My cat ‘Kiwi’ & Ed Sheeran’s cat look the same …
(or they just sleep the same?)
Can you tell who belongs to who?
Saturday, March 3, 2018
Ed Sheeran's cat ... or my cat?
My cat ‘Kiwi’ & Ed Sheeran’s cat look the same …
(or they just sleep the same?)
Can you tell who belongs to who?
Wednesday, May 6, 2015
24 hours without being grumpy!
The Great American Grump Out will be celebrated on Wednesday May 6, 2015
How to celebrate:
1. Smile for a reason! Eat some good food, have a good workout, go to a nice place, and let your inner feelings manifest in your smile!
2. Connect with other people and bring some fun with you. Grumpiness magically evaporates after that!
3. The easiest way to get grumpy is to find somebody wrong on the internet. Take a break from the net, or just use your time online for this day to surf for some movies or funny pictures.
4. Try to learn some meditation techniques to make it easier to not be grumpy.
How to celebrate:
1. Smile for a reason! Eat some good food, have a good workout, go to a nice place, and let your inner feelings manifest in your smile!
2. Connect with other people and bring some fun with you. Grumpiness magically evaporates after that!
3. The easiest way to get grumpy is to find somebody wrong on the internet. Take a break from the net, or just use your time online for this day to surf for some movies or funny pictures.
4. Try to learn some meditation techniques to make it easier to not be grumpy.
Sunday, March 24, 2013
Fear
4 weeks ago I faced my fears.
I am a fairly average snowboarder and last year I was working on my confidence while on the slopes. Getting enough speed, cutting through the snow and getting used to my brand new goggles that my boyfriend had got me for Christmas.
One warm February day we headed up to the mountain, ready to spend a day 'carving it up!' Just like any other day we jumped on the lift and headed up to the top.
It was our first run and we were making our way down the mountain. I was in the 'zone' already. I was completely focused on what I was doing and loving every second of it. I told my boyfriend to go ahead of me because I didn't like him behind me. I could hear him and it was throwing me off. So he went ahead of me and I continued down the mountain.
I still do not remember exactly what happened next. I think I was going too fast when I hit some deep snow which twisted me around. I then hit a slight bump in the ground which lifted me into the air ... I was flying backwards.
My first reaction was to put my wrist behind me to break my fall. When I hit the ground I heard something crack and immediately went into shock.
When I say I don't remember what happened when I fell, well the next part I definitely don't remember. All I know is that my boyfriend saw me walking down the mountain holding my snowboard in one hand and my other hand was close to my chest. When I got to him I collapsed. I was very light-headed. After a few minutes the ski patrol arrived and I explained that I had landed on my wrist when I fell. They wanted to take my glove off but I told them I didn't want to look at it. So I closed my eyes while the ski patrol guy and my boyfriend took my glove off. The second they saw my wrist they exchanged a glance as if to say 'yep, that's broke.' However my boyfriend being a smart man, never gave me a reason to worry. Even though he knew it was bad, he also knew that if I knew it was bad, I'd freak out.
I got to go down the mountain on the 'ski patrol' stretcher which was completely mortifying at the time. After getting an exam at the mountain we were advised to visit the hospital. So we headed that way. We didn't have to wait long before we were in a room. The doctor came in and asked if I wanted a pain-relief injection which I declined. The nurse helped me with my x-rays. And about 30 minutes later came in with the news that 'your wrist is broken.' I cried a little but knew it could be worse.
Little did I know ...
The next day I headed to an orthopedic specialist. I was excited to get a cast!
I had a work trip to Nashville that week and I thought 'everyone can sign my cast!' After a meeting with the doctor and more x-rays, I got the worst news of my life 'you will need surgery!'
I burst into tears. I couldn't look at the x-rays. I wanted nothing more than to go back in time and not have this happen. Here I was doing something I absolutely love and not only was I going to have surgery but I would probably never get back up on a snowboard again. The break had been really bad and I would need plates and screws.
I went ahead with my trip to Nashville. I was in a lot of pain but I made the best of it and thankfully my workmate was very understanding! And yes, lots of people asked me about my wrist!
When I got back I had the surgery. I was very nervous and cried right before I went under. The doctor told my boyfriend I was singing 'I'm a whiskey girl at one point!' Over the next couple of months I lived life with a 'club' as an arm.
After I got my cast off, I moved to a brace. While my wrist was 'healed' I still needed therapy for movement. Thankfully my sister is a physiotherapist and we were able to have 'Skype Therapy!' She was able to help me with movement, rotation and most important, re-building my confidence. It took a long time for me realize my wrist was stronger than before and an even longer time to decide if I wanted to snowboard again.
Almost a year to the day that I broke my wrist, my boyfriend wanted to go away for his birthday. To a ski-resort. I said 'no' immediately. Then I said I would go but I wouldn't snowboard. Then I said I might snowboard. Then I decided to buy wrist guards and a helmet.
But I still wasn't sure if I would snowboard. We meet a few friends up there for the weekend and everyone knew that this was a big deal for me. The day arrived and I woke up nervous. I knew I could back out at any moment if I wanted and thankfully our friends were very supportive. I got dressed in my snowboard clothes which was odd because they were the same clothes I fell in when I broke my wrist.
We meet up with our friends and headed towards the slopes. Buying the wrist guards and a helmet was the best thing I could of done in preparation for my first trip back up the slopes. I'll never snowboard without them. We got out of the car. I put my helmet on and waited as everyone else got ready.
Finally we were ready to go.
I started down the mountain, keenly aware of where my brakes were.
I could feel my anxiety creeping in but once again I remembered where my brakes were.
Those first couple of minutes down the mountain were scary but I kept pushing through knowing that if I got down the mountain just one time that was better than nothing. About half way down the slope I started to cry. Tears of happiness were rolling down my face.
I could control my snowboard better than I ever had before! Once I reached the bottom of the mounatin I could not believe it. The biggest smile on my face, tears on my cheeks and a huge sense of accomplishment! We spent the rest of the day enjoying the slopes and I actually had some of my best runs ever.
It was one of the greatest days of my life! I never thought I would get back up on a snowboard, but facing my fear made me remember just how much I love snowboarding. It also taught me that when you get knocked down it might take a long time to get back up, but eventually you will get back up, you just have to believe in yourself. Which reminds me about facing my fear of scuba-diving after a scary night dive - I'll save that for another blog post.
