Twenty-Four

According to a baby app on my phone, AJ is the size of a grapefruit. He moves a lot whenever he is awake. My parents got to feel his kicks. He doesn't let Joe feel him lol. As soon as I place Joe's hand on my belly, he decides to remain still. It's funny. He does kick Rocky our dog, Rocky kind of reacts to it, like he moves away a little, but of course he doesn't know whats the heck is kicking him. I can't wait to see the dog and boy relationship lol.

Yesterday my brother, sister in law, mom, Joe and I went to drop off the contract at the banquet hall we decided to go with for the babyshower. It was also a great oppurtunity for everyone involved in the planning to see the place and get an idea of where the things will be and such. I cannot say it enough, how thankful I am for my family and their help. My brother and his wife are the ones throwing it for us. Joe and I are helping to buy things, but if it were just us doing this, it wouldn't be as special? I don't know if it makes sense, but as a Hispanic, the entire family is involved in raising the children in the family. Growing up I was aware that if I broke the rules, or treated my parents like trash, I'd have to deal with the backlash of my actions from my aunts, grandparents, and etc. 

I made up my mind of how I want my cake, I know 1 tier will be red velvet, and the second tier will be pineapple filling. Dominicans love their fruit fillings in their cakes lol. I declined a Dominican cake. We eat it at every family event, and it gets tiring. Luckily Joe's co worker is a baker, and his cakes are just perfect. Not too sweet. His prices are also very reasonable. I hear that his cupcakes are excellent. He makes batches with a variety of flavors. Mmmm, really looking forward to it. My family will be cooking, and depending on what everyone makes, we will get additional platters to add more of a variety. All that I have to do right now, is start buying the mason jars, and the acrylic paint. I decided that the most economical way to go with flowers is baby's breaths. It makes sense too lol. Get it? My friend Valeria will help me with the messy part (painting.) The invitations are all of their way to their homes. The shower is less than a month away, eek! So, bare with me and my shower related posts.

PREGNANCY: Like I mentioned above, I know when he is sleeping. He always wakes up after I have a meal, and moments after I am hungry again lol. He makes sure to take his share haha. My energy levels vary. My 5th month I was seemingly normal. Now in my 6th month, I find myself craving naps, and sleeping in later than I did in my 5th month. But, that is normal. One of the scars from my laparoscopic surgery attempt tends to hurt. Like, really bad. I can tolerate high levels of pain so to me its painful but not to the point of crying, but it is annoying, and uncomfortable. I try to move around hoping that he changes position. That usually helps. I will mention it to my Gyn during my next visit. My appetite varies. One thing that hasn't changed is that I NEED breakfast. If not, I feel like I will collapse. I eat at 7am, and then have to eat again at 11 or 1130. I also try to snack in between meals. Water is always nearby. My juice  of choice right now, is natural lemonaide. And junk food of choice? Mc Donalds. During this month, it seems like I can no longer drink Coke. It gives me palpitations "/ Ive never been a huge soda drinker, but I need caffeine here and there, it helps prevent headaches. So, chocolate will have to do hehe. 

Jars, Flowers, and Thangs

The next couple of weeks (for me) will continue to be all about mason jars, and the many different types of ways that I can (with the help of some of my girlies ofcourse) jazz them up to make beautiful non diy looking centerpieces for my babyshower this upcoming January. God willing. Here are some of the inspirations:

credit: emmalinebride.com

credit: glitterweddings.com

credit: itallstartedwithpaint.com

I want flowers. But, I don't want to break the bank. I have been looking into wholesale stores like Cosco, and Sams Club for good deals. In order to keep the spending low, I want to use more than just flowers. I started working on a jar, just to get an idea. I plan on buying more, and visiting my local goodwill stores in order to find vases in different shapes and sizes. I volunteered myself to making my own centerpieces. Idk, I guess I wanted control of something pertaining to the babyshower. I also do not want to get overwhelmed, which is why I left it in the hands of my sister in law.

The baby and I are fine. His kicks are getting stronger with each passing day. My belly button is starting to pop out lol. It really all depends on how he is curled up in there. He likes to hang low. My appetite fluctuates. A lot of the time, I am hungry and have NO idea what it is that I want. Joe is the one person that gets to me emotionally. Sometimes I am extra sensitive, and cry for the smallest things (another symptom that I noticed before the fatigue kicked in, before finding out I was pregnant.) I am starting to buy diapers. Preparing ourselves for the time that I will be out of work. That is the only thing that I am allowing myself to buy before the shower. After, we will see what we still need and go for it. Anyway, this is it for now. Hope you're well!

