Two paths, one life

Tomorrow is the day! Voting for my honor society ends and I believe I find out if I am going to be the secretary. I'm nervous, but I did my best... between my paragraph discussing the reasons why I should be secretary and my friends in my honor society who are voting for me.  

I will definitely let you know if I get it tomorrow! :] 

Thanks for all the support.

Anyways, I've been really considering my future career, now that I'm a sophomore in college, soon to be junior, I need to know what I want to do; therefore, I'm not wasting my time on classes that are unnecessary for my major. My choices, as I've said before, are either a psychology major with a concentration in early childhood education, to move on to become a play therapist OR become a child life specialist. I figured out if I stick with psychology, I could eventually become a child life specialist if I complete the internship hours. So, I've decided my best bet is to shadow someone in the play therapy field; therefore I am completely positive that I'm following the right path. 

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After I receive my master's, I'd need to get my degree in play therapy. The closest University that has a post-master's degree in play therapy is Monmouth, which is about an hour away from me. When I told my boyfriend he was quiet upset because although he wants to see me pursue my dreams, he wants to be with me as well. He's afraid that we'd grow apart if I lived there, or one of us would do something that would cause the other to become upset. I know that we're both in this for the long hall... but it's still scary thinking about the future. Therefore, I think I can commute the one hour ride instead, to hold on tight to our relationship.

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 I know this may sound silly because it's like 3 years away, but it's still something to think about. It's been on my mind, so I decided to write it down type it down.

Has anyone on here been in a situation close to this? Long distance relationship? Gone away to college to leave your love behind? Share your stories please. 

My First Monday Mantra

So this is my first Monday Mantra and I'll admit, I had to look up exactly what mantra even meant! [a statement or slogan repeated frequently] Ha. College should really be teaching us a new word to learn each day to broaden our vocabulary. Anyways, I haven't had much time to actually gather all my thoughts and write them down. I've been super busy with schoolwork and work. So here we go...


This week I am trying to decide what to do with the rest of my life
I believe that what my family is going through right now will only make us stronger
I'm addicted to good bargains
I wish I had more time to spend with my family and boyfriend
I'm jealous of no one.  
Soundtrack/Mantra for the week "You will only grow as high as your roots grow deep." - Joel Olsteen


I hope this lets you get to know a little more about me.


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Ahh! *Update

I don't think I could come up with a better title, because that pretty much describes my feelings and emotions right now! I'm so nervous!


I'm running for secretary for the executive board of the Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society on my campus! The only time I've ever ran for something was in Middle School. I forgot what I ran for, but I lost... so I guess I pushed the memory to the back of my head, or it just fell out.


So.. I've contacted everyone I know in the society and told them to tell their friends. I really want this! I've never held a leadership position and I think it would be a very helpful, learning experience! I hope I get it! 


I wish you could all vote for me but unfortunately it's only for those in the society.


Well.. wish me luck ! :] 

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UPDATE: Unfortunately I didn't win. Thanks everyone for the support though. It really meant a lot. This just means I have to try again next year. I won't give up just because I lost one election though. It just wasn't meant to be.

Remember when...

hanging out with your parents meant playing catch outside, going to the park, watching a movie, building a tent with sheets, going out to eat, sharing stories, and just enjoying each other's company?

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Late the other night I saw a father and son out to eat at a local diner. What I saw them doing bothered me though. The boy was roughly 12-13 years of age with a cell phone glued to his hand. I was watching for less than five minutes and the boy was texting on his cell phone the whole time, while the father sat there spinning his blackberry on the table, trying to occupy himself. 


Shouldn't I be hearing laughter, or some sort of noise from the table? It was as if they were just two strangers sitting next to each other on a bus. Awkward, silent, and uncomfortable. 


I wanted to walk up to the boy and tell him to put down his cell phone and actually enjoy his father's company. No one is guaranteed a tomorrow, so enjoy the time with your family while you can. But of course, I didn't. 


All I know is, when I have children, my phone will not be glued to my hand, and neither will theirs ... if I even allow them to have one. 


It's really upsetting knowing that technology today has taken over childhood. What are your thoughts on this matter?

