high school, I treasured the BSA. Going to meeting was something that I looked forward to every week. The experiences of camping, of bonding with my brother Scouts, of learning the values that make young men into strong leaders were all things that made me incredibly proud. Today, I am ashamed to be an Eagle Scout. It breaks my heart that an organization that I so loved and that made me the man that I am today would betray a scout- who has fulfilled every requirement for this organization’s highest honor simply because he is gay. I am currently applying to graduate schools for Theology, which was also my undergraduate major. I have spent a great deal of time reading the Bible and, gentlemen, what I can tell you, is that the overwhelming message is one of love and justice. Moreover, the general consensus among many biblical scholars today is that the “sin of Sodom”, as it would have been understood in historical context, refers to failure to practice hospitality. On these grounds, I think the reasonable assertion is that it is in fact the BSA who are the real Sodomites and the ones who are actually failing in their duty to God. Your actions in denying this young man his Eagle Scout award are neither loving nor just. As a gay man, a former Eagle Scout, and a committed Christian, I can tell you that I do not condone your sin. I have therefore, enclosed materials from my Eagle Award. Ryan Andresen has not failed in his duty, the BSA has. So my sodomite friends, kindly take this award and stick it up your ass.

If the letter isn't enough to make you think, then maybe this is. Not only is my friend returning HIS Eagle Scout award...his father is, too. To show support for his son, his father is returning an award that he has proudly held for decades. Unfortunately, the feeling is no longer of pride, but of shame.

I left out his name, not because he is embarrassed about his decision. The exactly opposite, actually. I left out his name because, although he is one of my closest friends, it is not my story to tell. I asked him for permission to share this letter and parts of his story with you so that you can see how distinctly against the message that we preach every day in our schools the BSA truly is. 

Liberty and justice for all. Not for only straight people. Not for only whites, only blacks, only my grandmother's second cousin twice removed. For all. Everyone. This is the promise that we have made every day for as long as I can remember. We have stood together as one throughout our years of schooling, in different organizations such as the Junior Women's Club that I am a part of, every Rotary Club meeting I have ever attended, and as I'm sure, during each Boy Scout meeting. 

So the next time you speak those words while turned towards our beautiful and regal flag, take a few moments to actually reflect on your words and what they mean to you, and to our country. I understand that the BSA is a private organization, but if they truly consider themselves the Boy Scouts of AMERICA, then maybe they should take a second look at how their policy violates the very flag that they represent. 

So read it again. Study it. Dig deep and think about what these words of pure poetry mean to you. 

I pledge allegiance to the flag

of the United States of America,

and to the republic for which it stands, 

one nation, under God, indivisible, 

with liberty and justice for all.

Chasing Love

So if you've been reading my blog, you know that on Thursday I brought home a beautiful four year old terrier Schnauzer mix named Chase. I fell in love with Chase at the Humane Society of Catawba County the day he was surrendered. He had been tied up in his owners yard for the majority of his life, and he is a little bit skittish around people. He is also one of the coolest animals that I have ever met. He has so much love to give once he trusts you. He always has kisses and snuggles for us, he sleeps on me on the couch (all 50 pounds of him!), and he loves sleeping with me in the morning after Brian leaves for work.

I think that the best animals are rescues, because they are so full of love and kindness. Chase is attached to us at the hip after only a weekend, and I can't wait to see how incredible of a friend he is going to be for our family. It really brings to mind the question, "Who saved who?" If I measure it correctly, Chase saved us. Or at least, he bought us together better than we could have ever imagined.

Just so you can see how incredible Chase is, and since a picture is worth a thousand words, I thought I would share a few pictures from this adventure with you!

This is the first day that I took Chase for a walk. He was a bit scared and timid, but the longer he was at the shelter, the more outgoing he became. 

This is the pose that Chase made every time I came to visit. He just wanted to be loved, and I knew that we were the family to do just that. 

See? He gives awesome kisses :) 

This is such an evolution from when we first met Chase. He played, ran, and loved on me, and he has a smile on his face all the time!

This was the day that I signed the adoption papers. How cute is he!

Coming home for the first time. This is Chase riding shotgun in my car right after I adopted him. 

At first we thought he ran outside. Then we realized he had claimed his place on our...I mean his...couch. 

I guess that includes the bed, too. He's lucky he is so cute and cuddly. 

This is the day after we brought him home. He is at Animal Hospital North with Dr. Duke (who is absolutely fabulous) getting his first check up. He's all in good health and loves Dr. Duke!

Riding home with us after our huge shopping trip and his play date with his cousin Quest. I'm just proud that he didn't try to eat anything!

