I am not concerned with fashion, heads turn.

Yes we did!

2009-01-20T12:25:00.000-05:00

So happy :)

Kicking the winter blahs

2009-01-14T09:51:00.008-05:00

I usually hibernate in the winter. Leaving the house ONLY when it is absolutely necessary. This results in low energy and motivation, but I have maintained this strategy because....well, the bottom line is I spend less time out in the cold. This year I have employed a new strategy. One that will help me keep the high energy I have the rest of the year. That's right, I've decided that 2009 is the year I kick the winter blahs.

Strategy #1: Start a running program - outside in the cold. Ah!!! I have to give myself a pep talk every time it is time to go running. Part of my brain screams, "Do you realize how cold it is out there? Can you stop and think about how crazy this is?" while the other half is speaking logically, "It's less than an hour and you'll be right back inside. Plus you'll feel great after it is all over!" My guess is this battle will continue until I am no longer allergic to the cold of winter. But I tell you, it is a great exercise in determination. After I get started, the one part of my brain stops screaming and it is logic that gets me through the workout. Over the weeks I have paid less attention to the negative thoughts and the running program is working well. My program is interval training that increases intensity over the course of 8 weeks. Running outside really isn't that bad and I think it is helping desensitize me to the cold. I've wanted for 2 years now, to train for a half marathon. I just haven't been disciplined enough to stick to a rigorous training program. I think this winter program, while training my body, is helping me develop the mental toughness I'll need to train for a half marathon this spring. Yay!

Strategy #2: Yoga Class and Kung Fu. While yoga is a class I take year-round, Kung Fu is something new for me. I'll admit I have only been to one class. First it was the craziness of the holidays and now it has been a couple social engagements. The one class was challenging and fun so I can see myself getting into it, I just need to hit a rhythm and start going consistently. Effectiveness TBD....

Strategy #3: African drum and dance classes. A little online search yielded a studio right by my job. I'm not good at choreographed dancing, but hey I'm having fun and who knows I may look like I have a left and right foot by spring!

Strategy #4: Find a new job. I have been at my job for 3 years now. I'm bored. I have gotten all the promotions I wanted and know the company inside out. It is time to move on to something challenging and stimulating. I have been on a couple of interviews and landed a part-time gig. Now I am just applying to full-time places that look like I'd be challenged. I know if I stay diligent, I will find something amazing.

So there we have it. I am intentionally trying new things to keep myself out of winter hibernation. I feel much better than usual this time of year. So I think it is working!

Streeeeeeeeeeeeetch!!!

2009-01-05T23:14:00.002-05:00

My, my, my! It has be a loooong time since I have blogged. Today I felt like writing, so here I am. I'm so happy to welcome in a new year. I don't waste time making resolutions for they are usually broken before spring gets here. I instead make commitments. Commitments to myself. What can I do this year to lead a happier, healthier life? This year I have made four commitments to myself. The first days of the new year are always exciting as I plan out exactly the steps I need to take to keep my commitments.

My life looks much different than it did the last time I wrote a blog entry. I'm not going to take the time now to describe that transformation. Today was a GREAT day and for some reason blogging came to mind. Perhaps I'm back for 2009?

Birthdays & Packing

2007-05-16T12:16:00.000-04:00

It is amazing how fast a month can go by when you need to move in a hurry and continue to live your life. 2 weeks down and 2 to go. I freaked out at first but I'm fine now that my cognition has taken over my emotions. I have a new living situation worked out for the end of June. It will be in the same area of the city with a good friend of mine and her current roommate (a girl she's lived with for 5 years). This is all a blessing in disguise. I've had major problems with one of my current roommates. Without divulging details, let's just say she has been completely inconsiderate and even disrespectful at times. The last few months have been like living with Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. It was getting to a point where I was considering moving and the situation worked itself out. I am so blessed! So basically I just need a place to live for one month before moving in with the new roomies. I have plenty of offers. I'm leaning towards moving my things home. I have 2 major trips planned for June so I'm only going to be around 2 weeks or so. It doesn't make much sense for me to pay for a room I won't be using much. We'll see, I haven't made up my mind yet. Thanks for all the comments and e-mails of concern.

Well May is a busy birthday celebration month. Every time I turn around there is another invite. . .

There were a couple more I didn't have my camera for and another this weekend. There must have been a storm a few years ago nine months prior! Whew!

I'll share with you pics from this year's Kinetic Sculpture Race in Baltimore. As soon as I get them uploaded that is... All in all, I'm fine and life is still very good!!! :)

I'm homeless

2007-05-01T12:32:00.000-04:00

So, our landlord has decided to sell our house. We have to be out by the end of May. All I can say is a four letter word beginning with F.

