Clementine's Blog

1st week alone

2010-05-07T09:38:00.000-06:00

So this week has been rough. I am glad it is Friday! This is my first week with Aidrian with out some form of help and it has not been an easy transition. But I have made it to the finish line (well almost). WHEW! He has been VERY gassy and that has made day time with him extremely tough. Not to mention that he is awake a lot these days and that means he needs more momma time, which means momma doesn't have it in her to much else these days.

However, I must add I have the bestest husband when it comes to having a new baby, as he stays up late at night to take the midnight feeding and lets me get a solid 4-5 hours of sleep. That has been a god send. I am not sure how some of my single mother friends have been able to do this, or my friends who's husbands travel a lot. It is hard being with a baby all day without adult interaction at some point. I can't imagine doing it for days with out some respite.

That said, Aidrian is growing. And although he is still small I can see the changes he is making. We've photo happy here at the house the last couple weeks capturing his cuteness and trying to portray how tiny he really is. Here are some of our snapshots.

Little baby Lindley

2010-04-26T17:35:00.002-06:00

He entered the world quickly and in full force. On Monday, April 12, I came home from work late (trying to complete my time sheet) and went about my typical evening. Dropped Isaiah off at Martial Arts, went to Costco got my prescription filled, and then came home to meet Andy-who had a basketball game that night. We talked for a bit and I made myself some hot cereal for dinner because I wasn't too hungry. After the cereal I cut up some fresh cantaloupe and sat down on the couch to enjoy it whilst watching a little TV. I got all situated on the couch, leaned over to get the bowl of cantaloupe and as I reached for the bowl I felt a popping sound in my abdomen, and felt something like a water balloon in my belly exploded. All of a sudden I realize it was my water...and it broke! I got up off the couch (which was unharmed) and stood up to walk to the bathroom, when WHOOSH my pants looked like I had been holding my urge to pee for a year.

Soon the contractions began and I didn't think much of it. Labor lasts hours right? So I started getting my bag packed (the baby was due May 7th...we had time). Andy took a shower, and we got our things together to head to the hospital. Really Andy got our things together to head to the hospital. Finally 40 minutes later I could barely stand and next thing I knew I was doubled over on the floor puking up the small dinner I had just eaten. And still I figured it was nothing because labor lasts hours right?

We got to the hospital at 9:56 and I was wheeled to the birthing suites in a wheelchair. (I was out of commission walking at this point). They immediately got me a room and started hooking monitors to me, I had no idea how fast my contractions were hitting me at this point, but I knew they were hard and made me feel like I wanted to throw up (again). An hour later (no time for pain killers) they checked me and I was completely effaced and dilated and it was time to push the little baby out into the big bad world. 5 pushes later a darling baby boy came into the world.

That was our first shock as we both thought the baby was going to be a girl. Then we looked at the clock and realized it was 11:20. So my entire process lasted nearly 2 and a half hours. Later we realized he was born at 11:04, which meant the entire thing lasted almost exactly 2 hours. He was ready to be in this big bad world.

The best part was that he was healthy (even though he was 3.5 weeks early) and doing great. Andy and I stayed at the hospital on Monday and Tuesday nights and they sent us home mid morning on Wednesday.

Little Aidrian had a bit of jaundice but they let him go home anyway. life was good with the little guy home and the start of a new schedule being followed. But that was all to be flipped around when we went to the pediatrician on Thursday morning. We found out Aidrian's jaundice had gotten worse and that he had to be re-admitted to the hospital to sit under the bili-lights to get enough UV light to come home. He sat there under the rays (we called it his personal spa day) and we came back to the hospital every 3 hours to feed him. It was tough. We had to let our little baby at 3 days old stay over night in the NICU and we went home and waited until the next morning. He was able to come home (Thank God) and he has been wonderful ever since.

Today marks his 2 week birthday and I can already tell he is getting bigger and growing up. (I think only a parent can say that). We are all doing great and it has been a whirlwind around our house. I really can't believe its has been 2 weeks since our whirling dervish arrived.

I suck at Blogging

2010-04-26T17:09:00.000-06:00

Hello Cyber world! I realized that the last time I posted I was nearly 11 weeks along. And here I sit with a baby in hand and the lack of updates for you all. So stay tuned and you'll see some photos of the little bambino and hopefully with being home I'll be able to update more often.

Week 10.5...

2009-10-15T12:41:00.002-06:00

Going into my 11th week of pregnancy was rough this week. This past weekend we were working on our Bathroom (still) and had some very grueling work to do on our floor (a lot of the tile popped from the mesh and we had to pull it and relay it) I spent hours on the bathroom floor...although not because I was pregnant...putting tiny tiles down one by one. However, by Sunday night we grouted, and the tile part of the bathroom was complete!

BUT...

I woke up Monday morning with a mild headache, and my entire body hurt from head to toe. My back was killing me and I felt like a migraine was coming on. I drank tea, tried to eat, and just tried to go about my day and then that night it hit...the migraine was in full force. By 11pm, I was a different person, I couldn't stand the light, being touched hurt, and I couldn't take pain killers. So I did what I could to relax and try to fall asleep. Andy was a trooper through all of this! Although there wasn't much he could do, he tried to rub my back and help release some of tension, it was a real treat to have him next to my side trying to help.

Publish Post

I woke up Tuesday feeling a bit better, but have had a lingering headache all week. (Yes mom, I have been drinking water) Hopefully it will go away soon. Other than that life is good. We are considering changing doctors and we have one that was highly recommended that I am trying to set up an initial appointment with to make sure she is a good fit for us and our delivery. She is out of town this week, so hopefully next week we'll be able to meet up.

Baby's Heart Round 2

2009-10-06T14:50:00.003-06:00

We heard the baby's heart again this week. SOOOOO very cool.

Also we are remodeling our Bathroom (which means no shower at our house) this week and I am hoping it will be done by next weekend. We installed the floor yesterday, and will do the wall tile tonight. After that its just painting the walls and getting the big stuff reinstalled. I'll post photos soon.

Baby Update

2009-09-25T13:46:00.003-06:00

Andy and I had our first ultrasound appointment today. It was very cool. Got to see the little guy (or gal) just chillin' and having a good time. However, it looks by the size of said baby that we are looking at an additional month of pregnancy. Looks like this little one could have a birthday very close to my dad. The new due date is May 7th. (Dad's is May 6th).

Other than that no real news. I am realizing why I didn't feel morning sickness when I was in the first trimester....I am there now. And although I am not running to the toilet constantly I have found that I often feel queezy and food sounds rotten. I have to force myself to eat, and when I do I usually feel like poop for 30 minutes after. Oh well. I am excited to watch this little one grow and can't wait to welcome it to the world!

More updates later...

The BIGGEST News EVER part II

2009-09-22T12:20:00.002-06:00

Hello cyber world! I have taken a LONG sabbatical from the blog world and am now back at blogging. Hopefully I'll be at it much more consistently than the last 2.5 years...but one thing I know is that I'll be around for the next 9 months any way.

Some of you know...others of you heard through the grapevine, but Andy and I are expecting a new addition to our family. Baby Lindley had its first Dr. appointment yesterday, and we were able to hear it little heart beat. Unfortunately I still do not have a due date, but come Friday we should have all the logistics figured out.

Our family is VERY excited. Isaiah is pretty pumped to have a new addition, but he is learning more biology in our home then he does in 7th grade science class. Each time we talk about the baby Isaiah seems to be pretty engaged. I think he is excited to have someone to show the ways of the world to (and possibly lead astray) but I am excited to see him as a big brother. He will be a wonderful roll model and support for this new baby. Andy & I are slightly overwhelmed. We were in fact 'trying' (please use that term loosely) as I went of birth control at the beginning of July and given the hypothesis of the doctors the baby was conceived nearly 2-3 weeks later. So much for giving my body time to adjust to non birth control life.

Needless to say, this will be fun. We have a lot of 'nesting' to do to get ready for said baby (like finally unpacking our boxes from moving in 1.5 years ago).

I have been feeling pretty good-all things considered. I haven't had morning sickness, nor have I been overwhelmingly tired. But I do need my sleep and my appetite actually resembles that of a 2 year old, not of a pregnant lady.

I will keep you all posted as we find out more information!

Thanks for all the positive notes and feedback!

Biggest NEWS Ever!

2007-03-05T20:54:00.000-07:00

So I suck at keeping this thing updated now. Partially because my life is boring recently and partially because well nope its because I don't have much to write about...until NOW. A couple weeks ago the biggest thing ever happened. I got Engaged. Very cool. I am pretty excited. But for now we have nothing figured out. No date, nothing. But it will happen sometime in 2008.

Here are some pics for your enjoyment!

Busy Bee

2006-10-11T20:35:00.000-06:00

Hey all. So I am slacking at the whole blog thing. Life has gotten the best of me. I am currently working at a child abuse prevention center, and love it. It will be a great opportunity for me to practice my mediation and start to seriously think about doing mediation full time. I am also on a committee for the Festival of Trees and have taken on the task of chairing the basket committee. It should be rewarding once everything is beyond the 'thinking' phase.

Since I last wrote I had my 27th birthday, and that was wonderful. We had a party at my boyfriends house with his family and mine. My mom and dad even came down from Helena. So it was a good time. I have a few pictures (I was made to wear a birthday princess hat). But don't have the connector for my camera so I'll have to wait until I make it back to H-town to get the attachment.

So that is about all going on in my life. I am still in love and am amazed each day at how wonderful life and relationships can be. So that is good too.

I miss you all!