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Terrible Turned Terrific Tuesday

Today was the first day back to classes after a week off for Spring Break. Boy, oh boy. All I can say is that I'm glad that my first professor canceled class due to him being under the weather. However, I still had two other classes I had to attend. I barely made it through the day. It doesn't help that I don't feel good. My nose is so stuffy, I just want to cut it off sometimes! [although I'd miss it quite often].


Then I went to work. I love walking into work and hearing "MISS KRISTYN!" and hearing their feet, running towards me. :] My children never cease to make me smile! Even with a new child who barely listens, wanders around whenever he feels like it, and smirks when he's got something evil planned in his mind! I love that I can mention something and it causes them to talk for minutes, although it could be hours if I didn't change the subject. 


They wanted to watch a movie upstairs but since I was the only teacher there in the afternoon, I couldn't run up and down the stairs just to let their parents in. So I told them this and they suggested I leave the window open so they can jump in! I was holding in my laughter. Kids really do say the darnedest things! Then I asked them what would happen if a stranger came in and they all went off on a rampage! One said they would all team together and battle him and make their toys into weapons! I asked what would happen if he hurt one of them or was trying to; they suggested to call the 911! They knew exactly what to do if a stranger was ever trying to take them or hurt them. BUT then one little boy asked me a question I couldn't even find the answer to! He asked what if the stranger dressed up as their parents and took them home with them. I tried to put together an answer; "Oh you'd know if it was your mom or dad by their voice." It was tough but he didn't question my answer. 


Oh boy, I love my little children and am going to be upset to see them graduate and move on to Kindergarten in June :/


Besides my kids, other things have made me incredibly happy!


I received NEW MOON in the mail today! I ordered it on Walmart and cannot wait to watch it with the boy.


I joined a package exchange ! Brown Paper Packages


I have raised over $355.00 for March of Dimes!! - donate/walk with me here http://www.marchforbabies.org/misskristyn


I found out I got an A on my Sociology Midterm!


How was your day?! Hope it was terrific!

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The Best has Yet to Come

So, that week off of school for Spring Break was much needed. Although I would've loved to go on a trip somewhere far away, I really enjoyed it here in the beautiful weather... for the most part. 


It all started with the flood of '10. The rain was absolutely intense, as well as the 70 mph winds! The storm blew transformers causing 3 towns to lose power, some only for hours, others for days. My house lost power for a good 24 hours. It was creepy sleeping in a house without the sound of the T.V, or the bathroom light kicking on when someone woke up in the middle of the night. I ended up getting out of town that night to see my friend's play, which was by far the best off-broadway show I've ever seen! She's a great actor, I hope she catches her big break rather soon! Then we enjoyed a late night dinner at Applebee's. 


My nights and days of Spring break, really consisted of me going out to eat, considering everything in the house went bad! I tried eating healthy, I really did, I swear!! When the weather got better, and the temperature got higher, I started to tan outside, unknowingly. I was just reading a book in a lawn chair, and ended up with a farmer's tan. No fair! The rest of the days, I tried to get rid of that farmer's tan.... it sort of worked? I also ran plenty of errands from going to the bank, buying t-shirts to make for my March of Dimes team as a thank you gift, doing things for the parentals, and organizing my room. 


My love, S, got me a surprise from Victoria's Secret! No not lingerie, no not the bathing suit I want, but this adorable outfit!!! .....

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However, the sweat capris he also bought me are not shown. They also have these in other Baseball teams, depending on what area you live in!

I am so psyched to wear them to Citi Field or just lounging around !

I would take a picture of the outfit, but unfortunately my USB cord is at a neighbors house, therefore I cannot upload any pictures of my own. 

On another note, I made the best of the weekend. Friday, I went to Joel Olsteen's Night of Hope for my dad's birthday gift from my cousin. He's been through a lot lately and desperately needed some hope! He loved it. It was so inspirational. I really loved seeing him smile .. it's been awhile. :/ Then Saturday I went out to dinner with some of my girls that I haven't seen in awhile, then we went and did Karaoke! It was so much fun! While I was really nervous about singing, I didn't even care once I saw our audience! There were a bunch of drunk women dancing and singing for a bachelorette party! I loved it! The bride was adorable in her cowgirl hat with connecting veil! Then Sunday, after a day of work, my love came over and I asked him for desert, though it was 12:00 at night, he was all for going to the nearest Supermarket to buy me whatever my heart desired. At that point, it was desiring vanilla frozen yogurt, with strawberries, and chocolate chips!! I took pictures, which I shall post when I can get my USB back. I had this exact thing at Red Mango, and it was amazing, but now I know I can make it myself!