He loves to snuggle. All 50 lbs of him on top of me on the couch. 

Turning me into a housewife

You can't turn a ho into a housewife. Not that I'm a ho. Far from it actually. Let's just focus on the housewife part. I'm not good at it. At all. Thank goodness Kassie came over today and helped me get everything organized. We cleaned out all of the cabinets, the fridge, threw out five trash bags full of stuff, and I'm currently on my fifth load of laundry. I took both dogs to the vet, Charlie for his nails to be clipped and Chase for his introductory check up. Chase got his nails clipped, his back shaved where he was matted, his teeth checked, and weighed. Needless to say it was a long, dusty, hectic day.

Upsides though, were that we organized the living room, got a ton of laundry done, and got to hang out with my new buddy and the Rooms all day.

I will definitely say that living in a house that isn't my childhood home is very strange. I'm a bit homesick just being away from my family, but I'm sure that I will adjust. Having some of Brian's friends here is nice, and some of my friends are stopping by this weekend. We did our full shopping trip today (Saturday) at Aldi and Sam's Club. We got everything from canned beans for chili to toilet paper. Surprisingly we only spend about $215 for everything, which is really saying something. I keep reminding Brian that the "start-up" costs are the worst because we have to stock up on the stuff that keeps for a while, like laundry detergent, dish detergent, peanut butter, Windex, all the fun stuff. We also stocked the freezer with pizza, frozen steamed veggies, and ground beef and chicken breasts, and the fridge with fresh fruit and veggies, cheeses, eggs, and bread. Overall I'd say that I'm improving on the housewife front. WIN!

After we got back from shopping Brian took all the trash bags to the dump while I put away all of the groceries. Then he made me lunch. I feel super lucky!

Now I just need to find my laptop charger and I'll be all set...where is it anyway...? Hm...

Communication Problems a la France

Bonjour! So in case you have not read my other blog posts, my best friend (for real, since pre-school) is currently working as a live-in au pair in France. We text and Facebook, and I have figured out some of the problems that we have developed in terms of communication. You may find them funny.

#1. Cooking temperature conversions. Celsius is not in my vocabulary, but it's the only thing she is using, so when I ask for a recipe, I have to do math...I hate math.

#2. Cooking in general. "Hey, what should I make for dinner tomorrow? I have chicken I want to use up."- Me "A whole chicken?"-Taylor "Really? No."-Me. Or the time she told me she bought real milk. From a cow. I asked her what she had been drinking her entire life, fake milk?

#3. Time change. Our schedules are completely off and so we talk at really random times.

#4. The things about the US she misses, I am sick of. For instance, pop corn. It's what she's getting for Christmas (sorry to ruin the surprise, Tay....SURPRISE!)

#5. Using French terms instead of English, but only randomly. Luckily this one isn't a huge problem, because I took French. But I'm still confused sometimes.

#6. Mailing anything literally is ridiculous. Not even price-wise. Her address is completely in French and the only part that I understand is "France" at the very end.

This is literally what I do most days. Awesomely fun communication with foreigners (well, kinda...). If you want to learn more about Taylor (even though she goes by Loretta) you should read her blog!

http://lorettasvendetta.blogspot.fr/

Au revoir!

It all ends...

Very Harry Potter-esque isn't it? I thought so. Seeing as how I am a huge HP (that's Harry Potter for those of you who were wondering!) fan, I figured that I would title my post today in homage to our dear magical friend.

But the post still applied. It all ends...today actually. My life as I know it ends today. You're probably thinking to yourself, "wow, someone got up on the wrong side of the bed this morning because I'm sure your life is totally fine." Well as a matter of fact, I am fine. More than fine actually. But my life as I know it ends today, because today after work, I am moving in with a boy. Not just any boy. THE boy. (insert gasps and slack-jaws here)

You guys okay out there? I kinda threw you for a big loop, huh? Don't worry. Me too. It's a major step in my life, and probably wouldn't have happened without the job that I currently have (which is still going great!). Actually, nothing in the past two months would have happened if I didn't have this job. It's the only reason I moved out of my Dad's house, into my roommate's apartment, bought a lawnmower, started a blog, and am providing you with some good quality entertainment every day. Wow. That's heavy stuff. But it's all going to be fine. I say that for my own reassurance as much as yours...maybe even more-so for mine.

Today is also the day that Chase comes home with us. I can't wait to pick him up, put his cute green collar and leash on, and bring him home to his new life and a family who adores him. It's going to be fantastic. It's secretly more exciting to me than moving in with Brian. But shhh...don't tell him I said that!