WHERE DO YOU GO?

Apologies for the lack of posts. I had my brother and sis in law along with our niece and nephew/god kids, here since Wednesday. They left on Sunday afternoon. It was a very busy couple of days, and I have a few other things going on right now.

I haven't abandoned you, and expect pictures when I come back. A post of mine without pictures feels incomplete. I have to edit many pictures in order to add them to my photography page that I am putting together. I hate using the macbook for that because it hurts my wrist after a while of editing. I hope to purchase a desktop in the near future, it will make things easier. Laptops tend to give off a lot of heat. Or is it just mine? I've been having hot flashes as it is lol. This weather sucks. I do not enjoy the Summer. I think I go out more during the other seasons. Weird right?

Before I go, I don't quite remember where I heard or read this, but I will try to live my life, looking at the positive qualities in people, and life, instead of dwelling on the negative.

I will leave you with that. Enjoy your week!

Le Sigh...

The Summer may be a perfect time for weddings. But, feel free to call me weird because my first choice would be the Fall. Eloping has been a thought of ours for a couple of years now. I honestly don't think that I can handle all of that big wedding stuff. And I think that a lot of people tend to forget what it's really about. To share your love with your loved ones; in my opinion. I really want a simple rusty-chic, French Country, romantic themed wedding. In a barn or an old Estate. I close my eyes and I can see it.

We want it to be very small. Intimate. I was once advised to only invite those that I know will be in our lives ten years from the day. Nice, but my motto is to invite those that have shared our journey. Those that have been there for us, not just couple wise, but individually. I already shared this with my parents. Coming from a Dominican family, we tend to invite everyone and their mama to parties and such. Well, our pockets and hearts aren't for that. 

It is only natural to look into probable dress options for both the civil wedding, and then our reception. I mean, duh!

                                       

*xo, c i n d y.

These will be my last 2 weeks off from work, and I will do my best to enjoy them, and just to keep on relaxing. There is a little piece of me that is looking forward to going back, to simply be on the look out for another job, a different position. I don't like the outpatient scenario. And at that department, there is so much negativity, and no proper leadership. It often feels like you receive no support from the head, and when you feel that way, it is easy to just want to give up and feel like you're on your own. So, that's that. When you're at home, for this long, you get to close yourself off from all of the outside noise, and be one with yourself. You get to see and think clearly, and that's what I have been doing. Oh! And letting my eyebrows grow in to then revamp them.


Moving along... Here are some of my latest obsessions. Let me share them with you.

I have been into this novela. I catch up with it on Hulu. Don't judge me lmao.


This is what I have been humming. I love this group, and their two albums.


This is the series that I have been reading. I am on the second book.


And since I have been bumming it lol. These are my go to shoes.

* con mucho amor, c i n d y.

Halloween, Candles, Dorney, Oh My!

It's the weekend before Halloween! I don't know if I have ever mentioned it on here, how much I love Halloween! It's my favorite, believe it or not. As I type this, it is snowing mush outside. You know, that snow that doesn't stick. I will not let that ruin my Saturday! I have plans of going to see Paranormal Activity 3 (say that with an English accent). I don't know why I do this to myself lol. I was scared with the first one, the second didn't do much for me. Inside of our apartment, all of the lights are off. Only light is the one from outside, which isn't much, and a fall scented candle.

Things at work have been okay. One of the trouble making co workers has been out on medical leave. She'll return on Monday, and we are all hoping for the best. Yes, there is always something going on up there, but with her gone, there has been a sense of peace. Oh, what an ugly truth.

I am feeling better. My month long period has finally ended! The heat flashes continue. My mom has let me borrow one of her fans to help with that. I might need a tiny one for my desk at work, we'll see. Anyway, I have to buy scarves and hats for the Winter weather, I also need to buy a hooded coat. My wants are other things too haha. Any excuse for some shopping right?Last week my cousins and I went to a Halloween party hosted by one of Malvina's managers. Idk if I mentioned it but, she and her bf moved in with my parents in my old bedroom, which they rent, back in July. Things have happened and I feel like I have a love hate relationship towards her, but I won't air any of that out online.

This post will be full of random shots. Enjoy! These will all be from September's Dorney Park trip with Joe's job. My brother, his nephew, Joe and I went.

Tiny yummy cone!

My oldest bro, and Joe. They went shopping together lol. They're good friends, or "bros".

Next stop. Steel Force. Only Luis (bro's live in nephew) went on w/ me.

Free fall! The best one ever. This thing makes me cry out for Jesus! I like the green one. It takes you up slowly, then unexpectedly drops you. Again, Luis was the only one to join me. Joe hate's costers! And my bro had just eaten.