I'm not too excited about going back to class tomorrow, but I must, so I will! 

I hope you guys have a great Monday!

Giveaways Galore!

I recently just entered into two [tu-tu, ha] FABULOUS giveaways that are held being held by two amazing bloggers, that I just so happened to stumble upon. 

1. Chelsea @ Triumphs & Blunders of a Kooky Gal

She is having her first giveaway EVER !  It's filled with loads of fun trinkets that anyone will enjoy, but they describe her and her interests to a T. I've never come across a giveaway filled with so many fun and interesting things! It ends on March 22,2010 so get your comments in!

Her giveaway includes:

• a book, 14,000 things to be happy about 
• a "toaster stamper" of the Eiffel Tower, "French Toast," get it ? haha!
• a cookbook by Ina Garten [great for those that love to bake and cook like me!]
• Cookie cutters [ice cream & a bird house - adorable!]
• an adorable vintage clutch
• a little HAPPY notepad :]
• cute packet of gum!
• a Giant Paris Poster [eventually I wish I can visit there!]
• a key necklace, that is to die for! and a flower feathered headband!
• chocolate, yummmmm!
• a cute card
• handmade garland ! & a mixed CD filled with happy songs!

Is this not the best giveaway or what?! I'd be thrilled if I actually won! I've never really won anything, especially not through a blog! 

The other blog holding a giveaway is ...

2. Chic 'N Cheap Living @ Chic 'N Cheap Living

She is having a giveaway that includes FOUR travel-sized Bumble & Bumble Products! Her giveaway ends March 19th, 2010.

The four products include:

• Creme de Coco Shampoo
• Alojoba Shampoo
• Sunday Shampoo
• Thickening Hairspray

Amazing! I hope I win one!

Anyways, tonight I went out with a friend who is still in high school. She's been my best friend for what seems like years, since we're neighbors and all. I love her like a sister! We decided to hang out tonight because she needed advice. What else do girls need advice for in high school besides boys? ... Yup, you guessed it. Drama led on by GIRLS, who are supposed to be your friend. I feel her pain. I hope I helped her as much as I could, considering I was once in her position. I enjoyed a "Fro-ho," while she enjoyed a Birthday Blendesso, at the Fine Grind in my town. Absolutely amazing! A "Fro-ho" is a frozen hot chocolate. You have to try one! Mine had brownies in it! Her Birthday Blendesso is a frozen coffee/espresso, with sprinkles on top. She seemed to enjoy it! I also had a Chicken Cutlet Panini, filled with chicken, mozzarella, and bruschetta. AH delicious! I took a picture of our drinks with my camera phone, which may be a little dark! Sorry, next time I'll use my camera :]

Note to Self: While enjoying the arrival of the sun, after the recent rain/flood... remember to wear sunscreen, as well as a bathing suit. This farmer's tan just isn't doing it for me!

The Delightful Season

Laying outside, with a great book. Listening to the birds chirping, the wind swaying the trees, dogs barking in a distance. Eating a snack, sipping on a nice, tall glass of water. Ahh, the days of Spring...

I've got a feeling...

I've been feeling very antsy lately and it's been affecting my relationship with the boy. I feel as if I need to travel, visit different states, different places, meet new people, and just breathe different air. 

I don't feel like the boy is holding me back, I just feel as if he doesn't have the same ideas for his future, as I do for mine. I want to live my life to the fullest, taste things I've never tasted before, do things I've never done, smell things I've never smelled, and see things I've never seen.

 This is my realization that there's only one life to live and you have to enjoy it while you can. 

I've been reading blogs by others and notice how they consist of traveling and learning new things. I hope to one day soon be able to do this too. 

[Source- World's Top Adventure Trips]

Book List 2010

Being a book fanatic, I was excited when I came across a blog on the Newlyweds Next Door about a book list for 2010. I never thought about setting a goal for books to read this year, and although it's already three months into the year, I think I can maneuver a book list of those I want to read. I will also be doing reviews on each book I finish. 

Therefore, I recently signed up for Good Reads, which is another find on the Newlyweds Next Door blog! It's a website where you can keep track of the books you have read, want to read, and are currently reading. You can also research book reviews and go through lists of certain books. 