So even though my blog started out with buying a lawnmower and growing up, today is the day that I feel like I actually grow up. I'm going to have bills...and a kitchen. I'm going to have to learn how to cook meals, wake up earlier, and fix...well...anything that breaks. I've already asked for tools for Christmas. I know, I'm a cool kid. I grew up with a dad who basically owns every type of tool known to man. I can use a drill like no body's business. It's going to be weird not being able to walk out into the garage and pick up any tool that I need. I have to buy my own splicer for the screen if it breaks, drill bits, wrenches, circular saw, table saw, jig saw, sander, flat-head and phillips-head screwdrivers, drywall screws, flooring nails, roofing nails, picture-hanging nails....wow. This is a bit of an overwhelming day, isn't it?

But the bottom line is that I'm ready. I'm so ready. I want to be an adult and have the white picket fence and the crock pot and the apron and the dogs. I want a bar-b-que grill and mixing bowls and more kitchen gadgets than are humanly necessary. Of course, many people probably judge me for doing this a bit out of order. You know, moving in without a ring on my finger. But who cares? This is 2012, dammit, and I am ready to be an adult. Plus, I can't afford my own apartment, and even the Catholics recognize living together before marriage if it is out of economic necessity. Have you seen the economy? This is necessary.

Last night, Rooms and I watched The Office for about 3 hours and just hung out. It's what we do. We also bought dog food for Chase at the Tractor Supply. If you've never been, it's awesome and they are so nice. Their prices are also way cheaper than any grocery store or pet specialty store. So really. Go.

So I guess this is really where my blog gets interesting. I'm going to tell you guys everything. There are going to be fights, tears, and plenty of love to cover everything. You get to be with me as I learn how to cook...no promises on that one going too well, so don't get your hopes up. I also get to learn how to fix a fence, hang pictures, and shop with coupons. This should be interesting.

So I hope you have enjoyed this so far, and there are only more good things to come!

In honor of my roommate bonding last night, I will leave you with a quote from The Office:

Michael Scott: "Guess what? I have flaws. What are they? Oh I donno, I sing in the shower? Sometimes I spend too much time volunteering. Occasionally I'll hit somebody with my car. So sue me - no, don't sue me. That is opposite the point I'm trying to make."

I've got friends...

'Cause I've got friends in low places 

Where the whiskey drowns 

And the beer chases my blues away 

And I'll be okay 

I'm not big on social graces 

Think I'll slip on down to the oasis 

Oh, I've got friends in low places 

I have to admit. I have some of the best friends that anyone could ever ask for. They come from all over the world and from all walks of life, but that's what makes them unique. They're gay, straight, white, hispanic, short, tall, male and female. They can out-sing, out-dance, and out-drink me, and I wouldn't have it any other way. 

My mother always said you can judge a person by their friends. If that's true, then I think I'm in pretty good shape. 

This is my 21st birthday. Brian and Kassie were arguing about something. Kassie was right. She always is when we argue with Brian. She is incredible, and is the one letting me live on her mattress pad right now until I find a permanent residence. She's the best. 

Oh Bart. He is my best friend from college. This was taken at Kassie's wedding where he told me it was okay to wear my sunglasses everywhere, even inside. As you can tell from the far left, there was alcohol involved. His family has become like a second home for me, and they are all so great. Bill, Darcy, Luke, Lance, and Grant. I love you all! 

This is Emily and myself. She's basically my sister, and has been since...well....see the picture below!

Also me and Emily...just a few short years before. Just kidding. I was about four in this picture I think, making Emily probably 9 or 10. We were professional ballerinas. 

This is Kate. She is awesome. She is my Chick-Fil-A and road trip buddy. We like turtles, walks on the beach, and dogs. But really. We do. 

Oh Liz. She is my athletic inspiration. No joke. This girl can beast a 10 mile run.  I can't even beast a 10 minute run, so you see that our friendship is a bit unconventional. However, it involves very philosophical questions such as, "Do you eat shrimp?" 

This is Beka, who I met in 2011 while working in Highlands, NC. She's awesome. She goes to Marshall University in WV. And yes. She knows the movie.  

This is Marisol. She got married, which I still can't believe even though I was in her wedding. She and I have had some crazy adventures through the years. Making sandwiches driving down the road, sleepovers, sneaking out, bonfires by the lake, and trips to Boston. I can't begin to imagine how my life would have been without her. 

This is me and Darsee from our freshman year at L-R. How crazy. I'm in her shirt. I don't normally wear Hollister, especially back then. We're still friends, and both still redheads. Check out the next picture!

Four years later and nothing has changed. Well, not much anyway. Dars transferred to ASU sophomore year, leaving with a giant gap in my life. Luckily we talk all the time still and she is now engaged. This was the summer of 2012 at the Iron Bridge. 