Look what was won for me!

How cute is their stamp?

This is from right now! My one of many candles.

Last but not least, a kiss from me to you!...

Last week at the Halloween Party

* con mucho amor, c i n d y.

Fall, Fashion, and the Number 25!

F21 Fall 2011



Versace for H&M Fall 2011



I cannot wait to start shopping for the Fall! It's my favorite time of the year. It's not too cold, it's just right. And nature dresses up in beautiful colors! My favorite "Holiday" is Halloween and it's during that time of the year when my favorite type of movies premiere (Horror/Mystery/Suspense/Thriller). What's your favorite thing about the Fall?

For my 25th Birthday I am treating myself to spa treatments. I have been researching local ones and am very excited! I need it since I have been working non stop since February (meaning no breaks, days off). And Joe (my boyfriend) is treating me to a nice shopping spree at my favorite stores which include the ones shown above. Next week will be my last being 24... Eeek! My brother and his wife will be down here for it, hopefully they can join us in my celebration (dinner, drinks). I want to go bowling as well! Lol this may sound lame to some of you, but this is my kind of thing haha.

Anyway, enjoy your weekend loves!

* con mucho amor, c i n d y.

A Superstitious Midwife

I tend to deny the fact that I am superstitious. But I am. And that's the honest truth. For example; whenever people ask me "Hey, how's the new job? Do you like it?" I act all cool about it, and say "Yeah, it's cool." In reality I feel like saying; It's great! It's a change that I am glad I made! I enjoy my office mate oh so much, she's the best! Now, that wasn't that hard. I guess I feel like if I said those words, that I would jinx it. No more of that. Okay, I'll try. If I am happy, I will say it, damn it!

Being there I have realized a few things. I mentioned it on Twitter today, how there's a nurse that tends to treat older hispanic patients terribly! I understand people have bad days, but it's happened a couple of times now, and I have only been there for 1 month. When it happened I was so hurt for that old man. I honestly see my parents whenever I see older people. So, I treat them as I would want my parents to be treated, with respect. There's still a lot of racism out there, and it's sad. But, I remind myself that not everyone is like that :)

That brings me to my next point. I have decided to change my major---officially! I have mentioned before that I wasn't sure if Psychology was what I wanted to pursue. I mean, I know that I want to help people, but how? I considered education, but wasn't too excited about it. Lord knows how much I have prayed about this. The other night after tossing and turning and finally being able to fall asleep, I saw the words "Midwife", and I woke up with a huge smile, and a racing heart. I knew that's what I wanted to be, and it's funny, how it was always in front of my face. I love pregnancy, and helping women, educating them on the subject, and always said that if I did pursue nursing, I'd want to work for a OBGYN. So there ya go. I can't wait until the Fall!

Watch SNL tonight! Briana's booski (and my ex, lol) will be hosting ;) I hope you're all well. Pictures on my next post!

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30 Days Song Challenge/ Day 06: A Song that Reminds You of Somewhere



This song reminds me of the Bronx and spending that Summer of '95 and many others out there with my extended family. This song is still one of my favorites, and I can't help but to sing along every single time that it comes on. But yeah, me tengo que irrrrrrr lol.

* con mucho amor, c i n d y.

April Showers bring May Tattoos?---What?

30 Day Song Challenge: Day 2/Your Least Favorite Song

I dislike many songs. But, this was the first one that came to mind. I never liked it although I learned all of the lyrics because the stations out here would play it, over and over and over and over again. It was impossible to avoid!
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As for my plans for the Month of May? One thing and 1 thing only. To go to a Tattoo shop where my boyfriend's friend (Click on "Friend" to see one of his friend's tats from the parlor's myspace) gets his (which are always on point!) and get the one on my wrist covered. I still love it and the meaning behind it but, I am not satisfied with the way that it was done, and I am tired of having to "hide" it because of this. So, that's the plan. I have already decided what to get, and it's kind of something that I drew myself. I will keep you guys posted! The one on my wrist and ankle hurt more than the one on my lower left abdomen, so, I am not looking forward to that part lol. But, I can't wait to get it over with. Until tomorrow. Si Dios quiere, of course.

* con mucho amor, c i n d y.

Full Circle

Hey! I am getting better at blogging more frequently right? RIGHT? That's what I thought! Lol, don't mind me, I've been acting all "hard" and "tough" lately, for no reason haha.

Happy Monday! Mine was pretty eventful, slowly catching up on all of my paper work at my job. I have been seeing a lot of clients lately! A lot of my first time clients have been coming in for pregnancy tests and it really feels like we've come full circle.

