The Rebel Sigh

Help My Kettle!

2010-11-05T11:53:00.000-07:00

Dynamic fundraising meter for your Red Kettle campaign.

Because Martha Tagged Me and I don't ever update...

2009-07-30T21:01:00.000-07:00

Copy body and go to notes on your profile page and click write a new note. Paste this and change the answers.

1. First thing you wash in the shower? the hair. Always the hair.

2. What color is your favorite hoodie? My navy A&M hoodie. Yes, they come in navy.

3. Would you kiss the last person you kissed again? Only once his mono clears.

4. Do you plan outfits? Maybe about 50% of the time

5. How are you feeling RIGHT now? better after the meds.

6. What’s the closest thing to you that's red? Season 2 of Friends

7. Tell me about the last dream you remember having:

8. Did you meet anybody new today? a couple people at a work training retreat

9. What are you craving right now? a donut, and Taco Bueno taco (thank you free taco coupon!)

10. Do you floss daily? Pfft, no.

11. What comes to mind when I say cabbage? Sauerkraut

12. Are you emotional? A little more than usual. Pre-mission trip jitters

13. Have you ever counted to 1,000? I've counted money to 1,000, but not a consecutive 1 to 1,000.

14. Do you bite into your ice cream or just lick it? Mostly licks. I like to see how many it takes to get to the center of a toot.... wait, wrong food.

15. Do you like your hair? Most days

16. Do you like yourself? Most days

17. Would you go out to eat with George W. Bush? Yeah!

18. What are you listening to right now? "Friends"

19. Are your parents strict? Not at all. I didn't realize so many people weren't allowed to watch "The Simpsons" growing up.

20. Would you go sky diving? Sam really wants me to... so probably. I used to want to, but my fear of heights has developed with my age.

21. Do you like cottage cheese? with peaches

22. Have you ever met a celebrity? I high-fived Jason Mraz and made eye contact with Ben Folds. And met Matt Czurchy (Logan of "Gilmore Girls") and the Kidd Kraddick Morning Show crew.

23. Do you rent movies often? Probably almost one a week.

24. Is there anything sparkly in the room you're in? Cubic Zirconia earrings on the night stand.

25. How many countries have you visited? 4 plus Ecuador as of this Saturday

26. Have you made a prank phone call? Is your refridgerator running?

27. Have you ever been on a train? Several. The best, by far, was the ride from Cusco, Peru up to Machu Picchu Town.

28. Brown or white eggs? No preference, but I think I have stomach problems from the brown. At least I did in Peru (TMI?)

29. Do you have a cell-phone? two, actually. Thank you work.

30. Do you use Chap Stick? I haven't in a while

31. Do you own a gun? Just the two extensions from my shoulders.

32. Can you use chop sticks? yeah, and I really like to. I feel superior.

33. Who are you going to be with tonight? the night is ending. Spent it with Sam at the Ranger game though

34. Are you too forgiving? at times, and then there are times I have great difficulty letting things go.

35. Ever been in love? Oh yeah

36. What is your best (good) friend(s) doing tomorrow? working and going to a birthday party

37. Ever have cream puffs? I have, not regularly

38. Last time you cried? A couple weeks ago

39. What was the last question you asked? "when was the last time I cried?" haha. I couldn't remember

40. Favorite time of the year? vacation time!

41. Do you have any tattoos? nope

42. Are you sarcastic? Noooooooo... yeah, that's not funny.

43. Have you ever seen The Butterfly Effect? Ashton Kutcher? Is that a band? ten points for naming the movie (yeah, I have)

44. Ever walked into a wall? Oh yeah, and probably enough times to merit an eye examination.

45. Favorite color? too many: pink, blue, green, purple, maroon....

46. Have you ever slapped someone? Haha yeah

47. Is your hair curly? When I let it be curly

48. What was the last CD you bought? CD CD, probably the Eagles Greatest Hits

49. Do looks matter? To an extent

50. Could you ever forgive a cheater? Been done before.

51. Is your phone bill sky high? It's pretty bad. Without overage charges, though.

52. Do you like your life right now? It's pretty amazing

53. Do you sleep with the TV on? no no no

54. Can you handle the truth? usually

55. Do you have good vision? I should get it checked

56. Do you hate or dislike more than 3 people? Hate, no, and I don't dislike the persons, I moreso dislike their decisions and actions

57. How often do you talk on the phone? daily

58. The last person you held hands with? Sammich

59. What are you wearing right now? pajama pants and a t-shirt

60. What is your favorite animal? puppies!

61. Where was your profile picture taken? Ford and Emma's wedding

62. Can you hula hoop? Heck yeah!

63. Do you have a job? Praise the Lord, yes.

64. What was the most recent thing you bought? Gas and Money (ATM fee)

65. Have you ever crawled through a window? Most likely, but I don't really remember ever doing so.

WE WILL!