War in Iraq

2006-08-23T14:08:00.000-06:00

Check it out! A documentary starring a friend of mine. He was one of the first military units deployed to Iraq over 3 years ago. He helped to make this documentary about Post Traumatic Stress. Its videos like this that make me wonder if in another 20+ years we'll have a handful of folks who aren't as brave as Mike who deny they need help with the anxiety that war brings, and instead self medicate, or stand of the side of the road with the sign that says "Please help a hungry Iraq Vet". I hope this generation isn't too proud to realize that our young men and women fighting this war need assistance once they get home. They need help to assimilate into our 'normal' way of life. That is how we need to support the troops...remember them when they return. Well I hope you enjoy this as much as I did. http://www.current.tv/video?id=4721300

New Job

2006-08-18T14:28:00.000-06:00

I have started a new job and absolutely love it. I work only 35 hours a week but every hour is fun. So far I have orgnized a few offices (and yes I find that fun) and then hung out with babies. Since the non profit has built in respite care, I am able to hang out with babies when life gets a little too mundane.

I am excited to see what else this job has in store. It should be fun!!

We're going through changes

2006-08-07T19:42:00.000-06:00

Yes folks. That is me and my life. I start a new job with a local non profit on Thursday. I am pretty excited. I get to use my Masters Degree, get to work with children, and get to work with local families teaching non violent dispute resolution. I am so very excited.

I am also enjoying my little time off. It has been nice just hanging out and doing nothing. I have had a chance to hang out with my boyfriends son and enjoy the end of the summer with him. Its been a rocky road, but so rewarding when all is said and done. I never thought I would be in a relationship with someone who had a child, but I couldn't be happier. His son is wonderful.

All and all life is wonderful.

Babies and more babies

2006-07-26T13:44:00.000-06:00

This is just a shout out to my friend Carisa who just had a little baby girl last Sunday morning. I swear this is the 3rd or 4th baby this year...last year it was weddings this year its babies. YIKES!

Can't wait to see her and the new baby!!!

Changes...the story of my life.

2006-07-26T13:36:00.000-06:00

So I am going through a few more life changes. Thus far living in Billings is wonderful. I have enjoyed myself a lot, and love being close to my boyfriend and various family. And because I love spending time with the above mentioned folks I have realized that my current job just takes too much energy and time, and that takes away from the folks I love and want to spend time with. So I have made the choice to pursue something more related to my mediation field. I have a couple leads and am quite excited. I have realized that I love helping people, and I need to use the degree I paid so much to obtain. I am excited. New possibilities, and new challenges lie ahead, but either way I am excited.

I have noticed my life is starting to slow down a bit...I know hard to believe huh? Well hopefully this job change will aid me in that SLOWING down.

Perhaps I'll be able to post on this doo dad a bit more.

Chat at ya soon!!!

Motivation

2006-06-14T17:06:00.000-06:00

Is it possible for a person to have such little faith in themselves that they have to surround themselves with others who try to convince the person otherwise. Its crazy. I have always achieved EVERYTHING I have set my mind to. I reach my goals...and then I set some more. Over my life my goals have changed and therefore there are some goals that have been put on the side, maybe forever, maybe not. But either way I don't understand how others don't and can't believe in themselves the same way.

So on that note, for those of you still around reading my blog, keep striving to reach those goals. That is the true test of time, setting goals and achieving them. It feels great when you do!

News and more

2006-05-12T13:38:00.000-06:00

Well I have moved again. This time it should be pretty permanent. I moved to be closer to my wonderful and amazing boyfriend, and happened to find an amazing job working in politics. I love it! Life is wonderful and really couldn't be much better.

I don't have a true address yet, so I will let you all know more as life progresses.

Baby Nate

2006-03-29T22:02:00.000-07:00

So I spent ALL day today with one of the worlds cutest babies. William Nathaniel. Today was his week birthday, and he's so precious. Enjoy!

Disgusting

2006-03-25T12:57:00.000-07:00

There is a new campaign here in Washington/Seattle and it is gross! It gets the point across and freaks me out. Check it out.

Rude

2006-03-23T14:41:00.000-07:00

Why is it that when a person attempts to be helpful other people shoot them down and are rude. I am amazed daily at this phenomenon. I perceive myself to be a very helpful person and find it absolutely rude to ask questions and then be told "I already told you that." Perhaps I was told that 3 days ago, but today is a new day, new ideas rise to the surface, and new problems arise in this new day. I just find it odd that someone would be rude to another when the other is just attempting to help clear up loose ends. I guess we can't all be cognizant of the fact that ignoring people and then snapping at them is not a POSITIVE form of communication.

Oh well. I don't even know if this makes sense to anyone other than me...oh well.

Slowly but surely

2006-03-22T13:46:00.000-07:00

So as life is ever changing (and for those of you who know me...it always is) I am getting ready for my move back to MT. I can't wait. Really it should be fun, I miss all the H-town crew, and am ready to jump in and discover a new and vast group of friends and family in Billings. I don't have any set dates as of yet, other than the fact that my last day at work is the 24th. YAY! I am ready to move on and try bigger and better things in life. I think I finally realized that although I love the service industry it just isn't where my heart is. So now I am planning on focusing my attention on helping my dad with his business (check back soon for a link to that) and getting my own mediation firm started and running. I have been reading books and trying to make connections for that to happen.

So that is the best update on my life that I could give at the moment. I am doing very well, and think that once I move to Montana I will be doing even better!

Paddy's Day

2006-03-17T15:11:00.000-07:00

by seealexa

So I had always heard they dyed the river green in Chicago, but MAN that is GREEN! Pretty damn cool if you ask me! Also pretty scarry, as I wonder how much dye had to go into that river to get it that color! YIKES!

Well I hope you all have a fantabulous Paddy's day!

Thanks for the pic Alex!

Photo time!

2006-03-09T17:47:00.000-07:00

So I here are some recent photos:

That is me singing with my new best friend Rupert, he's the drummer for my new fav band The Capes...from London! Check them out on myspace!

Once a Month

2006-03-09T17:34:00.000-07:00

Posting is now looking like a monthly thing. Part of that is due to the lack of excitement in my life, and the other part is although there is no excitement I am insanely busy.

Life in Seattle looks as though it may come to an end. Yes I know *tear* . I am sure many of you are saying "WHAT?!?! You just moved there, which is very true, yet many things have changed in the past 3 months.

I have discovered that the job I once LOVED, I know don't love so much, I don't think I hate it yet, but it is not where I need or want to be at the moment. I love the industry, but I don't think I am ready for Managerial duties nor am I ready to be brought into a family run business and not be part of the family. That is tough. So that said...I have been interviewing with the MT Democratic party and am hoping I will be offered a job with them.

Idealy, I would be placed in Billings...yes again I am sure I am getting another WHAT?!?! And again I will let you know why this is the case. I have met a boy. An amazing boy who I have been away from since December. I can do the distance thing, but I don't like it and don't HAVE to do it. So I am opting not to. Billings may not work out so well, but no matter what I will be in the same state. Baby steps right?!

So that is the state of affairs at the moment.

Again forgive me for my lack of posting. I have some photos I can share soon and will once I get them!

Burns and More

2006-02-15T16:17:00.000-07:00

Well today and the past week has been insane! I was at work today and spilled HOT water down the front of me, and yes burned my leg. I have a few little blisters on my let and hope it will not get worse. I lso ruined my new 9West shoes. :( But I was able to go home and work from home. Always a nice deal.

Life for me is crazy. It really has changed in so many ways. My mind is a whirlwind and progressively as I sort things out I will chat at you all about this.

Sorry for being MIA.

Good Intentions

2006-01-27T16:10:00.000-07:00

So I have been told that the road to Hell is paved with good intentions, and this could be true. I have been meaning to post, first about new years (but I wanted pictures which my cousins have) then I wanted to post about just life in Seattle (but got busy). So here I sit with nothing too exciting to write about.

I am working like a mad woman, at a restaurant in Downtown Kirkland, which is going through a MAJOR revamp. So that is exciting but also a bit unnerving at the same time. I love the job, but spend so much time there that sometimes it drives me to drink...ok that is a lie, but it sounded good huh?

I am jacked that the Seahawks are in the Superbowl, not because I love the Seahawks, but because I live in the hometown of the Hawks. So the city has a buzz that I last felt in San Diego when the Superbowl was held there. However, I am unable to take part in Superbowl celebrations as I am going to be in New Jersey for a mediation. Lookout Newark!!! Actually that should be fun, but I am bummed to miss the festivities in the Emerald City once the Seahawks take the XL title. :)

So that is a little update. I spend way more time on MySpace these days so hit me up there if you are interested!

Peace Out!

Now Sound

2005-12-24T20:53:00.000-07:00

Yes folks, Clementine is now safe AND sound. Yes folks, sound! How so you might ask?! Well this past week has truely been killer. I found what I thought to be a in between job to get me by until I could find a better job. I answered a phone call from an ad on Craigs List for a barista in Kirkland. Well I went in for the interview, that went well, the owners of this coffee shop are from Australia...they rock. So they offer me a job and I started Monday! Very cool...then after my shift, I was offered a postion as the front of the house manager. One of the owners is the manager of the kitchen, since he is a chef.

Its an awesome job! I am given a lot of freedom to make choices of the staff and direction we go with the front of the resturant. Eventually we will open a cocktail bar and then turn into a killer chill night club. I am absolutely excited to be a part of this adventure. It will be tons of fun, and my bosses ROCK!

So that my friends is why I am sound!

Happy Christmas to all and to all a good night!