I got a new job. That's what I was talking about in my last entry. I had the interview when I blogged last. And the day after, I got word that my references were being called. Luckily they all said great things about me. I will be working at the town's hospital. Full time hours, no holidays or weekends, and full benefits. That is what I am the most excited about. BENEFITS BABY! It's all very very bittersweet. I love my job, I love the cause, but some things just weren't the same, and I think God was kind of nudging me to go out and look for something else. I will be there 1 night a week though, because it's not about the money when it comes to that place. It really isn't. But, I have life plans that called for more money and other perks. We'll see how everything goes. But I trust in God (I am a very spiritual person if you haven't guessed). On Saturday I had to go and get my digital finger prints taken, they've upgraded I see lol, no more messy ink. Today, I went and had a drug test, urine test, blood work, and a hep shot, since I only got 2 dozes instead of the 3, whoops! My left arm feels all sorts of jacked-up-ness right now.

Now, join me while I do a victory dance... Wooooooo Wooooooo lol. Thanks for humoring me.

This weekend we are off to New York to help celebrate hub's nephew/our god son's 3rd birthday. We got him some kicks and clothes. My parents get back this Saturday, and they'll come back with us on Sunday. Oh! I finally finished reading the book The Glass House, and I cried at the end of it "/ yes people, I Cindia, am a softy lol. Don't take me to see sad movies because you'll be like Really?! haha. Maybe I'll do a quick review of the book? Have a blessed week my loves! And thanks for all of the comments on my previous entry!

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I was driving today and saw this guy busting some moves. He was dressed as Lady Liberty.





My new umbrella!



Ethan's sneakers.



Got my biatches as my desktop wallpaper.



I love this wall decor. Got it from Bed Bath & Beyond on Saturday.

* con mucho amor, c i n d y.

Let's get more personal,

I was chatting the other day with one of my lovely blog familia members, and it hit me, wow, I don't think I have actually shared about myself on here. I mean, I think I have a decent sense of humor, I love movies, I love pictures, and other random things, I think you can get that after reading my entries.. But, where do I live? Where am I from? Etc? Do you know? Nope. No idea.

First things first I am 24 years old, and live in Pennsylvania after ending a long relationship with Long Island New York. I still cheat and visit sometimes, but with all of my friends moving away from there, it really makes it hard to go anymore. I was born in the Dominican Republic and moved to Ah-meh-ree-kah when I was turning 6. I am the "baby" out of 3. I have 2 older brothers. One lives in Long Island with his wife, and my other brother lives out here a few minutes away, with his girlfriend and her kids. My parents live about an 8 minute car ride away from me. And I love that. Wouldn't have it any other way. I have a job. Its not quite a full time job, and it's not quite a part time either? I have been there for 3 1/2 years. I am a medical assistant, and work with pregnant women, and families. In a nutshell I am a pregnancy counselor, and also help people with life skills.

I don't live with my parents, like mentioned. I live with my boyfriend. Everyone calls him Joe. We have been together for 6 years 11 months. We make 7 years next month on the 15th to be exact. That's the reason why Valentines Day means nada to me. What for? When the better date is the day after? My boyfriend and I parted ways for a little while, but we're back and we're better than ever. I realized so much while I was away from him. He is truly my best friend. And the man that I will marry. We have a dog and a guinea pig which most of yous have seen (Rocky and Abby).

Oh! I am also a part time student. Unfortunately I won't be attending this semester but that's alright. I have my goals, and I will reach them. I plan on getting my Masters in Psychology and keep working as a counselor/therapist.

Hmm. I think this is a good way of starting things up. I plan for our relationship to be a more open one ;) Enjoy your week my lovelies!

* con mucho amor, c i n d y.

Reason for my absence...

Hello,

I just wanted to apologize for the lack of updates, but I have been super sick since Thursday. I mean, it's been in the making but it really hit me on Thursday. Yesterday I made it through the day without a fever, and this after noon it has returned. I don't know what's going on, but I have a feeling that I have bronchitis. Sucks not having health insurance and I refuse to go to the ER and have another $700 bill come my way. But you know what? If I am still with a fever tomorrow, I plan to go to a doctor and pay out of pocket, it's cheaper. My job hopes to have insurance for us by February 1st, so I'll get some of my money back anyway.

A get well soon shout out to Lala, I know it's been a tough couple of weeks for you too girl!

* con mucho amor, c i n d y.