2009-03-11T19:42:00.000-07:00

The following exchange occurred at the Hotel Anatole, where there was a conference, and the participants were wearing badges that said "WE WILL." I read a guy's name-tag (a bit stalkerish, I know) as he walked by...

Me: Hey Jim! Jim!
Jim: (as he was looking through his cell phone) Yeah? (perplexed)
Me: What will you do?
Jim: Excuse me?
Me: Your tag, it says "We Will." What will you do? Or y'all do?
Jim: We will change the world!
One of the guys at my table, Jeff: How?
Jim: (pause) Same day vaccinations!

We later found out Jim was full of crap. We asked another guy wearing a name tag and he said they were at a Sales Conference, and it was their cheesy them. My table had a good laugh trying to figure out what the heck "same day vaccinations" meant... whether it was for children or animals or something else. I gave Jim made props for his keen wit and ability to think on his feet.

16 Things About Annie Ann

2009-01-14T22:00:00.001-08:00

Once you’ve been tagged, you are supposed to write a note with 16 random things, facts, habits, or goals about you.
At the end choose 16 people to be tagged, listing their names and why you chose them.
You have to tag the person who tagged you.

1. I have a new found obsession with "The O.C." Well, maybe it isn't new, but reclaimed. And I'm not afraid to tell the world. I'm holding out for some used copies of seasons three and four.

2. Along with number one, I tend to have an affinity with trashy t.v. If I had cable and even an antenna, I'd waste so much time watching things that include (but aren't limited to) America's Next Top Model marathons, Sheer Genius, Project Runway, 90210, American Idol, One Tree Hill, and Gossip Girl.

3. I really like argyle. I wish more people wore it and wore it regularly.

4. I have an obsession with couples that are supposed to be together ending up together, and I don't like it when things end without the intended reconciliation. Think Ross and Rachel, Seth and Summer, Luke and Lorelai, Jack and Kate, Ron and Hermione... I know I'm just living vicariously through these characters.

5. With that said, I hate what rom-coms have done to this world. It has given us all unreal expectations of relationships and men. A girl I just met shared a most enlightening and convicting thing in conversation just this past week. It was something I heard before but it still made my heart soft. She stated how beautiful she thought dancing was, at it reflects best the way God intended relationships to be: a man leading a woman, and a woman learning to follow. It was such a simple and beautiful reflection on God's plan for relationships.

6. I've never been happier in a job for the amount of time that I've been happy at my current job. I have hope that I have found the right place for me to grow.

7. My friend Kristy is responsible for my nickname of "Annie Ann." It was the product of confusion when I revealed that my middle name was "Ann." She was unaware that my first name is actually Valeria. Oddly enough, my boss calls me "Annie Ann" on a semi-regular basis without any knowledge of this foundation.

8. I have an obsession with my name. I find myself jealous when I meet other girls named "Annie" because I feel like they're trying to steal my thunder. I also once googled for songs with my name in the title, downloaded them, and put them on a CD.

9. I'm more self-absorbed than I tend to let on.

10. I have the greatest friends in the world. And I'm not biased.

11. I think Oreos are the greatest cookies known to man.

12. I like to alphabetize things. It makes me feel a sense of order. I also have to have the microwave timer and the volume set to multiples of five.

13. I like knowing if a guy can grow facial hair. But the five o'clock shadow is my favorite look. It makes me think, "now that's a man."

14. I'm boy crazy, which isn't a surprise to anyone here, I'm sure.

15. One of my favorite things to do is roll down the windows, open the sun roof, and sing along with music as loud as possible while I drive. This enjoyment increases exponentially with every friend in the car with me.

16. If *NSYNC were to reunite, I would spend any amount of money to see them in concert one more time. Even though Lance is gay.

1. Amy, Cara, Katy, Martha, and Richie - because they tagged me.
5. Sara, Heather, and Kelsey - because they already did it.
9. Benj, Justin, Graham, Natalie, Jim, and Linda - because you can't NOT tag the Poctas
15. Michelle and Lindsay - because I miss them.
17. Erin - because I want the entire Plex included

Help Me Fill My Kettle!

2008-10-06T07:09:00.000-07:00

Dynamic fundraising meter for your Red Kettle campaign.

Whataburger Can Make Your Day

2008-09-23T12:11:00.000-07:00

Today I ran by Whataburger for my day-off treat to pick up some lunch for my roommate and me. Usually, Whataburger in and of itself is plenty for a brief happy moment, but today I was granted a day's worth of happiness. I'll leave you with the dialog exchange from the drive-thru:

I pulled up to the window to see a woman standing there with our food, ready to hand if off. I asked for some ketchup, pepper, and sweetn'low. From there a guy, the manager I presumed, looked over her and said:

Manager: Have you played in movies?
Me: No, no I haven't.
Manager: You look like you have.
Me: comedic hair-toss Why thank you!
Manager: Shake it girl.