The Christmas Party Madness

2005-12-18T14:49:00.000-07:00

So my friends started a Chritsmas party tradition here in Seattle in 1999 in the basement of one of the dorms. It started with a little gift exchange and Sara Bader's wonderful top ramen and tomato sauce. Now....it is madness. The highlight of the gift exchange...Gnarly Teeth, and Banco's book The Easiest Way to Get Pregnant Naturally!

Enjoy:

Safe...Maybe not Sound yet

2005-12-12T10:43:00.000-07:00

I have made it safely to Sea-town (Seattle for all you who are confused). I am safe and now frantically looking for a means of cash flow. But I am excited. This new chapter will be one of excitement and passion. It will be a chance for me to enter the part of the 'grown up world' that I have not entered yet. I look forward to the adventures ahead.

And thanks Nate for the Shout Out! I appreciate it. I already miss my friends in H-town. I'll be back for New Years! Oh you just wait (maybe the triple trouble triple kiss will occur again!)

Miss all the H-town peeps, but you are all welcome in seatown anytime!

How to make ME!

2005-12-08T10:16:00.000-07:00

How to make a Clementine

Ingredients:

5 parts competetiveness

5 parts self-sufficiency

5 parts joy

Method:
Combine in a tall glass half filled with crushed ice. Serve with a slice of fitness and a pinch of salt. Yum!

Personality cocktail
From Go-Quiz.com

Do you hate me?!

2005-11-14T16:28:00.000-07:00

So if I were ANY of my friends I would hate me right now. i have this thing called a blog and do I ever update it...ummm NOPE! So I think I am on a path to not being so lame. Life has had a lot of changes lately. By lately I mean in the last month.

I failed the Life/Health License exam a 4th time, worse then I have ever failed before. So I made the choice, I am done. I can't do this anymore. I don' t like the stress. However, in the same week I did that I also got an email from a group in Bellevue, WA that does conflict resolution in the school systems in Seattle. So I went to Seattle did a little training and have made the choice to move back to Seattle! YES this is a huge choice. It means leaving my friends behind in Helena, it means a new life without a job or anything in front of me. But it also leaves room for new adventures, and new stories.

At the moment I am thinking I will be in Seattle anywhere from the 7th-9th of Dec. I am staying with a good friend from college until I can find a job and pay rent. I am putting in my 2 weeks at the pub tonight, and have a few random paying jobs here and there to help save some money before the move.

I am excited, scared, and nervous. But I am ready for this new chapter, its a step in the right direction. It is getting me back to the PNW, the place I fell in love with during my undergrad days.

It will be fun, and much easier to up and leave the country!

I will be better posting too! I promise!

Changes

2005-10-11T08:35:00.000-06:00

So life is ever changing. I swear just when I think I have got it all figured out God sends me a fast pitch and knocks me down.

If you read my Blog a couple weeks ago, I talked about the stupid test I had to take. Well I took it (4th times a charm right?!). I failed, not just part like I had in the past...but the whole stinking thing. So I am now questioning whether or not I should be in the insurance industry. Not really the career path I was intending...So now life is changing again.

Mediation seems more and more like the path I want to take. I have been in discussion with some folks over in the Pacific Northwest talking about doing some training over in that area and perhaps seeing what is out there job wise.

Who knows. But I do know that its been nearly a year. I love Helena but I am starting to get restless here.

So until next time...I'll just be restless in Montana (I think being sleepless in Seattle would be better at this moment).

Interesting

2005-10-10T16:52:00.000-06:00

I received this from a friend in Turkey today, and it got me thinking. Although sort of childish...VERY true.

Find a guy, who calls you beautiful instead of hot.
Who calls you back when you hang up on him.
Who will stay awake just to watch you sleep.
Wait for the guy who kisses your forehead.
Who wants to show you off to the world when you are in your sweats.
Who holds your hand in front of his friends.
Wait for the one who is constantly reminding you of how much he cares about you and how lucky he is to have you.
Wait for the one who turns to his friends and says, "...that's her."

I think I like the idea of the boy kissing my forehead. It makes me smile.

Birthday Photos!

2005-10-03T21:06:00.000-06:00

The weekend was fabulous. Full of friends and good times. I couldn't have been happier or had more fun.

The Cake

After all I am kind of a big deal...people know me!

Jayne and Nat

smiley girls.

Hiiii-Yah!

Birthday Weekend

2005-10-03T14:02:00.000-06:00

I would post pictures of the amazing 26th birthday but alas the cord has been lost to transfer the photos from camera to computer. So those will follow soon. I will get a cord somehow.

Overall the weekend was amazing. I couldn't have asked for a better party with better friends. I had a few friends come from Bozeman, a couple come from Missoula and a couple venture up from Dillon. So all in all is was a blast.

Pictures will come soon I promise!

Slogan time

2005-09-27T16:00:00.000-06:00

You want a slogan for your name? Well check this out.

Here is mine:

How Do You Eat Your Clementine?

On a happier note

2005-09-27T12:35:00.000-06:00

I turn 26 in 4 days!!!! YAY!!!

Inadequacy

2005-09-27T12:25:00.000-06:00

Is there ever a point in someone's life where inadequacy seems like it is the norm and the expected. I have never thought that and wouldn't except that is just how I feel at the moment. I feel as though I could give my 110% and it still isn't enough. Some how I am still falling short.

Part of what brings this on is my inability to pass my state insurance licensing exam. I have failed 3 times....yes count them...3...1,2,3. I have never failed anything more than once. And I am usually one to learn from mistakes but somehow I just can't pass. I study, and to no avail.

I have been asked by some if it is because I am too busy, which could be the case. But I can't manage to live with out my second job. Ok that is a lie...I could manage but I couldn't pay off my debt or begin to pay off my student loans with out this second job. Which then brings me to my thought...should I be doing what I am doing? I love the company I work for, and I couldn't imagine anything more enjoyable at the moment that pays this well. BUT...and this is a huge BUT...should I be putting this much effort and time into something I am just not sure I can complete successfully?! I just don't know. I am at a loss. I don't know how to send those thoughts of inadequacy to their time out in the corner.

I am fine when I don't think about studying or the test but then I let my mind wander and I feel horrible, I feel like a failure, I feel like just not showing up to work anymore because I have too much dignity to get to the point where the 'let me go'.

So for now I will rehash all that is going on through out my mind. Try to sort it out, and hope and pray for the best.

Education

2005-09-14T15:00:00.000-06:00

I was reading this article today. If only we were all that excited about learning and school...

http://www.cnn.com/2005/WORLD/africa/09/14/pupil.un.ap/index.html

I will be MIA

2005-09-06T09:37:00.000-06:00

Yes I have been MIA, and will continue to be in the future. I am working 2 jobs, and trying to have a life outside of that as well. Life is busy and full. So the time to blog is little and just takes precious time needed for other things (like studying for my life and health license.)

I have a lot of material to post on...so when I have a free minute you can be sure that I will update my blog. But until then...I will be MIA. SORRY!!!

update

2005-08-22T20:18:00.000-06:00

Just letting everyone know I am doing well. Life is insane. I start working at the Pub (Reiley's) here next week and will officially be working 80 hours a week. It should be a good time. But for now I am off to Missoula to take a licencing class for work and then the Exam is Saturday...you all should say a little prayer that I pass. AAAGGGHHH! So that's me at the moment. Sorry so short and sweet.

10 weddings and a funeral

2005-08-10T21:01:00.000-06:00

Ok I have tried to update this for a while...and it didn't work and didn't work...then the network was down...so again I lost all the information. A few weeks ago a friend and I were joking that I had so many weddings (at the time 4) that I needed a funeral to make '4 weddings and a funeral'. At the time it was funny (and still is) but now it has come to fruition.

As the title of the blog suggests this summer has not only been filled with Weddings. I now have a funeral. Sean Reid, a Seattle U alum, died Sunday. He had cancer for over a year, and I know he's in a much better place.

The link below is an article he wrote right after graduation. He is such an amazing soul...and will live long after his earthly death.

Please read:

Sean Reid

MIA-Wedding Season

2005-08-04T21:37:00.000-06:00

I recently went to a wedding (by recent I mean 2 weeks ago) and wanted to post to my blog...but me being the scatter brain that I am I can't find my camera attachment, so I had to find my parents camera attachment....I guess I could have written about it, but what good are the words if I don't have a photo or 2 to back it up. So here it is 2 weeks later and I am writing about the amazing wedding of year.

Jonny and Sara (my roommates from Soph year of college) got married. It was done in true Badgowski style. On the budget but the class didn't lack. The weekends festivities began with a rehersal at the Chapel of St. Ignatious, at Seattle University. Then it was off to the House of Roy...to most Seattlites its the House of Hong...and we had a nice smorgusboard of yummy chinese food. Then it was to the Garage, for some cocktails and sightings of some long lost SU alumnus.

The night of the wedding was just as fabulous. I went to the Bite of Seattle with some good ol' MT folk, then off to the wedding where I read and watched some of my close friends joined in union.

Really it was an amazing weekend, full of friends from around the world. I am amazed, the class of 2002 from SU is amazing. We are living our dreams and creating new goals to change the world.

Now time for the pics:

Sweet Ass

2005-07-19T18:17:00.000-06:00

So I got this email today...really no point...but FUNNY!

