Monday, July 26, 2004

So we're officially at the halfway point.  Exactly 2 weeks from today I'll be home at 10:55 p.m.  And wow...it feels like forever that I've been here, and at the same time, it feels like the blink of an eye. 
We've accomplished so much in 2 weeks- everything touristy that you can imagine, taken trips to the coast, mastered the art of rush hour train and bus service, discovered how to get from one end of the city to another in 20 mins, realized just how good we had it with prices in the US, discovered a true dislike of British food (everything is really bland), slept little, walked a lot more, missed home, called home, e-mailed often, and tried to break our AIM addiction that we can't really feed over here.  We've taken tons of pictures, made ourselves look like the stupid American tourists that we can sometimes be, and discovered just how good those of us who live in south Alabama near Dauphin Island and Gulf Shores really have it.  Beaches are to be made of sand, not rock.  We've eaten fish and chips, bangers and mash, and all sorts of other varieties of interesting food.  We've heard more languages spoken in the span of 5 minutes than you hear in line for Splash Mountain in Disney World.  We've cried, laughed, and figured out the hidden meanings of some of Britian's most interesting slang terms.  We've seen the White Cliffs of Dover, and we've tried to find Prince William.  We've mastered the art of sleeping through fire alarms, traffic jams, sirens, cars, and drunken hall mates.  We've learned to say "Cheers" when leaving and that "mates" are friends. 
We're still going to Dublin, we're still going to Edinburgh, we're going to Oxford and Cambridge and still going to class.  We still have so much to do, yet so little time.  We're having the time of our lives, adn yet it's all going to end.  And a part of all of us is ready to return to the familiarity that is home, yet another part of us knows that we'll take away memories that will last for a lifetime.
Cheers!

Sunday, July 25, 2004

My friends are freaking insane.  JD- it's really funny that you mention the fanta song in one of your posts, because Lunchbox has been singing that stupid song incessantly since we've been here because EVERYONE here drinks fanta.  It's everywhere.   That and Zoolander.  You'd think that Zoolander ran Europe the way Jenny and Amy quote the movie.
England is lovely, rainy, and cold, but still lovely.  We went to the beach yesterday (in Brighton) and...welll...I miss Dauphin Island.  Their idea of a beach is pebbles.  Although Amy did comment that it was nice to not have sand in your bathing suit...
We're still having a jolly time, and for those of you still back in the states, I miss you guys!!!
I promise that I'll update with all of our adventures once I get back to the states.  Internet cafes are not conducive to long updates.
Hugs and kisses and ciao til next time!

Saturday, July 24, 2004

I heart Harrod's.  And just about everything to do with London.  We're off the Brighton today (yay for the beach...) and went to France last week.  I promise a longer update later, but I only have a few mins every time I get to a computer. 
I hope everyone is doing well, and can't wait to see you guys again!!
Ciao til next time!!

Monday, July 19, 2004

Stonehenge was beautiful. Really. Anyone who says it's only a pile of rocks hasn't been there. And Old Sarum, the ruins near Salisbury, were also fabulous.




On Saturday, Amy, Jen and I took a day trip to Bath, where the Roman bathhouses were. Walking inside the temple, knowing that thousands of years ago Romans walked in the same place, was fascinating. The actual baths are still functional, though not open to the public except for viewing. They're heated by hot springs, and it's really, really neat to walk through them.



I found Paddington Bear! I had a Paddington when I was younger, and lo and behold, his home is Paddington Station. Yay for the litte things that make me happy.



While we were in Bath, we decided that July 17th is a black mark on our calendar. Jen almost lost her favorite sunglasses, Amy was pickpocketed (they stole her ATM card) and my BritRail pass (the way I was to get back to London from Bath) was loast and then found again (some very kind Brit turned it in at the train station...) We went dumpster diving looking for both the BritRail and the ATM card, and ultimately just wanted to get back to London at the end of the day.



Jen is a shopaholic. Literally. We found this department store, Selfridge's, which makes Bloomingdale's look tiny. It's actually bigger than Harrod's , and not quite so pricey, but still pricey enough. They carried Armani, Gucci, Burberry, Prada, Louis Vuitton, and any other designer you could imagine. Jen ended up buying some shoes and a shirt, and I just kind of walked around in starry-eyed wonder. I did buy a shawl like everyone wears here- a black one that I absolutely love, for £10 from a street vendor.



I miss home, though. No matter what I do here, I end the day here counting down the days I have left. I wish it weren't like that, but I guess it's inescapable. The girl who can't travel enough is homesick (but only slightly!). I'm doing better than one of my classmates, however- she has a return flight to the US on Wednesday. She's been miserable since she left Mobile, so I guess it's better for her, but I hate that she's wasting the trip. As much as I miss home, I wouldn't give it up for anything. (and Springhillians, it wasn't anyone from our group- it was a girl from Mississippi State).



Lots and lots of pics to amuse you www.picturetrail.com.catrelle83



Be forewarned- there are about a million and seven pictures of Stonehenge, but there are lots of other fun things, too.



Love and miss y'all!

Wednesday, July 7, 2004

This will likely be my last poast on American soil, which kinda is freaking me out. At this time tomorrow, I'll be making my way to Mobile to catch my flight. Scary. This summer has been a whilwind already, and it's about to get a little crazier. Being gone for a month will be interesting. So much can happen, so much can stay the same. It's unreal how fast things have gone- it seems like yesterday that Anna and I were filling out our applications, and Friday morning I'll be in London. Oy. Where does the time go?




I'll update when I can, and I love hearing about how things are going with everyone else, so keep me informed!! Hugs and kisses, y'all!



~Caitlin

Sunday, July 4, 2004

Freaking out

So, for those of you lovely people who enjoy writing real mail as opposed to e-mail, here's my address for the next month:




Caitlin Harold



CCSA



King's College London-Hampstead Campus



Kidderpore Avenue



London NW3 7ST



ENGLAND



I'll also be updating my xanga when I get a chance, so be sure to keep checking when you get a chance to find out what's going on with me, Anna and Amy as we journey across the big pond. Europe will never be the same. Hugs and kisses, and ciao til later.



~Caitlin

Wednesday, June 30, 2004

So, Joe's funeral was today.  It was bittersweet in a lot of ways.  He's been in a lot of pain, and he's suffered so much that I know that he's in a better place now.  But it's still hard, because so many of my memories from high school have him in it.  At the service, this girl got up before the cerermony and played a song on her flute.  It nearly broke me to hear it, b/c anyone who was a part of the flute section at Fairhope knew that song by heart, as it was the All-State music, as well as the song that Joe played over and over and over again.  They also played music from Five Iron Frenzy, his favorite band.  And to be quite honest, to quote his pastor, I don't know of anyone else who could be buried in his Batman t-shirt and still make it look cool. 
Joe touched so many lives, and he was only 21 years old.  He never failed to make me laugh, to be there when I needed someone, to be a shoulder to cry on.  For someone so young, he was far wiser than his years.  Even in the face of surgery after surgery, pain after pain, he still kept smiling.  I am a better person for having known Joe. 
And at the wake, Laura and I joked that, once again, this was Joe's unique way of doing things.  He loved his friends and family, and didn't want to wait until our 10 year reunion.  So, in true Joe style, he brought everyone together one last time.  It was like a FHS  reunion, Joe Waldrop style. 
Joe, you were an inspiration to all who knew you.  Your faith in Jesus and your love of all things beautiful touched everyone around you.  You will be missed.

Monday, June 28, 2004

Today is horrible.  I think I need to go back to bed and start over.
The first thing I heard this morning is that my friend Joe had passed away.  Joe and I went to high school together, and he was always prone to health problems, and it finally the better of him.  He passed away Friday morning.  He was only 21.  I know he's in a better place now, but I'm still kind of shell-shocked.  I talked to Robert this morning, and I think we're going to go to the wake together this evening.  Rest in peace, Joseph Ryan Waldrop.

