Merry Christmas!

I hope you're all having a wonderful day with family and friends! This year is the first Christmas spent away from my mom, Dad, and siblings, and I miss them very much, but I'm very happy to be with John and his family, who have shown me so much love and hospitality!

Spread some love around today.

Be joyful! Christ is born! :)

Love,

A.

Biblical Mysteries and our Birthright

I'm watching Biblical Mysteries on the Science Channel, and they brought up the contrast between the four traditional Gospels--Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John--and the Gnostic Gospel of Thomas.

According to this show, Thomas' Gospel indicates that we can all be "Sons of God", like Jesus was the Son of God, as opposed to the word of the Four Gospels, which says the Jesus was the only one.

I think the words of Thomas' gospel are a bit twisted here. I agree that humanity are all children of God. We are all loved equally and perfectly by God. However, we are NOT equal to Jesus.

Firstly, Jesus is God--that whole Holy Trinity thing: the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Secondly, Jesus wasn't just a guy--he was SENT to die for our sins, which none of us can attest to.

Now, if we go along with the scholarly idea that Jesus was NOT divine, I guess someone could make that argument. But, the "scholarly" hypothesis doesn't really apply to those who believe what Christianity means: that Jesus WAS divine, was sent by God to die for our sins, and did so.

So, yeah. Just felt like I wanted to clarify the difference between 'Child of God' and 'Son of God'. Kind of important.

>:(

It's insulting when people don't think I take my responsibilities seriously.

Thankfully, I met up with Melissa on my way back from my class (I had a good crit with Dan Krall--I got an A!), and she reminded me that God will always provide, and if I make my stresses into prayers, I'll be fine. This year has made me realize over and over that God always has me in his sight.

I'm trying to work towards my grad show, my graduation, my summer, one step at a time. It's been challenging in some respects, but I know that I'm taken care of, so it's also been somewhat reassuring. I know I'll get a job (or two), I know I'll make money (and art!) this summer, I know that I'll be fine, even if it will take some extra effort, and I don't like being told that I'm being irresponsible, or that I don't understand what I'm doing.

But I'm not thinking about that now.

Now, I have to think about my show--John and I are going to Target on Thursday, I'm returning that blue dress (I found a better one at Village Thrift, surprisingly!), and then going to Ikea to buy five frames (cheaply, let's hope!). Whew. Then I start installation on Friday! Eep!

Also, last grave shift tonight! I get to work on a paper, which is easy-peasy. Thank goodness for that!

Things will be FINE. I'm sure of it.

THE FUTURE.

I've been thinking about a lot of facets of the future. Jobs, relationships, art, and direction in general. Let's look at some categories:

Jobs: This is the most unpredictable/uncontrollable of the four, at least as far as gainful employment is concerned. I might not get a super-profitable job thanks to not being able to drive (urg--although I wouldn't have a car even if I knew how), or a lack of credentials. I might be waiting tables or doing less-than-dignified (but perfectly fine) jobs until further notice. I'm okay with this. The problem is FINDING the job in the first place. Is anyone even hiring anymore? And are they willing to be very flexible about extended visitation with long-distance boyfriends? (That's a JOKE. Ish.)

Art: John has been instrumental in reminding me not to take myself so damn seriously all the time. I'm usually pretty down on myself/my art. I'm very aware that I'm not in the top 10% of my class as far as talent/skill--maybe not even the top 30%! (On a sidenote--having the money to get a laptop/programs to extend my skill set would've revolutionized the work I produced at MICA.) But regardless, I know that it's useless to beat myself up. I AM talented, even if I don't draw LIKE a specific other student.

I freaked myself out last night about Showcase--when the illustration seniors get to talk to an art director who was (hopefully) part of a list we submitted in March. My thesis teacher informed me that I got very lucky, and will be talking to Sarah Vinas...the art director of Glamour magazine. WHAT. So, naturally, I'm TERRIFIED, and wishing my work was ten trillion times better/more/editorial/sexier and oh-god-WHY did I do a final with old people?!

But, John kindly reminded me (after I moved myself to tears) that this isn't a job interview. She's here to talk to me about how to move forward and where to go from here. Having some time to live and work at home without the pressures of rent and bills (for now) is ideal--I can take time to worry about my art and only my art. I can experiment, practice, maybe even branch out into some design-y things. (I know!)