Thank you, Whataburger, for adding some calorie free sweet talk to my caloric festivities.

On Vacation I go...

2008-07-01T21:10:00.001-07:00

I'm off to Philadelphia until Monday. I'll get to spend two fun-filled days in New York, as well. I'm quite excited about my first adventure to the Northeast. Hopefully I'll have a nice update when I return.

On the hunt

2008-06-17T23:18:00.001-07:00

So I received word that my Supervisor is officially leaving for a new position in the agency. With that, I have accelerated my job hunt. I officially applied for three jobs tonight, with the anticipation of applying for two to three more before the week is up. Any prayers are greatly appreciated while I attempt to make a new transition in my life. This will truly be a time to trust in God with my future. Let's hope I can do this, because...

Things have been somewhat hard lately. It's so difficult for me to relinquish the reins and let God take control. I seek out my own ends to a means instead of trusting God to provide for me, and this is in multiple aspects of my life. I let me emotions get the best of me, which results in venomous thoughts that often become venomous words. I don't like where my heart is most of the time, yet my conviction is not resulting in true repentance. It's hard.

I let my heart get too involved in things of this world. I let myself get too wrapped up in desire. I let my sin overwhelm me without turning away. It's hard.

I struggle with where God has me at this very moment. I'm struggling with my job. I'm struggling with my contentment with singleness. I'm struggling with my hunger to grow. It's hard.

It's amazing how much I think of myself in all this, all the while. There are people suffering far greater than I am, and who can even say I am truly suffering? My selfishness radiates in every aspect of my life. I don't come to people's aid. It's hard.

But God is good. How can I remember this?

Good Dreams are Really Bad

2008-06-03T12:21:00.000-07:00

I recently messaged a good friend of mine and informed her, "I had a bad dream last night." I proceeded to tell her the Cliff's Notes version of my dream, which in actuality was full of good, wonderful things. She questioned me saying, "that's a bad dream?" My retort... "Yeah, because it wasn't real." It's just such a bittersweet feeling to wake up from this short glimpse of what your subconscious reveals. How can this be classified as something good if you're so disappointed when you wake up? It isn't truth. It isn't real. It's just a plethora of random thoughts tied together; sometimes revealing something you want; sometimes revealing a garble of things that are just really weird. Good dreams are really bad.

Two Fleshes Unite

2008-05-20T12:52:00.000-07:00

So it's official. I have been united with another's flesh. This past Monday, around 2:00pm my Orthopedic Surgeon binded my femur and fibula with allograft - tissue from a cadaver. The scope procedure revealed my ACL was completely detached from my femur. The MRI and initial scoping of my tissue provided the illusion that my ACL was somewhat in place, but in actuality, it was just laying on the bone. But God bless modern technology. My surgeon was able to attach a new ACL to my bones, and the screws should dissolve in a few years' time. I begin Physical Therapy tomorrow and have already slightly weaned myself off of crutches. I should be able to run in three months time, but I cannot play sports for another six months (bummer!). I appreciate everyone's concern, prayers, and well wishes. The road is long, but the results are a blessing! Thanks friends!

Lots of Happenings

2008-05-08T22:07:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share a little update in the goings-ons in my life. This past Wednesday marked my year anniversary with CPS. This is quite the accomplishment given the average turnover of a CPS caseworker is eight months. With my completed year, I'm entitled to a bonus (scheduled to come in July, assuming I'm still with the agency then, as well), and I have ample opportunity to apply for different jobs and locations within the department. My supervisor informed me of a new position she applied for, and she encouraged me to apply as well. The department has created new job positions, which includes less stress and a pay increase. With her recommendation, I went ahead and applied for one of the positions, as well as an opening in Night Intake. Night Intake has the benefit of not having to carry a case load, providing an easier means of taking time off, as well as giving me the opportunity to explore returning to school semi full time. The only drawback to that position is I don't receive any difference in pay, and I'd be working Wednesday through Saturday nights, eliminating my ability to socialize with those who have normal work schedules. Essentially, I'm hoping for the former job to work out, otherwise I'll be exploring a new career entirely come the end of the summer when I'm finished with Physical Therapy and my boss is gone.

Speaking of Physical Therapy.... on Monday I'm undergoing orthoscopic knee surgery. My orthopedic is not 100% sure what the damage to my knee is. The consensus is that it's a probably meniscus tear (which didn't show up on the MRI) and possible ACL reconstruction. Essentially, we can't know until there's a hole in my knee, so come Monday around 3:00pm, I think we'll know. Crutches are foreseen to be in the near future for anywhere from two to six weeks, followed by three months of physical therapy. Any thoughts and prayers would be greatly appreciated during my surgery on Monday. It's scheduled for 11:00AM.