If you're not living on the edge, you're taking up too much space.
I am a fairly average snowboarder and last year I was working on my confidence while on the slopes. Getting enough speed, cutting through the snow and getting used to my brand new goggles that my boyfriend had got me for Christmas.
One warm February day we headed up to the mountain, ready to spend a day 'carving it up!' Just like any other day we jumped on the lift and headed up to the top.
It was our first run and we were making our way down the mountain. I was in the 'zone' already. I was completely focused on what I was doing and loving every second of it. I told my boyfriend to go ahead of me because I didn't like him behind me. I could hear him and it was throwing me off. So he went ahead of me and I continued down the mountain.
I still do not remember exactly what happened next. I think I was going too fast when I hit some deep snow which twisted me around. I then hit a slight bump in the ground which lifted me into the air ... I was flying backwards.
My first reaction was to put my wrist behind me to break my fall. When I hit the ground I heard something crack and immediately went into shock.
When I say I don't remember what happened when I fell, well the next part I definitely don't remember. All I know is that my boyfriend saw me walking down the mountain holding my snowboard in one hand and my other hand was close to my chest. When I got to him I collapsed. I was very light-headed. After a few minutes the ski patrol arrived and I explained that I had landed on my wrist when I fell. They wanted to take my glove off but I told them I didn't want to look at it. So I closed my eyes while the ski patrol guy and my boyfriend took my glove off. The second they saw my wrist they exchanged a glance as if to say 'yep, that's broke.' However my boyfriend being a smart man, never gave me a reason to worry. Even though he knew it was bad, he also knew that if I knew it was bad, I'd freak out.
I got to go down the mountain on the 'ski patrol' stretcher which was completely mortifying at the time. After getting an exam at the mountain we were advised to visit the hospital. So we headed that way. We didn't have to wait long before we were in a room. The doctor came in and asked if I wanted a pain-relief injection which I declined. The nurse helped me with my x-rays. And about 30 minutes later came in with the news that 'your wrist is broken.' I cried a little but knew it could be worse.
Little did I know ...
The next day I headed to an orthopedic specialist. I was excited to get a cast!
I had a work trip to Nashville that week and I thought 'everyone can sign my cast!' After a meeting with the doctor and more x-rays, I got the worst news of my life 'you will need surgery!'
I burst into tears. I couldn't look at the x-rays. I wanted nothing more than to go back in time and not have this happen. Here I was doing something I absolutely love and not only was I going to have surgery but I would probably never get back up on a snowboard again. The break had been really bad and I would need plates and screws.
I went ahead with my trip to Nashville. I was in a lot of pain but I made the best of it and thankfully my workmate was very understanding! And yes, lots of people asked me about my wrist!
When I got back I had the surgery. I was very nervous and cried right before I went under. The doctor told my boyfriend I was singing 'I'm a whiskey girl at one point!' Over the next couple of months I lived life with a 'club' as an arm.
After I got my cast off, I moved to a brace. While my wrist was 'healed' I still needed therapy for movement. Thankfully my sister is a physiotherapist and we were able to have 'Skype Therapy!' She was able to help me with movement, rotation and most important, re-building my confidence. It took a long time for me realize my wrist was stronger than before and an even longer time to decide if I wanted to snowboard again.
Almost a year to the day that I broke my wrist, my boyfriend wanted to go away for his birthday. To a ski-resort. I said 'no' immediately. Then I said I would go but I wouldn't snowboard. Then I said I might snowboard. Then I decided to buy wrist guards and a helmet.
But I still wasn't sure if I would snowboard. We meet a few friends up there for the weekend and everyone knew that this was a big deal for me. The day arrived and I woke up nervous. I knew I could back out at any moment if I wanted and thankfully our friends were very supportive. I got dressed in my snowboard clothes which was odd because they were the same clothes I fell in when I broke my wrist.
We meet up with our friends and headed towards the slopes. Buying the wrist guards and a helmet was the best thing I could of done in preparation for my first trip back up the slopes. I'll never snowboard without them. We got out of the car. I put my helmet on and waited as everyone else got ready.
Finally we were ready to go.
I started down the mountain, keenly aware of where my brakes were.
I could feel my anxiety creeping in but once again I remembered where my brakes were.
Those first couple of minutes down the mountain were scary but I kept pushing through knowing that if I got down the mountain just one time that was better than nothing. About half way down the slope I started to cry. Tears of happiness were rolling down my face.
I could control my snowboard better than I ever had before! Once I reached the bottom of the mounatin I could not believe it. The biggest smile on my face, tears on my cheeks and a huge sense of accomplishment! We spent the rest of the day enjoying the slopes and I actually had some of my best runs ever.
It was one of the greatest days of my life! I never thought I would get back up on a snowboard, but facing my fear made me remember just how much I love snowboarding. It also taught me that when you get knocked down it might take a long time to get back up, but eventually you will get back up, you just have to believe in yourself. Which reminds me about facing my fear of scuba-diving after a scary night dive - I'll save that for another blog post.
If you're not living on the edge, you're taking up too much space.
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Kiwi :)
2 years ago I became a mum. Not a human mum but a 'cat' mum. I have never been solely responsible for anything. A plant yes, but that plant died so not worth mentioning. And 'myself' yes, but that goes without saying. Never a pet of any sort. We had pets growing up but mum and dad always took care of them. Just before Christmas, 2 years ago I became a 'cat' mum.
I thought I was getting a fish tank right up until I opened the box. My better half had to basically LIE to me so he could surprise me. I heard him talking on the phone and he mentioned the word 'calico'. A-ha! I knew it! I asked him about it 'so I'm getting a cat right? I heard you say the word Calico' He took a second (I guess to come up with this brilliant lie). He replied 'well um ... actually ... um I was speaking with the ... um ... owner of a fish tank shop. The shop is called Calico. And ... um well ok I'll tell you. You're getting a fish tank for Christmas! Surprise!'
Surprise? What the hell? We had talked about getting a fish but I figured we would get one together. I had to admit 'Calico' was a brilliant name for a fish tank shop. 'Awesome!' I replied through gritted teeth. 'Do I get a fish too?' 'Yep!' he exclaimed. 'I'm picking up the fish tank tomorrow. And you'll get the fish next week. Special order. It's a fish that eats other fish.'