Relationships: John and I are obviously staying together after graduation. I don't think anyone here was questioning that. But, also obviously, this will be the biggest challenge we've faced yet as a couple (THANK GOD--what a gift! Only having to worry about a few months apart). There are big things coming for us, and I'm not worried about the distance. We're both devoted to making the effort, which takes care of that.

Direction: This one is a bit more elusive than a job, but rather easier to control, oddly enough. It goes hand-in-hand with the other three categories, and those determine it. I know--where does the aspect of control come in?! But I guess what I mean is that you should have faith that you'll end up where you need to be.

The best example of this for me starts waaay back when I was in fourth or fifth grade. I had a friend named Teresa, who was actually a bossy, controlling, BITCH, but she could draw pretty well for a nine year old. Naturally, I wanted to be just like Teresa, so I started to draw more. That summer, my mom asked if I'd like to enroll in an art class with my other friend Anna, who went to a different school. I said no, reasoning that Teresa would teach me what I needed to know about drawing (I think I cited 'shading' specifically to my mother :P). The next year, Anna moved away, and Teresa and I fell out a couple years later.

If I had started taking real art courses then, where would I have ended up? Still at MICA? (I think so.) I think that was the first time that I was offered a chance to decide my life's direction. When I was a dumbhead and said no, I was gently guided in that direction later by something that appealed more to my silly teenaged self (a character in a book who happened to be an artist). So, I got into art again, and here I am, graduating from art school. Coming to MICA was a wonderful thing, even if it was only to put me in the company of wonderful friends and a wonderful man. (I don't think that's the case, but I think you get my meaning.) Everything happens for a reason.

So, with that, John's here and is going to read to me. :) What a great guy. <3

Love,
-A.

Here comes the bridesmaid...

I received my bridesmaid dress yesterday, and I must say it was both better and worse than I imagined. This is it:

Granted, the color is digitally overlaid, but it's not too far off. The lime in my dress is only a few shades cooler than the digital approximation. However, the dress fits PERFECTLY, and I'm grateful for that (no need to spend any more on this dress than absolutely necessary). The cut is actually really flattering, and it's far less shiny than the picture indicates. Whew.

Just...the COLOR. I look like lettuce. And not even spring mix. Iceberg.

I decided I can shorten it someday and be Tinkerbell for Halloween. Or I could, you know, sell it. :P

Last night was a welcome bit of fun--John, Colin, Katie, Robin and I went to Turps (a local sports bar) for their half-price burger night, then to Rita's, then Katie and I kicked the boys out to watch Glee. :P ACTUALLY, they were just too lame to stay (although John watched it with me Tuesday night, so he's forgiven). I love having a group I can call home base, even if we only found each other in the last year of MICA. After all, I found my best friends from high school the summer after we graduated!

Not to wax too nostalgic (especially since we haven't even graduated yet!), but I'm really hopeful that we'll all stay close as we head out in our separate directions. Thankfully we all have Luke and Jessica's wedding next year, and eventually my own and maaaybe Colin and Katie's? ;)

I believe we can do it. :)

Early morning means a long day--hanging my senior show (which isn't the same as the commencement show) and watching more presentations, and just being thankful that today isn't last week. There's still a long way to go, but I'm learning how to take it better, slower.

Thank God I have so many blessings in the shape of John and my friends and family!

-A.

...

These past 36 hours have been beyond awful. My anxiety has been eating me up over money and schoolwork and the time I have to do it in. I'm feeling a bit better after talking to John and Allan (my seminar teacher), but I'm still dealing with some bad crap. I honestly had an emotional breakdown yesterday--or as close to one as I've ever had before.

I accidentally missed a 6-9AM shift this morning, and I'm nervous about what that will mean for my job (although it's unlikely I'll be fired with only three weeks left in the semester), and due to my financial situation I CANNOT not have a job. I called my boss right away, of course, and I probably sounded hysterical (although I didn't cry, shockingly), but he was heading into a meeting and told me he would just send me an e-mail so we could follow up. Hopefully he is the kind of man who is afraid of tears and won't have the heart to fire me if I break down in his office. :P All kidding aside, however, it is serious, and I wish I could stop feeling like such a mess.

Allan, thankfully, excused me from Seminar today, and I got to have a relaxing shower. After John and I grab lunch, I'm spending the day on thesis, which has been sadly neglected due to my panic over getting stuff for my Portfolio presentation done. Allen also pushed that back to the 22nd for me. Whew.