I am bored and I realized I haven't had my Clementine fix. Erin came
down bozeman this weekend, we ended up at the Three Forks rodeo. I
ended up getting so drunk they wouldn't let me back in the bar. Which
is a first for me, I have kicked out of bars, denied service at a bar,
and was even involved in an altercation with a bar tender and the
police escorted me out of the bar. Never not let into a bar, I am
pretty proud. So yep, bought a couch cover, it was red, I kind of
wanted green, but Erin thought red would look better. She is a girl
and so by default she has better taste than me when it comes to
interior decorating, so I bought red. I don't have cable and my buddy
is stopping by to pick me in in 15 minutes. So I am killing some
time. Get ready for more rambling. So yep....I think I may be
reaching epic porportions of kicking ass, I am not sure on official
status of that yet, I will have to get back to you. I think I need to
start a blog and this will be what it is like. Random thoughts that
come out of my head. I saw my Aunt and Uncle this weekend (that is
not all interesting I know), they told me they went camping with this
couple. They asked the couple to bring weiners to roast one night.
The dude that was comming is a trapper. He brought beaver weiners. I
had no idea there were beaver weiners. On the other hand I am not
exactly sure what regular weiners are made of, there could be some
beaver involved.(oh yeah, the beaver weiners was the interesting
part). Last thought on beaver weiners. It is kind of odd how when
viewing the term "beaver weiner" in a perverted sort of way it seems
to contridict itself (excluding possible of being a hermaphrodyte)
yet when dealing with the term in practicle applications, it actually
has two meanings (for those at home we call that a synonym) it is not
only a weiner made of beaver, yet could be the name of the genitals of
a male beaver. Man, isn't nature fascinating. Well you helped me
kill some time so I shall now go. I bet you are really going to
regret giving me your email address.

Long Lost Blog

2005-07-17T21:59:00.000-06:00

Yes I have been horrible. I keep meaning to post on this thing, but now I am working and then get home and don't think about posting because I am just too tired when I get home. Yes...lame I know, but none the less that is my excuse. Since Dan and Anna's wedding I went to a Family reunion at Stanly Lake Idaho and saw so many cousins and even some extended family from the French West Indies. It was a nice change of pace from work and the heat of Helena.

This weekend I was supposed to go to Sandpoint Idaho, but I got sick and figured it was important to relax before Jonny and Sara's wedding next week.

But all in all life is good. I am starting to settle into Helena life and am getting into the swing of being a real grown up. Now its time to take the next step. I am looking at getting another job and paying off my debt, and get my finances in order. I am getting there slowly...but surely. I'll update more often I promise!

One more

2005-06-27T22:38:00.000-06:00

Adeline said...

1. Clementine - By far my favorite sister ever. I love you so very very much! There's no one in the world that I hate seeing sad as much as you. You have seen my most desperate efforts to make someone laugh. Not to mention that you're probably my favorite person to make happy.
2. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (and many many more), and as far as music goes, just about anything from the early 90's - C&C Music Factory, the Real McCoy, etc.
3. Encouraging (Disclaimer: one word for a girl of so many words is about the largest challenge I've ever been put up to:))
4. Alright, you've got to be kidding, right? How is this possible, when just about all my moments with you are memorable. I'd say everything like wrestling with you, the Q-Tip conversation, Fam. Reunion in St. Louis lip syncing to some crazy music in our cabin, I'm a little tea-pot on warren st., you holding my hand going to Insty Prints from the "white house", going clubbing with you in Ireland, staying with you in Seattle your frosh year and being "corrupted" by your friends and many, many more.
5. Koala
6. I know I don't now everything about you, but I don't think I have much wondering going on about you. (cop-out, I'm aware)
7. Very very much. You've taught me to deal with things head on, and that I should believe in myself. You are my number one encourager, you believe in me when I don't believe in myself and without you I have no idea where I would be.

A very cool pick me up to my day!

Now its your turn:
01. Comment with your name and I will write something about you.
02. I will then tell what song/movie reminds me of you.
03. I will try to name a single word that best describes you.
04. I'll tell you the most memorable moment I've had with you.
05. I will tell you what animal you remind me of.
06. I'll then tell you something that I've always wondered about you.
07. I'll write something you've taught me.
08. Tack this little puppy in your blog.

Dan and Anna Lowney

2005-06-27T22:21:00.001-06:00

The Wedding finally arived. After driving all over the state of Washington and Northern Oregon, I was able to see one of my greatest friends from high school get married. It was a wonderful time and was so great to see old friends, and meet new ones.

You may kiss the bride

The speech

Mr and Mrs Lowney

Is that a rocket on the side of the truck?!?!

2005-06-27T22:20:00.000-06:00

sunset on the Washington Coast

Did that Say Food Stamps?!?

2005-06-23T22:20:00.000-06:00

So I was driving with Jim and James in Aberdeen, and we drove past this Pizza place...does this seem like a classy city to you?! I never knew you could make your food stamps go so far.

Pizza anyone?!

Mariners on Fathers day.

2005-06-19T22:19:00.000-06:00

Anna and Dan ventured over the river and through the woods to attend a Mariners game. The sun was shining, the seats were wonderful, and the Mariners CREAMED the Mets. Couldn't have been better.

Clem, Jim, Dan and Anna

At the Game

Jon and Alyssa Mudd

2005-06-15T22:13:00.000-06:00

My Cousin Jon was married on the 11th of the Month, here are a couple pics. The first of the bride and groom, the second is of my cousins and my Aunt Mary. It was a wonderful time...but it always is when the Mudd's get together.

Crash and Burn

2005-06-14T08:53:00.000-06:00

Life has been insane lately...on so many levels, and as I wrote the following to a friend I realized it summed up where my life is right now:

I had a therapeutic dream...well kinda grim....I was with friends and there was this NW plane overhead, and it started flying this way and that way, and then it flipped upsidedown...then we ran into this building and once inside I realized that I was in Ireland so we had to dial 999 not 911, but as I gave directions as to where the plane crash was I was in San Diego. The dispatcher said they had sent someone out to the accident..and that was that.

In retrospect, that is how I feel as though my life is a plane whirling out of control...and I feel as though I have so much going on internally, externally, and just overall. I think I need to just sit figure out where my life is going, where I want it to go, and what steps I have to take to get there. I need to be aware of my priorities, and stick to what is important.

So that is where I am at...I am taking everything friends, family and other have said to heart, and I just need to chew on it and figure out where my life will go. And by doing that I need to detach all the extreme emotions I feel and reflect retrospectively.

So...that is me at the moment...

Did I mention Limbo

2005-06-05T22:21:00.000-06:00

Well as I sit here getting ready for my new joby job. Yes I finally scored one of those...one with benefits and everything. So that is fantabulous. If you want the boring details...let me know.

But then there is the social aspect of my life. And I don't know what to do about it. I at times think its completely normal, but at others think that some how my train has derailed and I have lost all sense of reality and 'adulthood'. Somewhere between San Diego in 2003 and present I have seemed to be caught off guard and have not been able to get on track. My priorities have me askew, and I feel discombobulated. I need to find direction, self, and most of all just figure out what I am doing with life outside of this job.

I am back in Helena, and that means that I get to conform to the married, 2.5 kids and white picket fence mentality of Helena...oh wait, no...I am single and don't want children right away.

I don't know maybe with a new job will come some sort of direction. One can only hope.

Life, Death, and Limbo

2005-05-31T11:14:00.000-06:00

Well the last couple weeks have been very odd. I have had the chance to experience a lot of emotions that I have not felt for a while. A good family friend died suddenly last week. Thalia was 27, had 3 children and was just a ball of fire. I don't think I had seen or talked to her for years, but it was hard to hear of her death none the less. Then a few days after the funeral her dad told us that the cause of death is still unknown. It wasn't a brain aneurysm, it wasn't self inflicted with an over dose, in fact it was just 'natural causes'. I know she is in a wonderful place of bliss and unconditional love, and that her children will miss her greatly, but for those adults in her life...Its hard to understand why God would take someone so early.

That is also why I realized I mustn't take things for granted. There is so much to life daily. In my own life I have been blessed and at times take those blessings for granted. So now I am trying to keep my head up each morning I wake, and have a smile on my face and a new out look on life. Its a crazy world we live in!

Then there is the Limbo of my life. I didn't get a job I applied for last week, but then got an interview for another company the next day. I find out Thursday if I got the job, so keep your fingers crossed. I am also being urged to run for office. It was an idea I threw out of my mind last February, but now it has entered again with some support from state elected officials. So we will see. So many random things to think about.

I'm lame

2005-05-15T21:49:00.000-06:00

Yeah, so I have been busy lately attempting to find a job, and find a way to pay my bills. I have an interview on Friday with the Commissioner of Higher Ed, and really want this job. Its a lot of travel through out the state. I'll keep ya all posted...I know you really want to know!

The Bestest sister EVER!

2005-04-29T16:45:00.000-06:00

So I got a little gift yesterday in the mail (post...for those irish readers) and it was the best thing ever...I am addicted. There was no real reason for the gift other than a congrats on your dissertation, and good luck finding a job. You all ready to see what the bestest sister gave me.....

Neglected Readers

2005-04-18T18:15:00.000-06:00

I am sorry I have neglected my readers...I was waiting to post more photos, but I don't have any that require an entire post. However this weekend does. Although at the moment my camera is MIA. So I will just have to discuss the episodes of the weekend. I was out Friday at Millers listening to a little George Grosbeck Band (tre good) and chilling out with a bunch of my legislature peeps. (its the last weekend before the end of session). And my friend and I proceed to drink the free drinks bought for us, that is all fine and dandy until the nights end. That is when the madness occurs. So lets just say that the night ended with me getting a few hours of sleep and going to work with my friends still awake not yet sleeping. That is after a night of getting only 1.5 hours of sleep due to babysitting.

