A Few Nights in London

I'm back and I have been wanting to be back since my last post, but life got in the way.

The latest is in... I am very, very excited to say that along with everything else I have been doing, I was hired to be a writer for a woman's romance website (which in itself just sounds enticing) and my first story has been published online! What's so great about this new launch is that anyone (and I mean ANYONE) will enjoy this. As you probably know, a woman should take a few minutes out of their day to recollect themselves. Some do so by napping, eating, watching TV or a movie, laying down in a quiet room or what-have-you... but here's the thing. Come a little closer... are you ready for this? You can still do all of that AND head on over to the site and ready a steamy (or not too steamy) story! Okay, so maybe you can't nap and read at the same time, BUT you can nap right on after and take what you read and dream about it. It's great, isn't it?

So a little bit about the site...

It's a romantic short-story website aimed for women who care to read about the many romances of the world written by many talented women who share the same sort of dream. Every woman should have that want and desire to sit back, read and fantasize (am I right?). Well, have no fear... you have come to the right place. My first published story, "A Few Nights in London" is about a girl who had a true Summer romance with a European athlete, but once he left back home not only did he leave her behind with memories of their hot and steamy summer, but he left behind this scent of adventure and mystery that she has yearned for since their departure. What will she do without him? Want to find out? Read it here: A Few Nights in London

Give it a chance. If you like the story, I would appreciate it to the tippity top of my heart that you hit the "like" button at the end of the story. See, the more likes I get, the more stories I will get to write and since my lifelong dream is to be a writer, this will not only motivate me to write more, but it will show me that I CAN do this for a living and influence people in some way or form.

Thanks for taking the time to read and hey, pass it along! <3

In The End

Scoliosis. 

I had it. I fought it. I won.

Here is my story....

I had always been a tall, skinny, boney girl. My shoulder blades would always stick out and kids in school would always point at my back and say things about how boney I was. I didn't listen. I was diagnosed with Scoliosis at a very young age. As the years passed, I had 2 spinal curvatures with degrees of 45 and 60. I didn't know what that meant at the time. All I know was that my doctor told me that the only answer for me was surgery. I even went for a second opinion and he had said the same thing. Four months after I turned 12, I checked into my 7 hour surgery and was in the hospital for a week after that. The first time I was able to stand up and walk around was about 4 days after surgery. With my mother and nurse there to help me, my mother had looked up at me in astonishment... why? I was about 1-2 inches taller within those days due to the straightening of my spine. It was the most pain I had/have ever experienced in my life. I was home for almost 3 months after before returning to school in the 7th grade.

About 2 years later upon entering my freshman yr in HS, I joined the basketball team for one season and realized that although I was fast, I wasn't good enough to play the sport. Soon after, I joined the track team and became one of the top runners/ high jump champions in the county, as a freshman... beating the best girl in the county. I also hurdled, sprinted, ran distance, long jumped and did almost every event in track and field, all 3 seasons, for 4 years. And thanks to my surgery, I still continue to run and compete in races and have won over 100 medals. Having Scoliosis and the surgery was indeed, a blessing in disguise. It has made me a stronger person inside and out and my endurance for pain (of all sorts) has increased, because if I can go through that, I know I can go through anything!

I wrote something on the exact date of my 13 year anniversary (October 26) and I wanted to post it here, but I was a little caught up, so here, 13 days later, I share with you my feelings of triumph.

Today I celebrate 13 years of living a life I never knew I'd have; a life that would have been completely different if my mom didn't make the life or death decision for me to have major scoliosis surgery. Thanks to this life changing experience, I have grown into a stronger, braver, bolder, livelier, and much more grateful woman. And thanks to my amazing boyfriend, he has shown me and made me believe that even something that is ugly and hideous to me, is beautiful and symbolic to him. I am so glad to be alive ♥ Keep your head high, keep your chin up, and most importantly, keep smiling, because life's a beautiful thing and there's so much to smile about. ♥

 *Go on the right side of the screen and you will see a Scoliosis Awareness group cause that you should join! Why? Because as a survivor, there are many people who suffer every day from it and the least I (and you) can do is acknowledge their existence and struggles and help them fight for a better life.

Guten Tag! Bonjour! Hola! Buon giorno!

Almost one month ago today, on October 10th, I received one of the most exciting e-mails to date! My book, "Down the Rabbit Hole" is now sold all over European Amazon sites! With sites including Amazon Germany, Amazon France, Amazon Spain, and Amazon Italy in addition to everyone on Amazon UK, my work will continue to be available in these markets from now on, with no end date!

A sense of accomplishment and gratitude overcame me and all I could think of was this... I'm making it.At this tender age, I have definitely come along way. I started this book when I was 21 and took a break from it for a short while allowing myself to believe that this was never going to be something... or anything. I understood (after realizing that with an attitude like that, I really was going to go nowhere) that no matter what anyone says, thinks or feels, my book was and IS going to somehow make a difference in someones life. Even if it was mine. And it certainly has been. My own writing has changed my own views on life and the many areas of turmoil touched upon the matter in such a way I never knew expected. That alone, I think, makes me a great writer and I am darn proud to admit it!

If you (or someone you know) loves books, reading, poetry, etc. (and they speak another language other than English), go here: Amazon Europe, type in my book "Down the Rabbit Hole" by Nastassja Ocasio and buy it! I am so very excited to announce that this book (along with the sequel that I am currently working on) is now worldwide! Celebrate with me and bask in my joy. Enjoy and many thanks!

Made Up to Make-Up

It has indeed been a while since I have posted on my blog, but at the same time I have been SUPER busy! Between my acting and modeling gigs and work, I can honestly say that I am happy to have a lot on my plate. I have also started to do something I should have done many, many moons ago. 