I'm not bursting into hysterical tears at every thought of this misfortune now, thank God. Allan (who is also a Christian), gave me the always-great advice of surrender to God. I admit, I have been trying. I'm just not sure what surrender is supposed to feel like, I guess. I know God has taken amazing care of me, at least as far as my own eating habits are concerned, but I really just want this anxiety taken away so I can focus on what I have to do rather than on being a wreck for two hours.

I hope you're all having a better week than me. Wish me luck!

Love,

-A.

Easter.

I hope you're all (Christian and non-Christian alike) are having a good [Holy] week. :)

Easter as Christians know it is very different from how Easter began. We borrowed the word 'Easter' in the same way as we borrowed our Christmas date and traditions--from the pagans.

The bunnies-and-candy holiday we know now is actually a bit closer to the original celebrations of 'Ostara' or 'Eostre'--fertility festivals about the birth of spring and verdant things centered around a Germanic Goddess and most recently, the Neopagan/Wiccan community.

Easter, as celebrated by Christians, is about Jesus' Resurrection after the Crucifixion. Rebirth, forgiveness, etc. Good Friday is typically solemn--Jesus traditionally hung on the cross from noon until three in the afternoon. Up until this year actually, I spent these hours alone, just being quiet or reflecting. This year, I was eating crepes in the sunshine. Oooops...

But it's not as though I forgot--the Crucifixion is essential to the Christian faith.

HOWEVER.

It is very, VERY important to remember that the Crucifixion is not the most important part. The Resurrection is. The death is worthless without the rebirth. Christ did not die in vain because God lifted Him back up into Heaven, and us with Him! That's why Easter is so important. It's a celebration of our own eventual entry into Heaven. Isn't that AWESOME?!

I know! So go celebrate and thank God for your life!

John's mom and brother are in town to see Midsummer tomorrow night--we're going out to his aunt and uncle's in Annapolis tomorrow for a barbecue, and on Sunday for Easter mass and brunch! :D Hope you all have a wonderful day!

-A.

P.S. Thesis is coming along SLOOOOWLY. It would be going much faster if I wasn't worrying about:

a) My seminar presentation, complete with business cards and postcards, portfolio site and hard portfolio to pass around. BLECH.

b) My other assignments--a 5-8 page paper, weekly assignments for my worthless 'Professional Practice for the Visual Artist' course, and Life Style illustration assignments.

Wish me luck and (more importantly) motivation!

:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

JOHN'S COMING HOME TODAY! YAY! :D

(Dear Lord, please let his and Tiffany's trip be safe and enjoyable!)

-A.

ETA: Okay, NOT Tiffany's, as she's still in England. :)

Made a surprise for John this morning. Trying to decide if I should pause in the midst of production, as it were to wait for him, should he want to be here to finish it...

MYSTERYYYY.

Love!

A.

>:(

I hate feeling scared. More than scared. Sad and terrified.

I don't even know where it came from! It's incredibly frustrating and distracting, and I guess I need to try a bunch of things to shake it off. I wish John were here.

Maybe I'm just PMSy and emotional. This is just a lot worse than the usual. :/ I'm going to get dressed and take a walk, then get to drawing. At least the weather is nicer.

Maybe I just hate being alone in the house. Okay, dressing, walking, and drawing. And watching something good. Urg. Hopefully Lauren will call--I texted and asked her to when she wakes up. She told me last night that she has a fever of 102. :( She'd better be seeing the doctor today.

Thank God I get to talk to John tonight.

Love,

A.

The Sads. :(

Look here for a pick-me-up. And HERE especially.

Race Relations in the Religious (and Mostly Political) Community

This past Sunday, John, Emily, and I got up early and went to a panel of church members talking about the issues of race relations that were raised in church last week (I covered them here). The panel consisted of:

A 60 year-old black man.

A white girl in her late 20s/early 30s.

A Korean-American boy in his 20s.

A black man, born and raised in Ghana, in his 30s.

A biracial woman (very light-skinned), married to the Ghanian, in her late 20s/early 30s.

A biracial woman (medium-skinned) of about 60.

I thought this was a really interesting group, and I was surprised by some things I heard, and very unsurprised by others.

The panel went in the order I put above--the 60 year-old man described his youth before the civil rights movement, described being envious of a biracial friend who could pass as white and swim in the white pool. He took plenty of pot-shots at the 'evangelical right', implying a racist attitude towards Obama by indicating that only a racist would vote for a Palin ticket. Later, he admitted that the fact that Obama, being biracial, had taken a black wife meant a lot to the black community--he admitted that if Michelle Obama were white, he would be treated differently by blacks.