Life is Good!

2007-04-25T00:43:00.000-04:00

I should be in bed right now because I need to be at work super early tomorrow. However, I am so excited about life right now that I wouldn't be able to sleep anyway. So why try?

Why am I so excited? Let me count the ways....

My brother is dating a girl I love. He's happy which makes me even happier.

I have awesome friends.

Spring is here!

The last couple of weeks have brought with them fun trips. Like the National Aquarium in Baltimore
and the National Zoo in Washington, D.C.

I have a new job! Great money and I can ride my bike there!! I'm finally leaving the corporate world - hopefully for good.

I'm driving across country with one of my best friends as she relocates to the west coast. We get to go camping together across the U.S. and get a very personal extended good-bye.

Simon continues to fill the four-legged companion void in my life.

My Mom has come out of winter hibernation and we have started weekly dates.

I spoiled myself today with a mini shopping spree.

I'm getting my first tattoo.

I'm living in a city that isn't perfect but that I have carved a life out in and I love. I can take a two minute walk to the water and see amazing sights like this.

I'm attending an outdoor leadership course with Outward Bound in the fall where I will be certified to start trip leading. It is a huge step towards reaching my goal of entering a new career as an outdoor educator. Yay!

After visiting Washington, D.C. and seeing the flags at half-mass firsthand, I helped my company raise thousands of dollars for the VT tragedy memorial fund last week. It left me with the feeling that I had made a contribution to the healing of the students, faculty and families involved.

I'm sure there is so much more if I sat and gave it more thought. But I do need to get to bed. It is just so awesome how so many things are coming together! Yay!!

What is something great going on in your life?

Body Modification

2007-04-10T11:08:00.000-04:00

Orginially posted on 100 Things, Friday, December 02, 2005:

If you think about it, nearly everyone has modified their body in some way. Perhaps it is something permanent like a tattoo or something temporary like makeup or hair color. It can be something simple like an ear piercing or something major requiring surgery. I believe each modification, whether major or subtle, says something about the person.

For me it is piercing. I have three piercings in each ear, with an additional cartilage piercing in one. I also have my belly button pierced. To the relief of my family, I have no plans to get anything else pierced. I am content expressing myself through the piercings I have.

In what ways have you modified your body? Does it serve as a form of expression? What does it say about you? If you haven't made any body modifications, are you considering any? What does it say about you?

New Addition: Ink

I never thought I'd get a tattoo. I have nothing against them, don't think they look trashy, don't find them a violation of "God's temple", and don't find the fact that a tattoo is relatively permanent intimidating. Afterall, life is short and having something permanently on my skin is not on my list of things to be preoccupied with. Besides, tattoos are no longer permanent with modern laser treatments. I just never thought of anything I'd want inked on my skin. That is until I was watching an episode of Miami Ink with my roommate one evening. (This is why I don't watch TV, I don't need anymore great ideas...) Watching the show made me see how tattoos can be an incredibly powerful form of self expression. It can go far beyond the pretty butterfly so many people have tattooed without giving it much thought. Tattoos can honor a loved one, symbolize a turning point in one's life, have religious or cultural significance - the list goes on.... Watching Miami Ink showed me that a well thought out and executed tattoo is in fact, a work of art. At the very instant I came to this realization, this image popped into my mind:

I'm getting my first tattoo. I want a single zebra running with the woman in the zebra suit riding it.

I am going to see a well-known tattoo artist in the area for a consultation in the upcoming week.

Any guesses as to the meaning of the tattoo I want???

Ever have one of those days?

2007-03-28T11:56:00.000-04:00

First your alarm didn't go off and the day just progresses from there. We've all had one of those days.

Well, I didn't awake yesterday to my alarm. It wasn't because it didn't go off - it was because I didn't set it. It was my day off and I awoke completely rested to a sun filled room. It was 9:30am and for once, the weatherman was right. In Baltimore, temperatures reached 85 degrees. The day was filled with sun complimented by a light breeze. Perfect.

On a day like yesterday, Trek and I would spend the day hiking, swimming, or playing at the park. I'll never be able to share a day like that with Trek ever again. I don't say that because I feel sorry for myself, it is what it is - a dull sadness and a sharp dose of reality. But God sent someone that has helped me get over hurt and void in my life before. One evening while spending time with this friend, I was talking about Trek and how much I missed him. He said I could take Simon (his dog) to my house whenever I wanted. I paused for a moment. Many thoughts ran through my head: Sure Simon is a dog, but he isn't MY dog. Does he really think borrowing his for a day is going to help a void left by a four year companion? What if I do borrow his dog, will it bring back old hurt? On the other hand, perhaps I could benefit from spending time with another dog.... I thanked him for the offer and told him I'd think about it. Well, weeks later, I took him up on it. Yesterday was that day. I picked up Simon late morning, put together a day pack, and we were on our way. I decided to forgo a serious hike on our first day together and went with an all-day city excursion instead. We walked about two miles to a park near my house. After walking the perimeter, we cut through to sit by the pond and soak up the sun.