I can't really think of anything else going on. I figure this entry is somewhat boring, but at least I could offer a somewhat substantial update. I know it can't compare to the Baby Do's and Don'ts. But really, what can?

Because I never update...

2008-03-08T09:09:00.000-08:00

I'll just update with one of these, courtesy of Martha.

10 years ago:
I was in the eighth grade. Wow. That's really weird to think about. I had braces and four teeth removed. I played tennis, for some reason. I was first introduced to *NSYNC which led to an obsession that would last into college. I didn't wear make-up. I didn't wear stylish clothes. Thinking back on it, I don't think I had any idea who I was or what I wanted to be. But I did love soccer, and I was pretty awesome at it.

Things on my to-do list today:
-No Country for Old Men
-Helping a friend, maybe two friends, move
-Derek Webb, holla

What would I do if I suddenly became a billionaire?
-Travel
-Donate a lot of money all over the place (Peru Mission, my church, my past churches, donate to any programs that seek to end hunger... to name a few)
-Pay off my loans and any of my family's loans
-Buy a house for me, my parents, brothers, aunt and uncle, and start a college fund for my cousins
-Buy lifetime season tickets to the Mavs and the Cowboys (selfish, I know)
-Buy lifetime season tickets to the Rangers for Katy and Amy

Three of my bad habits:
1. Piles, they're everywhere
2. Procrastination
3. I'll get to this one later...

Five jobs I've had:
1. Temp
2. Office Assistant
3. CPS
4. English Teacher
5. Athlete Checker (I monitored the attendance of scholarship athletes at A&M)

Five things many people don't know about me:
1. I don't tweeze my eyebrows. I don't see the point
2. I've eaten fried guinea pig. It didn't taste like chicken
3. I've been to three *NSYNC concerts and one BBMak concert. I'm boyband obsessed to this day.
4. If Josh Groban asked me to marry him tomorrow, I'd probably say yes.
5. I'm convinced I contracted mono from a communion cup in December 2005.

I tag anyone who wants to do this.

A Follow Up

2008-02-26T18:58:00.000-08:00

I can't take credit for the wonderful baby advice, so I'd like to post the link so everyone else can enjoy and choose their own favorites! ENJOY!

Baby Do's and Don'ts

2008-02-25T21:05:00.000-08:00

Working for Child Protective Services I learn quite a few things about what is okay to do with children. A friend of mine referred me to a Spanish blog this evening, and I just HAD to post a few excerpts from it, because ultimately, I come across people who probably would not know these Do's and Don'ts. Yes, our society has those who are not taught parental skills through demonstration, and innately do not possess maternal/paternal skills. These are a couple of my favorites. I hope you enjoy them:

A Little Time Waster

2007-12-18T19:05:00.000-08:00

I stole this from Martha. The rules are to do a Google image search based on your answers to the following questions and post the first result:

How old will you be on your next birthday?

What is the name of a place you would like to visit?

What is your favorite place?

What are your favorite things?

What is your favorite food?

What is your favorite color?

What is your nickname?

Where were you born?

Some thoughts on Nothing...

2007-07-16T14:12:00.000-07:00

So obviously I'm the best blogger ever. I tell myself that I'd like to get into the habit of maintaining a blog, again, yet I never follow through. I'm obviously all talk and no action when it comes to the world of blogging. I was supposed to post that short story, and yes, I worked on it. I even neared finishing it, but then I let myself set it aside. Oh procrastination, why must you plague my life?!

I have come to accept some truths in my life. I'm not an insightful person; I don't have crazy adventures; my life is pretty monotonous. Or is it? I think I'm a fun person. I have wonderful friends who keep me on my toes. I just choose to not cherish the wonderful blessings in my life. I'm convinced that if my entry isn't funny, it isn't worth posting. Now I don't have to be funny all the time, do I? I am not here to people please, yet I live my life as if I'm convinced that my purpose is to entertain. God has made me for so much more, yet I prefer to live an anxious life, lacking contentment with the now. I spend more time wanting to know what's next, waiting for tomorrow. But the problem is, there's always a tomorrow. I need to live for now. I need to update my blog. Tonight. I will finish that story. And I may have failed miserably at being funny, but hey, I had fun writing it. And I'm not here to people please.

Moving

2007-06-03T21:02:00.000-07:00

I fear I will soon lose my dot mac account, so I have moved to a new blog. I cannot access my original blog with this similar address, so now I get to start over again (not that it had anything of value on it). If you'd like to visit my old posts, go he re. Hopefully to come before the week is up, a writing sample.