This is Amy. We like goats, long walks on the beach, and interpretive dances. We also like to find new homes for street signs. Don't ask. 

This about sums up my relationship with Megan. We hadn't seen each other in probably 2 years when this was taken. I had just picked her up from the airport, and as always, we got a little crazy. Oh well. Worse things have happened between the two of us. But that's another story. 

This is Colin. And on the left is Dawon, my sophomore rooms. They're both very near and dear to me. Colin is, as you can see, a PIMP. He looks the part, too. For some reason I am drawn to redheads. Colin is now playing soccer for L-R after four years of being the kicker for the football team. I guess you could say he's kind of a big deal. Dawon is teaching softball pitching in Charlotte after spending her four years at L-R as the pitcher for our softball team. 

This is my little, Hannah. She's basically exactly like me, except a year younger. She keeps me in line most of the time, but sometimes it's the other way around. 

This is Taylor. Or Loretta. I've known her since pre-school and until college she went by Taylor. Don't ask me because I refuse to call her Loretta. This was taken at Thanksgiving in 2011. She's currently living in Paris as an au pair. How lucky, right? She's crazy, and she has been with me through so much it's not even funny. She is probably one of the few people who know everything about me. And she has a blog, too! So if you want some extra reading (in case I don't give you enough), her blog is http://lorettasvendetta.blogspot.fr/

This is Carlson. We go by our last names because we're so cool. She's my sorority sister and fashion inspiration. She's working in Charlotte right now doing PR, something that we both love. She's incredible, and we are a great balance for each other. Plus, she's absolutely hilarious.

This is the boy. He's kinda ridiculous most of the time, but he puts up with most of my crazy ideas, schemes, and group of always in your face, always awesome friends. He's kinda incredible.

Everyone has pet peeves...

I feel as though I'm fairly easy to get along with. I love talking to people and getting to know them, sharing stories and jokes, and listening to what they have to say and their opinions. However, I think everyone has those few things (okay, so maybe I have more than a few...) that really get under your skin and annoy you. To everyone with pet peeves, this one's for you!

Here are my top 10 list of pet peeves, in no particular order.

1. Being stopped at a red light when there is no one coming in the opposite direction. No one. At all. I have places to go and things to do, and being stopped at a pointless light is not on my to-do list.

2. People who are naturally thin but still complain that they look "fat" or about how they just ate a cookie. For real? You're skinny! Everyone can tell you're skinny, and you're beautiful. It's okay for a woman in today's society to think she's pretty, smart, talented, and healthy looking. I know we all have our days where we feel ugly no matter what, but just remember, someone thinks you're gorgeous just the way you are, and you should too. Show people how confident you are in yourself and maybe that will inspire confidence in them as well.

3. People who incorrectly use turn signals, or people who don't use turn signals at all. I grew up with a Mom who used her turn signals for everything, and a Dad who thought they were just a cute car accessory. It bugs me to this day when my dad doesn't use his turn signals when we're on the interstate or even driving around back home. I make a point of telling him that he needs to use them because they help other drivers stay safe, but he just laughs at me. USE YOUR TURN SIGNALS. However, if you're going to use them, use them correctly. Don't turn them on and leave them on. Would you do that to a woman? No, you wouldn't, so don't do it to your car. And please, please, please, PLEASE don't turn them on and then turn the opposite way. That just defeats the purpose entirely and can cause havoc with other drivers.

4. People who stop when they clearly have the right of way. For instance, when you are entering the mall parking lot, the sign clearly says DO NOT STOP because you have the right-of-way for people exiting the parking lot or making a turn. When you stop, you hold up traffic behind you, you look dumb, and most of all, you are not obeying the rules of the road. Just do everyone a favor and read the signs.

5. People who used to come to class in college and sleep. Now I'll admit. I chose a private school for my own personal reasons. I took out the student loans to pay for it, and I busted my butt to graduate with honors to make the extra financial commitment worth it. However, for those kids who are coming to class only to fall asleep within the first 5 minutes, this is for you. Go home. No, not back to your dorm. Go home. Live with your parents. Get an apartment and attend a community college until you have enough respect for yourself and for others to attend a four year school. There is nothing wrong with community college. I attended two throughout the course of my four year education, and I had a great learning experience with both of them. But don't sit in a classroom where people are trying to learn and waste your time and money by sleeping. If you want to sleep through your college education, then I'm sure there is a more deserving student who could receive your scholarship money who would enjoy attending the classes that you sleep through.

