First Gel Nail Experience

My friend and I went to South Coast area today and we spontaneously decided to treat ourselves to a gel manicure. I normally do my own nails and really enjoy the freedom to change out my nail color frequently. Doing the gel nail manicure meant that I would keep the same nail color/art for up to 3 weeks before changing out the nail color. That in itself tests my patience and commitment because I love to change up my clothes, hair, accessories and nail color based on my mood and occasion. 

I went ahead and committed to the french manicure, which is a real classic style. I figured as my nails grow I would be able to just paint a top coat on top so that the manicure would last longer and look freshly painted. 

The whole process took a longer than expected because the nail technician filed, cleaned my cuticles, and smoothed my nails before applying a nail oil and base coat. Followed by a light pink clear coat and then two layers of white tips and a sealing clear coat. Each layer I had to place my fingers under a UV lamp for 45 seconds each time.

 

Overall, I had a good experience because I got a chance to just relax and to enjoy the arm and hand massage. The nails look clean and feel smooth. The manicure cost me $35, the price really doesn't make me rush to get it done any time soon. If I could find a cheaper place I would do it again. 

The Journey Begins

The first real concrete day of soul connecting with God began today =) 

It was a real long time coming and I'm glad I made the real effort with tonight by going to my orientation meeting. At first I had the assumption that the first meeting would be the traditional academic format, but it really was more of self discovery and really relaxed and welcoming. I really have to admit this is really what I have been missing in my life for a very long time and it really brings me to tears to see how fearful I was to lose family relationships over my religious happiness. 

I was pleasantly surprised how this whole process will undergo a lot of internal tribulation because of all the influences from previous religious and life experiences. The priest was mentioning how this is going to become a process since it will really be a true test of one's soul and how to find a connection and acceptance of God. I firmly agree with that statement because religious beliefs creates stability in emotions and directions in life. 

The realization that I am never a lone is comforting because God works through all kinds of mediums, such as through animals and through people. I have really been so blinded by so many worries and concerns of experiencing abandonment, neglect and loneliness that I never once paid attention to the real positive people and small things that provide comfort and happiness from God. 

Thinking about what I want from this journey is really going to change my life because I've already begun over a month ago to work through my problems and seek help from the right outlets and through prayer. 

I only wish I took this religious journey years ago because it would have made me more patient and have the positive outlook that God will take care of everything because he is really the almighty creator of all things. 

Super storms in the Philippines

Today,  I said a prayer for those who have been affected by the recent super storm in the Philippines. The pictures were shocking because I could not believe the amount of down pour of water in such a short amount of time. I had been feeling so much personal difficulties in my life that seeing these pictures really confirms that discovering my faith developing stronger and feeling the need to really go out and make a difference in my community. Praying and going to mass is helping me find more strength and being able to handle more pressures in my current situation. Finding my way through life obstacles is always a constant battle but when I hear my relatives asking the help because they lost their home due to the super storm really changes perspectives for me. These natural disasters are always a humbling reminder not to get so caught up with all the needs of ambitions and to just come back home and cherish all the people you love the most in life. Whether it be your favorite teacher, friend, parent, boyfriend it is important to really say "I love you" and "thank you" because there just might not be another chance. I really pray for those who lost their loved ones in the super storm because I fear the numbers will be high.

Teachers

What it means to be a teacher?

Teachers are educators, but they are also a friend and another person you look for daily life advice. There are many types of teachers, there are those who teach math, cook, or religion. No matter the subject, teachers sacrifice their own time for their students in hope to be doing a greater good that is beyond themselves. That internal self gratification of "I really make a difference" takes over and puts the teacher in euphoric state of mind, where time ceases and their energy increases.

Teaching has really changed my life because it has helped me to really manage my timing and delivery of the information. Initially when I first began teaching I did not enjoy the trial and error methods I had to endure in front of children and teenagers. After a while, I learned to accept my mistakes and learned its ok to admit I'm wrong to my students, but then I would not repeat the same mistake a second time to a different group. I have learned to be very humble and to really pay attention to finding methods to get the information absorbed in my students minds. Take for example I would draw out the math problem or use actual objects to help the student grasp the concepts better. I do not mind working during my lunch or after school as long as I get the students to fully understand the information and learn not to hate school just because it is difficult.

I have noticed so many students lose their focus and motivation to continue studying and when asked they say that they don't need this because it won't secure them a job in the real world. What students neglect to notice is that school or getting an education does not hand them a job it enables them power to succeed in life. Education is a stepping stone to endless opportunities because it teaches the mind discipline, focus, creativity and to dream. Teachers are then not only educators but they are really define the possibilities of the future. If an individual could  learn then teach the same information to the next person then that action influences the future outcome. Thus, teachers are really innovators.

Day one of new fitness

In the past I have dodged seeing or working out with friends or anyone I know because I've felt so uncomfortable with working out the real problem areas without giggling or really sweating so hard that its so ugly. Now, I'm at a point where I don't want to hold back and just want to get things done now. I'm so glad my co-worker bumped into me at the gym and we made the effort to schedule the next time to actually work out. She's in really good shape and all I asked was could she show me how she does her cross fit routine and help me out because I really want to just look and feel better about myself. She's so nice and agreed to show me and work out with me because I'm really determined to make the big life style change.

Peace of Mind

Having the urge to think weighs me down,
Just wanting time to be free without commitment or the fear of disappointment,
The freedom without consequences, deliberate planning, judgment and conditions. 
The ability to exist in the moment without hesitation would essentially lead to liberation of the mind.

Ujam

Loving this whole new hobby of mine to Ujam more often because it really is fun and positive. The organization's message is unity and I really feel like I'm a member of the Ujam family. =) The people who attend the group exercise classes have such positive vibes, I really forget about what is putting me down. All I have to do is listen to the music and move, forget about what people are thinking about me and just live the moment of having fun while taking care of my body. It is a real empowering experience to continue every moment I get a chance.