Here is a list of 12 books I want to read before the new year, in no specific order:

1. Close Encounters of the Third Grade Kind: Thoughts on Teacherhood - Phillip Done

- I intend on being a teacher in the near future, therefore I hope to learn something from this.

2. House Rules - Jodi Picoult

- Although her books are seemingly repetitive, I enjoy each and everyone. This book deals with a child who has Asperger's syndrome who helps solve a crime. I thought this would help me deal with children that are different.

3. Heart of the Matter - Emily Giffin

- I loved her four other books and cannot wait for this one to come out in May 2010.

4. Eat, Pray, Love - Elizabeth Gilbert

- I know many say you shouldn't judge a book by it's cover but this book cover has dragged me in.

5. Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl - Anne Frank

- I've had this book for a while, but haven't found the time to read it, nor the motivation, but I believe I intend to this year.

6. The Last Song - Nicholas Sparks

- He's such an intelligent writer. I look up to him, and hope this book is as good as his last books. I also want to read this before I see the movie.

7. The Secret Life of Bees - Sue Monk Kidd

- Many students in my old high school read this and it always seemed like an interesting read. 

8. Under the Tuscan Sun - Frances Mayes

- I have always wanted to read this.

9. A Child Called IT - Dave Pelzer

- I've read this when I was younger and it really touched me. I feel like I need to read this again, especially with a stronger head on my shoulders.

10. Blink - Malcolm Gladwell

- I also want to learn more about psychology, considering I plan on becoming a play therapist. This will be a great professional read. 

11. Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship - Garry L. Landreth

- I was told from a professor to read this to make sure I want to go into play therapy. 

12. Play Therapy with Children in Crisis: Individual, Group, and Family Treatment - Nancy Boyd Webb

- Again, a professional read to help me get a more level-headed mind on play therapy.

Please, if anyone has any book suggestions, please let me know! :]  

A Taste of Summer

Spring is in full force this week with 50-60 degree weather forecasts, which makes me hopeful that summer isn't too far behind! Here's a quick recipe that is absolutely to die for!

Watermelon Cupcakes

• 8 cupcake liners
• 8 cupcake shaped pieces of seedless watermelon, (see below)
• 2 cups pineapple cream cheese frosting *
• Sprinkles for garnish

Place the liners in an 8-cup cupcake tin.  Cut 3-inch thick slices of seedless watermelon. Cut round cupcake sized pieces from the slices.  Put a watermelon ‘cupcake' in each liner.  Place a dollop of frosting on each cupcake.  Decorate as desired with sprinkles.  Serves 8.

*Pineapple Cream cheese Frosting 

• 1/2 cup drained crushed pineapple 
• 8 ounces low fat cream cheese 
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar 
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Finished ....

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Enjoy!

This Week's Obsessions

Despite the fact that I've been extremely busy with two jobs, 5 classes, and being the team captain of my March of Dimes team, I've been able to sneak in a quick blog. I've had a few obsessions in the last week...

Crystal Light - On the Go - Cherry Pomegranate

Baby Blogs like - Loves of Life

Great Bargains - a Borders near my town was going out of business and everything was 40% off!

Secret Life of the American Teenager


16 & Pregnant


Getaways, like the one below, especially for children

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Organizing the March of Dimes Walk [Donate.Walk.]


Watching my preschoolers learn and grow a little bit more each day


 As well as listening to them sing songs to me by artists on the radio, like Lady Gaga [hysterical!]


Coldstones - Cookie don't cha want some?! :]


LIFE <3


Taking Leaps into the unknown

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Any current obsessions that you're willing to share? Leave a comment!


I hope you all enjoy your sundays! Hopefully I'll be back to blog after this week of Midterms!

The Box of Mysteries!

I was recently reading the blog 'My LaLa Land' by the fabulous Amy. Currently, she's giving away a mystic box of randomness! It's her first giveaway ever! In the box, she has included 'several fun, cool, silly items of things that' she loves!

To enter:

1. Follow her blog - My LaLa Land

2. Leave an entertaining comment

3. Tweet the giveaway & mention @AmydaCrisper for 2 entries

4. Blog about the giveaway for 4 entries

5. Post this button on your blog!