Sunday, June 27, 2004

A case of the nervous Caitlin has set in.  Butterflies in the stomach everytime I think of airplanes.  You'd think, since I've been travelling all of my life, that this wouldn't faze me.  On the contrary, it has me absolutely a nervous wreck. The idea of being on an airplane for endless hours has me wanting to freak out.  Any suggestions, other than a whopping does of Valium or Ambien?  Oy vey.
I'm still missing 2 of the books that I need.  I can't find the copy of Shirley Valentine anywhere, and one of the other books is on backorder. Yippee. 
Rain, rain, go away.  It has rained forever, it seems.  I just want some sunshine...
I finally heard this song yesterday, and it goes out to all of my fave chicas.  Enjoy your summer!

Saturday, June 26, 2004

Ha.  I am officially a definition in Nicole's endless glossary.  (Thanks to JD for pointing that out.)  See "Fabulous".  
http://www.aloofhosting.com/insomniaconfessions/glossary.html#_j
Got my flight info and stuff yesterday.  15 days til I hop the pond.  Amers, you're my buddy, right?  Did I mention that I' not particularly fond of flying?  Especially for 8 1/2 hours?  Oh, well.  A month in London can't be beat...excited doesn't do it justice.  I'll be updating on here when I can, so be sure to check for updates on the goings-on across the Atlantic.
Ciao til later.

Monday, May 31, 2004

I get a big kick out of weather around here.  I left my house in a rainstorm, went to Gulf Shores, and there was nary a cloud to be seen.  I came back, and by the time I reached Robertsdale it was storming again.  Fabulous.
And it seems that trying to go to the beach is never uneventful.  This time, Emily and I ran into Bruno's to pick up some beer and munchies, and when I came back out to the parking lot, my door decided that it never wanted to shut again.  The latch had broken.  So, being the redneck and ingenious women that we are, we were able to close it using a bungee cord, and took our happy butts to the beach.  (heck, we thought about using duct tape, but the cords were cheaper...)
Hope all is well in everyone else's universe...ciao til later!

Sunday, May 30, 2004

So anyone who lives in the South has undoubtably heard the song "Redneck Woman."  You can't change the radio station without hearing it...it's on every county, rock, pop and whatever station out there (except maybe TK101...).  And as I was sitting around this morning, and had the offers to
1.  go fishing
2. go dirt biking/ 4-wheeling/etc.
3. go hunting...?
I realized that perhaps I'm not too far away from the lyrics of the song.  So I'm posting the lyrics for all to enjoy, and "here's to all my sisters..."
Well, I ain't never been the Barbie doll type
No, I can't swig that sweet Champagne, I'd rather drink beer all night
In a tavern or in a honky tonk or on a four-wheel drive tailgate
I've got posters on my wall of Skynyrd, Kid and Strait
Some people look down on me, but I don't give a rip
I'll stand barefooted in my own front yard with a baby on my hip
'cause I'm a redneck woman
I ain't no high class broad
I'm just a product of my raising
I say, 'hey ya'll' and 'yee-haw'
And I keep my Christmas lights on
On my front porch all year long
And I know all the words to every Charlie Daniels song
So here's to all my sisters out there keeping it country
Let me get a big 'hell yeah' from the redneck girls like me, hell yeah
Victoria's Secret, well their stuff's real nice
But I can buy the same damn thing on a Wal-Mart shelf half price
And still look sexy, just as sexy as those models on TV
I don't need no designer tag to make my man want me
Well, you might think I'm trashy, a little too hardcore
But in my neck of the woods I'm just the girl next door
I'm a redneck woman
I ain't no high class broad
I'm just a product of my raising
I say, 'hey y'all' and 'yee-haw'
And I keep my Christmas lights on
On my front porch all year long
And I know all the words to every Tanya Tucker song
So here's to all my sisters out there keeping it country
Let me get a big 'hell yeah' from the redneck girls like me, hell yeah
I'm a redneck woman
I ain't no high class broad
I'm just a product of my raising
I say, 'hey y'all' and 'yee-haw'
And I keep my Christmas lights on
On my front porch all year long
And I know all the words to every ol' Bocephus song
So here's to all my sisters out there keeping it country
Let me get a big 'hell yeah' from the redneck girls like me, hell yeah
Hell yeah, hell yeah
Hell yeah
I said hell yeah!

Enjoy...

Tuesday, May 25, 2004

I  E-bay.  Really.  I get a big kick out of ordering stuff from them. 
Living at home stresses me out.  Dealing with my lil sister and having no space of my own is really getting to me.
Hooray for scholarships!  Dr. S. called me today to tell me that I won mucho dinero to spend in London!!!!!! 
SO I'm reading Quicksand, which I was supposed to read last semester for Pitter-Patter. It's actually worth the time to read...Cas and Suze, take note

Monday, May 24, 2004

So it's been "back to the real world" for me this week.  I still want to bask in the glow of this weekend, but alas, work and responsibility beckons. 
I'm just kinda floating along this week though...I'm tired of living in my house, ready to get out and do something, can't wait for July 8th, and hate having to share a room with Amber.  It's so hard to go back to living at home after having a room at school for so long. 
I need to quit complaining.  But what better place to do it than here?

Saturday, May 22, 2004

I feel like I will be recovering from this weekend forever. 
My 21st birthday was, quite possibly, the most memorable I've ever had.  I got to party with all of my favorite people...all weekend.
Friday night, Emily, Anna and Tereasa took me out, and Adam (bless his heart) played designated driver for the Baldwin County girls.  I think he now understands what a "girl's night out" is really all about.  We went to Picklefish for dinner (gotta love it...)and Insomnia (yeah, it's a crappy club, but it was ladies night, so no cover, and $1 sex on the beach).  Tereasa had gotten this...glowy thing....in St. Louis, and Anna had gotten me a birthday shot glass necklace, so it didn't take long before I was g-o-n-e.  But whatever- we had a great time.  Have you hugged your kayak today?  (Don't ask).  Needless to say, Adam and Emily had to help me home, b/c I would have been content to never move again.
Saturday...I don't know if I can adequately describe Saturday.  It was my 21st fiesta, and ALL of my fave people were in the same place.  Shout outs to all of my fellow xanga users!  We danced, swam, skiied, kneeboarded, ate (we had enough food to feed a small country!), drank, chatted, and ultimately had a great time.  I have a nasty little bruise from falling off the deck (ha. ha. ha.  Next time, the chair shouldn't be that close to the edge...), have acquired 6 new watches and 4 new pairs of sunglasses (yes Amy, I found your watch).  And watching my Spring Hill friends meet my Fairhope friends, and both sets of those friends meet my river friends...it was interesting, to say the least. 
I love everyone, and thanks so much to everyone who helped make my "golden birthday (21 on the 21st of May!!) extra special.  And kudos to those of you who understand and appreciate my addiction to Care Bears!
I'll have some pics up later today, and more up in the next few days.  If you have some, please send them to me!

I'm recovering from strep throat.
...
Unbelievable.
Party is still on.  No chance in me not having it.  I only have to take antibiotics for 3 days, so it's not even that bad.  I feel somewhat better already- still a little weak, but I'm back at work today.
Amber graduated on Tues. Emily and I, as is our tradition, went to the stadium for the graduation/reunion/fashion show. I swear, these people make it a point to put on their most expensive outfits to wear to a football stadium.  Not to mention, it started raining half-way through...fabulous.  It was actually really funny to watch.  These women (and girls, I should add) in their most expensive clothes...getting soaked.  Since when did graduation become an all-out contest for who can show the most "bling-bling"?  (Oh yeah...when I moved to Fairhope....)
Blah.  I don't feel like writing.  I'll think of something clever and write later...