I have been absolutely obsessed and in LOVE with the art that is make-up since I could remember. Growing up, I would sit and watch my mother get ready every single morning following the same routine of waking up, taking a shower and putting on her make-up. She was never a huge make-up person... she would do the regular foundation, eyeliner, mascara and lipstick. But to me, that was enough. She was and still is the most beautiful woman I know. She has and continues to inspire me everyday to be a bigger and better person and I am here today to share with you, some of the recent photos I have taken that I'm adding to my make-up portfolio. Although these aren't professional photos (and they're all done on myself except for one), I still take pride in my craft and live for this and want nothing more than to share it with the world.

I love the confidence that make-up gives me! I've always wanted to be an MUA, and now is my time to start. I absolutely LOVE make-up! Because of my love for art, make-up has always been something that has allowed me to use my creativity and create something that I personally call beautiful.

I am always looking for girls of all skin colors and types to do a little freelance make-up on for my portfolio, so if you're interested, shoot me a message!

Writer's Write Right

As September rolls around, I can't help but think of only one thing: Work. At this point in my life, I would have expected myself to have accomplished about half of what I have already accomplished in my 25 years of living. No, I don't have low hopes for myself, but I will say that I am thoroughly impressed with my endeavors in more ways than one. As a writer, those of you who are like myself, will completely understand me when I say that it is NOT an easy task.. that is, writing. Writing is something that comes out of you when it's ready... when it's willing. February 19, 2010 was was such an amazing day for me. It was the day I self-published my poetry book, "Down the Rabbit Hole." Having a book published was something I had ALWAYS dreamed of. I started writing poetry at the tender age of 6. How, may you ask? Well, my parents were kind enough to buy me my very own typewriter (because they knew my fascination with books had surfaced as I had surrounded myself with them since I could pick one up with two hands). They knew that writing was going to be MY thing. And it surely was.

A year and a half after my publication, I sit here in the dark and contemplate the meaning of what it is to be a writer. I couldn't even answer that question wholeheartedly because it has become so second nature to me, that if I could describe in my own thoughts what it is to be a writer, I'd say, "It's like eating. Without it, you will die." I would, that's for sure. Writing had always been my getaway; my sanctuary. Without it, I am Nothing. A paper and pen is something I carry with me in my purse EVERYWHERE I go. Just in case a random thought pops into my head, I'll have somewhere to write it down. Note to self: *Always keep a handy pad and pen next to your bedside... the best thoughts seem to occur in the midst of the night.

They say writers are crazy, lonely people. Crazy? Sure. Lonely? Sometimes. But it has absolutely NOTHING to do with who is in your life and how many people surround you with love or happiness. No, you can have about 23 friends and still feel lonely. It's... unfortunate sometimes how lonely writers are. But I have, in no sense of the word, ever felt lonely enough to discourage my love or thrill for writing. In my lifetime, I will have published more books than I anticipate and I will do it all with much anticipation that it will not be my last piece, but the last of the first batch. I will write until the day I die.

All in all, I would like to share with you my new authors spotlight page (link below) that features my book along with other links on the side, in case you are one of those people who read books using your Kindle or iPad. I will say that there is nothing like being able to hold a book in your hand and with every single page that turns, grasping with your nostril, the finer smells of inked paper. If you love poetry as much as I do, than this is the book for you! Thank you for your support and best of wishes in whatever you choose to do!

Nastassja's Authors Spotlight

A Woman Should Have

Although I did not write this myself, I felt the need to share this beautiful poem written by Pamela Redmond Satran. I read this a few years ago and it didn't really strike me the way it does now. Is it because I've grown and changed, and because I can relate to probably every single point on this list now? Because back then, I never thought about getting old and retelling my "juicy" past or  how important it was to know when to walk away. I didn't think I would ever need to know how to break up with a lover or even know what it would be like to live alone since I never had and thought I never would. At this prime yet mature age, I have realized that as a woman, (Yes, I have acknowledged that I am indeed a woman) everything on here is essential to know, to understand, to appreciate and to live by. Now, before you read on... at the very end... I have added MY OWN part to the poem (it's in red). I hope you enjoy it and appreciate it, just as I have and always will <3

By Pamela Redmond Satran

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ..

enough money within her control to move out
and rent a place of her own,
even if she never wants to or needs to…

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ..

something perfect to wear if the employer, or date of her dreams wants to see her in an hour…

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ..

a youth she’s content to leave behind….

a past juicy enough that she’s looking forward to
retelling it in her old age….

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE …..

a set of screwdrivers, a cordless drill, and a black lace bra…

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE .

one friend who always makes her laugh… and one who lets her cry…

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ….

a good piece of furniture not previously owned by anyone else in her family…

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE …

eight matching plates, wine glasses with stems, and a recipe for a meal, that will make her guests feel honored…

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE …

a feeling of control over her destiny.

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW…

how to fall in love without losing herself.

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW…

how to quit a job, break up with a lover, and confront a friend without ruining the friendship…

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW…

when to try harder… and WHEN TO WALK AWAY…

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW…

that she can’t change the length of her calves,
the width of her hips, or the nature of her parents..

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW…

that her childhood may not have been perfect…but its over…

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW…

what she would and wouldn’t do for love or more…

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW…

how to live alone… even if she doesn’t like it…

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW..

whom she can trust,
whom she can’t,
and why she shouldn’t take it personally…

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW…

where to go…
be it to her best friend’s kitchen table…
or a charming inn in the woods…
when her soul needs soothing…

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW…

what she can and can’t accomplish in a day…
a month…and a year…

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

that it is okay to wear make-up...

and own at least one piece of expensive jewelry...

and go shopping if you're feeling down...

but true happiness, comes from within...

and if you don't know how to find it,

look in the mirror and know

that the person looking back at you, is alive.