I'm surprised I didn't catch on then. Nodding my head I started thinking about fish names. Jaws? Nemo? Shark? ... nothing felt right. When I had suspected that I might be getting a cat I had already named him/her 'Kiwi' so I thought oh well let's call the fish/piranha 'Kiwi.'
The next day I had a doctors appointment and right after I raced home because I knew I could open my present once I got home. Not sure why I didn't think it was strange that my better half was letting me open up my present before Christmas but because I have very little patience I didn't question it. As I pulled in, I called him on my phone. 'Hey, you need help carrying the fish tank?' 'Nope all good,' he replied. I was very excited walking into our apartment. I looked around. No present. 'Can I open my present? Where is it?' I asked. 'It's in the bedroom,' he replied smiling. I get overly-excited about a lot of things in life, especially Christmas presents. I marched into our bedroom excited to see this fish tank that would house my very first pet. A giant box sat on our bed.
My better half hadn't bothered to wrap it or set it up! I walked up and pulled back the box flap. That was when I let out a bloodcurdling scream. That was not a fish tank. The most terrified, most adorable, most tiny kitten was sitting in that box. Tears filled my eyes as I looked at my better half. This terrified/adorable/tiny kitten was all mine. I reached in and lifted out this kitten. And IMMEDIATELY it started purring.
'Boy or Girl?' I asked. 'She's a Calico. All Calico's are girls,' he replied. I laughed. 'Oh really? Calico? Like that store where you were getting the fish tank?' And with that I became a cat mum.
'Kiwi', is the most naughtiest/loving cat in the world. She is definitely a 'people' cat. She is full of life, full of mischief and likes to argue. In fact while I've been writing this, she's been put in 'time out' twice, water sprayed once and I've been playing fetch with her the whole time. But I wouldn't have it any other way. She teaches me patience, reminds me that a nap will sometimes work wonders and that you don't ALWAYS have to obey the rules.
Friday, December 7, 2012
"... and You're Done!"
Something incredibly awesome happened this Christmas. I didn't win the lotto, didn't run a marathon and I definitely didn't learn how to make my cat behave. Nope this is even better ... I discovered ... Amazon!
Of course I didn't discover Amazon before anybody else. Come to find out a lot of people actually use Amazon but they don't talk about it much. It's like shop cheating! No walking, no crowds, no trying to find a parking space, no getting ripped-off, no lugging bags back to the car, no lugging bags into the house ... SHOP CHEATING! Not only do you not move from your laptop, but you actually get better deals. Like a whole lot better deals. It all started mid-November. I don't know what gave me the idea to go to the website. But as soon as the homepage for Amazon.com loaded I was hooked. So hooked that an entire afternoon was devoted to 'window' shopping through all the goodies Amazon.com had to offer. I couldn't wait to show my (semi-skeptical) better half. He grudgingly decided to take a look but as soon as he did he was hooked instantly as well. 'Type in this item' he said and we both watched in amazement as our previous gift ideas evaporated into thin air. I don't know why it took me so long to try Amazon.com. I've been on Facebook since March 25th 2007. I am on Instagram, Pinterest, Tumblr, Twitter etc and I pay my bills online.
I like to think of myself as technology-savvy, but there are some things I wont stop. Christmas Cards for example. And I have a ritual EVERY SINGLE Christmas that I send out Christmas Cards to friends and family around the world and I always send them out December 1st without fail!
And I've bought on-line before so 'shopping on-line' isn't a new thing for me. However as much as I do NOT enjoy the crowds, the finding a parking space, THE GETTING RIPPED OFF, nor the lugging of bags to the car AND into the house, I do enjoy making the effort to shop around to get the perfect gift ... and also 'physical' shopping is a great way to spend a weekday with a friend! Maybe now I can just shop* (go to an actual store, not cheat shopping) for myself from now on?? And I think that's why it's taken me so long to try Amazon.com. When you buy online there's no effort. Also you don't get to touch the item. You weigh up options only based on price or a tiny photo. You press a key on a keyboard and ta-da 'shopping finished'. Which is why I will always send out Christmas Cards. I want people to receive something that I actually wrote in, addressed to them and put a stamp on. I don't feel as guilty shopping online when I actually have to make an effort with my Christmas Cards. So even though Amazon.com had to make me re-evaluate my shopping morals, with immense excitement I am happy to say all of my Christmas shopping is complete! Now back to the Christmas Cards ....
Of course I didn't discover Amazon before anybody else. Come to find out a lot of people actually use Amazon but they don't talk about it much. It's like shop cheating! No walking, no crowds, no trying to find a parking space, no getting ripped-off, no lugging bags back to the car, no lugging bags into the house ... SHOP CHEATING! Not only do you not move from your laptop, but you actually get better deals. Like a whole lot better deals. It all started mid-November. I don't know what gave me the idea to go to the website. But as soon as the homepage for Amazon.com loaded I was hooked. So hooked that an entire afternoon was devoted to 'window' shopping through all the goodies Amazon.com had to offer. I couldn't wait to show my (semi-skeptical) better half. He grudgingly decided to take a look but as soon as he did he was hooked instantly as well. 'Type in this item' he said and we both watched in amazement as our previous gift ideas evaporated into thin air. I don't know why it took me so long to try Amazon.com. I've been on Facebook since March 25th 2007. I am on Instagram, Pinterest, Tumblr, Twitter etc and I pay my bills online.
I like to think of myself as technology-savvy, but there are some things I wont stop. Christmas Cards for example. And I have a ritual EVERY SINGLE Christmas that I send out Christmas Cards to friends and family around the world and I always send them out December 1st without fail!
And I've bought on-line before so 'shopping on-line' isn't a new thing for me. However as much as I do NOT enjoy the crowds, the finding a parking space, THE GETTING RIPPED OFF, nor the lugging of bags to the car AND into the house, I do enjoy making the effort to shop around to get the perfect gift ... and also 'physical' shopping is a great way to spend a weekday with a friend! Maybe now I can just shop* (go to an actual store, not cheat shopping) for myself from now on?? And I think that's why it's taken me so long to try Amazon.com. When you buy online there's no effort. Also you don't get to touch the item. You weigh up options only based on price or a tiny photo. You press a key on a keyboard and ta-da 'shopping finished'. Which is why I will always send out Christmas Cards. I want people to receive something that I actually wrote in, addressed to them and put a stamp on. I don't feel as guilty shopping online when I actually have to make an effort with my Christmas Cards. So even though Amazon.com had to make me re-evaluate my shopping morals, with immense excitement I am happy to say all of my Christmas shopping is complete! Now back to the Christmas Cards ....