ETA:
I found this really amusing.  Thanks to JD, I laughed today...What's your Mormon name?  I'm Calina Caroldean.  I think I'm gonna start calling myself that from now on...
http://rumandmonkey.com/widgets/toys/mormon/index.php
Enjoy...

Friday, May 21, 2004

IT'S
MY
21ST
BIRTHDAY!

Wednesday, May 19, 2004

Sleepless nights suck.  Oy.  Watching the clock tick forward minute after god-forsaken minute is not fun. 

ETA:
I'm at work again, but leaving to go home in a few.  My lil sis graduates from high school tomorrow...scary thought.  Emily and I will be on our way to yet another FHS graduation.  At this rate, we'll end up having a reason to go to every single one until our 10 year reunion. 
I want to make some fun CD's for this weekend, but I'm drawing a blank as to what to put on them.  Any suggestions?

Sunday, May 16, 2004

Ahhh...the beach.   I love it.  I love the sand, the water, swimming in the Gulf, sandcastles...all of it.  I wouldn't live somewhere that I couldn't go to the beach for the afternoon.  Spent the afternoon at the Gulf with Adam, and he's as big (or bigger??) a far of the sand and sun as I am...
I have a lot on my mind lately.  Adam asked me to go to Houston to pick up his daughter in a few weeks.  I have very mixed emotions regarding said favor.  I want to..for him...but at the same time, I'm not sure that I'm ready for that.  I don't know.  His ex has always hated me, probably because she always knew that I was forever entwined with Adam's life...have been since we were 12.  But I know what it feels like to know that even your best will never measure up to someone else...Matt with Vera...and I almost feel sorry for her.  But at the same time, she too will always be a part of Adam's life.  I just don't know.  Going to Houston...he asked me to go with him, and I don't have to see her, and I know that he really wants me there- hell, he wanted me there even before we were back together...
As I'm rereading this post, I sound like I'm just kind of psycho babbling, but hopefully I can reread this and make some sense of it in the morning...

Monday, May 10, 2004

So today's my first day back at work in nearly 2 weeks, and this is the first break I've had since 8 this morning.  Gross.  I wish I had the summer break that my lil bro has- no job, just hanging out, going to the beach with friends, a basically being a bum.  I miss those days sometimes. 
I know I sound completely sappy and retardedly head-over-heels lately, but I can't help it.  I have never, ever in my life felt like this. 
Cute, sappy story, for those of you who care about my love life:
When I was in high school, we weren't dating anymore but were still good friends.  One afternoon, shortly before he moved to Texas, we were sitting in my car having one of those endless conversations, and before I left to go home, I gave him my ring- at the time, it was my favorite ring...2 separate rings joined in a celtic knot.  I told him that the rings were like our lives-completely separate but always joined, and that I would always be there for him as a friend.  Time passed, and I kinda forgot about giving him the ring- we would talk off and on throughout the years, and we were both dating other people.  We kept each other up to date on our lives, but it seemed like we were living in 2 different worlds- I was going to school to become a lawyer, he was trying to make things work for his new family.  Yet we always knew where the other was...like the ring I gave him, we were living 2 different lives, but we were always connected.
Last night, I was at his house when he pulled out my ring. It's tarnished with age now, but he's kept it with him all these years.  When he was working on the boats, it and his pocket watch were all he had with him.  He told me that he had dreamed of the day that he would be able to give it back to me, but never thought it would happen.  Little did he know...
So he told me that he was going to have it cleaned and was going to give it back to me for my birthday...talk about making me cry...I can't seem to express in words what it meant to me that he held on to it...
Enough sappiness. 
Birthday in 2 weeks!!  Yay!  Finally legal...about damn time.
Those of you who read my journal, keep me updated on what's going on in your lives...I miss all of my SHC buddies already!

Saturday, May 8, 2004

I am officially resigning my membership to the "Single Girls of Mobile Association."
A few days ago, I wrote about him.  Since then, he's completely stolen my heart. I feel like a new person, and with him I feel like I can do anything.  And the best part about it is that I know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that he feels the same way about me.  We've been friends since 8th grade, and it's taken us this long to come full circle. 
Thursday night was our first "official" date (since "dates" in middle school usually involved a lot of talking on the phone and not really going anywhere, except maybe to the park on Saturdays...), and I don't know that I've ever enjoyed myself as much as I did that night.  We had every intention of going to a crawfish boil and having a few drinks, but both decided that we didn't want to ruin the night with alcohol.  We had dinner, then went to buy my mom a birthday present.  We bought a tub of ice cream, then went down to the pier and ate ice cream like 2 little kids.  And I had more fun just "sittin' on the dock of the bay"...
The next morning, we took his little girl to the mall and went shopping...she's 2 1/2, and I don't know who had the most fun in the toy store.  Watching them together was the most amazing experience.  It keeps reminding me of the counrty song, "when tough little boys/ grow up to be dads/ they turn into big babies again..." She's a daddy's girl through and through, and being able to be a part of that was an awesome experience. 
He makes me feel like I can do anything, and my dreams are as important as his.  I know that he would help me accomplish anything, and he would be beside me no matter what I wanted to do.  I've laughed more since last week than I think I ever have, I've smiled more than I ever have, and it's simply amazing.  I don't have to be anyone other than me, I don't have to pretend to be something or someone I'm not, and neither does he.  And most importantly, the most important people in my life: my mom, my brother, Anna, Tereasa, Alisha and Emily--all like him, and like who we are when we're together.  And for me, that's something that's hard to come by.
I have to stop somewhere, and this looks like a good place...
Hugs!

Friday, May 7, 2004

Well, I'm home.  And I have to say, it feels good.  I miss everyone already, but it really doesn't feel like it's over- graduation is Sunday, so I'm still going to see everyone.
I do miss everyone...badly.  I love all of you guys...

Thursday, May 6, 2004

I think a line from  a John Mayer song sums up how I'm feeling:
"Am I living it right?"
Sometimes I just wonder if I'm getting everything I can, squeezing every last drop, out of every experience.  Time seems to be flying lately, and I don't want to miss anything, and at the same time, I want to savor every experience for all that it's worth.  I want to know, in 10...20...50...75 years, that I lived my life to the fullest, that I have no regrets, and that I lived a full and happy life.  A while back, life was kind of passing me by, and I don't want that to be the case.  I want to wake up with a dance in my step and a song in my heart.  I want to enjoy sunsets, roses, late nights with friends, and love and life for all it's worth. 
Life is too short to let it pass you by.  Carpe Diem. 

Wednesday, May 5, 2004

My room looks sad...and empty.  My computer, myself, and my bed are all that's left.