After getting our fill of the park, we headed back home for lunch. I made a few phone calls while Simon rested. After about an hour, we headed back out, this time to a park right across the street from my house. I played frisbee with my roommates while Simon played with the fifteen other dogs at the park. On our walk home, I called my friend and left a message that I could bring Simon back whenever he'd be home. A few minutes later, my friend called to say in addition to Simon, bring a six pack of beer for he was making dinner for two. Now, that's a great day!

It seems to nearly everyone else in my life, getting a new dog was the solution to getting over Trek. Fact is, I needed to grieve like any other loss. I did that. Unfortunately, my current lifestyle isn't conducive to raising a puppy or adopting a new rescue. But my lifestyle is perfect for borrowing a friend's dog on my days off to do all the things I used to do when I had a dog of my own. I thought of Trek fondly all day yesterday. I thought of how he would have reacted in certain situations and it made me happy. I thanked my friend for coming up with the idea and trusting me enough to take his dog all day. Even so, I don't think my friend will ever realize how much having Simon around meant to me.

It meant the world.

2006 Reflection

2007-03-13T14:15:00.000-04:00

In my last post I asked the question: What does the start of a new year mean to you?

The answers I received were as diverse as the individuals who read this blog. Thank you for your responses. I've also asked myself the same question. To me, the start of the new year is a time for reflection and . . . Well, I have yet to figure out the next part if indeed there is one. I can tell you with certainty that the start of the new year is a time for reflection, that I am sure of. How often are we too busy to reflect on our own lives: our motives, actions, feelings, joys, and pains? Too often. I've been silent the last few months reflecting. Just reading over my New Years post from last year is evidence of how much I have grown in the last year. 2006 was an amazing year. Here are the highlights:

January was spent recovering from the holiday madness. By February, I was ready to get out and meet new people. I took my first (and only) stab at internet dating. Although it wasn't a match made in heaven, I ended up making a really good friend. He introduced me to Rainbow and as a result, I drove across the U.S. in June to attend my first Rainbow Gathering. It is a week I will spend among "family" for the rest of my life. A week that reminds me of the things that I sometimes forget in my day to day: the awesome beauty of nature, the importance of community, and the strength of the human spirit.

March was spent searching for a creative community. Unfortunately, I never found the group I was searching for. I did, however, explore parts of this city I hadn't before and in the process rediscovered my love for live music. I spent the remainder of the year attending as many live music events that time and money would allow.

In April, I reconnected with an old high school friend. We have since had a great time getting to know each other all over again. Good, lifelong friends are hard to find. I can say with certainty this is one I won't lose touch with again.

May began a great outdoor recreation season. I went kayaking and backpacking several times.

I finally completed my gear collection with a Mountain Hardwear tent. Being the huge gear nerd that I am, this was a very exciting moment.

June brought along Special Olympics Maryland Summer Games. I ran the track staging for the 8th consecutive year. I was once again fortunate enough to spend a weekend with the athletes, families, and coaches who inspire me every year.

Also in June, I cut my hair. I’ve wanted to try a short hair cut for years. My ex-boyfriend hated the idea. Not wanting to hear his mouth, I never cut it. Then, one day this summer, I decided to forgo the normal trim and cut my hair. It was liberating and I absolutely love it! What do you think?

When I got home and looked in the mirror at my new hair cut for the first time, I knew I had finally let go. Let go of a broken heart, hurt feelings, and a plaguing emptiness. I knew at that moment, I had completely healed from the relationship with my ex-boyfriend. Although I did some dating, I still had an emotional tie with my ex that wasn't allowing me to move on. It took much of the year to finally let go. But I finally did it!! In fact, new year's eve was spent throwing away old letters and gifts. I kept only the pictures. He played a significant and important role in my past. Now I can say with absolute certainty that he has no place in my future. It feels amazing to have that heaviness lifted from my head and heart. In fact, so much so, I let someone get close without reservation. For the first time, I let someone else into my life and home. It was scary, but I did it! And I'm not looking back.

I was able to spend a lot of quality time with my family this year.

Speaking of family, let's not forget that
I caught this biggest fish on this years' fishing trip!