6. Obviously incorrect use of spelling/grammar. Holy lord. This may be number one, even though I said in no particular order. As a Communication major, grammar and spelling are a bit of a big deal to me. If you have completed schooling past the third grade, they should be a big deal to you, too. There are many words that have different spellings but the same pronunciation. "To" for example. I am going TO the grocery store. Do you want to go TOO? The TWO of us should be able to shop faster than just one of us. People who use TO instead of TOO are almost automatically not taken seriously in my book, unless it's a mistake. However, if you just don't know the difference or chose not to use the correct form, there is no hope for you. "There" is another example. THERE is a squirrel sitting on my car. Sandy and Jim say the squirrel doesn't belong to them, it belongs to THEIR neighbor, Pat. THEY'RE sorry that Pat can't keep her squirrel to herself. Do you see how that works? Other examples include: pair, pear, it's, its, whether, weather, and so on. The only example that I can understand being misused is the difference between effect and affect. I have read up on it and I'm not sure I even understand it now. Oh! the difference of women/woman and freshmen/freshman, using "alot" instead of "a lot" or "noone" instead of "no one."

7. Considering that the election is coming up fairly soon, this one is relevant. I am very accepting of people's opinions. I respect that not everyone has the same beliefs, and that they are neither right nor wrong if they believe something different than what I believe. The line is crossed when people do not respect other people's opinions. For example, if you tell me you are refusing to vote for Barack Obama and then list completely ignorant and factually incorrect reasons, I am not going to respect your opinion. The same goes for voting against any other candidate or issue. One of the most common examples of this is brought to my attention when people are discussing gay marriage (a topic I will share an opinion on soon). I respect the fact that people disagree with homosexuality. That's your right as an individual, to have an opinion. That's the beauty of living in the United States. We are encouraged to have differing opinions from one another. However, do not try and force your opinion onto me. I have my opinions, and you have yours. I would personally like to keep it that way if you don't mind. I think that my favorite example of this is a sign that I saw while surfing Pinterest a while ago. (This is sort of inappropriate, so if you are easily offended...well, maybe you shouldn't be reading a blog about my opinions). "Dear World, Religion is like a penis. It's fine to have one and it's fine to be proud of it, but please don't whip it out in public and start waving it around... and PLEASE don't try to shove it down my child's throat." Moving on.

8. When I tell someone that I lost or misplaced something, and they ask me where the last place I saw it was. Well, if I knew the answer to that, would the item be missing? I didn't think so. This ties into my pet peeve about losing things in general. Last night, I lost my favorite pair of underwear. Sounds stupid, but they really are my favorite pair. The boy says I tend to lose this pair quite often...he's right. That always happens when you have a favorite something, doesn't it? So I basically spent an hour looking everywhere for them last night. Searched my room, my overnight bags, under the bed, under the rug, in the bathroom, in my car, in my laundry, in my drawers, in my closet (I'm living in my friend's apartment on the floor in the spare bedroom, so most of this stuff is all in a relatively small space). So I finally gave up, took my laundry basket down and started doing laundry. I shook every item as I put it into the washer to triple check that I hadn't missed my favorite undies. No luck. So I wait for my laundry to finish washing, hang out with Kassie, and then go to switch it to the dryer. I'm pulling everything out and I KID YOU NOT there are my favorite panties. I suspect Quest (Kassie's 40 pound retriever mix. He's sneaky.)

9. People who judge groups based on one, or a small portion, or members, or people who want to label everything racism or a hate crime. For example. It is incredibly ignorant to believe that all women are bad drivers, all Muslims secretly want to blow up American buildings, or that every pit bull is a killer. Let's be real. I understand that many stereotypes come from fear. In an effort of full disclosure, I am terrified of planes ever since September 11. However, does that mean that I am scared that everyone in traditional Muslim attire is going to be a terrorist? No. It does not, because that would be incredibly ignorant of the true facts of the situation. Stereotypes are not always accurate, and basing our assumptions on them can prove to be dangerous, misleading, and ignorant. Please gather facts about something or someone before passing judgement, as I'm sure you would ask for people to do for you as well.

10. My last pet peeve...okay so maybe not. But the last one that I am going to take the time to list here. Men who oogle women and then get offended when women do the same thing. This became a big deal when Magic Mike came out. I happen to be friends with a lot of guys, and when they heard that I only wanted to see Magic Mike because Channing Tatum took his clothes off, they gave me disapproving looks. Excuse me? How many guys go see a movie because they heard an actress takes her top off? How about Sin City where Jessica Alba played a stripper? Guys weren't looked down upon because they enjoyed that aspect of the movie. How about the scenes in Wedding Crashers where there are tons of topless women? Or the same type of scene in Good Luck Chuck? Just because I enjoy objectifying Channing Tatum for 90 minutes one night should not make me a beacon of judgement. It's the same reason women are reading 50 Shades of Grey like it's the Bible. Women enjoy sex just as much as men. We just happen to be a little bit more discreet about it. Okay, so maybe not with 50 Shades of Grey (which I have YET to read, might I add!), but still. 50 Shades of Grey is like Playboy for women. Except we actually read the articles.