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Pumpkin Cheesecake Nightmare
Thanksgiving is next week, we're hosting it at our place and I'm making Pumpkin Cheesecake.
I posted on Facebook that I'd been thinking about making it. My friends were very encouraging and a few minutes later, I'd decided to make it*. Now I'm stressing.
A friend gave me a recipe which has helped ease the nerves**. The recipe is called 'Impossibly Easy Pumpkin Cheesecake'. But I guess the thing I don't understand is, WHY do I have zero confidence in myself?
'They're hosting?' ... 'What about the rest of the Thanksgiving Feast?'***
Well thankfully I have shacked up with a cook! My delightful boyfriend is the most amazing cook and he is in charge of the whole shebang. He never stresses when cooking/baking, has a calculated approach from start to finish and is FULL of confidence. So I figure if my Pumpkin Cheesecake doesn't turn out good, at least everyone would of thoroughly enjoyed their meal up until dessert time.
I have several issues with making Pumpkin Cheesecake. Concentration, patience and unfamiliar territory. It is also going to take a long time to make and I am more an instant -fix type of person.
Which brings me to the obvious: Why not just buy a pumpkin cheesecake? To tell you the truth I am defeated then. The Pumpkin Cheesecake has won and I am defeated. I cannot let the Pumpkin Cheesecake win.****
So I embark on this Pumpkin Cheesecake nightmare***** tonight. I am purchasing the ingredients. There is no going back after I purchase the ingredients. Wish me luck!
And if you learn anything from this. Never post anything on Facebook that you do not intend to do :)
* peer pressure?
** yeah right!
*** I just know you're thinking that
**** I feel like I'm in the climatic part of a movie
***** yeah I tend to over-exaggerate!
Sunday, October 28, 2012
some things change ... but not by much
I spent 4 days in NYC last week.
NYC is a superb place to visit and for the past couple of years it's become the place I go to see my friends and family when they visit the US of A!
In NYC you never have to worry about 'what to do'... lots of walking (so plenty of time to catch up), tons of tourist spots (to keep you entertained) and plenty of places to eat and drink (just in case it all gets too much!)*
Over the past, oh I don't know ... 8 years, one of my very best friends and I, have not been in the same country at the same time. That's just what happens in your 20's!** So when she said she was visiting NYC I jumped at the chance to see her (and meet her fiance and 2 of her other friends!)
So off I went last week to NYC full of excitement!
It was pouring the rain when I arrived, which I really dig***. So I sorted out an umbrella and started exploring by myself, as my friend (whom I hadn't seen in 8 years) wasn't arriving until later that night.
I got up early**** the next morning to head to Times Square and meet my friend (whom I hadn't seen in 8 years). I felt myself getting nervous. Like REALLY nervous. What if we were completely different now? What if she couldn't understand my NewZealand/WestVirginia/Ohio/NorthCarolina accent?***** What if we didn't laugh at the same things? eeeeeeeeeeeek!
Shaking off my nerves I got on the Subway.
My phone beeped. 'We are on the red steps.' A text from her.
OH MY GOD. What if I don't recognize her?
Nerves are back.
I didn't bring my glasses with me. I am going to look ridiculous squinting into the crowd at the bottom of the red steps without my glasses ... looking for someone who MIGHT NOT LOOK THE SAME!!! GREEEEAT!
Did I say nerves are back?
I approach the red steps. I can feel my heart beating in my chest. I peer into the crowd****** and I begin searching for a familiar face.
She jumps up calling my name and waving and I let out a huge sigh of relief.
I run up the stairs and give her a big hug.
... she looks exactly the same! Yay!
AND then the tears started! Yep I'm slightly strange. I don't cry at goodbyes (ever), I cry at hellos!
With the 'meeting' out of the way I started to really enjoy myself. Over the next couple of days I had the best time with not only my friend (whom I hadn't seen in 8 years) but also her fiance and their wonderful friends.
So had anything changed? Yep, a few things. Yes, she could definitely hear my NewZealand/WestVirginia/Ohio/NorthCarolina accent but we only had one communication breakdown the entire time! We still laughed at the same things (the 2 buses that broke down for example). And yes we had changed, but not much. One - I am not very good on a bike anymore*******.
And two - she has become an awesome travel agent. She's always been great to go on vacation******** with but I could tell that her career has made her REALLY great! Even though she hadn't been to NYC before she knew all the places to go (and some of the most inexpensive *********.)
I had a moment about 30 minutes after I meet her at those red steps. We were on the bus********** and we were laughing, and I thought 'Wow, has it really been 8 years?' It felt like just yesterday we were laughing about the same things and I smiled. You have friends that you know for a short while. And you have friends you know for a long while. And then you have those friends that you can pick up right where you left off. Coz some things will change ... but not by much.
* Just to clarify I don't have annoying friends or family. Well any that I'd tell you about!
** I've decided. I might write a blog about it
*** Read my previous blog titled 'Rainy Day's - I love rain (a little too much)
**** 10am (early for vacation)
***** I've moved a lot the past 8 years and yes my accent has suffered from it
****** NOT FUN! FYI everyone that is sitting on the Red Steps is staring at YOU!
******* Note to self: purchase a bike, don't wear a dress & practice riding bike
******** 'Holiday' for everyone outside of USA
********* $12 dinner, in an amazing restaurant in Manhattan!
********** before the first bus broke down
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Rainy Days
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
It is with a heavy heart that I support Domestic Violence Awareness Month this month. I have always had a tremendous urge to support Domestic Violence Awareness Month however I do so this year because it has hit so close to home for me.
Less than a week ago I had a friend murdered by her ex-boyfriend in a horrific attack, which has left a community of friends & family completely heart-broken. My heart hurts so much as I come to grips with the reality of this situation and realize that this beautiful & talented women is no longer among us. I have reached out to so many friends and workmates already and each and every one of them has given me so much support and have committed to helping me in my support of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Please do your part to help end this horrific abuse of power and stand up for these women and children who have no voice and have suffered in silence.
Cyan, I will forever miss you
This is me and Cyan at the West Virginia State Fair a few years ago
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Cami’s Orthodontic Associates Invisalign Journey’ SIXTH ENTRY - The First Week!