Pop Quiz: Where has this suburb dwelling, outdoor loving girl always wanted to live? Any guesses on what great news is next? I moved downtown!!!! Yay! Everything finally fell into place at the end of the summer. My rent is super cheap, my house super cute and the location is super ideal. All together super. We live in an area of Baltimore City called Canton.

I absolutely love it. It is one block to the water, two blocks to a park or fitness trail, walking distance to shopping and nightlife, and only steps away to the dog park . . . .
. . . . Which brings me to one of the hardest decisions of my life: I surrendered Trek. Underlying health issues caused severe aggression and dramatic behavior changes - it was scary and unpredictable. He never showed any aggression toward me or my family, but my friends and strangers became a threat to him. We had several close calls and at 90+ lbs, I was afraid that he would harm someone. I did all I could do to try to resolve his behavior issues; I consulted vets and two animal behaviorists. At his final evaluation, the behaviorist said it was only a matter of time before he bit someone and if it were her dog, she would have him put down. It was a devastating blow and a dose of reality that took me weeks to swallow. The last straw was when he tried to attack a friend he had previously met and loved only weeks before. I could no longer keep him in good conscience. After taking him to the ASPCA, I cried for days. Often, I still tear up when I talk about him. Anyone who knows me knows how much I loved Trek and what a difficult decision it was. But I had to do the right thing. The rescue director said to me, "sometimes the wiring is wrong and there is nothing you did or could have done". She’s right, but the loss of Trek is still very painful. The first few days I came home looking for a dog that would never be there to greet me ever again. My daily routine changed drastically as I no longer had the responsibility of pet ownership. A responsibility I would give anything to have once again for a happy healthy Trek. He was my welcome home committee, my moving breathing dress up doll,

my hiking partner,

my four-legged wrecking crew,

my Olympic swimmer,

my comic relief,

my running and walking partner,

my heart,

but most of all . . . . my friend.

I miss you...

I hate to conclude on such a sad note..... So on a brighter note, although not without challenges, this year was full of joy and new discoveries:

I moved to a large city and discovered little things I never would have had I not made the move. Like the downtown farmers market,

where I discovered there are many different types of honey - not just the one that comes in a little bear at the grocery store.

I've also discovered that the Canton waterside park has a beautiful view at night.

And, that Patterson Park has a pagoda with an awesome spiral staircase

and an awesome view of the city.

I competed in my first mud wrestling tournament,

where my roommate and I kicked ass!

I threw one of my best friends an awesome bachelorette party and participated in her wedding.

I created a tradition of "Monday Night Dinner" with two of my best friends - a time of yummy food and girl talk before tackling the week ahead.

I trained for and raced in my first 5K in years and placed in the top 19%. It motivated me to begin training for longer distances with the goal of completing a half marathon this year.

I had an amazing theme party for my birthday. It was a true "fiesta" all the way down to the piñata attended by my closest friends.

I spent Christmas on the first family vacation in years in beautiful West Palm Beach Florida.

I have come so far, but there is so much further to go. Like I always say, life is about learning. Life is just one lesson after another. Sometimes you have to retake the same lesson over and over again. Then it happens. One day, your perspective and life experience comes together to teach you the lesson you have failed to understand so many times before. 2006 was full of lessons learned through many tears and much laughter. I am learning the power of silence and reflection. I am so thankful for the experiences and relationships that taught me so much this year. Here's to 2007!

Time to answer my own question:

2007-02-05T11:21:00.000-05:00

Blogging is on the agenda. Stay tuned . . .

Happy New Year!!!!

2007-01-02T23:23:00.000-05:00

What does the start of a new year mean to you?

Help?

2006-12-20T12:37:00.000-05:00

I have a dating question for the blog world.....

This has been the topic of debate between my friends and I.....

Do people date anymore?

Is it necessary to ask someone explicitly to be exclusive (to be a bf/gf)?

Is there an understanding that comes from spending a certain amount of time and energy on another person?

What if sex is thrown into the equation? Does sex in of itself mean anything? What if it is coupled with quality time, phone calls, thoughtful gestures, ect.? Is it understood this is a relationship? What is the understanding? Is there one at all?

What is your opinion on dating and relationships? How does it work in this day and age?

Where have I been?! Part One.

2006-11-29T14:42:00.000-05:00

Right now, I am sitting in one of Baltimore’s most well known coffee houses: The Daily Grind. I came here because I needed to write. It has been far too long. My inner voice has been telling me to sit down and write for some time now. Life kept getting in the way. Where have I been? Some would say finding myself. Others, redefining myself. A few may even say I’ve lost my mind. I say I’ve been busy - learning, exploring, and discovering. Learning what really matters. Exploring the world around me. Discovering myself.