Obsession Tuesday

Have you ever sat down and really thought about what parts of the world you want to visit? The things that you want to see? Buildings? Landmarks? I have! I have been blessed (knowing how to budget) to be able to save up money and see some places like, Cancun Mexico, Runaway Bay Jamaica, Cuba, to have lived and gone back to visit my country Dominican Republic. The older that I get, the less and less I want to go to the typical carribean hot spots. I want to go over seas to Europe, China, Japan, just to name a few. Contiki Tours seems to be the way to go! I signed up for their emails and today I took time to check the site out in depth. I think when I marry, I'll want to have a honeymoon tour with them, things seem easier when others do the planning for you lol. Here are some pictures of places I hope to see in my near future.

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Egypt


Greece



Italy



Paris

China
Where would you want to go?

* con mucho amor, c i n d y.

I saw a sign...

Lately I have been a bit stressed. Actually scratch that, it's been longer than lately, but for the last few weeks I have actually started to try and make a change. I refuse to be one of those people that always cry about wanting to win the lottery yet never ever plays it.

I have a job. I consider it part time because the most hours the office is open are 30. I love what I do, and when I tell people what I do and they get it, they fall in love with it too. But you know how it usually is, the jobs that we love, don't pay the bills that we hate. I made that saying up last night, so when you use it and say "They say..." the "They" is me, lol okay let me stop. So, I have been applying for work. Mostly part time, but if there is a full time that I am interested in, I go for it. I have placed it in God's hands. He will lead me and take me where I am to go, if I am to go somewhere. Next week I will go to a clerical agency and apply, that way they can be on the look out, instead of me having to do it all the time.

I gave a heads up to my lovely co worker yesterday since we are the only 2 full time counselors. She was like "Oh my goodness don't tell me that Cindia, you can't leave. I don't want you to." And about 10 minutes after we spoke about it, I got a buzz on my phone in the office and I answered, it was boss lady saying how as of January 1st our office will be offering their full time employees health insurance (which is a major reason as to why I want to find another job, to be able to afford some). It was really hard for me not to laugh. God is amazing, and He has showed that to me on MANY MANY occasions, one being the fact that I wake up every morning. Now, that still doesn't get my bills paid but it's a step up. I wonder if it's not my time to part from my work place. None the less I will still apply for part time jobs. After all, school ends on the 9th and I doubt that I'll be able to attend the Spring semester because I have a balance to pay "/

We'll see what the next few days, weeks or ever months hold. I will definitely keep you updated! Wish my luck!

* con mucho amor, c i n d y.

California Dreamin'

Today I am going to carry my Nikon around with me, just for the heck of it. It has been raining a lot out here lately and today we got to see the sun for the first time since the weekend. I am happy though, because I've gotten the chance to wear my new jacket : ) I really want a blue and red one. I love the color red, always gives an outfit that pop it needs.

I recently made a life changing decision. Until it really happens I won't talk about it :x I can be supersticious in that way. If you talk about it you can jinx it. But if you write it down somewhere and read it/see it, then it'll have higher chances of happening/being accomplished. It's my opinion & has worked for me.

Something that I want to do before the middle of next year (talk about planning ahead) is go back to California! I went in 2004 and have been wanting to go back for a few years now. I think it's time! My best friend says she's down, so I will test her out on that ;)

Hope you're well! Enjoy your day!

* con mucho amor, c i n d y.

Weekend Update

Now, didn't I tell you that you would be seeing a lot more of him? We were outside in the balcony while the cable guy was setting up the new tivo account or whatever he needed to do. He really wanted to go inside and bark away at him, which is why he looks so sad in the first picture. Anyway, I got the shipment from F21 yesterday! I will make the video later on today before I go out (supposed to be going dancing). All that I have done today is clean, and clean some more. I hope that you enjoy your weekend!

* con mucho amor, c i n d y.

To do list;

Things to do before Vacation 2010: Jamaica

1) Buy insect repellant.
2) Buy water proof sunscreen.
3) Buy water case for Canon.
3) Pack.
5) Buy good leave in conditioner (any recommendations?)
6) Buy hubby some new shirts.
7) Buy luggage.
8) Print trip vouchers.

That's basically it. The rest will fall into place. Hubby just keeps saying "Ah, I can't wait for some fun in the sun and some mmm mmm mmm too." Lmao. I just want to return feeling recharged and ready to go back to work, and over all more positive! Seriously, I think we all deserve a getaway or a trip of some sort to look forward to. I just don't want to be all work and no play. Plus, I've always said that I want to see the world. He says this will probably be our last All Inclusive for a little bit. We've seen some places that we want to go to that don't really offer it. We'll see. Let's get through this one first. I definitely want to meet Italia, London, and Fiji just to name a few. Where do you want to go?