Everyone has pet peeves...I just have more than most people...

Dear grocery stores...

I'm sure we've all heard the phrase 'Don't go grocery shopping when you're hungry.' Normally I try to abide by this rule, just like Mom taught me. Unfortunately, today was one of the rare days that I don't follow that rule. I got off of work today and immediately went to our in-office gym. Not only was I drastically below my intended calorie count today, but I also upped my weight amount. So after working out for about 45 minutes (I just lifted today), I remembered that I needed to run by the grocery store on my way back to the apartment. I promise this story is going somewhere...

So I get to the grocery store and I am starving. I planned on picking up just enough items to get me through the week since the boy and I planned on making a grocery trip together this weekend. As I'm walking through the store, I'm reminding myself that I do not need Pop-Tarts, chocolate, or anything with extra calories or sugar, which of course is everything that is on the end-caps of the aisles. This got me thinking about something that I know is a very big issue in society today. Obesity.

Since obesity has become such a problem in our society today, why is the grocery store advertising high-calorie and high-sugar foods on the end-caps? I understand that people are lazy and that by having easy access to items means they are more likely to just pick from the end-caps than take the time to walk down the aisle, but still. Doesn't it make more sense, both to profits as well as to the growing need for healthier food in our society to place healthier foods on the end-caps? Healthier foods are usually more expensive than junk food, making the potential profits higher. Promoting healthier foods are also a good source of PR for the grocery stores because they can make the push that they are promoting healthier alternatives in an effort to combat the growing level of obesity in todays society.

So where is the downside? One of the reasons that there is a growing epidemic of obesity in my opinion is that grocery stores place high-sugar items on end-caps and in the easy reach of children. Children then are able to grab these items, throw them into the cart, and then beg and plead their parents  to let them keep the items. Considering that most parents are also contributing to the problem, this just compounds onto already poorly made decisions made on the parents part.

So where does that leave us? Why are stores making it easier for us to make poor dietary decisions? Sound off your opinions in the comments!

For the record, by the way, I purchased fiber bars, light yogurt, wraps for peanut butter and apple wraps for my lunches, brown rice, black beans, and peanut butter.

iPhone Addiction

Okay so I know how contradictory this post is if you have read my previous post about shying away from social media. The problem is, I am a complete iPhone addict. Over the moon kind of stuff going on over here. So I thought that I would take a few minutes to tell you why (and what) I love about my iPhone. 

It's not that I am obsessed with cell phones in general. I had a huge problem with my last batch of cell phones. I say batch because the last cell phone that I had was replaced 7 times. Yes. You read right. SEVEN TIMES. I cannot stand the Verizon insurance company, but that's a whole new post in itself. Moving on. 

I have had my iPhone for about 6 months now. All of the new apps, nifty gadgets that you can sync with your phone, and ways that your phone can help you in everyday life absolutely astounds me. I've narrowed down my favorite apps to 8. Hopefully you enjoy some of the same ones, or after reading this, you download them and find that you are just as obsessed as I am!

(These are in no particular order!)

1. Mint: For those of you who are trying to keep track of your budget but find it extremely hard and overwhelming, Mint is incredible. I use Mint to keep up with my spending, categorize my purchases into different areas, and learn how to budget. Mint basically does all of the hard work for you. You set up your account and sync it with your local bank. Now, that is the part that I had trouble adjusting to at first. Allowing access to my bank account to my phone? How is that safe? I definitely did my research on this one, guys. I Googled, asked my bank, and read up on what others had to say about Mint before I even considered it. After about a week of research and learning that Mint was recommended by some of the top financial minds in terms of iPhone apps, I took the plunge. I couldn't be happier! I can now organize Mint to meet my budgeting needs. Whether I am trying to control my spending on clothing or restaurants, Mint allows me to see exactly where I am in terms of my goals each month. It even sends me end-of-the-week updates directly to my email account, as well as instant notifications should I get a bit too close (or even surpass) my intended budget for the month. Think of it as a calorie counter for your wallet. Bottom line, if you have a hard time keeping budgets and don't want to mess around with a written budget, Mint is essential!