It feels good to find myself blogging again. I know so many of my readers have missed my presence in the blog world. Even to this day, I receive e-mails and comments inquiring about me. That amazes me. Out of all the bloggers one can discover, I have somehow touched so many people by sharing myself openly and honestly. People who don’t blog can never understand the connection you can make with others through a computer screen. My regular readers have been an important source of encouragement and support. That is real. Thank you.

So, inquiring minds want to know: What has Brea been up to? Wow. You know me, a lot can happen in just a week. But it has been months since I’ve blogged. I’ll give you the abridged version, but get comfortable, there is a lot to tell....

Last time I blogged, I had just returned from the National Rainbow Gathering in Colorado - without my camera. I worked my little butt off and bought a new one a week later. Still, the photos from my first cross country road trip were gone. Such is life. My trip was amazing. I went with two friends: Randy and Nick. We left Maryland in the middle of the night and drove to Steamboat Springs, Colorado. We took our time, rotated four hour driving shifts, and stopped when we felt like it. It took us 34 hours to get there. It was my first time in Colorado and it was absolutely breathtaking. Picture montains, trees, streams and lakes bathed in sunshine and surrounded by crisp air. We camped for a week at the Rainbow Gathering where we met really cool people from all over the country. Imagine a tent community full of hippies and hipsters. That is how I spent my week. We were completely isolated from what is normal society and surrounded by nature. The whole trip gave me time to reflect on many things. I spent a week away from the stress and pressure of everyday life. I didn't have a cell phone or even a watch. The sun rose and the sun set. Amazing. I felt completely free and totally safe. I experienced the strongest sense of community I have ever felt. I became as close to nature and myself as I have ever been. It was amazing. It was the catalyst to a lot of change in my life. More on that later . . . .

I'm in the middle of tranferring data (most importantly, my pictures) to a new laptop. I figure my narrative is always more interesting with pics. I'll have the transfer complete by Sunday and I'll be back to share what Brea has been up to these many months. Stay tuned. I'm looking forward to getting caught up with all the blogs I used to frequent. It feels good to be back! :)

If it wasn't for bad luck...

2006-07-10T12:40:00.000-04:00

I lost my camera ;( I'll return when I start breathing again. **sigh**

Road Trip!!!

2006-06-29T16:02:00.000-04:00

Taking a road trip with friends from Maryland to the National Rainbow Gathering in Colorado. I'll be back next weekend with lots of pics. Don't miss me too much ;)

Family Fishing Trip

2006-06-22T09:27:00.000-04:00

Guess who caught the biggest fish on our annual family fishing trip?

Reeling in that 24.5 inch fish was pretty impressive. But not as impressive as this:

I love my new camera :) (full size photos available on my flickr account)

Taken by: MY NEW CAMERA!!!

2006-06-19T13:29:00.000-04:00

"Why are you taking another picture of me?"

"I will not smile for the camera, I am a princess, you cannot tell me what to do!"

No caption necessary

Why do I even bother with plans?

2006-06-13T10:11:00.000-04:00

Seriously, nothing ever works out as planned. EVER. Yesterday I had planned to blog in the evening after spending the day with a friend. My body had other ideas and I ended up crawling in bed after a hefty dose of Advil. Ah well...

So much has been happening in the life of me. Let's see...

First things first. I got a new camera!!!! My regular readers know how badly I've wanted a new camera. With all the fun trips I have planned for the summer, I decided I could no longer wait. I picked up a few extra shifts at work and headed to the store with a pocket full of cash. I ended up getting a more advanced model of the camera I wanted for the same price! Can you imagine how happy I was?! I imagine it is like taking a newborn home for the first time. Okay, maybe not that exciting but damn close. 8.1 megapixels and tiny enough to take everywhere!

Isn't she cute?!

Well, everything else pretty much pales in comparison. It doesn't get much better than a new camera. Graduation party, crab feast, birthday bash,work drama, new clothes & sandals, Trek swimming, my first pedicure, Trek & Princess Lulu's first sleepover.... See, it all just pales in comparison. Only two events come close to a newborn baby or a new camera: backpacking and Special Olympics.

My most recent backpacking trip was in the Dolly Sods Wilderness in West Virginia. It was the trip that almost wasn't, as people confirmed and cancelled one after the other. It ended up being a small all female group - very cool. Meet Team 219:

comprised of Heather, Meighan, and myself.