Tuesday, May 4, 2004

Yay!!!  No more finals!!!  And the only paper I still need to go turn in is essentially done!  *huge sigh of relief*
I hate this time of year.  The stress is all but gone (thank god...) but I hate saying good-bye.  I've never been any good at it, and this year more than my other years at Spring Hill are going to be harder to deal with.  I've gotten close to so many people that are graduating, and unlike high school, most people don't stay in Mobile after graduation...if I want to see these people, I have to travel to the 4 corners of the world and back.
As I'm thinking back over this year, it's actually quite amazing how far I have come, as have my friendships and relationships and general outlook on life.  I have to say that I like myself a lot better than I did at this time last year.  To quote my mom, "I've come into my own."  I know who I am, I've (somewhat) figured out what I want to do, and I've finally realized that my dreams are my own, and it's ultimately up to me to acheive them. I know that I don't need anyone else but me, but having friends is always nice. I've learned that staying up all night to finish papers that I knew about 3 weeks in advance sucks, but no matter how hard I try to get them done early, procrastination and everything else always wins.  I've learned that Wal-Mart is it's own brand of stress relief...there is nothing that a trip to Wal-Mart with your friends can't solve.  I've learned that I have a serious shopping problem....I buy more frivolous "shit" than any one person has a right to own.  I've learned that Carebears are addictive.  I've learned that sometimes you just have to have time for yourself.  I've learned that not everyone wants you to have time for yourself.  I've learned that the lofts in Mobile Hall are way too high off the ground when any amount of alcohol has been consumed. I've learned that sisters will be there for you when you need them the most...even the ones you didn't expect to be.  I've learned that not everyone loves the color pink.  I've learned that sometimes boys are mean, and sometimes boys are nice, but your best friends will see you through them all.  I've learned that the TACA girls can overcome anything.  I've learned that filling out a job application for the YMCA is akin to working for the CIA.  I've learned that having a camera is always a good idea.  I've learned that "making movies" in Mobile Hall can get everyone's attention.  I've learned that car alarms and fire alarms only go off during finals, when you're sick, or really need a good night's sleep.  I've learned that being known as a Jersey girl is still fun.  I've learned that being known as a Southern girl is still fun.  I've learned that Sweet Home Alabama (the movie) sums up my life.  I've learned that human bowling on the third floor can be quite entertaining.  I've learned that I can stomach even the most interesting of Juan's smoothies.  I've learned that the best things in life are free.  I've learned that someone is always willing to get Chinese food.  I've learned that Susan will always be a centerfold.  I've learned that Vix will always make me smile.  I've learned that sometimes your friends can see what you don't want to see.  I've learned that I am happy being me.
So much has happened this year that it would take days...weeks...to get all of my thoughts written down.  I keep thinking of more to say, and I have to stop somewhere...
I've learned that online journals are a great way to get your feelings across...
Hugs and kisses, and best of luck to everyone still finishing finals.  Happy birthday, Greg! 
And Anna, just because you don't like being mentioned in my journal...I've learned that Anna loves pinwheels, can do ballet in the hallway for hours, needs to do laundry, looks fabulous in blue, and blah, blah, blah...

Monday, May 3, 2004

Today...was...brutal.
I had my Brit Lit final, which I was only slightly concerned about.  Until Alex called me.  He had a death in the family, and he had sent Dr. Neal an e-mail asking her if he could take the final at 9 rather than at the scheduled 1 p.m.  In response, she replied:
"I'm sure that the family will understand that your final exams come first.  Besides, even if you took the final at 9, it will take you more than the 2 hours, so you still wouldn't have time to make it to New Orleans for the funeral.  Perhaps you should ask one of your Jesuit friends to put in a special prayer..."
WTF?
So....we took the final together.  And wanted to kill ourselves together...when everyone in the class walks out of the final near tears and with blank expressions of sheer horror...you know it was bad. 
And Mom had her surgery today...she's in a room now, and hopefully will be minus all of the complications of the last few times, but just knowing that she had to have surgery again is not a good feeling.
AAAAAAGGGGGGHHHHHHH.....*well-deserved scream...*
Ciao for now.  Gone to visit mom and try to pack my room.

Friday, April 30, 2004

A HUGE sigh of relief.   I turned in the massive paper for Patterson this morning...after completely changing my mind and topic at the 11th hour.  So my thesis went from something along the lines of consumer culture and Babbitt to a comparison of Lewis and Thoreau.  Whatever.  It made me happy. 
Thanks to those who put up with my incoherent ramblings lately.  A lot has been building, and stress almost got the better of me.  Yet good friends, sweet tea, and oysters from Wintzell's (thanks T!) make everything right again. 
I have to move out next week.  The thought of trying to pack right now makes me want to jump out of a window.  They must be kidding.
I'll post more later.  I'm practically delirious from being up too long.  Must get sleep. 

Thursday, April 29, 2004

I asked people a while back what made them happy.  And it seems like lately, people need a reminder of the "little" things in life.  So...here goes...
Sunshine.  Dancing in the rain. The word "kazoo".  Skiddamarinky-dinky-dink. Flowers.  Little girls in frilly dresses.  First kisses.  Notes to say hello.  A kind word from an unexpected source.  Twister.  The beach.  Still believing in Santa.  80's toys/games/cars/hairstyles.  Puppies.  Rainbows.  Falling in love.  Roller coasters.  Punch-buggy.  Talking about nothing...and everything.  Star-gazing.  Water skiing.  Sporks.  Yellow.  Hershey hugs and kisses.  The first day of school.  That "new car smell."  Black and white pictures.  Coffee that isn't from Starbucks.  Grease.  Dirty Dancing.  The Princess Bride.  Sharpies.  Trolls.  That 70's Show.  Sing-alongs.  S'mores.  Sunsets.  Sunrises.  Sandcastles.  Pac-Man.  Skee-ball.  Mini-golf.  Roller skating...even though you're older than everyone there.  Bowling.  Birthdays.  Being a kid at heart.  Being comfortable with who you are.  Music.  Tubas.  Dr. Pepper.  Dreamcatchers.  Skittles.  Spring.  Summer.  Winter.  Fall.  Holidays.  No class days.  No work days.  Hanging out with an old friend.  St. Judes.  Spaghetti.  Meatballs.  Easter eggs.  Walking in Memphis.  Graceland.  The Big Apple.  Mardi Gras.  Airplanes.  Hurricanes.  Hurricane parties.  Boats.  The causeway.  Knowing that this list is endless.
Know more?  Really want something added?  Did I make you smile?  Mission accomplished.
Kisses!

Tuesday, April 27, 2004

I am once again reminded of why I am a Delta Gamma.  The seniors crossed over tonight and took on alum status.  That, in and of itself, is usually enough to get the mushy ones (i.e. me) to start crying.  But tonight they added a new dimension, one in which the seniors did a presentation for us. And lordy, there went the tears again.  And when Emily sang "The Rose," I looked at Tamara, and it was all over.  The tears just started coming and wouldn't stop.  There were times when I doubted my involvement in a sorority.  But times like tonight remind me that I am a part of an amazing group of women, and I am truly blessed to have the sisters and friends that I do.  However....
I think I've hit a pretty low point.  A lot of things have been building, and I just can't seem to shake off this rather crappy feeling. Saturday, I finally got the nerve to fess up to Susan about having this "tiny crush," and now what was something I was going to keep to myself is now the joke among my friends.  And it's totally unlike me to be unable to talk to someone, but now I just get tongue tied and can't even say hello.  It's frustrating, it's embarrassing, and damn it...I don't even know what to say.  And being that school's all but over, and that this time next week I'll be moving out, there's really not even a point to pursuing things. I'm just frustrated, a lot with myself, a little with circumstances. 
And I have about 300 pages of papers to write before next Monday, so I'm a little stressed.  I've named my room the "stress-free" zone, so hopefully I'll freak out elsewhere. 
I'm just in a crappy mood. Maybe sleep and a day without thinking of papers will help.

Monday, April 26, 2004

So last night, I got some rather sobering news.  I'm not going into detail about it here, but many thanks to those of you who went out of their way to extend kindness, in particular Susan, who was freaking out about her senior seminar and still took the time to make sure that I was okay, and Duchess/Princess Vix, who made me ride the kiddie carousel at Wal-Mart in order to make me laugh.  Anyone who happened to be going into the Wal-Mart near the mall last night got an eyeful...two grown women (completely sober, I might add) on this carousel that was built for two-year-olds. And, if that weren't good enough, we had to invent our own sound effects since apparently the machine's speakers had broken. I hope all who saw us got a good laugh. (Next time you go to a store where they have the kiddie rides--you know, the kind that you put in a quarter and it twirls or "flies" or spins or drives or whatever--imagine yourself in it.  Better yet, treat yourself to a ride.  Just don't get stuck.)
I have to put in a plug here, though.  I know this may sound like common sense, but if you're out with your friends, and you know that someone's had too much to drink, please take care of him or her.  Make sure your friends get home safely, that they are aware of what they're doing, and watch out for those that can't watch out for themselves.  Be there for one another.  Don't let something happen that could have been prevented.