An Everlasting Plea from a Lemon Tree

I watched him sleep a peaceful sleep and in my heart I heard him breathe a breath so strong yet silently like whispering winds atop the trees of eloquence and bravery a man so brave he is to me and how I love to watch him reap as dogs descend the battered sheep and him to me as I to him a girl not like debauchery and yet I crawl and whimper deep when he is not induced by sleep as I am too in nights that creep and take over my loves degree for it is him I want to be and everything I am to me he is to him and what we've had I do agree is something I can guarantee is priceless and immortal glee and for every kiss upon my lips by him I sink into the sea and smile as I count to three for every second that passes me I fall into a deeper love that sends my chest into a heave of something that is not to grieve but to grasp into my inner eve and give him all there is of me from head to toe and in between and when we're one I do perceive of how the colors from his sleeve collide with the knocking of my knees for in his arms I am set free and blessed upon his loves decree and while the world is in debris we float the Mediterranean sea for a life we always tried to flee and no worlds tallest cup of tea can calm our drives or make us plea 'cause in my eyes he is my world and with scraped knees I'll climb the tallest lemon tree and stand atop the branches and scream I LOVE THEE and once again I LOVE THEE for it is me I know so well and I watched him sleep a peaceful sleep and in my heart I heard him breathe a breath so strong yet silently I fell into another dream...

One year ago, today, I fell in love with someone I never knew would actually become my boyfriend, my partner in crime, my confidante, my better half, my lover... my best friend. Baby, you've made me the happiest I have ever been and I couldn't have asked for a better hand to fit in mine. I love you more today than yesterday and less than I will tomorrow. Happy Anniversary! ♥

  This poem was written especially to the love of my life <3

With Love

Hello Darling.

I've got a little something to say to you. But you've got to listen. You've got to appreciate what I'm about to say. Why? Because this will somehow... someway... change YOUR life.

Or so I hope.

You need to stop being unhappy with yourself. You are perfect. No one's perfect, you say? Well, you need to see that you are. You need to stop comparing yourself to other people and wishing that other people will like you more if you looked a certain way. And all that wishing that other people liked you as much as others... that needs to stop too.

You need to stop wanting that attention from those that hurt you. Stop hating your body, your face, your hair. Stop hating your personality, your quirks, your laugh. Without all of those things, you would not be who you are. Why would you want to be someone else? Be confident in yourself, love. Smile. It will make people fall in love with you. It will draw them in. Your smile is equivalent to the sun seeping through the clouds. Everyone wants to see it. To feel it. To be a part of it.

If anyone ever hates on you because you are happy with yourself; with the way you look and feel, then you need to put your finger in the air (preferably your middle one) and say, "Screw it! I refuse to allow my happiness to depend on others. I'm happy because I love who I am. I love the way I love and the way I feel. I love my flaws, my quirks, my hair, my face and sure, even my smile. All these imperfections.. I love them too. They make me who I am. They make me, me. And let me tell you something about me... 'me' is pretty amazing."

To put quite simply...

Inspirational Film Quotes for the Broken Hearted

How to Get Past a Break Up by Listening to Encouraging Movie Quotes - 

By Me!

After a separation or break-up, the feeling of losing the one loved is unbearable. There is a want to give up on love, but as seen in movies, there is always a light.

When one spends a great amount of time with his or her significant other, the thought of breaking up or losing that person is impossible. This sentiment is seen in movies and in real life. Some people continue to love their ex's even though they broke their heart. And others lose hope and believe that they will never find love again.

That's what movies are for. They're there to inspire and give hope to the loveless. Some provide inspirational words that can help one see that there is more to life than pain and loneliness, and that there is someone for everyone.

A few films that can provide inspirational quotes on love and hope are The Holiday, 28 Days, Indecent Proposal, Meet Joe Black and Juno. All five films embody meaningful quotes that can help anyone who is going through a rough patch in the love department.

Understanding What the Problem is in the Relationship

 

Acknowledging what the problem is, whether it's still being attracted to the lost love or not being able to let go of the past, is the first step to healing a broken heart and moving on. Some people who have dealt with a break up believe that their significant other will realize that he or she made a mistake and come back.

And sometimes they do. But the problems within the relationship will continue to arise and although the attraction might still be there, the person who inflicted pain on the other will not change. It's normal to still be in love with that person, even if she did cause heartache, and understanding that she is not good for that particular person is hard to realize. Eventually someone better will come along. The film, The Holiday sends out this message.

"Why am I attracted to a person I know isn't good?" - Miles

“Because you're hoping you're wrong. Every time she does something that tells you she's no good, you ignore it. Every time she comes through and surprises you, she wins you over. You lose that argument: she's not for you.” - Iris

Learning to Let Go of the Past and the Person

 

Everything happens for a reason. The next step is learning to let go so that better things can come along. Relationships are unpredictable and even when things seem to be going right, things can go wrong. Whether it was a change of heart, or because the person needed time to think about what he wanted in life, it's still hard to deal with. But sometimes, letting the person go can cause him to leave forever or to possibly come back. Letting go might be a difficult task, but it's the right thing to do. The films 28 Days and Indecent Proposal send out this message.