The white girl had nothing that important to add (unsurprisingly), but she managed to make herself look pretty dumb by talking about how special other races had it for being called "Latin-American" or "African-American" or "Asian-American", while whites are just, well, "White". SIIIIIGH. She mentioned the 'privilege' of being taught by teachers who wanted to see Dr. King's dream through--I agree with her sentiment, but she misspoke. It's not a privilege. It's the way things are meant to be.

She also indicated that whites should make more of an effort to understand the other races and cultures around them. I appreciate her meaning, but why is it the whites' responsibility alone? Because whites are the only ones that "don't understand"? If we're trying to spread peace and understanding, we should all be learning about each other, regardless of culture. Either way, I'm more inclined to look at people as individuals.

The Korean boy was the one that made the most sense to me in a lot of ways--he actually approached the subject from a Christian perspective, which none of the other panelists did. He acknowledged that we should treat President Obama as a brother-in-Christ, and pray for him no matter our politics. He also made the very important mention of Obama's campaign, run on the concept of faith and being a 'messiah' and 'savior'. "Obama is not our savior," he said seriously. "We know our savior is Jesus." Amen to that.

The biracial woman and her Ghanian husband both talked about reverse-racism--the woman suffers it at the hands of the Baltimore community. Her father is black, but she easily passes for white. She doesn't get the "How you doin'" that indicates the bond of being black when she walks down the street. Her husband echoed this--when he first came to the US, his black classmates criticized him for acting "so white". The only thing that irked me about their testimonies was the woman's hope that one day a black president with a black upbringing will be elected, "a black president who night not speak the way Obama does." What I take from this is that she means "speaks like a black man", maybe she means using ebonics, etc. This really frustrates me. Anyone who speaks that way sounds uneducated. Anyone could (and has) said the same thing about a Southern twang, haven't they, in the cases of Clinton and Bush?

The last panelist, the 60 year-old biracial woman, shocked me (and everyone, I think) with her response. She admitted how scared and uncomfortable she was to do the panel, and how hard it was for her to go up and say that she didn't vote for Obama.

I know, I was stunned, too.

She was moved to tears by this. She didn't talk for long--just indicated her fear and how alienated she felt from her peers, from everyone. :(

After the panel was over, I went over to the woman and assured her that I understood her position (being a conservative at MICA, or in my age group at all is practically a felony)--John backed me up, and she was really gracious and offered us her card. Her name is Carol, and she works at Hopkins in the Art Applied to Medicine program. What a dear. :) And brave. I've already felt the pressure of not voting for Obama at my age--can you imagine the pressure of not voting from your own RACE? Carol told us about a co-worker who'd said, "But he's biracial too--you have something in common!" She nodded fervently when I said (rather incredulously), "IT DOESN'T MATTER!" People, people.

It was a positive experience, and John and I may go back next week (if we're not still in Sewickley) for the youth panel.

In other news, I asked Facebook for some advice about my wisdom tooth extraction (my consultation appointment is on March 29th--so far away! I'm in pain!). I got some interesting responses:

Love you all--hope you had a good weekend!
-A.

Valentine's Day and a few churchy/cultural musings

Last year's Valentine's Day was a huge disappointment (even in Italy). This year made up for all that and more. :D

John and I went to church yesterday morning, then grabbed lunch at Sofi's Crepes with Emily and our neighbor Maggie before John had to go to rehearsal for Midsummer. I did laundry, showered and dressed for dinner before meeting John to go to P.F. Chang's in the Harbor. We caught the Light Rail and made it in time for our 6:30 reservations, which ended up being closer to 7:30 reservations due to delays. BUT, we got a super-awesome cushy VIP booth, so that made up for it. :) We got egg rolls (YES) and I got almond and cashew chicken, which was delicious, and John and I shared a banana spring roll dessert with pineapple-coconut ice cream. YUM! It was a really fun and relaxing dinner, and I just love him! :D

Nora (Robin's squeeze) and Dewey (Nora's elder brother and JEN'S recent romantic interest) also visited this weekend. Nora came to my performance at Coffeehouse of Luurrrve (I sang "I've Never Been In Love Before" from Guys and Dolls) and John, Jewey (as we nicknamed Jen/Dewey), Emily, Colin, Katie, Nora, Robin and I all gathered at our place to play Balderdash (for about three hours!) afterwards! Super fun and super silly. :D We'll just say--geese, swans, kakkerlak (kyaa-kur-lyaaaak), and The Stuff: DO YOU HAVE IT?