However the highlight of the weekend had to be Saturday, our last Bipartisan Social caucus. Nat and I made T-shirts, and the host of the caucus provided the entertainment and fun. BUT...the best and perhaps worst (because it sorta ended the party) was when we broke the coffee table by dancing on it. And yes photos will be uploaded as soon as the camera is located. By far it was the best night yet...well one of the more memorable. Now the fun will subside as the session ends on Wednesday. Whew...now my liver can recover....and God knows it needs to!

Birthday Weekend

2005-03-27T19:25:00.002-07:00

Well it is official folks, after 4 days of celebrating Natalia and Casey, I am deffinately worn out. Nat started at Bullwhackers on Wednesday (I was still at home recovering from the cold I got on Sunday). But come Thrusday I was out celebrating Natalia and her 24 years on earth in full force. We started at Haps on Thursday, Friday went to the Rialto and Bullwhackers, and Saturday we started off the afternoon with some cocktails, and some boardgames, then we went out with the Birthday Bitch (Natalia) and the Birthday Boy (Casey) and the Party Posse (myself, Amanda, and Katie) followed. A wonderful weekend all in all! Again I was the historian....enjoy:

Starting the week off with a BANG!

Clebrating Natalia!

Honest Amanda and Nat

Group Photo

Lean Back!

Dancing Girls

Casey and Katie

The Birthday shirts

Party Posse and Birthday Girl

EPIC Paddy's Day

2005-03-21T19:44:00.000-07:00

Clemtalia and Crew had an EPIC Paddy's day. Started at the Firehouse with Good Whiskey, an Irish car bomb, and a few tasty beverages. Then moved on to Jorgies where we collected our personal decorations, and had a bit of EJ's famous Irish Stew and Irish Punch. Found our way to our favorite Thursday hang out...Hap's...did a little Irish jig, had some great late nights eats provided by Fuzz (the best bartender ever) Then Nataliatine managed to get downtown, hit up the bars there, then ended the night with some late night calls.

All in all the craic was great and couldn't have been better!

Enjoy the pics:

Dave and Natty

Natty, Erin, and Clem

Group Photo: Clem, Cathy, Art, Natty, Annie and Erin

Clemtalia

Brad, Tim and Erin

Leprechan Shoes

The Boys

Big Dave, The Leprechan, and Tim

Brad and Clem

Big Dave

Irish dancing at its best!!!!

Hey Brad!

Tiny

Senate/House Basketball

2005-03-21T18:27:00.000-07:00

It was a tough game....Senate had a few fouls some dodgey dealings, and even with the house buying votes, the Senate seemed to pull out ahead and take the trophy. GO SENATE!

Team Senate

Team House

The Fans

Senator Wheat

Monica and Vicki buying the game....money and politics what more does one need?!

ALL the FANS!

Mansfield Metcalf Dinner

2005-03-21T18:22:00.000-07:00

Mansfield/Metcalf Dinner was fun, it was good to see so many Dems working together for the greater good of Montana!

Dave and Erin

Chris and Carolyn

Clem and Erin

Clem and Carolyn

Shon and Jeff

Technical Error

2005-03-21T14:44:00.000-07:00

So there are no photos as bloggerbot wouldn't upload the photos last night....so hopefully I'll be able to upload the photos tonight and get this thing up to date! I like the photo thing....It gives you all a little glimpse of my life verbally and visually.

A little behind

2005-03-20T21:00:00.000-07:00

Since I am not at home very often I haven't had the chance to update the blog all too much. And I know my ever waiting fans just can't get enough. So today my post will consist of the last week of events...Mansfield-Metcalf dinner, Senate/House basketball game, and the ever important Paddy's Day!

Enjoy!

Legislative Train Ride

2005-03-16T18:28:00.000-07:00

After a day of t-shirts and capris, the next morning was perfect for the Legislative train ride. It had snowed all day, and the scenery was outstanding. Couldn't have been a better day!

the view!

On the Train

Gretchen

Chris and Carolyn

John

Nice lunch

Rick and Brit

Chris and Brock

Rick and Brit

Lane

Jake and Christi

Chris and EJ

John and Chris

Pajama Night at Haps

2005-03-16T18:09:00.000-07:00

Yes folks I don't stutter...Pajama night at the seedy Hap's bar in Helena Montana. Thanks John! Great Idea. Get drunk and don't even have to change to pass out!!!

Group Photo

Dave and Audrey

Erin, Clem, and Big Dave

So cute!

Dancing on the Bar

Press Time

2005-03-15T15:10:00.000-07:00

So I got some press time for my pages, and myself. A local reporter and friend wrote it. Check it out

A fun email:

2005-03-03T13:37:00.000-07:00

Read the following before you open the attachment.
Do you want to go above the speed limit on the motorway without being
fined or getting points on your driving licence?
Step 1. Connect to the bumper on the back of your car the balloons as shown in the picture attached
Step 2. Drive at speed on the motorway.
Step 3. Keep an eye on the people laughing at you
Step 4. Tell the police you thought they were real.
NOW OPEN THE ATTACHMENT

balloons

Friends:

2005-03-03T13:11:00.000-07:00

Dinner at the Windbag

Carolyn and Clementine

Governor's Ball with Gretchen

Transmittal Photos

2005-03-03T13:07:00.000-07:00

The Girls...Elkhorn style

We're off like a herd of turtles

Line Dancing to pass time waiting for someone to help us get unstuck.

Beautiful Girls

Thirsty folks

Life is...

2005-03-03T11:14:00.000-07:00

Good! I was able to decompress this weekend, having 6 days off from work. It was nice. I did a girls night at Fairmont, where we went to the Washoe theatre and then we met up with the boys and went to Elkhorn Hot Springs. Both were lovely, even with the 2 hour delay of getting stuck in 2 feet of snow and having to wait for the nice snowmobiling to get us help. We got out eventually only to get another car stuck. But those Geniuses from Butte topped it all driving their truck into the ditch and having to have it towed out using a little back hoe. Crazy! But I was able to sleep 18 hours at a go and partake in Daddy's medicine. I'll get pics up soon....just have to download them first.

Good times had by all!

Things are working out

2005-02-23T11:06:00.000-07:00

Yeah so I was bitter my last blog. I had a huge onslaught of things happen that forced me to not be the 'happy' girl I usually am. I have recovered and realized that sometimes life is not to be taken seriously.

I am on a break from work now, which is much needed and wanted. I am doing a girls night with some friends tomorrow and then camping at Elk Horn Hot springs. Oh I can't wait to not think about work or drama. It will be so refreshing. Hopefully it gives me what I need to have a clear head and revived spirit. God knows I need it.

I must say thank you to my friends.

Supang-what must I forgive you for? You are a star and I am so sad I haven't been able to see you in the last year. I wish you the best for your future, the football thing will workout I have no doubt, just keep your head high.

If it were not for my gazillion friends in this world I don't think that I would be so positive. Its the little things that keep me smiling, you keep me motivated and running.

So life is on the up and up, which is a bonus. I am trying to figure out what and where life will lead but it will be clear sometime soon I am sure!

Growing Pains

2005-02-17T00:08:00.000-07:00

As I sat in a bar tonight listening to some quality Chicago Blues I got thinking about growing up. How it sucks and how its just part of life. I started to wonder about the validity of a 'true love' and the rediculousness of dating and relationships. Yes I know I sound bitter, however I have dealt with more bull shit on the relationship end of things (personally and as a sounding board) than I care to deal with. I am sick of going somewhere and the first thing out of my girlfriends mouths is something about the boy in their life. I go out with my guy friends (which are few and far between in Helena) and they bitch about the girl in their life. I just wish people could be content with the choices in their lives. Be greatful for what they have. And quit trying to find the greener grass on the other side.

This venting comes from an aray of thoughts...recently found out some more friends are getting married. Also found out that some friends parents are getting divorced due to unfaithfulness in the relationship. WTF people?!?! Seriously, I don't get it. Thus far I am lucky and can say that none of my friends who were married early on in life have been divorced, and I HOPE to God it stays that way. But I really wonder. If someone is going to make the choice to be with another can't they stay committed.

I don't know where this is going...just venting I guess. That said...I'm done before I say something stupid.

Relationships

2005-02-13T12:52:00.000-07:00

I have come to realize relationships are a pain. Whether on a platonic level or a more in depth emotional level. Either way they are draining tough and sometimes just a pain in the ass. I say all this because I recently have encountered EVERY possible combination of relationships in the last couple weeks. I feel as though a relationship can't be had with out the mad drama attached. And I don't deal well with personal drama. (only the kind on stage that you can leave after 2 hours) I have realized I get so invested in my friends lives, often times so much so that I get stressed for them. I have had more mild headaches and back aches in the last couple weeks than I have had since college. And damn its a pain. I have also had to really practice my LISTENING skills, and as some of you may or may not know, that is damn hard for me. I have also taken the roll of bad cop to many folks that I care about. And right now I am about to just throw up my hands and say "Screw it, do it your way and don't come to me for help because you don't listen anyway."

But then I start to contemplate my own life and where its going. Its the first time I think I have EVER thought about settling, staying stationary, growing up for real. And in my mind that includes another person to share my joys and sorrows. Unfortunately I patience is not a quality that I embrace readily. I am much more of an instant gratification girl. Its also hard to find out my place in this world. I am in love with Ireland, deeply in love. However Helena has some how captured me as well. I have been on the move for the last 6.5 years and am now starting to realize that perhaps I need to just stop, listen, enjoy. All of which are hard for me. However, I am growing...still learning. I just have to take risks in a place that is scary. Being far away its ok and easy to take risks since I don't know everyone. But being in my hometown, knowing a lot of folks, folks who have known me for a majority of my life, its tough to want to take those risks.