OUCH!!!
OK so it hasn't been that bad, but Day 2 was definitely uncomfortable. Day 1 was a breeze but by Day 2 my teeth really started moving. Added in is the fact that I'm not very good at taking the Invisalign out so I had to practice that as well.
Day 2 started off reasonably well, but when I tried to drink my morning coffee I realized that if your coffee is too hot it's going to be too hot with Invisalign on as well. OUCH!!!
By lunch time I could feel my teeth start to move so I took an Advil. The cool (& slightly annoying) thing about Invisalign is that noone noticed. Even though I was a little annoyed that noone noticed I realized that that could be a good thing!!! However instead of keeping it quiet, I had to of course let everyone know about it.
Something very interesting happened on Day 2. I actually sounded like myself. I was fully expecting to sound completely different and you couldn’t even tell. I listened back to some on-air segments where I had the Invisalign in and ones where I didn’t have it in and you couldn’t tell the difference.
Getting back to Day 2, after making it through lunch and of course removing the Invisalign to eat and putting it back after I’d eaten, I got settled in for a busy afternoon. I actually forgot about the Invisalign during the afternoon. I had been so consumed with it during the morning that after lunch I think I started getting used to it, so used to it that I didn't notice it much at all.
That night I went home, ate dinner (taking the Invisalign out of course) and watched some TV. It was quite frankly a pretty boring evening but I started thinking about how much I really loved that my Invisalign was starting to work. I was also thankful that the Invisalign hadn’t altered my life as dramatically as I had thought it would. I still sounded the same, I still was able to work the same way and be the same person. The only thing I needed to remember was to wait after I poured my morning coffee so I didn’t burn my mouth. I’m working on it …
OK so it hasn't been that bad, but Day 2 was definitely uncomfortable. Day 1 was a breeze but by Day 2 my teeth really started moving. Added in is the fact that I'm not very good at taking the Invisalign out so I had to practice that as well.
Day 2 started off reasonably well, but when I tried to drink my morning coffee I realized that if your coffee is too hot it's going to be too hot with Invisalign on as well. OUCH!!!
By lunch time I could feel my teeth start to move so I took an Advil. The cool (& slightly annoying) thing about Invisalign is that noone noticed. Even though I was a little annoyed that noone noticed I realized that that could be a good thing!!! However instead of keeping it quiet, I had to of course let everyone know about it.
Something very interesting happened on Day 2. I actually sounded like myself. I was fully expecting to sound completely different and you couldn’t even tell. I listened back to some on-air segments where I had the Invisalign in and ones where I didn’t have it in and you couldn’t tell the difference.
Getting back to Day 2, after making it through lunch and of course removing the Invisalign to eat and putting it back after I’d eaten, I got settled in for a busy afternoon. I actually forgot about the Invisalign during the afternoon. I had been so consumed with it during the morning that after lunch I think I started getting used to it, so used to it that I didn't notice it much at all.
That night I went home, ate dinner (taking the Invisalign out of course) and watched some TV. It was quite frankly a pretty boring evening but I started thinking about how much I really loved that my Invisalign was starting to work. I was also thankful that the Invisalign hadn’t altered my life as dramatically as I had thought it would. I still sounded the same, I still was able to work the same way and be the same person. The only thing I needed to remember was to wait after I poured my morning coffee so I didn’t burn my mouth. I’m working on it …
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Cami's Orthodontic Associates Invisalign Journey' - FIFTH ENTRY - The Invisalign Fitting
The day has arrived and I am heading to my Invisalign fitting, but I am a little nervous because I have a video camera following me. It's daunting to know that someone is going to capture every single second of my Invisalign fitting. All I can say is I hope I don't cry. In all honesty I'm not sure how the fitting is going to go. I'm anxious that I'll be in a lot of pain, wont be able to handle it and will ultimately fail. I try to banish negative thoughts out of my head and focus on the end result .... pretty teeth.
As we head to the appointment I start to freak out. This video camera is going to be focused on the one area of my body that I'm most embarrassed about. I almost want to back out. I almost say 'maybe we should reschedule this for another day' .... but then I remember how happy I was at the initial consultation & that not only am I doing this for myself but I'm also doing this for all the other people out there that can benefit from a great smile with Orthodontic Associates.
I walk inside and everyone is looking at me. WHY?
Oh wait, that's right there's a video camera following me. It makes me laugh because I feel like I'm on a reality show.
My name is called and I walk through to the fitting area. I sit down and nervously look around ... I'm really doing this ... I'm really getting Invisalign! ... This is really happening.
CHECK OUT THE VIDEO TO SEE WHAT HAPPENED DURING THE FITTING!
As we head to the appointment I start to freak out. This video camera is going to be focused on the one area of my body that I'm most embarrassed about. I almost want to back out. I almost say 'maybe we should reschedule this for another day' .... but then I remember how happy I was at the initial consultation & that not only am I doing this for myself but I'm also doing this for all the other people out there that can benefit from a great smile with Orthodontic Associates.
I walk inside and everyone is looking at me. WHY?
Oh wait, that's right there's a video camera following me. It makes me laugh because I feel like I'm on a reality show.
My name is called and I walk through to the fitting area. I sit down and nervously look around ... I'm really doing this ... I'm really getting Invisalign! ... This is really happening.
CHECK OUT THE VIDEO TO SEE WHAT HAPPENED DURING THE FITTING!
Friday, July 15, 2011
'Cami's Orthodontic Associates Invisalign Journey' FOURTH ENTRY - My thoughts on getting Invisalign!
I am very excited to get my Invisalign however I am also very nervous!
My career is 'talking' for a living & there is the possibility that I could sound a little different on-air. Being from New Zealand & on a country station means that sounding different often comes with the territory but I'm nervous that it might throw me off a little. The fact that I wont sound like myself is a little strange & reminds me of when I was 13, awkward & had a mouth full of braces.
I know my teeth will start to move the instant I put my Invisalign in. I'm definitely prepared for how tender my teeth will feel but I'm still nervous about how I will sound.
I'm also wondering how the Invisalign will look. Invisalign gives the connotation of 'invisible' so I'm wondering if that will ring true. Also when will I be able to visually notice if my teeth are moving? When will my 'goofy' tooth become less pronounced?