28 Days 

“There's a time when you can share and you hold hands and be on the same path. But there's always a fork in the road, at some point. Sometimes you have to go on one part of the fork and they got to go on the other part.” – Alan Tudyk

Indecent Proposal

“If you ever want something badly, let it go. If it comes back to you, then it's yours forever. If it doesn't, then it was never yours to begin with.” – Demi Moore

The Kind of Mate to Find When One is Ready to Move On

 

After one has acknowledged the problem and learned to let go, the last step is knowing who to find to make a partner deliriously happy. It's important to know what kind of person one should be looking for, especially after a break up or separation. William Parish from Meet Joe Black and J.K. Simmons from Juno advise viewers to look for someone who will love equally as much and who will love for all the right reasons.

Meet Joe Black

"Find someone you can love like crazy and who will love you the same. How do you find him? You forget your head, listen to your heart. There's no sense living without this. To make the journey and not fall deeply in love, you haven't lived. You have to try." – William Parrish

Juno

“The best thing you can do is find a person who loves you for exactly what you are. Good mood, bad mood, ugly, pretty, handsome, what have you. The right person will still think the sun shines out of your ass. That's the kind of person that's worth sticking with.” – J.K. Simmons

Some things are easier said than done, but when it comes to the heart, that little pounding bag of emotions, there is always a way – a light at the end of the tunnel. Love takes time to heal, but everything happens for a reason. Being happy, finding things in life that are enticing and exciting, and believing that everything will be okay and love will find the way is the first step toward mending a broken heart. A good way to start toward believing is by watching romance movies that teach a lesson and paying a close ear to movie quotes – and knowing that there is so much out there to look forward to.





**I wrote this article back in Aug. 20, 2009 for a website that I freelanced for (http://www.suite101.com/content/inspirational-film-quotes-for-the-broken-hearted-a141203) and thought I would share it on my blog. Hope you enjoyed!**

Life is Short

My Advice To You:

Take chances. Go on a date with someone who is completely wrong for you. Laugh until you can't breathe; until you cry. Sing out loud. Spend all of your money. Cry like you have never cried before. Say I love you. Smile at a stranger. Lend a helping hand. Tell a stupid joke. Apologize and mean it. Tell the truth. Tell someone how you really feel about them. Never give up. Say no. Live each day like it's your last. Reserve your heart for someone who is willing to make the effort to stay there. Hug someone. Dance. Even in the rain. Make a new friend. Have fun. Allow yourself to make mistakes. Listen to new music. Go somewhere new. Admire the sky, the trees, the clouds, the birds, the flowers. Let go of those who bring you down. Do something you've never done. Eat good food. Touch the earth. Go for walks. Watch the sun set. And rise. Do something strange and extravagant. Break the rules. Never regret anything that made you smile. Forgive quickly. Live in the moment. Kiss slowly. Smile. Fall in love. Make your dreams come true.

Dear

You,

Yes. The one who is reading this. I wrote this for you. This isn't for anyone else, but you. Understand that.

There are a few things I would like you to know. Every day is a new day. Something exciting or enthralling might happen... or not. You might cry today, or laugh til it hurts. You might even get into an argument with someone or come across $10 on the ground that someone had dropped along the way. I want you to know about life. Life, it's hard. It's one of the most challenging things that have ever existed. It might be hard for you to wake up in the morning. You might find it difficult to want to do anything right after you wake up, let alone walk to the bathroom. You might even find it hard to smile. But just know that your smile will brighten someone's day. Your smile might be the only sunshine someone might see today. And when days are tough and smiling is the last thing on your mind, just remember that your smile is beautiful. Amazing. And you are truly, great. You should be happy. You deserve to be. You're beautiful.

 

There's something else I want you to know. When days are supposed to be sunny, but aren't and the sun is trying to creep through the clouds, but can't, just know that it is trying. Real hard. You might not know this, but it's trying for you. The sun, the wind, the rain, the snow... it all exists for you. So that you can feel something. And when you do feel it, guess what? It means you are alive. Do you know how lucky you are? To be able to feel the sun's warmth on your face, the wind at your back, the rain on your arms and the snow on your hands, is a beautiful thing. You are experiencing life. You can feel. You are alive. And everything will be okay.

I want you to know one more thing. There are people out there who think about you. People who stop what they are doing just to put you in their minds and think about you. There are people who think about you and smile to themselves because you mean something to them. There are people who love you. Who take their emotions and confine them in their hearts and just love you in ways you'll never know. You mean something to someone, to many people, and that makes you special. You are treasured. Love yourself and those who love you will love you just as strong. Remember, you are Someone. You were put here for a reason. To live and experience the many things life has to offer. To give you a chance to feel that sun and rain, and to give you a chance to love. To live. And when you do, everything will be okay.

Believe me.

-Me xoxo

Speak Your Mind

Because everyone, including me, has gone through this at some point or another and because this word is just downright genius and everyone should know it! Happy Word Week!

Mamihlapinatapai: A look shared by two people with each wishing that the other will initiate something that both desire but which neither one wants to start.

100 Days of Beauty

Denouement. Lagniappe. Propinquity. Susurrous. Wafture.

If words could speak, they'd scream out lines of fugacious glamour. They'd say things like, "Look at me in my finest attire!" or "Say my name. Say it over and over again. Say it until you put it to good use. And say it until those around you stop you twice to ask what the heck you are saying!" JUST SAY IT!

The English language really is a beautiful one. Sure, those who speak it fluently might say, "Yeah whatever. There is nothing special about it." I'd have to interject and say, "You are wrong!" The only reason why people might consider this language to be so is because we don't use those hard-to-understand or remember type words... words that are just downright beautiful. I am a huge Shakespeare fan and every time I read his texts, I look up and think, "I wish we still spoke like that today." I wish we had the vocabulary of the Victorian times born into our souls so that when we come out of the womb, we won't grow up saying, "She's pretty damn hot, " but something like "What a fetching and comely young woman." So it might sound a bit corny, if you will, but in reality just take a second to think about it. Think about how quintessential our vocabulary would be to those now and in the future. These words weren't invented for no reason, but to be used and appreciated.

