Facebook Rules

Facebook rules. MySpace drools. I don’t think this is really an issue that needs to be discussed, seeing that 99% of the population probably agrees with me. The real topic of this post is based on the rules of Facebook. That’s right; I’m talking about social networking etiquette. I’m not here to tell you how ridiculous the ‘duck face’ is, or that I find it slightly creepy when someone shares a personal cell phone number in their info. That’s your own business. I simply want to share a few tips when posting, commenting, and updating that will surely help you gain and maintain that enormous amount of ‘friends’ that appear on your profile.

Disclaimer: I am probably guilty of most of these. Hey, no one is perfect.

First, tone it down with the negative status updates. I understand that we all have a bad day from time to time; however, if you life is that bad, start tweeting. Twitter is for constant complaining, which is why I love it.

Another thought when it comes to status updates: watch it with the oversharing. I don’t want to see or read anything grotesque. Trust me, no one does. Ever heard of TMI? Yea, think about it.

Let’s talk photos. I say tag, tag, tag away, but be respectful. Don’t put up inappropriate pictures of friends, especially those that have jobs and families that may have access to their profiles. Also, don’t tag an unflattering picture of someone. And what’s with all these food pictures. If you want everyone to know what you are eating, start a blog or something. Don’t clog up my newsfeed. Seriously, it’s annoying.

When it comes to friend requests, if I don’t know you, then I don’t want to be your Facebook friend. Sorry. It’s creepy.

Truth be told, it takes a lot to bother me when it comes to social networking. The beauty of Facebook is that if someone is annoying, creepy, or overwhelming then I just delete them. Goodbye. 

Free Gift

Why is it so hard for people to receive compliments? So often we find a way to degrade ourselves in the process. "I love your dress!" "Oh, I think it makes me look a little chubby, but thanks." What's that all about?! If your dress rocks, then take the compliment. It's a free gift that someone is offering you.

The other morning at Kosama, the instructor knelt beside me to say, "That is a perfect plank." I was so thrilled. What a great motivator. I was beaming all day, knowing that my hard work was paying off. She probably didn't even think twice about it. What an awesome gift.

I started thinking more about the gift of a compliment. I realized that I don't dish them out nearly enough. There are times that I think in my head, "Wow, I really like her hair," or, "What a great smile that person has," but I don't share it with them. Why not? I could be missing out on an opportunity to make someone's day.

A wonderful gift. 

Maybe I should start a compliment challenge for myself. Start dishing out more free gifts!

Chalk Talk

Because it has been so hot, I decided to go for a little jog this morning before the heat and humidity took over. I set out on a short little path in a residential area. It was perfect for enjoying some alone time and reflecting on my weekend, which by the way, was awesome :-)

While I was jogging, I ran across (literally) a chalked up piece of pavement. Some girls had marked up the area with some inspirational graffiti. Phrases like "Love Yourself" and "You're Beautiful" graced the sidewalk leading me to smile. Reading the colorful chalk talk was such a great way to begin my day.

Isn't it funny how a simple phrase can change our attitude? I couldn't help but wonder what lead those girls to share this chalk talk. It was such a cool idea. Whatever their motive was, I am glad they did it. It took me back to high school memories of car paint. We used to write on each other's windows before sporting events for encouragement. Yes, those short sayings can sure make you feel loved.

A Leave of Absence

Well, it's been too long! I won't sit here and tell y'all that I've been sooo busy, because I realize this is the truth for everyone. I know that life gets a little crazy every once in a while, and that was the case for me this past week. Along with the 'bad connection' that I mentioned, my precious routine was a little off due to appointments, errands, and a visit from my mom. I am feeling a little bit sleep deprived, but it was all worth it. 

My mom came to stay Tuesday and Wednesday. It was nice to have her around. She cooked a little, ran around Des Moines, and met a good friend for lunch. I enjoyed our long talks and watching her try and figure out the massage chair during our pedicures. It was a true gift having her visit. 

Wednesday I sat down at the salon for a much needed cut and color. I am always so surprised at how much a good haircut changes my look, but also my attitude. I once read, "you're only as good as your last haircut." So true. I also just really enjoy the ladies in salons. I could sit there and listen for hours. 

Thursday I went to church for a young adult service. I was feeling a little anxious, so I knew that a sense of renewal was much needed. Once again, it was exactly what I needed to hear. The word of God never lets us down. We sang "Like an Avalanche" by Hillsong United, and I have been playing it ever since. Check it out. 