2. Starbucks: Okay so maybe I'm just obsessed with Starbucks in general, but I do have to admit that their app is very useful. It allows me to see where I am in terms of reaching my rewards status, make purchases in-store and pay using my phone, customize my favorite drinks and foods so I remember exactly how I like my coffee, and even search the calorie intake for what I'm consuming. Starbucks has done a great job of working to reward their customer loyalty, and I think that the app is something that more and more people are beginning to utilize. Not only can I refill my Starbucks gift card directly on my phone, but I can also lock my app so that no one else can use my phone to purchase drinks. Yes. That is how much I covet my Starbucks. Leave me alone. It's an addiction. The Starbucks app also allows users to search nearby stores, and even see what jobs are available in their local area. Very nifty. Bottom line, if you are a fan of Starbucks, you will be a fan of their app. 

3. Waze: One of my friends actually turned me onto Waze a few months ago. It's a very easy to work travel app that allows you to build a social network-type affiliation with your local travelers. Their tagline is, 'Outsmarting traffic, together.' Basically you sign up, and then Waze allows you to customize your route, see where there is heavy traffic or weather, and earn points for reporting things such as accidents, roadwork, objects in the roadway, heavy traffic, and even cars stalled on the side of the road. It also puts you into contact with people who travel the same routes as you each day. For instance, if you commute from just outside of Atlanta into the city each day for work, Waze allows you to join a group of people who make the same commute. Users can post about traffic, alternative routes, and even hidden police trying to nab you. Much simpler than other travel apps that I have used (I'm talking about YOU new Maps update!), I have quickly fallen in love with Waze and how easy and knowledgeable it is. Bottom line, if you make the same commute each day or even if you just like to stay informed about traffic conditions, Waze is going to be your new best friend. 

4. Lift: I just came across Lift last week actually while I was surfing the App Store for new additions. Lift is an app that allows you to join groups according to different habits that you want to keep, start, or get rid of. Their tagline is, 'Unlock your potential' and users are encouraged to "lift" each other up about their different habits. For instance, I am in the groups Drink 1L of water, Eat less than 1200 calories, Go to the gym, Pushups, Sleep at least 8 hours, Take vitamins, Weigh yourself, and Yoga or stretching. Each day when I complete one of these habits, I "check in" and other users in the group can see that I completed my goal for the day. Other users then can give you props for your check in, encouraging you to keep up the good behavior. Groups range from healthy eating habits and saving money, to meditation and reading. I have been pleasantly surprised at how many people are giving me props for something as simple as stepping on the scale each morning, but I have to admit, I find it rather refreshing. It's like having an entire cheering section for your good habits. Bottom line, if you like a little bit of extra encouragement when trying to start a new habit or end an old one, Lift is a great tool to have on your phone. 

5. Key Ring: For people who have a bajillion loyalty cards floating around their keys, in their wallet, and scattered throughout their purse, Key Ring is so helpful. It allows users to log each of their loyalty cards onto the app, and then produces the bar code when you click on each of the titles. For instance, I am a loyalty member at stores such as Lowe's Home Improvement, Lowes Foods, Ingles, Food Lion, Petco, PetSmart, Target Pharmacy, and Ulta. Instead of having tons of cards on my key ring that makes me jingle around and then hold up the entire line while I search for the correct loyalty card, Key Ring helps me keep everything stored in one place, silently and neatly on my phone. Another useful aspect about Key Ring is that it automatically updates coupons and incentives onto your loyalty card, so that you don't have to keep track of them. It shows you sales on different items, and certain cards, such as Lowes Foods, allows you to clip coupons directly to your phone. Bottom line, if you prefer your key ring to actually have keys on it instead of loyalty cards, Key Ring is the app for you!

6. Catch: While everyone was obsessing about EverNote, I was advocating for the lesser-known Catch. For me, EverNote was a pain. Slow to load, hard to figure out, and it created a freezing-frenzy on my phone every time I tried to use it. As I'm sure you can guess, it didn't take long before I was searching for an alternative. Catch is an app that allows you to create and store notes, pictures, alarms, and to do lists all in one place. By sorting your notes into categories, you are able to multi-task and keep all of your ideas in one place. For me, I wanted a place to keep pictures after I deleted them from my Photos on my phone. Nothing weird, good lord. I had taken pictures of the boy's Christmas present, and instead of having him stumble on them while looking at my pictures, I wanted a safe and secure place to keep them handy. Enter Catch. It allows me to store the photos in a separate category, and even to lock the app for prying eyes. Yes. I'm talking to you, Brian. Another thing that it allows me to keep in one place is all of the books that I want to read. For those times when I'm walking around Barnes & Noble, searching the web, or even watching TV, I can take a picture of the cover, type the title, or simply speak the name into Catch, and my ideas and lists are stored instantly. Everything is organized, clean, and secure, just the way I like it. Bottom line, if you are constantly writing to do lists on sticky notes and pieces of scrap paper that you then lose, Catch is for you. 