Here is a list of the 100 most beautiful words in the English language. Your goal (as well as mine) should be to take one word per day (in this order to make life easier) and use it in a sentence. Say it to at least one person. Say it to a friend, family member, whoever and insert it into your vocabulary. Spread your knowledge among those who are eager to conflate the old with the new. Have fun!


Ailurophile A cat-lover.
Assemblage A gathering.
Becoming Attractive.
Beleaguer To exhaust with attacks.
Brood To think alone.
Bucolic In a lovely rural setting.
Bungalow A small, cozy cottage.
Chatoyant Like a cat’s eye.
Comely Attractive.
Conflate To blend together.
Cynosure A focal point of admiration.
Dalliance A brief love affair.
Demesne Dominion, territory.
Demure Shy and reserved.
Denouement The resolution of a mystery.
Desuetude Disuse.
Desultory Slow, sluggish.
Diaphanous Filmy.
Dissemble Deceive.
Dulcet Sweet, sugary.
Ebullience Bubbling enthusiasm.
Effervescent Bubbly.
Efflorescence Flowering, blooming.
Elision Dropping a sound or syllable in a word.
Elixir A good potion.
Eloquence Beauty and persuasion in speech.
Embrocation Rubbing on a lotion.
Emollient A softener.
Ephemeral Short-lived.
Epiphany A sudden revelation.
Erstwhile At one time, for a time.
Ethereal Gaseous, invisible but detectable.
Evanescent Vanishing quickly, lasting a very short time.
Evocative Suggestive.
Fetching Pretty.
Felicity Pleasantness.
Forbearance Withholding response to provocation.
Fugacious Fleeting.
Furtive Shifty, sneaky.
Gambol To skip or leap about joyfully.
Glamour Beauty.
Gossamer The finest piece of thread, a spider’s silk.
Halcyon Happy, sunny, care-free.
Harbinger Messenger with news of the future.
Imbrication Overlapping and forming a regular pattern.
Imbroglio An altercation or complicated situation.
Imbue To infuse, instill.
Incipient Beginning, in an early stage.
Ineffable Unutterable, inexpressible.
Ingénue A naïve young woman.
Inglenook A cozy nook by the hearth.
Insouciance Blithe nonchalance.
Inure To become jaded.
Labyrinthine Twisting and turning.
Lagniappe A special kind of gift.
Lagoon A small gulf or inlet.
Languor Listlessness, inactivity.
Lassitude Weariness, listlessness.
Leisure Free time.
Lilt To move musically or lively.
Lissome Slender and graceful.
Lithe Slender and flexible.
Love Deep affection.
Mellifluous Sweet sounding.
Moiety One of two equal parts.
Mondegreen A slip of the ear.
Murmurous Murmuring.
Nemesis An unconquerable archenemy.
Offing The sea between the horizon and the offshore.
Onomatopoeia A word that sounds like its meaning.
Opulent Lush, luxuriant.
Palimpsest A manuscript written over earlier ones.
Panacea A solution for all problems
Panoply A complete set.
Pastiche An art work combining materials from various sources.
Penumbra A half-shadow.
Petrichor The smell of earth after rain.
Plethora A large quantity.
Propinquity Proximity; Nearness
Pyrrhic Successful with heavy losses.
Quintessential Most essential.
Ratatouille A spicy French stew.
Ravel To knit or unknit.
Redolent Fragrant.
Riparian By the bank of a stream.
Ripple A very small wave.
Scintilla A spark or very small thing.
Sempiternal Eternal.
Seraglio Rich, luxurious oriental palace or harem.
Serendipity Finding something nice while looking for something else.
Summery Light, delicate or warm and sunny.
Sumptuous Lush, luxurious.
Surreptitious Secretive, sneaky.
Susquehanna A river in Pennsylvania.
Susurrous Whispering, hissing.
Talisman A good luck charm.
Tintinnabulation Tinkling.
Umbrella Protection from sun or rain.
Untoward Unseemly, inappropriate.
Vestigial In trace amounts.
Wafture Waving.
Wherewithal The means.
Woebegone Sorrowful, downcast.

Happy Birthday Marilyn!

On June 1, 1936 a star was born. A star that was in dire need of attention and a family that could guide her in the right direction; a direction that lead toward the light of a bright future. Independence was key in the life of a young woman who depended on no one but herself. Growing up, feeling desolate and vulnerable allowed this star to shine her own light and take her inner demons and transform them in to angels that guided her in the direction toward stardom. Struggling with both her inner self and those on the outside was difficult for a young, beautiful and talented girl, but she wanted to become someone regardless of her background. She wanted to take the criticism and the hate that surrounded her and use that as her mold for self perfection. She was never entirely satisfied with herself (as no artist ever really is), but as time moved on, she grew up into a worldly icon. She graced the covers of magazines and television screens around the world and growing up, I wanted to be her more than anything. Me along with everyone else. She inspired me in many ways to take my talents (like she did) and just RUN with them! Run into a field of opportunities and passions and spread my love for them all around me like some sort of garden. She dreamed a thousand dreams, but she wanted them more than anyone else. Just like me.

Today is what would have been Marilyn Monroe's 85th birthday.

 My idol, my love, my favorite woman... Happy Birthday Marilyn!