I ended up meeting up with some friends after church and then again last night. Needless to say, I am lacking the necessary amounts of sleep; however, I am happy. It's funny how good times with friends and laughter makes a bad mood, a sleepless night all disappear. Friends are amazing, and I have the best. 

Sorry for my brief leave of absence. I feel ready to get back on the writing wagon. Happy Saturday!!

A Bad Connection

So, I love the Internet. I love social networking, reading news articles, watching videos, and getting lost in the pages as I click my little heart out. I am guilty of spending too much time with my eyes focused on my smartphone and laptop. I tweet, update statuses, read entertainment news, and continually rot my brain. Don’t worry though; I’m not one bit mad about it. In fact, I love every minute of it.

All of this results in some frustration when I am unable to be connected. No, I don’t start pouting when I accidentally leave my phone in the car. I don’t start crying when I my Facebook app unexpectantly quits. I realize that technology does not always work and we may not always have the best connection.

Over the summer, the places where I am staying and working do not have the best Internet connection; therefore, I have not been able to consistently write blog posts. I am a little bit frustrated with this; however, I realize the summer lacks structure and consistency for many people. And then I also remember that not very many people even ‘tune in’ to this blog, and then I don’t feel so bad ;-)

The Importance of Good Fab'rik

The other night, my friend Emily invited a bunch of girls and me to a Fab’rik Rock Star Party. Sounds pretty thrilling, huh? Some way or another, she won a package to exclusively shop with a 20% discount and a few cocktails at a nearby Fab’rik store. I have driven by the store many times, but never actually shopped there. Well, I think I found my new favorite place (as if I need more reason to shop).

The boutique is full of sundresses, flowy tops, pastel skinny jeans, and interesting jewelry. I was in heaven as soon as I stepped foot in the door. I wasn’t sure if I was going to buy anything, but after trying on a few pieces, I had to make some shopping decisions. I hate when that happens. You want five different dresses, but you really shouldn’t. So, what do you do? Cut back to three. The worst feeling is putting that jersey maxi dress back on the rack. I thought, “Maybe next time, you lovely piece of fabric.” No, I have not lost my mind, and I don’t talk to my clothes. It’s called humor, people.

I also enjoyed spending time with the girls as we chatted over a couple margaritas before heading over to the store. As I was “playing dress up” with the clerks at the store, I got to chatting with one of them who happens to be a teacher in a nearby district. Instantly, we started in with the ‘teacher talk’ mixed with fashion tips. She tried to tell me that those sticky bras work wonders. I’m not sure I’m sold on that one yet.

When I was leaving, I called my mom to share my night with her. I told her how good it felt to have purchased a few pieces that were different, but more importantly, were made of quality fabric. I have too many sundresses, tank tops, and v-neck shirts from Target, American Eagle, and Von Maur. Not that these stores are bad at all, I was just ready for something cute and different. Well, I found it… and I will definitely go back. I had so much fun, and I was very impressed with the stores selection and overall essence. To wrap this up, the fabric at Fab’rik is worth it. 

Bittersweet Realization

While on my trip with the YFC group, I started feeling old. I found myself asking about certain slang sayings and terms that were tossed around among the teenagers. I didn’t realize how fast ‘hip’ jargon comes in and out of our language. They were using phrases like “those shoes are boss” and “that song is dead.” When I chimed in by saying that the latest movie I saw was “sweet,” I suddenly felt very lame.

It was the first time that I honestly felt old. I almost felt doopy in a way. I feel like I’m in that middle stage of everything. I don’t feel like I should be wearing what an eighteen-year-old sports as she heads to the movies with friends. And I surely don’t want to be seen in anything from the Von Maur women’s department (unless it’s that expensive section with all of the designer clothes). The last few times I’ve gone out, I've felt like a teacher. Ugh. I really hate this (no offense to all of my lovely fellow teachers out there). I have always been pretty conservative, but stylish. For some reason, I feel like I’ve lost this. Maybe I am just freaking out, but something has got to change… like, soon.

Or, as they say now: "This shit's cray." (That means crazy for any of you newbies)

Towards the end of the trip I realized that this sense of feeling old was not all that bad. In many respects, I felt like it was my role to “play mom.” I didn’t want to stay up late and gossip with a bunch of teenagers. How weird would that be? I suppose it would be best to just embrace my age – not too old and not too young. This bittersweet realization is something I can live with.

P.S. I just heard a couple of twelve-year-olds use the term “boss.” Yes, I’m very glad I’m not in junior high again. The twenties are where it’s at!