Our team was named after one of the most confusing roads in America. While traveling down 219, you will turn right then left then right then left then right and then left again. Hopefully you get the point - absolutely ridiculous. It got to a point where we thought we'd never get there. Then while traveling behind one of the many trucks during the trip, we saw it:

The sign for Monongahela National Forest!

After entering the forest, we quickly made our way to the trail head. We had very little daylight in which to hike in and set up camp. After only a 20 minute hike, we found a great campsite.

First, we set up the tent. Well, Heather did anyway. Meighan and I just followed directions. It was a confusing ass rental tent. After spending WAY too much money renting it and WAY too much time setting it up, I bought a tent as soon as we got back. This trip helped me rationalize spending another $200 on camping gear. (I needed to buy a tent. Now I have everything. Insert evil laugh here.) Ahem. Moving on...

Next we hung the bear rope, with Meighan nearly knocking herself out in the process. The next task was to collect firewood. We gathered what little dry firewood there was. Despite our best efforts, a camp fire was not happening that night. I started preparing dinner: pizza bagels! After the first bagel was finished it began to rain. By the time dinner was comple, it was pouring. We were hungry and sat cooking and eating in the pouring rain. Classic case of our good luck. It was worth it though; those bagels were damn good. We secured our food for the night and changed out of our now soaked clothes. After crawling into the tent, we realized our "3-man" tent had us in for a very cozy night.

The thunder was rolling over a relentless rain. Fortunately, Meighan and I make quite the dynamic. Our antics had us laughing all night. It was that night we came up with our team motto: "All holes, no poles!" It was my first backpacking trip without any males. It was nice. We were all really proud of what we had accomplished as a team of women. And just as important, we were having fun despite the weather.

We woke up quite early to a chilly overcast sky. Bummer. It looked like the overpaid weather man was wrong again. We decided to stick around camp to see if the weather would improve. After putting on a couple extra layers of clothes, we made blueberry pancakes and a community bottle of super hot, extra chocolatety, hot cocoa. After breakfast, we decided not to move camp and to just do some day hiking. We followed a trail along the water. It was beautiful.

As we hiked, blue skies alternated with dark storm clouds.

It came to a point where there were no more blue skies and the temperature was dropping. We decided a cold night with no way to make a campfire wasn't our idea of fun. We ate lunch hoping the weather would improve. It didn't. It was time to stop pushing our luck, so we packed up camp and headed to the car. Thank goodness we did because it stormed just minutes into our drive.

Although we were bummed our trip was cut short, we had an awesome time.

Our next trip is set for July.

Go team 219!

I don't have much to say about Special Olympics other than it is my most rewarding experience of the year. I help plan the summer games all winter then head track staging for the Summer Games. Unfortunately, my committee position doesn't allow me to see much of the competition. I did manage to get away for a few minutes here and there. It is hard to articulate the experience. So, I'll finish with these images:

Everyone has a chance to make a difference in the life of someone else. Every year, Special Olympics gives me that chance.

Thank you to all the athletes, parents, and coaches who have made such an impact on my life. Eight years and counting!

Coming soon...

2006-06-12T01:06:00.000-04:00

Blogging is on the agenda for today. Lots has happened the last few weeks. Stay tuned...

Answers

2006-06-01T09:56:00.000-04:00

I know I said Monday. Sorry. Do I ever do anything on time? Anyway, here are the answers originally posted November 17, 2005:

1. Necessary. Wearing a tube top without support carries the risk of looking droopy in all the wrong places. Hold on, is there a good place to look droopy? Scratch that. Droopy - period.

2. Unnecessary. Dresses/skirts make me feel feminine and free. Why mess it up with underwear? Length is the key here.

3. Unnecessary. Although I'm not a big fan of sleeping naked, do you really need underwear?

4. Unnecessary. If I'm out having fun and getting dirty with the boys, I want to go bare chested too - it is only fair.

5. Necessary. Again, drooping risk.

6. Necessary. Going without underwear in jeans is just plain uncomfortable. Yes, I've tried it.

7. Unnecessary. In my opinion, layers negate any need to wear a bra. Why? Because I don't have much going on in that department. I wear a sweater or jacket, there isn't anything going on in that department. So why wear a bra?

8. Necessary. The thought of engaging in any strenuous activity without underwear has never crossed my mind. I do, however, have a lot of athletic wear with built-in sports bras or undies. In that case, there is no need to overdo it.

9. Necessary. Casual shorts have too much . . . space. If you sit the wrong way, you risk showing the world your, ummmm.... goodies.

10. I'll give credit for either answer. If I was actually doing the town run, then yes, support is necessary. In this picture, however, I am just hanging out on the beach. I'm wearing layers so this pic is actually an example of unnecessary.