Hope you're celebrating wherever you are because baby, I am <3

Midnight in Tuscany

 

I often drift and dream about a life past the city lights and congestion, where music suitable to my mindset drifts outside store doors and onto cobbled streets. I often see myself engaged in the reality of the more-to-life state of mind and I put myself there every day. When days seem too hot to run in or too cold to enjoy nature’s gifts, I do what I was born to do: write. I write about what life would be like if fresh bread from the town bakery filtered the air instead of smoke, or if wind chimes aided to my presence instead of car horns or screaming babies. I prefer to create stories with my thoughts and fantasies, over my reality; it’s a more attractive reflection of what I am. This story which is what I call life, is a never ending storytelling process of the mind that although keeps changing, cannot go back and be erased. As a writer, I tend to contemplate about my past and recreate situations that I can smile about instead of frown. For 25 years of my life, I have sought out my passion as a writer and in turn, have only started to begin this long, strenuous and although lonely journey, it is still my journey and it is filled with adventure and drive. Part of my drive came from a very young age where writing was my only escape and has long since turned into my profession where I am allowed to wake up every day and embrace this gift because in reality, it isn‘t a profession/job but more of a fixation; something I was born to do. Part of my drifting is to seek those who are dreamers as myself and encourage and enlighten them to take that step forward and thrust into a world of words and expression. As a 6th grade Language Arts teacher, I have found it enthralling that a large amount of my students want to carry on their passion as I did and write books. After a few of my students bought my self-published poetry book, I had realized that it wasn’t only because I had introduced them to a world of poetry, but because they looked at me and realized that at this tender age, I am limitless. They saw the fervor in my eyes whenever I taught them poetry and other styles of writing and embraced my love for words. They continuously embrace the kaleidoscope of colors I forever install into their brains when I show them what beautiful ways you can say the simplest things. With dreams of fulfilling this within adults in a college-sized classroom and non-physically through the text of my novels, it is with great dignity that I attempt to bring forth those talents, who like me, think outside the box and onto paper. It was when the warm, hazy California air squeezed its way through the palm trees, did I see another side of what my dreams allowed me to see. It wasn’t the gentle sway of the palm trees, the sounds of nearby airplanes jetting across the sky or even the rumbling of the streetcar tires on the pavement that aided to my attention, but of the friendly smiles that carelessly spread across the faces of strangers I won’t ever remember that brought me to a new surface of writing. To write about a smile is like writing about how fast your heart felt when you smelled the cologne or perfume of your love as they walked past you. I had written about something so obscure as that before. And that’s where another part of me started to believe that there was more to life than my congest city streets. It’s something I think about while I sit back under the summer sun, and drink my cold and sweet glass of familiar. One of the things I have often thought about was using my passion and love for writing and utilizing that toward something I take part in pretty often; wine drinking. Wine itself is like literature. If it’s classic and makes you feel expressive and speak in poetics, than you know it’s worth giving yourself up to. Italy is a place where I will be able to look inside my glass as I sit on the corner at the café and up at the sky and say, “I can drift and dream forever, but it’s the reality of my dreams that will always keep me writing.”

Ars Amatoria

Or, So Be It.

Scheduled to run Wednesday, May 11th through Sunday, May 15th at the American Theatre of Actors in NY, "Ars Amatoria" or "So Be It" is an intense yet dramatic and dark-comedic off-Broadway play about 3 men, 1 woman and several controversial topics, one focusing most of it's content on that of abortion. Directed by Laurie Rae Waugh and written by Grace Fishman, "Ars Amatoria" tells the story of a desperate and divorced young mother of 2, who turns to her adopted brother, past ex-lover and possible future-companion for money in order to get an abortion, after being moneyless from paying alimony and emotionally scarred from her previous relationship. After finding out that she is pregnant from a man she had a one-night stand with while she was in an open-marriage, she turns to the three men in her life who she feels will not only understand her position, but would be willing to partake in an action for a sensible reason. Filled with controversy, this play focuses on topics ranging from the simplistic notion of love to the complex demeanor of life's courses.

During the show, I very much enjoyed the performance of adopted brother, Jeb, played by James Rieser. Rieser was an intellectually stimulating actor that not only provided insight and discernment to the play, but also a lighthearted air that almost refreshed the serious and controversial topic of abortion. Rieser's articulation and projecting vocal quality set a mood of comfort and understanding within his character. His heartfelt reactions were apparent at the beginning, climax and end of the play and his gestures, movement and business was indeed, suitably executed and well understood. Rieser's proper relationship with the other actors on stage allowed a sensible tone to be set in the atmosphere. Both orally and visually, Rieser provided a concerning and eloquent believability to his character Jeb and in turn, made Jeb likeable and distinguished.

I would also like to discuss the performance of ex-lover, Keith, played by Christopher Spurrier. Spurrier was a delightful addition who added charisma and consistency to "Ars Amatoria." His interpretation of the now rich and successful man of inheritance was beautifully played as Spurrier's expression and verbalization clearly made it's way up the ladder as the days progressed. His comfort level and gestures provided the audience with a deeper insight to Keith's past as opposed to his new self. Having been his first time on stage in an off-Broadway play, Spurrier's ability to mold Keith into a believable and approachable character was implausible. His movement around the stage was natural and essential and his reactions to certain conversations were authentic. Spurrier was very reassuring and favored, and like Rieser, was endearingly lighthearted and sensible. The audience interacted well with this new face as sounds of laughter and gestures of sympathy and comprehension filtered across the faces of those intrigued by Spurrier's oral and visual projection. Both appealing and engaging, Christopher Spurrier expanded his talents and set forth his steadfastness adequately.