As I said, I woke up early yesterday, and John, Emily, Maggie and I went to church. The sermon itself was fine--about Jesus growing to learn and know His Father and His purpose, etc. However, there were two testimonies about 'Unity Month' in the church. The first was from a Korean woman who didn't really experience a racially-diverse church until she and her husband went to Paris for his job. When they came back they found Faith Christian Fellowship (where I attend), and knew that's where they wanted to belong because of it's diversity. Fair enough.

The second woman grew up quite sheltered--lived in Colorado, college in western Massachusetts. She decided to attend medical school in Baltimore, which was obviously a huge change. She started attending FCF and obviously found herself more integrated with non-whites. Okay, cool. BUT, then she used the phrase 'racial reconciliation', and spoke about how she realized we (as in, "we whites") have to repent for what our forefathers did to the slaves. "Our country was built on the backs of slaves and Native Americans," she said. "We need to stop overlooking and sugar-coating that aspect of history." She closed with, "Happy Black History Month!"

I was pretty annoyed by the whole testimony. Another thing--our bulletins explained Unity Day, and this sentence appeared: 'For youth who have grown up in a generation sheltered from the legal racism of our past, was the Obama victory a big deal?"

Firstly, it is important to remember that the US did own and use slaves for a hundred years before the Civil War. It is part of our history, and we teach that history in order to acknowledge that wrong to subsequent generations. I've never felt that the participation of slaves in the founding of our country was overlooked or underrepresented. In fact, I would say that that's an aspect of history we concentrated on. In my (Northern and mostly white) elementary and middle school, we absolutely observed Black History Month. It didn't make a big difference to me then--I was brought up to look at people as equals no matter what. (A side note--I despise the phrase 'African-American'. The first part of this article [vulgar though it may be] describes my thoughts on the subject exactly.)

As I got older, I heard about the movement to pay restitution to black families in our recent history (like, in the last thirty years), and it made me realize that it was a step backwards for anyone (of any race/color) to dwell on the mistreatment of blacks during slave times. Those who perpetrated those offenses (not to mention those who suffered them) are long dead. And not only that--private organizations were BOYCOTTED due to their connections to slavery. I'm talking as recently as 2005. Was the Emancipation Proclamation not enough of an apology? Freedom wasn't enough? I mean, I'm Irish--can I ask for reparations for MY ancestors being mistreated at the turn of the century? Can I boycott the places that denied them jobs until they apologize for their long-dead managers? What about Chinese History Month? Indian History Month? No? But I digress.

I do believe that racism is still alive and well--I'm not an idiot. I'm aware that several groups (racism does not belong to blacks, as it is unfortunately thought to) are being mistreated and prejudiced against in the US. However, I am a firm believer that this is an exception to the rule now.

The recent election is a whole other issue--the fact that it was so important that Obama was black (half-black--he's as black as he is white, people) was pretty sickening to me. WHO CARES IF HE IS BLACK? The important thing is if a politician is ready, competent, and if he or she in the best person for the job. Age, sex, and race/color DO NOT MATTER.

Obama's election could be an indicator that the US has reformed enough, and is 'ready', as a country, for a black president. Or, perhaps, we never had a more competent political option from another race/color in recent memory (Jesse Jackson? Al Sharpton? UGH.). Or perhaps, some people were voting for him because of his race and color. This CNN exit poll shows that the LARGE majority of every minority voted for Obama, including 95% of black men who voted voted for Obama, and 96% of black women. I think that it is just as bad to vote for Obama because he is a person-of-color as it is to vote against him for it. I could have cared less that Obama is half-black--I didn't vote for him because I think he was the absolute wrong choice.

It think it's time to stop singling out any race/color. The color of our skin is simply aesthetic. We are made equal. By paying more attention to one over another, we're moving away from equality and towards racism--however good our intentions may be.

I mentioned the testimony to my sister--her response was telling:

Lauren: Ahh, Black History Month. The most useless month of recognition...Me and my BLACK FRIEND FROM AFRICA were talking about that the other day. (Her emphasis--the friend is 'Jabbie', her neighbor from Sierra Leone. From Wikipedia: "Unlike most African nations, Sierra Leone has no serious ethnic or religious divisions. People often married across tribal and religious boundaries.")

Me: What did he say?

Lauren: He said that whenever they specially recognize black people then it's not equal, because they're trying to promote black people when they should be just like everyone else.