Sunday, April 25, 2004

Okay, so I was reading my comments from my quasi-religious/political post.  And I feel that I need to make something known.
I am a Christian.  Albeit, not the strongest one at times.  But I do know where my heart is.  However, after reading some of the comments, one in particular, I have issues with some things that were said.  As a non-Catholic at a Jesuit university, I've had a hard time grappling with a lot of issues, many being that I disagree with a lot of the stances the Catholic church takes on a lot of issues.  However, that being said, I respect those who are Catholic.
However, I have serious issues with anyone...ANYONE...telling me, or anyone else, that I am a "bad" Catholic/Episcopalian/Presbyterian/Lutheran/Christian/Mormon/Atheist/Pagan/Agnostic/
Jew/Buddist/Muslim/WHATEVER.
Who are you to judge my actions or what is in my heart?  Who are you to stand in judgment of someone else?  Who are you to cast someone out of the "Catholic Club," as you called it?  This is why I have such issues with the Pope.  I'm sorry, but he's just a man, just like everyone else.  Being a Christian, or being whatever, is a personal decision.  Per-son-al.  Having a relationship with whatever you believe to be a higher power is for you and for you alone.  Sharing in fellowship with others can be a wonderful thing, but in my book, your heart and your actions are only to be judged by Him and Him alone. 
So I'm sorry for going off on this rant, but I think it's something that I feel strongly enough about tog et my point across.  You don't necessarily have to agree with me- most don't, since I take fairly liberal stances on most controverial issues such as abortion (pro-choice), homosexuality (full supporter of full rights for gays and lesbians), and other hot button issues.  Don't like it? Don't like me?  It's okay.  But you better be damn sure of your own heart and conscience before casting the first stone at someone else.  Be careful.

Saturday, April 24, 2004

Interesting night last night, to say the least.  Band party with No Idea- pretty good for an all-school party.  I usually only have a mediocre time, but I actually can say that this party ranks up there in my list of parties since coming to Spring Hill.  Minus, of course, the massive amounts of drama that accompany such parties.  I don't really know what the deal was with Tereasa and Juan, but it seemed like the spat that they got into affected everyone else at some point during the night. 
Didn't go to bed til 6 am.  Not exactly the brightest thing I've ever done, being that the paper from hell awaits.  However, I had fun. 'Nuf said. I have my proposal presentation tomorrow, and I'm at the point of freaking out.  However, I completely side with Cass on this in agreeing that I'm just at the "I-don't-give-a-shit" point.  I know that this is a huge part of my grade in this class, but I just can't make myself want to do it.  I tried several times yesterday, had actually devoted my entire day to getting it completed so that it was off of my mind today.  What did I do?  Go to the mall with Robert.  My favorite Fairhopian (is that a word?) and I caught up, hung out, and ran errands, but didn't help my paper.  Unfortunately, he seems to have all of his ducks in a row, and his seminar is nearly done.  Oops.  Maybe I should be more like him.
Whatever.  I'm locked in my room or the lab until forever.  Or until my muse/inspiration/magic paper-writing fairy helps me get this god-forsaken paper done.  Ciao.

I have found, quite possibly, the best quote...ever. 
I love Emerson, and while at work, I was reading some stuff on various websites when I stumbled across this.  When I find a man who understands the depth and meaning of this quote, I will have met my match..

His friends find in her a likeness to her mother, or sisters, or to persons not of her blood.  The lover sees no resemblance except to summer evenings and diamond mornings, to rainbows and the song of birds.
Ralph Waldo Emerson, "Love"

Ponder that.  And smile.

Friday, April 23, 2004

Oy.  What a night.  Anna and I seriously got into it, to the point where I wanted to shake her, and I know that the feeling was mutual.
I never claimed to be anything other than what I am, and part of that is being a loner sometimes.  I place a lot of value on having a few minutes, or hours, or however long it takes, to be by myself and just...chill.  I come across to most most people as cheerful, happy, etc.  But I absolutely have to have time to myself every day.  I don't know if she just didn't get it, or exactly what the issue was.  But damn.  Talk about having something blow up in your face all of a sudden.  I'm an introvert at heart, and I need certain amounts of "caitlin-time."  People can just deal with it.  The more stress my life has in it, the more I need.  Be forewarned, folks.
I seriously need summer break. 
Happy day, though.  I got a bonus from the boss-man at work today...just because.  Niiiice, says me. 

Okay, so most of you that know me know that I'm not really into politics.  I follow what's going on...sort of...and can somewhat hold my own in a debate.  But that's where the interest ends.  But I'm completely perplexed by something.
WHY is Christianity and Christian principals and all that jazz even an issue??  Correct me if I'm wrong, but church and state were separated a long time ago, thankyouverymuch.
We've got the Pope withholding communion from Kerry, b/c he supports abortion.  So what?  What right does the Pope have to judge anyone?  What makes him alike with God?  If you want to know where I got my information, read today's article on CNN.com.
I have nothing against the Catholic church, but geez!  Religion does not equal politics.
I'm at work at the moment, and can't really add more at the time.  But someone, please feel free to enlighten me.  Maybe I missed something, maybe I should shut my trap and keep my thought to myself, whatever.  I guess the curse of going to a Catholic institution and being surrounded by Catholic Republicans 90% of the time is having a hard time figuring out where the rest of us fit in to the grand scheme of things. 

Thursday, April 22, 2004

Ha.  Papers can kiss my ass.  I am, quite possibly, the biggest procrastinator on the planet.  I have an exegesis due tomorrow, and what did I do today?  Wasted time at the mall with Tereasa.
However, my day is looking soooo much better than this morning.  Tereasa and I had our weekly lunch date, and ended up going shopping.  And I found my dream job.  (Quick side note: most of you know already that I'm not all that excited about the job I have now.  Being a legal secretary/notary public is not all that fun and exciting.)  Most of you know that I live in a fairy-tale-ish universe.  And now they have a fairy tale store for little girls....little girls get to make their own lipstick, lip gloss, nail polish, etc.  They do birthdays and stuff, and it was the cutest store.  They haven't opened to the public or anything, but Tereasa and I stuck our heads in and they gave us a quick tour and stuff.  The whole concept behind the store is making little girls feel like princesses, and I absolutely get a kick out of stuff like that.  (Another plus: jeans and t-shirt to work.  Fantastic.)  But enough about fairy dust and fantasy land...
I have way too much to do in the next 2 weeks.  I'm going to be next to dead before everything is said and done. But, on the flip side, everything is done in 2 weeks.  4 finals, 7 papers, and then summer vacation. 
Enough procrastinating, though.  Ciao!