In addition to the fine work of Rieser and Spurrier, I was also impressed with the technical aspects of the show. With a simplistic yet comfortable setting, the correct mood was appointed for the content of the play. White walls stood behind decorative paintings, while a white couch placed in the center of the stage for the first half of the play, provided a very homey ambiance. The lighting, bright enough to notice the expressions of the actors and the background of the stage, illuminated in a perfect light. Costumes, containing both every day attire and that of  professionalism, allowed the actors to be seen as realistic and practical. Sound effects were directly placed in correct occasions and although were miniscule in the play, were competent. 

After viewing this show 2 out of the 5 days of it being shown (tomorrow being the last day and the 3rd time that I will see it), I would have to say that it was very captivating and well recommended to those who enjoy immense vocabulary, insightful comments that make you contemplate everyday occurrences and a cast of well-rounded actors who are engaged and passionate about their roles. I enjoyed this production and anticipate tomorrow's show to be just as delightful and enthralling as the prior performances.



*If you are interested in going to tomorrow's last show, it is at the American Theatre of Actors located at 314 W. 54th street between 8th and 9th Ave. in NY. Show starts at 3 p.m. and tickets are $15 at the door!*

Proud to be an American

Last night was one night I will probably never forget. Last night was the night the world found out that Osama bin laden was killed by US forces. I was lucky enough to be in NY last night and headed to Ground Zero with my boyfriend who lives in that same area. Surrounding us were well over 150 people singing patriotic songs in unison, waving American flags of all sizes, screaming, yelling, clapping, spraying champagne all over the place and taking hundreds of pictures of this amazing sight. At one point throughout the night (or early morning because it was about 12 am), two men decided to climb a street pole and stand atop the crowd waving a tattered American flag before shaking and opening a bottle of champagne across the sea of faces (see photo below). Unbeknownst to us, we had no idea what it would be like... and our assumptions were right on target. We stood, in each others arms, in front of one of the towers that isn't nearly finished, with it's bright lights shining on the happy faces of people who were celebrating their patriotism, their sense of victory and tears of relief and hope, was the highlight of my night. I was able to look around me and look up at the faces of those who felt almost blessed to have been alive to celebrate something so epic and thought, I clearly remember what happened on September 11, 2001 and here I am on May 1, 2011 at the same spot where over 3,000 people died and I felt my throat swell up with feelings I did not know of. I held onto him tight and looked up at the night sky whose lights reflected off of the heavens above and although I couldn't see the faces of all of those innocent people who passed away and left their friends and families with nothing but memories, I saw something more. I saw a night sky filled with dreams fulfilled. These dreams, whether big or small, have been floating across the universe for 10 years; dreams of wanting something more than just revenge. Dreams of wanting peace and comfort and contentment, were answered. 

I was very lucky to have been there last night. To be a part of something so heart rendering- I will not forget. Let us remember those brave and courageous who fought til the very end to save others and themselves as well as those who wanted nothing more than to live... to say good-bye to their family and friends. You will be remembered forever...

I am Proud to be an American.

 

A view of one of the towers from Ground Zero that is still being worked on, 

and nonetheless shining across the sky

 

Ground Zero Celebration/Party

 

Two men standing on top of a street pole waving the American flag at Ground Zero celebrating the death of bin laden and more importantly, those who fought for our country! Champagne, people singing patrotic songs, hundreds of people and tears. I won't ever forget this night... And I was SO thankful to be there to witness this celebration of happiness.

He's Reely Something

On February 22, I wrote an entry, "Whatever You Want Your Pen Name to Echo," that spoke about a true talent; a man with a dream bigger than his own heart beat. Christopher Spurrier (and I might have said this before), is a man who will stop at nothing to become the greatest of the great and a man that I admire and look up to because of his diligence and eccentricity. Having known such a talent, I would like to share with you his acting reel that he created himself. This video shows his diversity and ability to not only explore his true talent through various roles, but it also demonstrates his creativity and ingenuity-- not something many people acquire. Don't forget to visit his website as well for more information on this upcoming superstar... because let me tell you, he is REELY something ;)

To Write Love On Her Arms

Happy Free Love Day Everyone!

Free Love Day is a day that promotes awareness of depression and suicide, as well as to advocate a lifestyle of unconditional love.

If you didn't know this, depression is one of the leading conditions that lead to suicide. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, and for every suicide, there are 11 attempts made. Suicide can occur at any age ranging from child to adult and the scary part is that we don't know who wants to, who has tried to or who will do it.

There are countless reasons why anyone would think to do this and even more reasons why some are brave enough to go through with it. They CAN be saved. One of the many answers to this is LOVE. Today, en lieu of this day, here is what love means: "Love means an action and decision to unconditionally practice patience, kindness, and humbleness towards people. Sharing your story with people, because we all have one. To open up so no one feels alone." I couldn't have said it better myself. 

If you're anyone like me, the mere thought or sensation of love brings such an uncontrollably overwhelming feeling from within, that it causes others around you to feel just that. With my heart on my sleeve, I live to observe a lifestyle of nothing but love, and you should too. 

How do you do that? Here are a few of my personal opinions...

• Ask someone how they're feeling today
• Tell someone how much you love them
• Show someone how much you love them
• Do something on a whim out of love because you WANT to
• Treat everyday like it's a sort of... Valentine's Day, if you will (and no, that doesn't necessarily mean buy whoever it is calorie infested chocolates and sweet little Hallmark cards all of the time, but once in a blue moon do something sweet and loving to someone -- anyone you love because you LOVE them that much)
• Spend quality time with someone you love (especially if they're having a bad day -- they probably need you more than anyone else will at the moment)
• Compliment someone today (tell them how pretty/handsome they look today, how they look really great with their hair that certain way, how happy they seem, how lucky you are to have them in your life, how they have changed your life in some way, etc)
• LOVE FREELY - there is always enough to go around :)

So today, to celebrate Free Love Day, draw/put a heart on your wrist to signify that you will wear your heart on your sleeve and live to observe a lifestyle of love. Today, we WANT to change the world and make people aware of what depression can do. Suicide should not be an option. No one should ever feel the need to take their life for any reason what so ever. No one should have to feel so bad about themselves that they would want to take their own life. You only have one life to live so live it and fill it with LOVE!

