That’s me! The writer of this blog!
I thought I’d take a moment to properly introduce myself to everyone and to tell you a little more about me. My name is Laurie, and I am 28 years old. Currently, I work as a proofreader at a small marketing/advertising agency. Since I graduated college (University of Florida) in 2003, I have been working as a proofreader or editor of some sort, both in the agency and book publisher settings. As an English major in college, I always thought editing was what I wanted to do. I’ve always loved reading and writing, and it just seemed like the right career for me. I guess like most things, you don’t really know what you’re getting into until you try it. It’s not that I hate what I do. I do enjoy editing/proofreading. But I get bored easily. I need a job where things change on a daily basis. And I also feel unfulfilled with this type of work. I need to do something that matters in the grand scheme of things.
I am in the process of working toward a new career. This past Spring, I started graduate school. I am getting a dual degree in Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. Ideally, I would really like to work in some type of rehab facility that deals with alcohol and substance abuse. So, I’m on the way to something that will (hopefully) matter more (to me and others). However, it is going to take me a few years to finish my degree, especially because I will have to do four different internships. But it’s all worth it. Or at least I think it will be in the end!
I currently live on Long Island in the great state of New York! I moved here last August. Previously, I was in Boston for about five years. I grew up in Florida though, and lived there through college. I don’t really know what state I’ll end up in once I’m done with my Master’s degree. I’ve realized now you can’t plan for those things in advance; you just have to see where life takes you. I never thought I’d live in Boston, especially not for five years, so who’s to say where I’ll end up next. I do like Long Island, though!
As I mentioned, I love reading and writing, but I also love theater (seeing it, not acting in it!), TV, movies, and have started to become very interested in photography, as you know. I try to get into Manhattan every once in awhile to see a play or musical. And I’ve been known to wait after shows to meet celebrities. (In fact, I have a whole album on Facebook documenting these moments!)
Hmm what else? I’m an only child, and I never wanted siblings. I’ve always had pets growing up (cats, dogs, rabbits, turtles, fish, hamsters), but Sadie is the first pet that is truly mine. I used to be a swimmer and a gymnast (not a major competitor in either though). My 10 year high school reunion is in September, and I’m on a mission to lose weight (down 18 pounds so far!). I’m shy when I first meet someone, but will open up pretty quickly. My favorite smells are my mother’s cooking and perfume, Sadie’s paws, morning dew, and crayons. I love all types of music, but especially love Sheryl Crow. (In fact, I have “I Shall Believe” tattooed on my inner left wrist, which is one of her songs.)
That’s a good place to start, I think. If you have any questions, feel free to ask! :) Thank you all for reading our blog. I love meeting other animal lovers!
P.S. If you’d like to add me on Facebook, here’s the link!