11. Necessary. Short skirts require underwear for the same reason as casual shorts. I have been to too many bars where women did not follow this rule. But from the looks of them, I'm sure the whole world has already seen those goodies anyway. Did I just say that?

12. Unnecessary. Halters are designed to provide their own support system. Besides, with the low cut backs, where are you supposed to hide a bra?

Brea's Underwear Rules:

Necessary:

Jeans

Tight fitting pants

All casual shorts

Mini skirts

Athletic shorts

Any shirt that may reveal "nippleage"

Tube tops

Unnecessary:

Loose fitting pants

Workout clothes with built-in support

Sleepwear

Layered tops

Halters

Flowing dresses or skirts

How is that for TMI? ;)

And the winner is........Marz who has tied with Miz JJ & Anonymous (who is really one of my best friends, I was curious to see how she would do compared to people who have never met me) from the original post. Congratulations!!!

How did you do? Any disagreements with and/or additions to my underwear rules?

Still moving...

2006-05-25T12:32:00.000-04:00

Unnecessary Objects

NO CHEATING - IF YOU PARTICIPATED IN THE ORIGINAL POST! Answers will be posted on Monday

Originally posted November 16 2005 @ 1:05 am

If you have ever had the misfortune to read one of my TMI posts, you already know my opinion on underwear - wear when necessary. Before I give you my rules, let's see how well you do with these snapshots. Post your answers in the comments section. Deem each photo either necessary (N) or unnecessary (U).

1.

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10.

11.

12.

Moving...

2006-05-24T12:15:00.000-04:00

Now that school is out and my summer trips are about to begin, I am taking this time to start moving my posts from 100 Things to here. Enjoy for the first or second time...

Originally posted November 15 2005 @ 1:31 am

Addiction

Hi, my name is Brea and I am a chocoholic. No, seriously, I am. A lot of women will speak of their love of chocolate, but I think I have gone above and beyond that. I have left my house (on more than one occasion) at 3am in search of chocolate. There has not been a day in recent memory where I haven't had at least a Hershey's kiss. Even as I type this, I am chowing down on a bowl of Ben & Jerry's Chocolate Therapy. Sad. I often wonder how many dress sizes I could go down if I could stay away from chocolate. I've thought about trying to see how long I could go without it, but I don't think I could handle the shakes. **sigh**

What is your addiction?

The 21 Original Comments:

Lorna said...
chocolate and crisps (chips)at the moment the latter especially. (they seem to alternate)I've now not eaten any for 2 days, and trying to keep it up. I too would like to fit into some other clothes :)be blessed
Goddess said...
I don't have a food addiction but I have a person addiction. More specifically, a Keanu addiction. I need a little everyday. :)
Storm said...
I am highly addicted to caramel. I try to stay away from the stuff because I can literally eat an entire bowl of it in one sitting.
VerseONe said...
Black women. I don't even try to stay away... Peace.
DCS said...
I wouldn't say I have an addiction to chocolate, but perhaps it comes close. I only eat dark chocolate ice cream and cake when I need to lift my spirits. No candy, and I hate milk chocolate. Call me picky.Goddess is killing me with "all Keanu, all the time." LOLBrea, I'm proud of you, girl! This is great. I can't wait to see what's in store for us, your readers. I love adventure!
Brotha Buck said...
A few weeks ago, I had some Ben and Jerry's vanilla carmel ice cream with chocolate rolos in it. Mmmmmm.
Edz said...
Ice cream, preferably Hagen Dasz Rhum Raisin... My happiness, my heaven... Mmmm, give me ice cream when it's cold, when it's hot and I'll smile.
Miz JJ said...
I have never had a thing for chocolate. Candy yes, but chocolate not so much. My addiction is probably red wine. No, I am not an alcholic, but I like a glass with dinner. Very tasty.
Don Juan de Bubba said...
Food: Slurpees, though I have cut back.Blogging
Michelle said...
The space you've carved out for yourself in blogworld is fun. Good luck on those 43 things.In the words of Arnold, "I'll be back." Til then, keep smiling and enjoying life.
AsianSmiles said...
hey! congrats on the new site! nice job!chocolates? hmmm...... i'm not addicted to food or munchies.. but i'm addicted to cooking and chatting! LOL.WTG girl!
envizable said...
I like this spot... nice job and it looks good. My only addiction is a coke with a smile.
Dee-Dee said...
Hi my name is Dee~Dee and I am a Shoeaholic. Whew, man that felt good to get that off my chest...:)I love to buy shoes for no apparent reason:)Nice over here ma!:)
Jeni Angel said...
Totally addicted to blogging. LOVE IT! I currently have 4 blogs, 2 blogs that once were and are now no more. . .I just love it.
kathi said...
diet pepsi...rather boring huh?
Adorable Girlfriend said...
Starbucks, in a bad way!Good luck with your blog.
josie said...
i am addicted to ice cream. the weight i gain from that lovely tasting sin. but oodly enough, i am being strong and not eating any.
Nipper said...
e-mail. simple as that. or horrific as that.
princessdominique said...
Shoes. Simply shoes, sweetie!
Kaz said...
I think my addiction is candy. I can't go on without it. I would have said sex but it's been so long since I got any that I can't vouch for that anymore.
Rose said...
Shoes and sexy sweaters