I'm sure all these questions will be answered very soon as I'm getting my Invisalign next week. I'm ready to start the work on my new smile.
My career is 'talking' for a living & there is the possibility that I could sound a little different on-air. Being from New Zealand & on a country station means that sounding different often comes with the territory but I'm nervous that it might throw me off a little. The fact that I wont sound like myself is a little strange & reminds me of when I was 13, awkward & had a mouth full of braces.
I know my teeth will start to move the instant I put my Invisalign in. I'm definitely prepared for how tender my teeth will feel but I'm still nervous about how I will sound.
I'm also wondering how the Invisalign will look. Invisalign gives the connotation of 'invisible' so I'm wondering if that will ring true. Also when will I be able to visually notice if my teeth are moving? When will my 'goofy' tooth become less pronounced?
I'm sure all these questions will be answered very soon as I'm getting my Invisalign next week. I'm ready to start the work on my new smile.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
'Cami's Orthodontic Associates Invisalign Journey' THIRD ENTRY - Fitting's for Invisalign
I don’t know what to expect as I head to my ‘fittings’ for Invisalign. I do know that they have to make a mold of my teeth so that they can create (as I like to call them) ‘my new teeth.’ They aren’t of course actual ‘new’ teeth but it’s going to feel like that for the first couple of weeks as they begin to move my teeth. That’s right not just my goofy tooth is getting straightened out, the whole lot are being moved.
While I’m waiting to get my name called I begin to imagine all the cool things I’ll be able to do when I get my new teeth. I’ve never cared to ‘whiten’ my teeth coz I don’t show them, so maybe I can do that now? I don’t often wear lipstick, so maybe I can get a new hot red color!
I’m most looking forward to learning how to ‘smile’ with my teeth. I know this sounds weird but I might have to ‘practice’ smiling in front of the mirror.
As usual I drift off into a daydream and am snapped back to reality when my name is called.
I get the impression that Orthodontic Associates only hire people that are first of all super nice. Second of all (and here I am getting jealous again) people that have great teeth. I must look deep in thought (jealous?) because the lady I’m following asks if I am nervous.
“No!” I quickly say … ‘Should I be?’
She smiles again (jealous?), then laughs as she says ‘No way! This is going to be fun!’
I sit down and inform everyone that I am indeed very nervous. I also let everyone know that while most people want to know step by step the process that they are undergoing … I request that I be kept out of the loop. They totally understand and get to work creating molds of my teeth.
I admit I start to get curious. I’m nervous but it’s not nearly as scary as I thought it was going to be. I feel somewhat confident so I ask how long it usually takes. Surprisingly they say they are done and that I’m good to go!
You can check out the ‘Treatment Process’ according to the experts by clicking HERE
I start to feel a little sad as I get up to leave. The staff is so lovely to chat with (like an old friend from way back when) that I even linger around to continue a conversation with one of the ladies. She finally starts to show me the way out and lets me know that they will call me as soon as my Invisalign Package arrives.
I am beyond excited & a little disappointed that it went so fast. What to do??? Maybe start looking for that new lipstick? I think so!
While I’m waiting to get my name called I begin to imagine all the cool things I’ll be able to do when I get my new teeth. I’ve never cared to ‘whiten’ my teeth coz I don’t show them, so maybe I can do that now? I don’t often wear lipstick, so maybe I can get a new hot red color!
I’m most looking forward to learning how to ‘smile’ with my teeth. I know this sounds weird but I might have to ‘practice’ smiling in front of the mirror.
As usual I drift off into a daydream and am snapped back to reality when my name is called.
I get the impression that Orthodontic Associates only hire people that are first of all super nice. Second of all (and here I am getting jealous again) people that have great teeth. I must look deep in thought (jealous?) because the lady I’m following asks if I am nervous.
“No!” I quickly say … ‘Should I be?’
She smiles again (jealous?), then laughs as she says ‘No way! This is going to be fun!’
I sit down and inform everyone that I am indeed very nervous. I also let everyone know that while most people want to know step by step the process that they are undergoing … I request that I be kept out of the loop. They totally understand and get to work creating molds of my teeth.
I admit I start to get curious. I’m nervous but it’s not nearly as scary as I thought it was going to be. I feel somewhat confident so I ask how long it usually takes. Surprisingly they say they are done and that I’m good to go!
You can check out the ‘Treatment Process’ according to the experts by clicking HERE
I start to feel a little sad as I get up to leave. The staff is so lovely to chat with (like an old friend from way back when) that I even linger around to continue a conversation with one of the ladies. She finally starts to show me the way out and lets me know that they will call me as soon as my Invisalign Package arrives.
I am beyond excited & a little disappointed that it went so fast. What to do??? Maybe start looking for that new lipstick? I think so!
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
'Cami's Orthodontic Associates Invisalign Journey' SECOND ENTRY - FREE CONSULTATION!
I am really nervous as I head to my first orthodontic consultation. I don’t like anyone seeing my ‘goofy’ tooth when I smile, let alone it being the center of attention. As I’m driving to my first consultation I’m wondering what they are going to say? You’re too old! There’s nothing we can do for your tooth! Wow that tooth really does stick out!
I walk through the front doors of Orthodontic Associates and nervously make my way to the front desk. I realize then that even as I say my name I am trying to talk without showing my teeth.
‘Just take a seat and we’ll be right with you’
I txt my boyfriend and tell him I am nervous
‘Cami. Cami. Cami Marlowe’
I almost jump out of my seat at hearing my own name. A lovely woman smiles at me and immediately I’m jealous of her smile.
‘Eeeeeeek, do I make a run for it?’
Nope I’m going to follow her. She is very nice & asks me how my day is going as we head back to a consultation room. Then for a brief moment I am aware that she is still talking but I am unaware of much of what she is saying. I know I am grinning (with my goofy tooth sticking out and all) but I’ve just realized how happy I feel to finally be doing something about my tooth.
We start by talking about what my goals are with coming to Orthodontic Associates and how especially as an adult I would like to achieve them. I show her my tooth. She doesn’t flinch. She doesn’t screw her face up. She doesn’t say or do anything except smile (which makes me jealous of her teeth again!) BUT I realize that this is something that she has seen before & something that can not only be fixed but can be done so quickly and inexpensively.