7. Find iPhone: How many times have you misplaced, flat-out lost, or even had your phone stolen? For those of us who know the terror of these situations, this is the best app ever. It's an app that you would rather have and not need, than need and not have. Find iPhone allows you to register your iPhone onto your created account (and even your other Apple products!), and then control them from another phone if they are lost, stolen, or misplaced. Example. Let's say that you are in the process of cleaning your room, and in the abyss that is your dirty laundry, you lose your phone. What's worse, it's on DUN-DUN-DUH....SILENT. Oh good lord. How are you EVER going to find your phone? Easy. Simply sign onto your online account or find a friend with an iPhone. Log in to your account and click on the device you are looking for. Find iPhone allows you to play a sound to your phone (even if it's on silent), lock your phone in case someone else may have it, or even delete all of your data from your phone if you believe it was stolen. That way, no one has everything that you may keep on your phone. Bottom line, if you have a tendency to lose your iPhone or if it has ever been stolen, Find iPhone is a great resource to have. 

8. iHeartRadio: How many of you had a favorite radio station at home? I know I was always listening to 98.1 or 93.7 growing up. Unfortunately, I went off to college and those radio stations that I had grown to love weren't on my FM range anymore. What's a kid to do? iHeartRadio gets rid of your heartache by allowing you to listen to any radio station anywhere. Let's say you're living in Charlotte but you hail from Sacramento. No problem. Simply search for your favorite station and BAM. There is it. For me, iHeartRadio is an essential tool when I'm in the gym. The wifi connection in my office (which is where my gym is) allows me to play content for free, so all I have to do is turn on iHeartRadio, find a fun station, and I'm ready to go. For those of us who don't remember to download music (or who can't afford to!) iHeartRadio allows you to listen to your favorite songs for free. Bottom line, if you love your old radio stations and want to take them with you anywhere, iHeartRadio is for you. 

I hope you all have enjoyed learning about some of the awesome apps that I have. Hopefully you learned a few that you want to download. If you think I'm missing the best app ever, or if I've left something you love off the list, comment and let me know! 

Shying away from social media

I think that in the age of social media and technology that we have been thrust into, it is so easy to converse with others. However, I think that we have lost the ability to make lasting connections because communication is so simple. A tweet, a text, a Facebook message or even a blog comment. All of these things allow us to stay connected to people without making nearly as much, if any, effort. I know people who would much rather smash their head against a wall than carry on a face-to-face conversation.

But why? Technology has allowed us to make staying connected simple. Sure that means that I can easily text and follow the many adventures of my best friend living in Paris, but it also means that I lose some of the heart-felt connection that I could get from sending her a letter. Taylor (my friend in Paris) and I actually do rely on some of the more old fashioned methods of conversation. I received a postcard the other day from Moulin Rouge in Paris. Seeing Taylor's handwriting and knowing that she is thinking about me long enough to pen a handwritten letter is something that is very comforting. It's also the product of years and years of friendship and conversation. As much as we may not admit it, I bet everyone secretly (or in my case, publicly) would adore a handwritten letter from someone. Whether they are down the block or across the world, it's something that shows how much they care for you, despite having a hectic schedule.

My grandmother is 82 and still works 5 days a week. She is one of the best women I know. She is strong, independent, and absolutely hilarious. She jogs on her treadmill 30 minutes a day and emails like a mad-woman. All of that being said, she has been nagging me here lately to get her a better cell phone. Now, as much as I love Gram, she does not need a cell phone. Let me put it into perspective for you. A few months ago I went to upgrade my phone plan at Verizon. Mom and I both are under Gram's account, but she has her own separate plan. The tech that I was speaking with at Verizon urged me to talk to my grandmother about combining our plans because of how much money it could save her due to the rather small number of minutes she talked each month. Knowing that Gram had been bugging me about a new phone, I asked, "Well, how many minutes does she talk each month on average?" The tech smiled, told me she was on the $25 plan, and then proceeded to say that last month was a very busy month for grandma. She talked more on her phone than she had in the past 6 months. I was surprised, and asked, "Well, how many minutes did she talk?" ...Thirteen. She paid $25 to talk for 13 minutes. For how hard it is to get my grandma to shut up when she has something to say, 13 minutes is Guinness World Record holding for Gram.

Needless to say, Mom and I vetoed a new phone. And a Facebook for that matter...some things are just better left untouched.