_______

Well, there you go.

Dear Lord.

NO MORE SNOW. PLEASE.

Love,

Alyssa.

(Amen.)

P.S. You know what I need right now. Help!

I meant to post this awhile ago...

A few weeks ago, I was informed that I spoke in my sleep. It was very brief, only a phrase, but the phrase that it was--well, it's pretty perfect:

"Holy Shamolies!"

:D

An Actual Report.

My last entry was more of a rant, so here's a real update of how my time at John's was:

-Hung out with Brian and finally got to Pete and Elda's, a yummy (and POPULAR) pizza place near the beach.

-Hung out with Marie at the West Side Tavern and sang KARAOKE: 'Since U Been Gone' and 'Somebody to Love'. I rocked it out.

-Visited St. Rose, where John went to high school, with Brian, Dave, and another former classmate, Alicia; then we met up with Sharon (who went to St. Rose) and her boyfriend Pat, and grabbed dinner at a diner nearby and went to Sharon's for Pictionary, Finish Lines, and Disney Trivia. Aw, yeah.

The bottom line is, I'm really, really happy. I've never felt this great about being with another person. I just get really scared of things sometimes--tears-and-panicky-scared: jobs, money, "The Real World"--but I feel so much more secure knowing John is going to be there, right with me. Whew. Thank you, God.

In other news, school has started again! I had my first two classes today, one (a portrait class) which I dropped due to expenses (a skull and paper are expensive!), but I replaced it with a Professional Development course that fits in the same slot and fulfills the same studio requirement, but is only 2.5 hours per week. YES. I'm also taking Life Styles with Dan Krall, who is awesome. I took Narrative Illustration with him sophomore year and I can easily isolate that time as the period I grew the most. He was encouraging and helpful, and tough, and I'm looking forward to working my butt off again for him. :P

More soon,

Love,

A.

A Real Job and My Favorite Broadway Show--Could Life Be Better?

Over Christmas break I ran into an old friend of my parents' who I used to babysit for. We chatted and caught up over bagels with his two adorable boys and when he heard about my hopes to get into publishing/art direction/illustration, he did me a whopper of a favor and got me in touch with an old friend of his who is an editor at Lemondrop--we've been e-mailing, and I just sent off my first sketches with hopes of being hired for a new long-term project there.

It's a cute little project that is sort of perfect for me--wordplay, humor, and a casual, playful style. Let's hope I'm what they want! I have to say, the logo I designed for the project ('Chicktionary') is pretty damn adorable. Check out my art blog for more.

I'm in New Jersey, at John's now. I spent Wednesday night and Thursday day lounging around in Betsy's apartment (where I maaaaay be living after our summer stint in Mercersburg. *hopesprayswishes*)--John read us Harry Potter and we all fell asleep in her living room around 3 AM.

John and I got into the city around 4 and grabbed some Starbucks (Hot Chocolate for him, Caramel Apple Spice for me--the drink we ordered at our first post-Europe meeting) before finally getting in touch with Matt Hydzik (Tony in the production and Robert's ex-student) walking the thirty or so blocks to the Alice in Wonderland statue in Central Park. We made our way back along 5th Avenue, peering in at the displays and pretty clothes and jewelry. We saw Rockefeller Center--the tree was still up!

We grabbed some quick and yummy dinner at the exorbitantly expensive TGI Friday's next to The Palace Theatre (although, I guess it is Times Square) and got into the show and our seats at the perfect time.

The show itself was magical. Matt did a spectacular job (lovely voice and so handsome!), but his leading lady, Josefina Scaglione was, unfortunately, less impressive. I fell in love with Riff, played by John Arthur Greene (although Russ Tamblyn holds a special place in my heart!) and Anita (Karen Olivo) had a massive voice and presence. The dancing was captivating and thrilling, and--of course--I cried at the end. This revival was rewritten to include Spanish--most of the dialogue between the Sharks and some verses of their songs were sung and spoken entirely in Spanish. This was totally realistic, but I'm biased towards understanding the dialogue. :P

It was an amazing night, and the cherry on top was getting the chance to meet Matt and tour backstage (we were on "The List"). He was genuinely good-natured, sweet, and enthusiastic and seemed really pleased to meet us. Not at all like I was an annoying teeny-boppery fan. :D He even offered us reduced price tickets should we desire them, as he's obviously in contact with a lot of actors in a lot of shows. I told him to look Robert up when he goes back to Sewickley--I'd love to hang out with him again.