We take some x-rays & then meet with Dr. Mayers. He is very likable and once again I find myself grinning & showing off my goofy tooth. He gives me his analysis of the next step & asks me how I would feel about Invisalign. I have had braces as a child but I’m older now and I talk for a living so he feels that it’s something I should consider.
Dr. Mayers is on the left
Without hesitation I answer that I would like to give Invisalign a go. Even if my voice does sound a little different that’s a small price to pay for the instant confidence a great smile can give you.
He can tell that I’m determined to get the ‘Invisalign’ procedure under-way so we book an appointment for the Invisalign ‘fitting’ & I am heading out the door. As I’m driving home I start to think of all the possibilities.
No you’re not too old! There is something we can do for your tooth! Even though that tooth sticks out there IS something we can do!
For YOUR free consultation, email jgrismore@limasmiles.com
Monday, June 20, 2011
‘Cami’s Orthodontic Associates Invisalign Jouney’ FIRST ENTRY – WHY I WANT TO DO THIS!
I was the baby that was put into baby contests. I was the first born child, grandchild, great-grandchild. I had blond hair, a cute smile & I was always trying to get people to laugh.
Well fast forward a few years & not much has changed, except that I’ve got a much bigger audience & a boyfriend who continues to laugh at my jokes.
I’ve also developed a bit of a thick skin & one way I’ve done that, is not to take myself too seriously. I like to joke around & make fun of myself. However something I’m truly embarrassed about is my ‘tooth.’
I don’t usually smile showing my teeth & I turn to my ‘good’ side so my ‘tooth’ doesn’t stick out. I look like I have ‘bad teeth’ but I’ve only ever had ONE cavity (and that was last year). The reason my teeth look so bad is all because of ONE TOOTH.
(it’s the tooth on the far right)
When I was little I had perfect teeth. My teeth were straight, I brushed them night & day & ate very healthy (no soda pop for me!) So it was a huge surprise at age 13 to discover that I had a baby tooth that had NEVER been pulled out & my adult tooth was still in the roof of my mouth. Next thing you know I’m having an operation, affixed with braces & a slow 2 year process to retrieve the adult tooth had begun. Well life can get busy & when I moved away from my orthodontist after my career took off, I was never able to finish up treatment. So, I just adapted to my ‘tooth.’ I just learned to deal with it & over the years I’ve developed certain mannerisms to cover up my embarrassment. I even have a nickname for it. ‘Goofy.’
As much as I like to joke about it, I really, really hate it. I find it annoying, I hate looking at myself in pictures & it wasn’t until I had to wear a mouth guard that I realized how much it stuck out. My tooth wouldn’t fit with the rest of my teeth inside the mouth guard. (side note - the mouth guard is because I grind my teeth which gives me neck problems, which is due to my crocked teeth).
When I first heard about Orthodontic Associates I just thought it was a place where kids went. I never realized that adults went there too. I had just assumed I would always have a huge tooth that stuck out of my smile & that I’d continue to always be ashamed of it and rely on humor to get by.
Orthodontic Associates offers free consultations so I thought I’ve got nothing to lose so why not? I have a huge jealousy of people with nice teeth especially because I used to have such nice teeth & now, while I have healthy teeth, this ONE TOOTH ruins it all.
The one reason I would want to do this is because I like to laugh. When I laugh I open my mouth & when I look at pictures of myself where I am laughing, I don’t see how happy I am. I see my TOOTH.
While, as you can imagine this is a hugely personal issue for me I want to share my experience with Orthodontic Associates with everyone.
It’s something that will not only improve my smile but ultimately improve my confidence inside & out. AND I can focus on my goofy personality and not my ‘goofy’ tooth.
If you are interested in a free consultation email jgrismore@limasmiles.com
Well fast forward a few years & not much has changed, except that I’ve got a much bigger audience & a boyfriend who continues to laugh at my jokes.
I’ve also developed a bit of a thick skin & one way I’ve done that, is not to take myself too seriously. I like to joke around & make fun of myself. However something I’m truly embarrassed about is my ‘tooth.’
I don’t usually smile showing my teeth & I turn to my ‘good’ side so my ‘tooth’ doesn’t stick out. I look like I have ‘bad teeth’ but I’ve only ever had ONE cavity (and that was last year). The reason my teeth look so bad is all because of ONE TOOTH.
(it’s the tooth on the far right)
When I was little I had perfect teeth. My teeth were straight, I brushed them night & day & ate very healthy (no soda pop for me!) So it was a huge surprise at age 13 to discover that I had a baby tooth that had NEVER been pulled out & my adult tooth was still in the roof of my mouth. Next thing you know I’m having an operation, affixed with braces & a slow 2 year process to retrieve the adult tooth had begun. Well life can get busy & when I moved away from my orthodontist after my career took off, I was never able to finish up treatment. So, I just adapted to my ‘tooth.’ I just learned to deal with it & over the years I’ve developed certain mannerisms to cover up my embarrassment. I even have a nickname for it. ‘Goofy.’
As much as I like to joke about it, I really, really hate it. I find it annoying, I hate looking at myself in pictures & it wasn’t until I had to wear a mouth guard that I realized how much it stuck out. My tooth wouldn’t fit with the rest of my teeth inside the mouth guard. (side note - the mouth guard is because I grind my teeth which gives me neck problems, which is due to my crocked teeth).
When I first heard about Orthodontic Associates I just thought it was a place where kids went. I never realized that adults went there too. I had just assumed I would always have a huge tooth that stuck out of my smile & that I’d continue to always be ashamed of it and rely on humor to get by.
Orthodontic Associates offers free consultations so I thought I’ve got nothing to lose so why not? I have a huge jealousy of people with nice teeth especially because I used to have such nice teeth & now, while I have healthy teeth, this ONE TOOTH ruins it all.
The one reason I would want to do this is because I like to laugh. When I laugh I open my mouth & when I look at pictures of myself where I am laughing, I don’t see how happy I am. I see my TOOTH.
While, as you can imagine this is a hugely personal issue for me I want to share my experience with Orthodontic Associates with everyone.
It’s something that will not only improve my smile but ultimately improve my confidence inside & out. AND I can focus on my goofy personality and not my ‘goofy’ tooth.
If you are interested in a free consultation email jgrismore@limasmiles.com
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
My 3rd Crawfish Boil, my trip back home to New Zealand & playing mini-golf in 90 degree weather!