Again I'll just have to see where live leads me. Its dangerous and scary, but I guess that is where excitement comes in life...its the relationships you build and break that make you who you are.

Work and Play

2005-02-13T08:41:00.000-07:00

Since my last blog, life has been crazy. Work is work and is tons of fun. I do truly enjoy every aspect of my job, well all but the L Love. What is the L Love? you ask. The L Love is the love passed down by my superior when I mess up. So instead of referring to it as a lecture its L Love. But the L Love is at a minimum these days, so that is good.

Went to the Governor's Ball last night. It was so much fun. I got ready with the girls, then went to dinner with my date and his family. I must say he is a good sport to put up with my random requests. I don' t know many men who would get in a photo with 4 women (of various ages) and lie at their feet. But everyone looked DASHING! Ball gowns and all. However I do believe that I may have to amputate my feet in the not so distant future, but pain is beauty right?!?

Unfortunately I don't have much insight at the moment. Life has been kind of hectic so I have been investing my energy into others lives and relationships. So writing about it all seems redundant, although it could be a good read. (I am actually saving the story to create a Dawson's Creek type drama) So that is life at the moment.

Politicians

2005-01-20T10:04:00.000-07:00

Today there was a debate of quality education. And it is odd how Montana's law makers are debating whether fiscal notes are definition of 'quality'. Perhaps I should give some background...The supreme court ruled our schools in Montana to be of poor quality. Hence this debate. So now we are debating the amendments to the bill (there are 17 and we only got through 4 this afternoon) and have to get the bill passed. Yeah it makes for a long night for all...Pages and everyone else involved in law making.

So yeah that is that.

No gossip on the Helena front. Life is pretty quiet. No boys, no scandal, no real gossip. So yeah, life was WAY more exciting in Derry. In fact I am starting to get the Ireland itch. And I've only been gone 1.5 months.

Busy as...

2005-01-15T01:02:00.000-07:00

Yup that is right. I am so busy with life that I have kind of forgotten my cyber world and my friends near and far. I am much easier to find via phone these days, email is even tough, as I cannot check it anywhere else other than my house. It makes life kinda tough.

But I digress...Earlier this year I wrote a blog about Helena and just not being 'in'. Part of that was due to not having 2.5 kids and not being married. However, I am realizing how this town is not too bad when you can find others that are in your shoes. There are a few that are single and willing to go out and have a good time. But I often wonder if this will wear off post Legislative session. I really hope not, but I wouldn't be surprised if that were the case.

But if my friends were to leave, I wouldn't know what to do with myself. I would most likely become a hermit.

Well I am at work, so I should go!

Tsunami First Hand

2005-01-06T18:45:00.000-07:00

Here is an update from my friend Jason who is living in Thailand (there is a post from him earlier in my blog...Post election time):

Sawasdee bi Mai, or happy new year from Thailand, no longer the land of smiles... It's our second day back to school in Bangkok, and everyone still seems to be regrouping and trying to focus on education once more, after the insane events of the last two weeks. Almost miraculously, out of the almost 3,000 students and teachers at our school, there seems to be not a single death... Incredible when considering that scores of teachers and students were vacationing along the coasts of Thailand, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and other places. The last two days have been filled with incredible tales of fortune and survival, and I can't tell you how many people have "near miss" stories, where they were "supposed" to have been in one of the places hit hard by the wave.

One good friend who I celebrated new years with had been on Phi Phi island, where there are only two hotels left standing of dozens that had been there... she and her sister wanted to be on a boat on the morning of the 26th off the island so they could get on their late morning flight, but the hotel had recommended she leave the island the evening of the 25th so she would be sure not to miss her flight. The next morning the hotel was washed out to sea.

Another friend I just ate lunch with had been visiting Khao Lak, the area worst hit in Thailand (over 1500 dead on the 8 km beach) and he and his wife (my boss) were disappointed when all the rooms on the beach had been booked so they had to settle for a hotel 50 meters up the side of the hill. On the morning of the 26th he was sitting on his balcony when the waves rolled in, manged to snap several pictures of the four waves as they swept two km inland, and witnessed tourists and Thais being pulled out to sea to their deaths, helplessly watching from above.

Another friend, also a new teacher, had been in the Maldives (average elevation, 1 meter above sea level) laying on the beach on the morning of the 26th, and when the tide suddenly receeded, he knew exactly what was happening. He grabbed his confused girlfriend and raced to the center of the tiny island, just as the wave swept over the entire island... they held onto palm trees as the water rose to their knees, pushing debris from the hotel all the way across the island and out to sea!

A teacher that Liz works with was in Krabi on a climbing vacation, hundreds died there, and she is still not talking about what she experienced, we can only guess how horrible it must have been...

The more teachers I talk to, the more stories like this I keep hearing... and the more I'm convinced that there must be some higher power watching over us here, because it's really incredible that everyone came back alive and uninjured... In the last week, we have received messages of concern from so many of our wonderful friends, and it is very touching that you all thought of us when this happened. We are fine, but Thailand and our neighbors have a long way to go to recover from this event. In the last week, it has been so incredible to see the effort that so many nations are extending to help bring relief to this region, it's truly an impressive show of support from the whole world.

Thoughts

2005-01-06T11:39:00.000-07:00

Wow, it has been a while since I last posted. I am sorry for that! I have a real job (I know its a miracle) and I am working at least 45-50 hours a week. So to say the least I am busy, and since I work at the state I can't blog while there...they monitor your internet activity.

But life is good here in Helena...write that in the record books...Really I am happy here. At least for the moment. For a girl who thought she could NEVER live in Helena again I am quite content being here. I am enjoying the snow, the cold weather, and politics. I enjoy them all so much I am considering (more so now than ever) running for a political office here in Helena, well Lewis & Clark Co. Still not set in stone, but after a heart to heart from some friends and a slight intervention on their part, I am more inclined now than I have been ever before. The question at hand is whether I could stand Helena for an extended time. We'll see.

But for now I am content. I enjoy Helena, and love most of the folks involved in the Political realm here.

Honesty

2004-12-21T16:53:00.000-07:00

When does a person choose to be dishonest to friends? I will never for the life of me figure it out. I found out today that a friend of mine, one I thought was a VERY good friend is in fact not the person I thought he was. Just about 3 days before I came home he kinda dropped off the face of the earth and just quit talking to me. Then I find out what I thought to be a truth filled friendship was well...A Lie! Part of me wants to be furrious with him. The other part of me is ok with his choices, but just is baffled at the lack of respect for another. I guess I am a notch above the rest, I actually care about my friends enough to let them know when I have made choices that affect our friendship.

Honesty hurts, but dishonesty hurts more!

Home safe and sound

2004-12-12T18:15:00.000-07:00

I am home. Safe. Sound. Tired.

But it is good to be here. In just one day I have seen some good friends of the past, and that is nice. But its weird being home now as well. I have a feeling that some friendships where effort was put forth while abroad are starting to die with me being back in the states. And that makes me sad.

It also has gotten me thinking, is it worth the time and energy put forth to invest yourself in others lives? I have always tried to be a friend to all, and be a true friend. But then I wonder if sometimes I think too highly of humanity and others. If I give too much credit to others, trust too much. I don't know, but recently in Ireland and now I am starting to see here, I feel that I give too much and never expect anything in return, and perhaps that is my downfall.

Don't know.

Start my new job tomorrow and that should be fun. A REAL JOB!!!

Espana y Montana

2004-12-07T07:28:00.000-07:00

Well here I am in Spain. And so much is happening it is INSANE!!! Where to begin. I depart here tomorrow and then with the grace of God will get a flight to Seattle on Thursday. Then I will be back state side for good! I just got a job last night (well yesterday afternoon US time) as the Page Supervisor at the State Legislature! I am very excited and can't wait to start. It really is a perfect job for me. And the job I really really wanted. So that is good. I do have to cut my time here short, but ultimately it will be for the best.

So it really is tough to beleive but I am going home in 2 days...yes 2 days. Wow, I didn't think this time would ever come. The time when I depart Ireland and again don't know the specific date I return...although it won't be long. Ireland is more home than it ever has been!

Adventures...what adventures

2004-12-05T06:05:00.000-07:00

Well here I sit in the Dublin airport, awaiting my flight to Barcelona...yes Barcelona. Lets just say I have amazing friends who love me and as a gift of thanks they like to pay for my all expense (well nearly) holiday to Barcelona before I depart stateside for good! God Bless friends! But here I sit anxiously awaiting what the next chapter of my life will be. I have been talking to a person in Helena re: a job as Page Supervisor at the State Legislature and it truely is my dream job. I want this job SOOOOO bad. There is some possibility that I get this job and will have to return home early, there is also some possibility that I will still return to Seatown the 15th and Montucky the 19th. But I won't know until perhaps tomorrow or even as late as Wed. So its crazy at the moment! Again it wouldn't be MY life if it weren't crazy.

Well I don't want to miss my flight or anything so I best go!

Giving Thanks!

2004-11-26T04:38:00.000-07:00

Well its the day after Thanksgiving and I have realized again how blessed I am to be here on earth with so many good friends, and have a family who cares and supports me. I was reminded yesterday, by a horrific reading for my dissertation, and a sad email from a friend who is in a 3rd world nation, that not everyone has those luxuries. The fact that I have a house, toilet, clothes, food, indoor plumbing....the list can go on and on. But none the less it doesn't. Because I have been blessed to be born into the top 10% of our world's population. I not only have an education (that was free) I have an extensive higher education that I was able to receive in 2 nations, 3 if you count my study abroad. Wow! What a blessing.