Anyway, I need to get to bed! We're getting up early and heading to Brick to move some stuff out of their beach house. Hope you're all having a great week!

Love,

-A.

P.S. Thank you, God. You are too good.

Christmas Update!

For Christmas Eve, it is the usual tradition that we go to my Mimi and Pappy's and see my mom's side of the family. It is equally traditional that my mom hates it. This year was a bit better because we didn't stay for dinner, and my aunts and uncles were interested to hear about John, so I had something more enjoyable to talk about than what I'm going to do after graduation. We didn't stay for a proper dinner after all, but left early and hung out at home before attending a 9pm candlelight service and the Presbyterian church where Robert now works.

Christmas was fairly small as far as gifts (although my laptop was a combination birthday/Christmas gift)--money, gift cards, earphones from KJ, a monogrammed shot glass from Lauren (:P), a massive book on American artists from my aunt, a funny little Christmas-themed cutting board from my Nana, and a set of pens from Mom and Robert so I can write their wedding invitations! My stocking also contained these stunning little gold post earrings with sapphires and diamonds in them. So small and delicate, but one of the favorite things I received. Not too shabby. Plus, I know John has something big and spectacular coming (he's only been bragging about it since Fall Break--SERIOUSLY). So, I'm feeling fairly lame about my just-under-medium-sized gift in comparison, but I think (hope) he'll like it. :)

Christmas Day itself is spent at my Dad's in the morning, then at his youngest sister's (it was the first Christmas without middle sister Suzanne), and Lauren, KJ, and I get to catch up with our cousins and eat some delicious brunch. Yum, yum.

We spent Christmas night at home with a yummy turkey dinner by Mom and some family bonding.

Overall a rather uneventful Christmas, but not an unpleasant one. This weekend was nice because I got to sing two fantastic songs for trio with Robert and Mom, then catch up with Abby C, Joey V. and Brandon, and I got to take care of 65% of my TJ Maxx gift card and get some DELIGHTFUL dark-wash jeans that fit me like a dream (yaaay!) and a couple new undergarments (also yay, as I am hard to fit!). Not a bad way to spend the day. However, I've managed to not eat at all today, so I'm going to rectify that situation!

Also, John gets in again tomorrow night! Woo!

Hope you're all having a wonderful holiday! :D

Hark, how the bells, sweet silver bells, all seem to say 'Throw cares away'...

I'm home and settled in for the most part--John was here from Thursday to Monday and met my Dad, his wife Lisa and her daughter Sam, Robert, KJ, Em, Drea, Joey V., Bess, Abby C. and her boyfriend Greg, not to mention RE-meeting my SACI roommates Emily, Christine and Ulyssa.

We got in around 4:15 and unpacked and relaxed with KJ and Mom and Robert until about 5:30 when we drove up to my Dad's for his 49th (!) birthday dinner! Dad and Lisa really liked John, which was nice ("What's not to like?" -My mom).

After that, we met up with Drea and Eat 'N' Park (which looks all Panera-fied and not greasy/seedy AT ALL anymore, which is upsetting), and soon accumulated a few more people: Joey, Em, and Bess. When Drea, Em, and Bess has to leave, Joey gave John a very involved quiz to prove his worth. :P It was pretty great, ranging from "What is Alyssa's favorite color?" to "Do you like 'Jersey Shore'?" (PLUS A GA-GRILLION POINTS) It was fun. :D

John met Ab and Greg on Sunday night--it was a casual visit, and John was pretty quiet for the whole thing, but it was so good to catch up with Abby and see Greg again!

Monday night was great--John and I went to the South Side and met up with Emily, Christine and Uly at S Bar. We caught up and talked and it was SO good to see them (I haven't seen them since APRIL! WHAT? Almost eight months?!). They're all doing well and are all happy. It was really good to reconnect.

John left on Monday around 1, and I'm already ready for him to come back! He and Lauren didn't get to meet because Lauren was in Ohio this weekend visiting friends. But they'll both be here on the 29th to meet! Pretty exciting!

We also got our Christmas tree, but our (working) lights only cover about 2/3 of the tree. Class. :P

Cheese-tastic aside (Lauren, skip to the end :P): Since being with John, I've really begun to understand what Godly love is. I always knew God loved me, but I had no idea what that love felt like to palpably give and receive until I got into a relationship with John. He's really made me realize what it means to commit and to take chances but also feel entirely sure and confident in myself and in my relationship. He proves to me (even more) how completely God takes care of His people. I'm so thankful, and so happy. I love him! Yay!