It's been a while

2006-05-18T12:10:00.000-04:00

Yeah so, I've been slacking on this Thursday Thirteen thing as well. Life happens.

Thirteen Things that indicate Brea has been working too much:

1. What I thought was allergies, actually turned out to be a minor cold. I used to never get sick, but it now seems to be a regular occurrence.

2. Arrived late for Mother's Day dinner after working 6 days straight and 6 hours that very day. It took me 10 minutes to gather my brain enough to even order a drink. I ordered water.

3. My friend had to come to my job to show me her engagement ring and invite me to be a bridesmaid.

4. My room is a total disaster. I just don't have the energy to tackle it when I get home. While I've never been a neat freak - I'm very anal about my clothes. I always hang and fold them after finishing laundry. In fact, my closet is organized by color and season. Now, last week's laundry is still a pile on my desk.

5. Myspace comments from friends confirm the fact I am always working.

6. When asked what days I work, I respond the days I DON'T work is the shorter list.

7. Trek won't let me out of his sight when I'm home. You try having a 93 lb. lap dog, it's fun.

8. I've worn my work clothes more than any other clothes.

9. When I go out, 90% of the time it is with people from work. I've lost all meaningful contact with non-work friends.

10. I miss blogging and reading blogs. Again, just don't have the time/energy.

11. I spent my one day off this week shopping and cooking. I have a million small projects I need to complete. I just couldn't bring myself to spend my one day off "taking care of business".

12. Yesterday, I looked up the word relax. Does that really happen?

13. I just orchestrated three weekends in a row off for fun, leisure, and tradition: a graduation party, backpacking, and special olympics. Just a week and half more on the hamster wheel.

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!

The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It's easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things.

Well, time to walk the dog and get ready for work. **sigh**

I can't wait!

2006-05-16T15:00:00.000-04:00

It's official, I'm going backpacking the first weekend in June! Yea!!!

I'm back!

2006-05-09T12:24:00.000-04:00

Last week was totally chill. What does such a week look like? Well, I'm glad you asked...

The weather here was gorgeous, so outside I went. While heading into downtown with a friend, we stumbled across what seemed to be a fair of some sort. Naturally, we parked the car and wandered in. It turned out to be a rally for immigrant rights. We stayed for the musical performances, but left during the speeches.

After four different speakers spoke entirely in Spanish, that was about all we could take. Apparently, rallies were occurring all across the country and there were even boycotts. I know immigration in the U.S. is a hot topic. There is no doubt there needs to be sweeping reforms. However, if the point of last weeks' rallies was to send a message to policy makers and the American people, it seems to me that message should be in a language Americans can understand. I kept waiting for someone to speak a word of English and it never happened. I'm just saying....

After the rally, we continued our drive into downtown. We found a bench right on the water and watched the boats. My favorite was the tug boat:

It reminded me of one of my favorite books as a child: Scuffy the Tugboat. After the sun went down, we joined two more of my friends for dinner. We then saw the tailend of an open mic night and finished the night at the Thirsty Dog Pub.

Trek and LuLu were not happy when they found out we went to the Thirsty Dog Pub without them. To make it up to them, we took them for a hike at Fallen Branch. Introducing Brad and LuLu (whom I've nicknamed Princess LuLu):

There were watering holes for Trek to enjoy (Princess LuLu was not interested in getting her paws wet):

A waterfall:

And Trek even got to sport his pack for the first time this season (the princess would not be caught performing such undignified tasks):

Last week there was also a lot of drinking/partying. I guess we all needed to relieve some stress after the events of recent weeks and with finals coming up. Here's a pic from Cinco de Mayo:

Can we say $1 Coronas and $1 Margaritas? I think we can.

Finally, I have continued on my cooking kick.

This is baked Tilapia served with Couscous tossed in garlic and flax seeds and cooked tomatoes with italian seasonings. Yum!

Today is my last final and I'm going out to see Righteous Soul with friends afterward.

This night will mark the first official event of my summer! Woot woot!