Wednesday, April 21, 2004

I've been in the weirdest mood the last few days.  Not bad, per se, only strange.  The end of the semester does that to me, though.  People graduate, people move away, people get married...everything is different when we come back in the fall. And I honestly don't know where the time went...one day I was a freshman, and *poof*...now about to start senior year. I was talking to a friend about it the other day, though, and I think I know what's bothering me.  It seems as though all of my friends that aren't in the "college bubble," the one's that have either graduated, started working right out of high school, etc, know where their lives are going.  They already have their future plans.  I'm stuck somewhere in the middle.  I know what I want to do, and I know what I would like to accomplish, but I don't feel like I'm being very productive.  I know that getting my degree is a big step in getting there, but...I don't know.  I kinda feel like my life is on hold or something. I have friends who are climbing corporate ladders, friends who have started their own companies, friends who are happily married, friends who are starting their families, friends that are doing multiple combinations of that list...and then...there's me. Kinda floating along right now.  It's frustrating at times, and I don't know if anyone else even feels like this or even begins to understand what I'm talking about.   
A part of me is happier than I ever thought possible, and then there's the part of me that wants to get my ducks in a row and figure out where my life is heading. There's too much uncertainty in the future, and it drives me nuts.
Enough babbling to the computer.  Other stuff is claiming my attention.  Ciao.
"Not all who wander are lost..." (J.R.R. Tolkien) ~Thanks, Heather.
(1 month til 21)

Tuesday, April 20, 2004

I don't want to write this stupid, god-forsaken paper.  I cannot focus.  I have been trying to write it since 8:30 this morning, and I'm still at the G-D computer.  My mind is not wanting to cooperate.  My friends, I think I'm nearly on the brink of madness.

Monday, April 19, 2004

Tonight was one of those nights that I feel truly blessed to have the friends that I do.  Call this entry "Dedicated to the DG's of Mobile 3W"
I was sitting in my room after our chapter meeting tonight when Anna knocks on my door and asks me to come next door for a something. I go to Alisha's, and three of my best friends at Spring Hill- Anna, Tereasa, and Alisha- are there with a bottle of champagne.  It was one of those sappy, cheesy things that you only see in movies, but we each toasted things to this year that we're thankful for.  I didn't fully realize the extent that we had grown together until tonight.  We've been through so much together this year, and no matter what happens, my life is better for the three of them being a part of it.
We've been through break-ups (mine and Matt's, Tereasa and Seth's), guy problems, hilarious weekends, nervous break-downs, friends in need, several bottles of champagne, birthdays, heartaches, breast cancer, hospitalizations, and more laughs than I can count.  They know the real words to "Playboys of the Southwestern World," understand the meaning of the necessity of "caitlin-time," know that I am a one-woman jukebox, and love me as much as I love them.  Alisha understands the meaning of being a hopeless romantic, that there's always a happy ending, and the love of a good sale.  Anna knows when you need a good bowl of chicken noodle soup, how to listen, when even the tiniest pick-me-up can do the trick, and how to be brutally honest when you need someone to be.  And Tereasa is the one who can always make me smile, shares my love of a good shoe sale, and will forever be my Thursday lunch date. I love you guys more than you can ever know.  Thank you. I hope everyone who reads this is as fortunate and blessed as I am to have friends that touch your life so deeply.
I'll leave you with this quote...
"A friend is one who knows the song in your heart, and can sing it back to you when you've forgotten the words." 

Sunday, April 18, 2004

How do I begin to describe one of the best weekends of my life?  In-cre-di-ble.  I’m still kinda floored as to the whole of things.
            Friday night, I went out with a good friend (at the request of this person, I’m not going to use his/her real name…), a friend whom I haven’t spent any considerable length of time with in a very long time.  We ended up going out to dinner, and *** took me to Ruth Chris’, which is by far one of my favorite restaurants, as well as one of the nicest and classiest places in Mobile.  We had a wonderful evening, and I realized how much I missed spending time with ***.  The dinner aside (excellent, by the way), we talked for a solid 4 hours, about everything under the sun.  Unfortunately, *** is moving, and the distance will be considerable enough that we won’t see each other much, if at all.  But we had a fantastic time, and it definitely ranks up there as being one of the better evenings in my life.  I’m glad I got to spend the time with *** that I did. 

            And now we come to Saturday night…the night of the yellow dress, Golden
Anchor Ball and Alisha’s 21st b-day…what an amazing time. 

I can say that I was a little disappointed in the location, but that aside, what better way to spend a Saturday in the company of your sisters and friends?  Alex was my date, and things worked out so perfectly that dinner was at the table with Anna, Tereasa, Juan, Alisha and Tim.  Props to Mary for putting me at a table with my closest friends.  Speck was the band again, and I love hearing them, not to mention that a guy that I went to high school with plays with them…if you get the chance- go check them out. 

            I finally got to wear my yellow dress.  I can honestly say that I have never felt as beautiful as I did last night.  I was the only one wearing yellow, and that alone made me happy…but even Sue commented on my dress, and I can say that I was floating on cloud 9.   Speaking of what people were wearing (everyone looked beautiful, but I have to comment on one particular standout), Anna looked amazing in her blue dress. Stunning! (See the pic of the two of us at the end)

            Afterwards the details get fuzzy J I had every intention of going back to my room and going to bed, but Ashley, her date Matt (no, not Mike.  Matt.  yes, for the umpteenth time, Mike is her boyfriend, and Matt was her date) and a bottle of Captain got the better of me.  We partied at Apt 108 for a while, I know that somewhere along the line I played Spencer in a round of Mario Kart (I am not allowed to drink and drive anymore!), danced with Kate K., ate pizza with Katie and Scoles, and 2/3 of the bottle disappeared.  I know I had a good time, and that was all that mattered. 

        I ended up hanging out with Matt quite a bit Saturday night, and I hate the fact that he's in Auburn and will be all summer. I think that there was a possibilty for something there, but being that we're not going to see each other very often, if at all, chances are slight.  Who knows where the road shall lead...

            Needless to say, this weekend was amazing.  I couldn’t have imagined it being any better than it was.  Now I just have to recover from it!

            There’s more to be said, but I just can’t type any more.  I’ll add more later…check out the pics, though.  I'll add them to my photo album soon, but here are 3 of the better ones.  The group shot is Tereasa, Anna, me and Alisha (the b-day girl!), and the other one was of me and Anna acting silly. I was laughing so hard that I nearly dropped my drink.  Yay for having fabulous friends to be goofy with. The last one is of me and Brian, with whom I never fail to have a good time.

Friday, April 16, 2004

And I find myself again filling one of these things out.  But hopefully the end of the antibiotics will let me feel like normal again and not a prisoner of my room.  Enjoy while it lasts.  Sunshine beckons.

1. Full name: Caitlin Harold.

2. Date of birth:
5/21/83

3. Eyes: Blue-ish, grey-ish...depends on mood

4. Height: 5'3”

5. Hair: blonde.  What else?

6. Siblings: sis, Amber. 18.  Bro, Alden, 14.

7. Do you sing in the shower? On occasion

8 .Do you like to sing in the toilet? Never tried climbing INTO it. (stole that one from JD)

 
9. Do you like to sing? Sure, but the question should be “am I any good at singing?”

10. Sign: depends on what I’m reading.  Sometimes a Gemini, sometimes a Taurus.

11. Address: at the moment in
Mobile, Alabama

12. Sex: female

13. Righty or lefty: righty

14. What do want in a relationship most? Here we go again.  Honesty, commitment, lots of love and laughter, I’ll keep the list short this time.

 
15. Have you ever cheated and if so did you mean to and will you do it again? No and no

16. What pets do you have? My Boston Terrier, Sunny.

17. Do you have a car? Ford Contour

18. Do you have your own room? thankfully.

19. Movie: I have lots, but I love
Sweet Home Alabama.  It’s my life story in a movie (except I haven’t found that cute southern guy who takes my breath away yet…)

20. Song: at the moment, Drunken Angel as sung by Barbara Blue.  Also most Cowboy Mouth songs, as well as When a Man Loves a Woman

 
21. Band/singer: see above, although many others fit into the great categories.  Most classic rock bands, some newer bands, etc.