Hope you all have an amazing and merry Christmas!

Love,

-A.

Joyeux Anniversaire á moi!

You heard right--I am now 21!

Which, to those of you who have known me for any length of time, means that almost nothing will change, except that I can now go to bars with my friends without having to flash the bouncer/bartender. (JOKES.)

My weekend was excellent--the play was a success, and John and I got an amazing dinner at my godparents' house last night, as well as a new laptop from my mom (which I need to configure with my home internet somehow).

This morning was also very pleasant--I was my Problem of Evil class today with my slightly scary ex-CIA agent professor, and during our break, he did the little finger crook and beckoned me over, stony-faced. I about crapped my pants.

So, I walked over, and he looked at me levelly. "You've done it again."

Pause.

"You did very well on your test. You like this stuff, don't you? You're interested in it?"

I was so relieved, and totally pleased! We chatted a bit more about the distinct lack of God-talk that takes place at MICA before class started up again. When I got my test back, I saw that I did fine, but I certainly wasn't the highest grade in the class--I wondered why he'd chosen to take me aside. Maybe it was because my essay spoke so clearly to faith--my professor is a practicing Catholic. Either way, it was a very nice birthday gift. :)

My plan for the day--I have work until 3 (Robin did the packages at the desk for me as a gift!), then I'm going to shower and get ready for dinner with John, who is taking me out at 6 (but I get to open my gift before dinner! :D). We're going to get home before 9 in order to greet my friends, who are coming for the little get-together Jen planned for me! Yay!

I'll also be wearing the new dress that Lacie sent me. I've been in contact with her again, and was pleasantly surprised to find a package from her a few days ago. It's a gorgeous dress:

And I look fantastic in it. It's always great to be given the perfect birthday outfit.

I'm really looking forward to tonight! I'll update ASAP!

Love,

-A.

ETA: I can't believe I forgot to mention this--Lauren was awesome and called me exactly at midnight to wish me happy birthday. :D It was a very, very pleasant surprise and a very welcome talk. My sister is, once again, incredibly prying and inappropriate, but she really makes me laugh, and I love when she calls. :) I'm bummed I'll be missing her at Thanksgiving, but her birthday is coming up!

Fall break. RULES.

This weekend is my fall break (no classes tomorrow or Tuesday, woo!), and neither John nor I have classes on Friday either, so we've basically spent three days solid together, and it's been great. We've been hanging out, drinking tea, and watching movies and shows (Snow White! Glee!), which has been wonderful. We also hung out with Betsy, who came to visit from Rutgers (good visit, and she'll be back for Halloween!), saw Where the Wild Things Are (cool movie--SO INDIE) for one of John's friend's birthday's (Cara L., who is hastily and aggressively attaching herself to me at "best friend" status. She's nice but...I really only tolerate her for John's sake).

John and I had a double-date with a newlywed couple from our new church, Becky and Mark. It was SO WONDERFUL, and it basically confirmed everything I'm feeling about my relationship with John, which was a relief and a wonder.

Then we had a Target run today, and grabbed dinner--the drive home was a little scary: John was feeling sick and lost feeling in his hands, so we pulled over and stood out in the chill air, waiting for him to feel well enough to drive again. But he's fine now (thank God). He's sitting up with me at my grave shift now, the dear.

Bought some new shoes this week--practical black slip-ons (Keds mixed with vans--for $5!), real Keds in navy blue, and a pair of adorable black quilted/cap-toed flats with ankle strap (Alice would approve). I also bought two pairs of thigh-high socks (one grey with a cream top, one black with a grey top). We'll see if I can pull them off.

I think my Egypt midterm this past Wednesday went okay--better than I thought it would.

My thesis midterm critique went exceptionally well--I got some good feedback, and a lot of much-needed encouragement from my professors. It was really uplifting, and I felt like a proper artist. Speaking of which, I've also been hired by a recent grad to design some Baltimore-sports-themed tee shirts for him to sell. We'll see how that goes over, as he has no real clue what he's doing--but he did say he doesn't want to "stifle my creativity"--I had to laugh.

I intend to put my Alice costume together this week--tomorrow feels like a good thrifting day. Wish me luck!

In other news, John is perfect. Oh, wait. NOT NEWS AT ALL.

Love you all,

-A.

P.S. Pumpkin Patch Photos!