As this Holiday season continues (its the biggest shopping day in America) I pray that you are reminded of the 'small' things in life that you have. When you get in that car to drive to Wal*Mart remember many folks in the world don't have cars, or even the opportunity to take advantage of the best form of capitalism. It just can't be done. Remember tonight as you cook your dinner that you have electricity and a stove and not an open fire in a field.

But more than anything just remember it isn't about how much you spend on one another this holiday but rather, how much time and energy is invested into those you love. Those are the moments that will mean the most!

Free Photo ipod...

2004-11-25T07:47:00.000-07:00

Yes folks I have dropped to a new low, but I need all of you to help me out here! Really I do! If I can get 10 people below me I can get a free photo ipod, and so could you! Wahoo!!!! Just click the link:
http://www.freephotoiPods.com/?r=11739477

And I just found out if you apply for the credit card you just have to get approved, you don't even have to use it!!!! So get approved and then cancel it! And as a result you get a free photo ipod.

Thanks guys!

Moving On

2004-11-21T13:19:00.000-07:00

'We're going through changes...' (insert Ozzy and Kelly's dissonance here) Yes folks we are...as in we I mean I. Life is progressing nicely, perhaps not, but progressing none the less. I have one more day of work on Tuesday, a chapter of a dissertation to write and complete by Friday, a going away party to attend on Friday, and a 5 hour drive on Saturday to Galway. So I am anxious for life to progress positively I just can't wait. I have a sneaking suspicion that this week will fly and that I will be back to my old cheery Clementine in no time! Whew! Its about time I was getting kinda worried there. I was all sorts of messed up last week and it was doing my head in!

Then its dissertation and joby job time. I am looking for a job in Helena (notorious for the non existent job market) and perhaps a ultra wealthy person who wants to pay off all my student loans. If anyone knows where I can find either or, please just give me a shout. :)

Other than that I have no real news or thoughts. I'm ready to be home, but know that no more than 24 hours post arrival, I will miss my emerald isle greatly! I love this place, it really is my first love, well maybe second...God kinda is my first.

Ok, enough babbling.

Overstayed Welcome

2004-11-17T16:47:00.000-07:00

Well it is done. I think for the first time I feel as though I have overstayed my welcome here in Ireland, at least Derry. I don't feel like this is home anymore (so I am going to Galway in a week to rekindle my love for the emerald isle). I am ready to be in Montana with snow, family and good friends who care more about me and my friendship, instead of the boy they are now 'in love' with....Long Story...pretty personal/emotional and not worth venting about via blog.

But none the less this has been a tough week. I am moving from the house I have lived in since my return in Oct on Friday (thanks Frankie So for the couch) and a good friend from Galway is going to come all the way up here to collect my sorry ass a week later! I have some great friends! Then I am going to Galway for 1.5 weeks to chill relax and enjoy the 'Irish' way of doing things. I really can't wait. A bit bummed that I will be leaving Derry on a semi sour note, but glad I can end the adventure with some good camaraderie with amazing friends down south. I will then venture to Dublin where I will HUNT down U2 so I can get all their autographs (Ok maybe not..but that would be VERY cool...actually I just want to know Bono's and Edge's local so I can go on a piss up with them) But back to reality, I will venture to Dublin staying with some good friends and family and soon be state side (Dec 15th).

I also have to find a time where I can finish this dissertation chapter, but I think I have a better grasp on it than I did previously, and that is a bonus. But it will get done.

So that is me. I'm glad I waited until now to post....this morning I had some not so nice things to say, and in my deep thinking I think I would have hurt some feelings (including mine). So that is that.

Oh yeah Tricky Tony...you keep up on that mission! And like I said before, you can tell EVERYONE about this blog, that is why it exists.

Tricky Tony

2004-11-12T08:38:00.000-07:00

I have this friend here in Derry, and he is convinced that he is the only one here who knows about this BLOG. I, however, beg to differ. But that is besides the point. Tricky Tony as we will call him is convinced he is going to figgure out the identity of the previously mentioned 'booty call boy'. This is not going to happen, as all identities are consealed on my blog....well most of the time. But this blog is to Tricky Tony who 1. wanted a shout out, and 2. is on his own personal mission. So Tricky Tony good luck on your mission....I hope it proves fruitful!

America....the beautiful?!

2004-11-04T11:50:00.000-07:00

I received this email via a good friend, who is living and teaching in China. He has a lot to say, but all of it very relevant. I find many folks here in the UK and Ireland can't understand why Americans are the way we are. How as the world's super power can we be so blind. Well here is a bit of brain food... Thanks Jason!

It's November 4 in Bangkok, a day of exhaustion and exasperation for most of the American faculty here at Ruamrudee International School. Exhaustion because most of us have spent the last 36 hours glued to our computer or television screens awaiting the results from the elections back home, exasperation because most of us were ardent Kerry supporters (or, more honestly, Bush opposers). Alas, the wish of millions of overseas Americans to be able to tell a local that you come from the United States without following the claim immediately with an apology for the actions of our president will not come true this year. Next time I get in a taxi and I am asked, "where you come from?" I will once again have to laugh nervously while deciding whether I have the energy to explain that I'm American but don't agree with what our government does, or just take the easy way out and tell the driver I'm Canadian. If I do not immediately follow my answer with an explanation of my stance, the driver would invariably hurl a barrage of anti-Bush comments at me... not without good reason of course.

In the meantime, while Bush is keeping farmers and football fans safe from terrorists back home, the war on terror continues to rage in new corners of the world. Been thinking about taking that idylic vacation to the beautiful palmy regions of Southern Thailand after visiting Liz and I in Bangkok soon? Well you might want to think again, our Prime Minister is waging his own war on terror (stamped mandate from Bush in hand, no doubt) against the predominantly Muslim population in the South. Just last Monday, as soccer moms, NASCAR dads, blue color factorymen, and American's of every ilk were being reminded by another White House flunky that the forces of evil were plotting new and terrible ways to blow up the nearest strip mall, 1,000 Muslim teenagers and young adults gathered outside a Thai police station to peacefully protest what they considered racist treatment by local cops. 87 of them went home in body bags that night. Our PM defended the actions of local police, claiming that they responded to the protest with appropriate measures, by firing waves of bullets into the crowds of unarmed youth... The next day the leader of a local organization working for greater religious freedom in Thailand's three muslim states made an oath that the deaths of these young muslims would not go unpunished, promising there would be bomb attacks on Bangkok in retribution. The War on Terror rages on...

Oh yes, the War on Terror is one that strikes at the hearts of all Americans, as it well should. The forces of darkness are lurking among the grain silos and truckstops of middle America, plotting their next atrocity on the hapless, God fearing American people. Surely we must can trust Bush to "chase the terrorists wherever they hide, killing them... while spreading Freedom and Democracy along the way" (quoted from his closing statement in the 2nd presidential debate). I could not help but picture a "Freedom Fairy" gossamer wings afloat, a smile of loving kindess alighting her beautiful face, gunning down fleeing Arabs and spreading "democracy dust" across the corpses she leaves in her wake. This is the vision of America that Bush puts in my mind, and I can't blame the taxi driver for his barrage of remarks when he hears I am American, because to him, I represent this image of domination, control, imperialism... the War on Terror... chase the enemy, kill them, spread democracy and, oh yeah, freedom... surely it will work... America: We Kill for Peace. As does Thailand now, apparently.

As I was speaking with a British colleague yesterday, we came to the conclusion that being as the US President is the leader of the Free World (not many would argue against that), perhaps the American people should have taken into account what the rest of the Free World (whatever that means) thinks of the current president when deciding who to vote for. International polls in the days leading up to the election showed Kerry with about 75 percent of the support across various Western and Asian countries... the Free World... those whose citizens the American president leads, the voices of Freedom that will never be heard across the corn fields and bible belt of Middle America.

In another discussion with an American friend, he told me that in all honesty, the thought of an enemy of individuals who were willing to die for the ideology they believed in frightened him, that perhaps the War on Terror was right to chase them down and kill these ideological zealots. I thought about the 1100 Americans who have died for something they believed in over the last 18 months in Iraq, were they not fighting for an ideological system, one that the president would have us believe is "good"? Good versus Evil, the War on Terror... When will it end? When Evil has been defeated... I ask, how do you define Goodness in the abscence of Evil? Doesn't one need the other? Don't try to fool us Bush, Evil cannot be defeated, the War on Terror will never end... but that's how it is meant to be...

In the meantime security forces are clamping down on Muslims in Southern Thailand, each day minor conflicts result in deaths on both sides... Our PM acts without fear of criticism from the West, after all, it's a War... people die... Thailand's just acting on the Mandate from the leader of the Free World Himself...

I visited a Thai mosque near our school a couple of weeks ago and sat down with the local Iman. With the help of our school secretary as a translator, my colleague and I had a wonderful conversation with the Iman and several of the community elders about the history of Islam in Thailand, the story of the 150 year old teak wood mosque, and the relationship between Thailand and the muslim community. I felt so welcome and comfortable in the beautiful setting of the mosque, a kilometer from the nearest road, at the confluence of two of Bangkok's countless canals... palm trees blowing in the breeze. The Iman gave us a tour of the mosque, and when we went up the stairs to an open air classroom for Islamic studies, I was suprised to see about 20 little kids sprawled out on the teak wood floor asleep in the afternoon heat... They were the pre-schoolers from the community whose parents drop them off at the mosque while they go off to work during the day. I almost tripped on a three year old boy, who rolled lazily onto his back, briefly opened his eyes to smile at me then flung his arms over his head and flipped back onto his stomach. This is the face of the enemy... we must chase them, kill them, wipe out Evil before it wipes out us...