22. TV Show: Survivor…I’m hopelessly addicted.

23. Actor: Richard Gere, Johnny Depp, and many others

24. Actress: Reese

25. Food: my mom’s green-bean casserole. Hands down.

 
26. Numbers: 21, 7

27. Cartoon: Inspector Gadget

28. Disney character: Ariel

29. Colour: Pink, followed by Yellow and blue

30. Do you plan on having children? yes.

31. Do you want to get married? eventually

32. How old were you when you got your first kiss? Hahaha.  First real kiss was Henry Collins, 7th grade Halloween dance. 

33. How old do you want to be when you get married? When the time is right, I guess.  I don’t have a specific age.

34. Would you have kids before marriage? Wouldn’t plan on it

35. How old do you plan to be when you move out of your parents' house? Working on that now…

 
36. Have you ever had a crush on your teachers (who and when)? Ha. Ha..ha.  No. (but I seem to remember someone else having a crush on Mr. Yahr in high school. Scary.)

37. Do you have a crush on someone? At the moment, the possibilities are endless.

38. Music/TV: Music

39. Guys/girls: Guys

40. Green/blue: blue.

41. Pink/purple: pink

42. Summer/winter: summer

43. Musicals/ Shakespeare: Musicals

44. Apartment/House: house

45. Dopey/funny: Funny

46. What school do you go to? Tiny liberal arts school

47. Spring/ Fall: spring, minus pollen and weird weather

48. Have you ever taken drugs? No.  Have you been fortunate enough to hear my drug speech ?
J

49. What’s a major turn on for you? Ahhh…there are so many.  (a good smile, nice eyes, easy sense of humor, and the ability to see the lighter side in everything, just to name a few)

50. Most blonde: probably myself

51.  (A)Best person: My mom…hands down
      (B)Funniest: JD
      (C)Happiest: Susan
      (D)Strangest: Amy
      (E)Most caring: Anna
      (F)Tallest: Everyone's tall to me (taking JD’s answer for the one)
      (G)Smartest: Sprinks!.

52. What people do you trust and are open with the most? The people who have proven to me that they ARE trustworthy. 

 
53. Pool/ beach: beach

54. Is it right to flirt if you have a bf/gf? Debatable.  Depends on the relationship, I guess.

55. What was the last thing you cried over or got teary about? Heart-to-heart with a close friend

56. What’s something about guys/girls you don't get? People who think that being rude is funny. 

 
57. Are you happy? Try to be, most of the time anyway.

58. Why? Life is only what you make of it.  I’m not going to spend my life wallowing in misery.  The sun is shining, the world is bright, and Thursdays are me free days. 

59. What's an object you just can't live without? Chapstick.

60. Love or lust: Love.  Just not finding it at this point in time.

61. Silver or gold: Usually gold.  But silver’s nice, too

62. Diamond or pearl: Diamond.

63. Favourite phrase? Fabulous, Oy, vey, many others.

 
64. Have you ever gone skinny-dipping? Haha.  Yes…funny as hell, too.

65. Do you sleep with stuffed animals? Sure

 
66. Do you have any piercings? Just my ears.

68. What song are you listening to now? Nothing at the moment.  But I was listening to a Jethro Tull/ Eagles/ other stuff mix that a friend made for me.

 
69. What are the last 4 digits of your phone number? 2580, 0288, 4295

70. Where would you like to go on your honeymoon? Wow- lots and lots of places to choose from.   Definitely not hiking/camping/etc unless he wanted to be alone...

71. Who do you want to spend the rest of your life with? Not a clue.

 
72. What are the first things you notice about the opposite sex? Eyes and smile.  Guys who don’t take care of their teeth and nails- gross.  (and I don’t mean getting a manicure once a week…I mean getting the gunk out from under them and just looking halfway like you care).  I’m a sucker for blue eyes, though.

73. E-mail/"snail mail": I prefer to send e-mail, but I love getting real mail.

74. What makes you happy? Happy people.  Yellow.  Rain at night.  The beach (day or night).  Orange tic-tacs.  Clean sheets.  Meeting new people.  New romances.  Pictures. Rainbows.  Stars.  Daydreams.  Keeping in touch with friends.  Making new friends.  Potpourri pots.  Gel pens.  New shampoo.  Pink.  Candy Stores.  Finding someone to go to a really cheesy movie with you.  Being a “yankee-rebel.”  Books.  Getting really dressed up.  Sleep.  Swing dancing.  Burt’s Bees products.  Moulin Rouge.  Knowing what Emily’s talking about when she mentions her “bagel”  Travel.  New shoes.  Random encounters with old friends….and the list goes on.

75. What's the next CD your going to get? I have no idea.

 
76. Do you wear contacts or glasses? nope

77. What's the best advice given to you? Finding yourself is the hardest thing you may ever do, but it’s also the most valuable.  You can’t love someone else until you love yourself.

78. Have you ever won any special awards? Several, most in high school.  Oh, and an all-expense paid trip to D.C. in 11th grade. (yay for co-op and Alabama Power!)

79. What is your future goal? Law school…

 
80. Worst sickness you ever had? Mono would rank up there.
 
81. Do you like funny or scary movies better? Funny.

82. On the phone or in person?  in person!.

83. Hugs or kisses? hugs

84. What song seems to reflect you the most? Joanna Pacitti- Watch Me Shine

 
85. If you died tomorrow whom would you leave everything you own to? They know who they are…this is kinda morbid, no?

86. Do you have any enemies? I don’t think so?

87. Who would you like to meet? My mom at age 20. Ask me why.

88. If you could go back in time, what historic event would you like to watch? There are so many…

 
89. What time is it in Albania now? Not 12:32 p.m.

90. Have you ever been in love? yes.

91. Have you ever met Santa? Yes! 

92. If ET came to your door holding up a peace sign and asked to use your phone, what would you do? let it use the phone….?

 
93. Last time you talked to the person that you liked: not recently enough.

94. Do you have any pets? You asked that already.

95. What’s your email address? IM me or leave me a message and I’ll let you know.

96. Last time you were depressed: Januaryish

97. Are you an alcoholic? No, but I do like to drink on occasion.

98. Worst Nationality? Don’t really know of one.

99. Best Nationality? Irish!!

Thursday, April 15, 2004

Weirdness abounds.  As usual.  Nothing is set in stone, and nothing happens the way you expected.
Don't go to Wintzell's in Fairhope. Horrible.  Really. 
Anchor Ball and Alisha's 21st on Saturday...yay for good times.  And only 2 weeks until the end of the semester.  More good news.
Travis Tritt's "It's a Great Day" is stuck in my head. Seems appropriate.  Read them with good cheer.
I got rice cooking in the microwave
Got a three day beard I don't plan to shave
And it's a goofy thing but I just gotta say
Hey, I'm doing alright
Yeah I think I'll make me some homemade soup
Feelin' pretty good and that's the truth
It's neither drink nor drug induced
No, I'm just doin' alright

And it's a great day to be alive
I know the sun's still shinin' when I close my eyes
There's some hard times in the neighborhood
But why can't every day be just this good?

It's been fifteen years since I left home
Said good luck to every seed I'd sown
Give it my best and then I left it alone
Oh I hope they're doin' alright
Now I look in the mirror and what do I see?
A lone wolf there starin' back at me
Long in the tooth but harmless as can be
Lord, I guess he's doin' alright

And it's a great day to be alive
I know the sun's still shinin' when I close my eyes
There's some hard times in the neighborhood
But why can't every day be just this good?

Sometimes its lonely
Sometimes its only me and
The shadows that fill this room
Sometimes I'm fallin', desperately callin'
Howlin' at the moon

Well I might go get me a new tatoo or
Take my old Harley for a three day cruise
Might even grow me a fu man chu

And it's a great day to be alive
I know the sun's still shinin' when I close my eyes
There's some hard times in the neighborhood
But why can't every day be just this good?