What a crazy couple of months. I have been so busy that it feels like this year is FLYING by. May has been my favorite month by far. Not only did I get to spend a few days with my boyfriend, but I also got to see his family AND drumroll please ... I got to see my family in New Zealand whom I haven't seen in 4 years.
The month started off relatively quiet. I spent the first weekend not doing a whole lot of anything. BUT week 2 saw us heading to the boyfriends hometown for his family's yearly 'Crawfish Boil!' I look forward to this EVERY YEAR and it GETS BIGGER & BIGGER every year! This year there was more people, more crawfish & A BAND!
It was a great day, really warm with only a sprinkling of rain. My boyfriend's family is exactly like my own family. His mother treats me like her daughter, his brother's treat me like a a sister & I always feel so welcome every time we visit them.
Moving onto the following weekend I had one of the most anticipated trips of my life. Due to numerous reasons mainly involving money and time I have not been able to either take a trip back to New Zealand or see my family for 4 years.
I was really excited to see my mum and I knew she would be the one person that would make me cry when I saw her. Sure enough the tears were flowing.
I was also looking forward to seeing my sisters and meeting my little brother Nathan for the first time.
Needless to say my vacation was incredibly busy but I enjoyed every second.
Here are some highlights: hanging out with my 'little' sister Morgan (she's so grown up),
running to hug my mum at the airport, meeting my brother Nathan for the first time, watching a rugby game out on the town in Auckland with my sister Candace, her boyfriend Matthew & my dad,
going to my favorite place in the world 'Hamner Springs' with my mum, grandparents, sisters & my Uncle Rick & Aunt Marcia where we kept ourselves busy with hot pools, tons of walks & a highly entertaining 6-person tandem bike ride (we also had some great Thai food there too!)
Some other highlights were seeing my Uncle Darryl's Taxidermy displays, spending some much needed family time with my Aunt Pam, my cousin Kate (and her adorable daughter Sophie), my Aunt Lisa, Aunt Marcia & Aunt Janette, eating lunch at the Sky Tower, meeting mum's adorable baby MacKenzie (& of course the super cute Angus) AND last but certainly not least) the incredibly KIWI Fish & Chip dinner!
A really tough part of my trip was seeing the devastation that the February earthquake had had on my hometown. Words can't explain, Pictures don't do it justice. NOTHING but seeing it in person can convey the true extent of the damage.
The one thing that made me realize how proud I am of where I come from was the good old Kiwi spirit. Even though the city was a long way to go and even right now as I write this there have been another series of devastating earthquakes, the good old Kiwi spirit will continue to always shine through. The USA is now my home but as I boarded the plane to leave New Zealand I promised myself it would not be another 4 years.
And lastly to truly top off a great month I got to spend Memorial Day (May 31st) with my boyfriend. We don't get days off together so the odd-vacation day is always a bonus! I arrived back to a BEAUTIFUL day in Ohio and after a much needed (jet-lagged) nap we headed out in 90+ degree weather to play mini-golf. I don't usually enjoy mini-golf but we had a blast! We're both very competitive but my boyfriend ALWAYS wins because he's great under pressure! Me? I always start out strong and always crack under pressure at the end! We ended a great day with a roast that evening.
May has definitely been the month to beat so far this year, although June has been full of adventures which I'll be sure to let you know about soon!! In fact today I'm getting my teeth FINALLY fixed ... watch this space.
The month started off relatively quiet. I spent the first weekend not doing a whole lot of anything. BUT week 2 saw us heading to the boyfriends hometown for his family's yearly 'Crawfish Boil!' I look forward to this EVERY YEAR and it GETS BIGGER & BIGGER every year! This year there was more people, more crawfish & A BAND!
It was a great day, really warm with only a sprinkling of rain. My boyfriend's family is exactly like my own family. His mother treats me like her daughter, his brother's treat me like a a sister & I always feel so welcome every time we visit them.
Moving onto the following weekend I had one of the most anticipated trips of my life. Due to numerous reasons mainly involving money and time I have not been able to either take a trip back to New Zealand or see my family for 4 years.
I was really excited to see my mum and I knew she would be the one person that would make me cry when I saw her. Sure enough the tears were flowing.
I was also looking forward to seeing my sisters and meeting my little brother Nathan for the first time.
Needless to say my vacation was incredibly busy but I enjoyed every second.
Here are some highlights: hanging out with my 'little' sister Morgan (she's so grown up),
running to hug my mum at the airport, meeting my brother Nathan for the first time, watching a rugby game out on the town in Auckland with my sister Candace, her boyfriend Matthew & my dad,
going to my favorite place in the world 'Hamner Springs' with my mum, grandparents, sisters & my Uncle Rick & Aunt Marcia where we kept ourselves busy with hot pools, tons of walks & a highly entertaining 6-person tandem bike ride (we also had some great Thai food there too!)
Some other highlights were seeing my Uncle Darryl's Taxidermy displays, spending some much needed family time with my Aunt Pam, my cousin Kate (and her adorable daughter Sophie), my Aunt Lisa, Aunt Marcia & Aunt Janette, eating lunch at the Sky Tower, meeting mum's adorable baby MacKenzie (& of course the super cute Angus) AND last but certainly not least) the incredibly KIWI Fish & Chip dinner!
A really tough part of my trip was seeing the devastation that the February earthquake had had on my hometown. Words can't explain, Pictures don't do it justice. NOTHING but seeing it in person can convey the true extent of the damage.
The one thing that made me realize how proud I am of where I come from was the good old Kiwi spirit. Even though the city was a long way to go and even right now as I write this there have been another series of devastating earthquakes, the good old Kiwi spirit will continue to always shine through. The USA is now my home but as I boarded the plane to leave New Zealand I promised myself it would not be another 4 years.
And lastly to truly top off a great month I got to spend Memorial Day (May 31st) with my boyfriend. We don't get days off together so the odd-vacation day is always a bonus! I arrived back to a BEAUTIFUL day in Ohio and after a much needed (jet-lagged) nap we headed out in 90+ degree weather to play mini-golf. I don't usually enjoy mini-golf but we had a blast! We're both very competitive but my boyfriend ALWAYS wins because he's great under pressure! Me? I always start out strong and always crack under pressure at the end! We ended a great day with a roast that evening.
May has definitely been the month to beat so far this year, although June has been full of adventures which I'll be sure to let you know about soon!! In fact today I'm getting my teeth FINALLY fixed ... watch this space.
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