I wear my heart on my sleeve because I love with a love that is more than love <3

Laughter in the Rain

I decided to do a double post today because I felt the need to write about something that I feel very strongly about.

Today I have decided to sign up for some VERY important causes that have affected me personally throughout my years of living and I couldn't be any happier to be a part of something so special and so important to me. The reason why I am sharing this is because I want to make these charities aware to the public and inform you of the many ways that you can help in being a part of something worth looking into.  Although there are many more walks/runs that I will be looking into I wanted to share the following dates/charities that I am going to participate in.

May 15 : AIDS Walk in NY
June 4-5: Out of the Darkness Overnight Walk for Suicide Prevention
October 14-15: Avon Walk for Breast Cancer

I have always been involved in donating and participating whether it's by walking or running, for good causes. Ever since I could remember I have always wanted to be a part of something bigger in my life. I don't know if it's due to my caring and loving nature, or because I much rather give my hard-earned money AND time (whether to walk, run or fund raise) to a great cause, or both. I have been a part of so many causes ranging from Save the Big Cats Foundation, Make-A-Wish-Foundation of NJ, HUMC, American Red Cross, Save the Earth, Carlos Negron Memorial Fund, and many more.

My first charity that I signed up for today is the AIDS Walk. The AIDS Walk in NY is slowly approaching and I decided to form a team entitled: Laughter in the Rain. Anyone can join and anyone can donate as much money as they would like to. I have asked both my parents, some family members and friends to join my team and walk 6.2 miles with me throughout Central Park so that I can walk to remember someone very important in my life who spent the majority of his life just Laughing and being a happy soul. I have decided to form a team and register as a Star Walker. As a Star Walker, my goal is to raise $1,000 or more - the higher my goal is, the more money I know I can raise. If you would like to help me/join my team in memory of my uncle and those gone but not forgotten, please do so and let me know so I can personally thank you :). WE can make a difference together. Tread lightly with me on a day in which the celebration of sadness will not be, but of happiness and love.

I Love You M.O. <3

Run, Rabbit, Run!

The microphones were set, the booths were stocked with some of the finest apparel for men and women, the dressing rooms were brightly lit, the scent of coffee was lingering in the air and the only sound that could be heard was that of laughter and soft treading of the feet... in sneakers of all brands. Adidas. Brooks. Saucony. Asics. New Balance. Mizuno. Zensah. Garmin. Vibram. I had never been so overwhelmed with running apparel exhibitors in one room in my life. For a runner, this was indeed a sight for sore eyes. I was like a kid at a candy store - eyes enlarging with amazement the deeper I set my foot into the dwelling, and all I could think of was, "Man, this is almost as good as  being at Disneyland." And boy, was I right.

It was 8:50 in the morning when I set foot inside the JackRabbit NYC Running Show yesterday, April 22nd.  I had signed up to volunteer as a worker during the show about a week or two ago and I was just as excited to walk around and take a look at everything and listen to the guest speakers, than I was to work. With over 10 guest speakers, over 35 exhibitors, and an edifice filled with inspiration, I felt right at home. There is something to be said about being in an (extremely) large room surrounded by runners of all ages and types, clad in their running sneakers and fit bodies, with their own stories to tell and hearing them speak about past races, upcoming races, what they love to wear when they run, what they've accomplished (or rather, what they would like to accomplish) and more. There is something to be said about these people. They have heart. They are goal oriented and just... blissful. I've seen people with passion in their eyes do things that truly make them feel whole (and not to mention sparkle-eyed shoppers spend tons of money on things that are new in the market) and it just doesn't compare to what I've seen in my 11 years as a runner (or yesterday for that matter). It was such a beautiful sight to see runners carrying around JackRabbit bags filled with gear. And I'm sad to say that I was not one of them, but my heart, too, was happy to see them just as happy as I would have been if I had the opportunity (and the money) to buy some of the finest gear in the industry.

Working the dressing room at this show was quiet the experience. I not only met some pretty amazing and motivated runners, but it filled my heart with joy to see many of these athletes walk out of the dressing rooms with a smile and a, "I'll take this, thank you." I would have to say about 3 or 4 people decided not to buy what they tried on and to me, that says a lot. During the show, I had the privilege to shy away from my station and watch a 25-minute information session by 2004 Olympic Runner, Grant Robison, on good form running. He was one of the most knowledgeable and down to earth people that I was more than excited to watch speak and he gave some real helpful tips on how to make running more comfortable, less painful and most importantly, more enjoyable. So in turn, I will say, Grant Robison : You Rock! Keep up the great work. With your tips, you have made me a better runner already.

Working the JackRabbit Running Show was one of the best 6 hours I have had in a while and if I could do it again, I most definitely would. If you just so happened to miss yesterday's JackRabbit NYC Running Show, don't fret! Today is the 2nd (and last) day where the show WILL go o! It goes on from 10 am - 6 pm and covers another amazing schedule of guest speakers (with various informative topics that are extremely helpful) as well as a layout of exhibitors that, if I may add, will be seling some pretty amazing gear. So head on over (with $10 to enter) and a smile on your face and turn this rainy day into a sunny one!

JackRabbit NYC Running SHow