And it's a great day to be alive
I know the sun's still shinin' when I close my eyes
There's some hard times in the neighborhood
But why can't every day be just this good? 

Wednesday, April 14, 2004

Thanks to Christina, who inevitably listens to my dinner-time rants. Things are looking brighter...went with Anna to find her a dress for Anchor Ball.  No luck, but I never back away from a good challege (i.e...finding something for the pickiest person on the planet!!) She will be stunning come Sat. night. 
Random phone conversations again.  I miss a lot of people, and I hate to admit that it's getting me down in a big way.  I'm happy, but there are so many people that I wish I could see more often.  Auburn and B'ham aren't that far, but NYC and Boston and Amherst are another question.  Oy.  It'll all be okay in the end, I imagine.
More stuff going on, but more on that later. 
Last note...Cassie, my fave lil sis...we shall overcome!!  We shall go out with a bang!  This semester will not win!

Avoidance of anything productive.  Inability to sleep.  So I fill out these things.  Thanks to Sara for this one.

x. Do you have a completely irrational fear?
clowns and being alone in the dark.  *shudders at the thought*  Ferris wheels, too, although Anna, Sarah and Ahsley tried to cure me of that one.

x. What is the little physical habit that gives away your insecure moment?
biting my lower lip

x. Are you a pyromaniac?
not as much as some people I know!  i just like candles and such- does that count?

x. Do you have too many love interests?
no, not really.  Being single has that advantage.

x. Describe your bed.
4 feet from the ceiling.  Oh the joys of Mobile Hall...gotta love the lofts.  But I like my extra-comfy futon better, anyway.  Feather beds make a world of difference. I have too many pillows, too many blankets, yadda yadda yadda...i love my bed, though.

x. Spontaneous or planned?
Both are good in their own ways.

x. Do you know how to play poker?
Ha.  Ha ha. Ha.  Yes, I know how to play.  However, the term "poker face" is something that I cannot seem to master.

x. What do you miss most about being little?
fun projects in pre-school, nap time as part of class, celebrating every holiday under the sun, innocence and imagination that fades as we grow up

x. Are you happy with your given name?
love the name Caitlin.  Always have. It's the other part of my name that's not so hot.  Anyone who went to FHS or SHC and ever had a class with me will remember the name that was always called on the 1st day of classes...

x. How much money would it take to get you to give up the Internet for one year?
I don't know...if...there's...enough money...in...the world...(can we say "addicted"?)

x. Do you consider yourself to be a nice person?
most of the time

x. What's one thing you wish you could do but can't?
be in 2 places at once, make everyone happy...etc, etc. etc. 
x. What is your ideal marriage location?
wow.  hadn't thought of this one, really.  I have lots of fairy-tale type scenarios, some at the beach, some at a church, some in other random places.  I guess it depends a lot on the person I'm marrying as well.

x. Which musical instrument do you wish you could play?
the cello.  still working on that one, though.

x. Something you love and hate?
rain, sand, AIM, girl scout cookies, shoes, lots of stuff

x. What's the one language you want to learn?
Japanese.

x. Do you drive stick?
tried.  failed.  miserably.

x. What's one trait you hate in a person?
hypocrisy.

x. Most frivolous purchase?
oh wow.  every trip I've ever made to Wal-Mart just flashed before my eyes....I have no idea.

x. Do you consider yourself materialistic?
not at all...what a person has or doesn't have is no relection on who he or she is.

x. What do you cook the best?
Me?  Cook?  Ha. (no, really.)  Does rice count?  I can make chicken and dumplings like you would not believe, though.  Call it Caitlin's specialty- grandma's recipe.

x. Favorite writing instrument?
Bic round stic.  best pens ever.

x. Do you prefer to stand out or blend in?
a lil bit of both.  I don't like to say that I follow the crowd, but I don't want to stick out like a sore thumb, either.

x. What kind of books do you like to read?
You're asking an English major about books. Any and everything.  Except the Great Gatsby.  If I never read it again (12 times in 4 years), I will die happy.

x. If you won the lottery, what would you do?
Invest, travel, pay off stuff, buy dad a new car, buy me a new car...the list goes on.

x. If you don't like a person, how do you show it?
Avoid situations in which the two of us are put together.  Casually avoid the person.  Try to find the best in the situation.

x. Do you cry in front of friends
Sometimes....

x. What kind of first impression do you think you give to people?
I have no idea.  In the words of Anna: I hated you...until I got to know you.  In the words of Emily: I loved ya the first time you opened your mouth.  In the words of CJ: Such a free-floater.  In the words of Ash: You crack me up...I knew you were the blonde I thought you were when I first met you.  In the words of Peter: You had this whole southern thing going on...but you're really a Yankee in disguise, aren't you?  You tell me...

x. Are you a giver or a taker?
a bit of both

x. When's the last time you cried?
Not sure.

x. How many drinks before you're tipsy?
not enough!  Call me a cheap date if you wish.

x. Do you ever have to beg?
for what?

x. Do you think you're cute?
sure, when I want to be.  Not amazing or anything, but enough.
x. Do you have problems changing clothes in front of friends?
In the words of someone else:  Call it the curse of too many bus trips in middle and high school, but I have perfected the art of changing without giving too much away.  Therefore, no-  I have no issues with changing in front of my friends.

x. What's the most painful experience you've ever had?
Physical pain: surgery on my ear when I was 17.
Emotional:  Something I'm gonna leave alone..

Happy day.  Laura brought me an Easter basket with all of my fave things in it to cheer me up after last week's blow-out with the big cheese.  Still feeling like crap, but sour skittles, pumpkins seeds and pringles are always good to make anyone feel better.
And no night class today.  Yay.

Tuesday, April 13, 2004

Oy.  The drama that abounds at this school sometimes.  Thanks to Vix for being an island in the storm.  Sometimes you just have to scream....or whatever. The people who saw and/or talked to me yesterday afternoon understand.
I am so tired of feeling like crap.  The medicine only makes me feel worse, it seems.  But only 3 more days of it.  And feeling like crap makes me snap at people that I had no intention of snapping at.  It's like a neverending spiral.  I feel bad, so therefore I'm not in the greatest of moods, so therefore things tick me off that wouldn't normally tick me off, and i get aggravated with things that wouldn't normally aggravate me, and on and on. And on top of that, we are having the weirdest weather....ever.  And I'm used to weird weather.  But I have never seen it in the 40's in April in south Alabama.I had to dig out the sweaters that I thought were banned from my wardrobe until the fall.  Whatever.  Weirdness abounds these days. 
Enough venting and procrastinating.  Ciao.

Monday, April 12, 2004

So yeah, spring break was hella fun- at least, the parts of it that I wasn't sick for...Memphis is quickly becoming my fave city, which is why I'm thinking it looks good for law school.  Plus free room and board if i choose to go up there...perks are always nice.  Alex and I bummed around the city for a few days- went to a couple of my fave spots (Silky's, Jillians, just to name a few), and got to hang out with his friend Liz, who has the coolest job ever (for all you gaming nerds out there, ask me about her job) Spent the remainder of break bumming around locally with old and new friends- Tereasa, you're my #1 beach pal, even if I am going to look like a lobster for anchor ball.  And there's nothing like spending time with your oldest friends- got to see emily for a few days.  I hate the fact that she's miserable, but think that she'll be happier at Auburn next year.  And I love being at home- it makes my mom sad to think that I'm going to be in London for a good chunk of the summer.  But let the countdown begin...Amy, Jen and Anna- it's gonna be one hell of a good time.
Being sick sucks.  But medicine with codeine makes everything look a lil better...