As I explored the beautiful teak building it dawned on me that muslim communities like this one three hundred miles to the south were under attack for their desire to practice religion the way they choose. We had been welcomed so openly by the Iman and his peers... of course they wanted to make sure we weren't Bush supporters, a question that came up almost immediately after sitting down to talk, not surprisingly. In my Issues in World Religions class we have begun discussing religious conflicts and struggles between competing ideologies. I asked my kids today to write down everything they knew and didn't know about the conflict with Muslims in the south... After looking over their comments after class I saw that almost all of them perceived the Muslim community as a group of terrorists who are targetting innocent Thais, in the name of "religion". Living in Bangkok, much like living in any city in the US, my students are under the influence and control of the corporate media. Of the two major daily papers in Bangkok, one is owned by the prime minister's family... one of the three public television stations is government run, and all other media outlets are controlled by a handful of cronies with close ties to the PM and his powerful family. And just like in the US, the news these kids receive has been twisted and spun to present a version of a story that is once sided and in line with the "official" story according to the government. As a result the kids' perception of the struggle for religious autonomy in the South is one where Muslim terrorists are waging war on the authority of the Thai government... one where Thais are never wrong thus don't have to apologize when useless massacres occur, as the protest slaughter of last Monday.

There are very few Muslim students at my school, and the ones we do have are what you'd call "non-practicing". Most of my students know as much about as Islam as they see on the evening news and read in the local papers (also, not unlike in the United States!) The purpose of our visiting the mosque near school was to try to begin a relationship between the local Mulsim community and students at our school, in the hopes that we can attain some sort of reconciliation in the face of a conflict that looks to escalate and likely become close to home should the promise of bomb attacks in Bangkok be fulfilled. I want my students to know that Islam is not the enemy and Muslims are not terrorists. I hope they will be able to learn to respect and understand something they only fear and hate right now...

At the same time, as we embark on another four years of Good versus Evil, Us versus Them, you're either With Us or you'r e Against Us rhetoric from the Leader of the Free World, we too must reconcile our differences in view. As the War on Terror is waged in your community, our community, and new communities every day, all you can do to help bring this war to an end is wage wars of your own in your everyday life. How about a War on Ignorance, a War on Hatred, a War on Fear, a War on Bigotry, a War on Discrimination and Sexism and Racism and Oppression and Control, Environmental Destruction, Close-mindedness and Fundamentalism of all sorts... These are the wars we need to begin to fight on an individual level. Learn something about your neighbor, and you might find you love them, not fear them. Reconciliation begins only when we've made the effort to learn about someone we fear, and we see the humanity shared between all men.

Got a JOB!

2004-11-02T15:45:00.000-07:00

So I had a job interview this morning and thought I did really shitty...then again I just didn't care. But this evening I got a phone call from the shop and I start work at 9am tomorrow morning. So now I have a full time job until I leave and a bit of money to spend in the process. I guess I will be able to get X-mas presents this year for everyone. :)

But now the madness begins. I really am going to have to work my ass off for my dissertation...but I have an intro written....that is a start. Thank GOD!

Halloween 04

2004-11-01T09:30:00.000-07:00

Well I have survived yet another Halloween, Derry Style! It was a great day. I was a hula girl, and my friend Nate (a friend from SU who was visiting for the weekend)was Huck Finn. We started off the night with a parade from the University to town, then had a couple drinks to keep us warm as we danced to a DJ in a car park. Then around 8 we watched a fantabulous display of fireworks...like I said last year...fireworks over water is BRILLIANT!!!

Soon we were in the College Bar getting down with our bad selves and having a great night. It was tons of fun had by all!

BUT....THEN......

The migrane hit and forced me to my bed by midnight. So unfortunately I was unable to celebrate in TRUE Derry fashion until the wee hours of Monday morning. But I have gotten rid of the headache for the most part, but its still there mildly. I guess God had it out for me huh?

Here are some pictures for your viewing pleasure...ENJOY!

Procrastination: Friend or Foe?

2004-10-21T10:02:00.000-06:00

Well I have started that dreaded dissertation and although I only have an outline at the moment, it feels all that more possible and achievable. I am making connections all over the 'academic' community finding folks who are doing PhD's and other amazing research on such topics regarding Sierra Leone. For those of you who don't know the topic of my dissertation its: Reintegration of Child Combatants: Sierra Leone. Yeah a real 'light' subject. But interesting so that is good. After a brief meeting with my advisor tomorrow I will hit the ground running on the actual writing of such an essay.

This then brings me to my next topic of discussion: Governmental Leadership. As I have been reading and researching I have been doing a lot of reading on the topic of political reasons children are used to fight such bloody wars. And it all comes down to Political Leadership. Yes Sierra Leone is a 3rd world country, but so is Iraq. And Iraq is still using children to fight. Yeah we are training their military, but have any of us asked the question: What age are these soldiers? We forget as "progressive 1st world" civilians that our standards are not universal (Hence the War) but there has been a universal convention outlining universal rights of children, and that states that a child in any nation is younger than 18. That means that yes even in the good ol' US of A that we too use children to fight our battles.

It just makes me sad that a parent can give permission for their 17 year old child to fight for their country...sheesh when I was 17 I made some pretty silly mistakes. I am glad that I didn't take such a severe risk such as risking my life. Yes that is me and I am not saying my views are correct, but what government in their right mind would let a 17 year old defend their country when in some areas they aren't even allowed to drive a car. And it is worse in 3rd world nations, children as young as 10 are fighting. It breaks my heart, and I hope that eventually we can realize that it is our responsibility as citizens of a nation to make sure or attempt to make sure that our views are heard, not just those views of those we have elected to represent us on Capitol Hill.

Quiet Saturday

2004-10-16T11:45:00.000-06:00

Well here it is Saturday night and due to finances, and lack of housemates (they are all away for the weekend) I am home on a Saturday night. Actually I am excited to be here by myself. Being home alone means I can watch TV, read and play on the computer all I want without feeling like I am taking over someone elses house.

So this is my life. Not too exciting, but I like it. I went out on Wednesday and Thursday nights to the college bar, and had a great time. But everytime I am out it feels like something is missing. And I don't think that missing piece can be found here in Ireland.

Adjusting

2004-10-13T07:29:00.001-06:00

Who ever thought it would be possible to suffer culture shock so much in just a short period. I suffered it when I returned to the States and again upon my return here. I still haven't adjusted time wise but that will end when the elections are over and I don't have to stay up late at night to watch such things...ok well maybe post world series. But it should happen soon. I have a lot to accomplish in a short time.

On another note my friend Tyler (www.tylerknott.com) wrote an interesting blog re: goodbyes. I have to say ditto to that Ty! My case isn't the same as yours but I understand completely. Saying goodbye face to face is horrible, awful, and unenjoyable. But I think that goodbye makes saying Hello all that much more enjoyable. If a goodbye isn't hard then Hello isn't that enthused. I don't think its time playing the trick its our brain affixed on time. Trust me...I have had some sleepless nights where I think 63 days...24 hours in each day...sixty minutes in each hour...I AM NEVER GOING HOME!!! But then I think 10 weeks...that is nothing. Its all a matter of perspective. What is 10 weeks when it could be a lifetime? It is all relative I guess.

But relative or not 10 weeks is what I have to give here, and what I have until I am reunited with friends and family back in Seattle and Montana. I think I can do it...sheesh that means only 10 weeks to type 15,000 words. Now that doesn't seem long enough. Whew...time is relative!

15,000 words

2004-10-11T12:30:00.000-06:00

Who in their right mind would write 15,000 words on one subject. ME! I am trying to do this dissertation and have managed to do NOTHING! I have been in Ireland now for a week and have managed to aquire a cold, a place to stay (My wonderful housemates are letting me stay with them for the next months. I feel quite lucky. It makes life so much easier. So life is going well here. I just have to get my butt in gear for this silly silly paper. It MUST get done!

Life

2004-10-10T06:49:00.000-06:00

In the last month my life has been twisted upsidedown. I have changed all plans that at one time I thought were set, God has placed in my life some very special people who make being away hard. And just recently I discovered I do not desire or am I able to call Ireland home any longer. It may someday be home, but for now it is not. I love my friends here. They have been wonderful, and I will always be there for them. However, at this time I need to be there for my friends in America.

For all of you who are unaware I will return home in December and will be back in Helena until I can get my feet off the ground (or the debt off my credit card)and then the adventure of Clementine will begin again. I don't know where it will take me or what it will provide but I do know that I am ready.

I walk down the streets of Derry and it isn't home any longer. I haven't been to Galway yet, but I think it would be the same there. I have many friends here, and some of them are getting married as well. And I plan on supporting them in their lives, but for now I must support myself and do what feels right and that is returning to Montana for a brief bit (Yes I know I never thought I would hear those words uttered from my mouth) and continue on to achieve my life goals. I have created many new ones in recent months and just await the opportunity to conquer them. Nothing is impossible. It just takes time. And right now I seem to have plenty of it!

The Big 2-5

2004-10-03T11:12:00.000-06:00

Yes Folks this is it...Clementine is now officially 25 years of age. A quarter century old, halfway to 50. And to be honest it feels GREAT! I have been able to celebrate with very good friends and I even go Kerry/Bush cupcakes made on my birthday for the Debate! They were very cool! Now I am wrapping up my trip here to the States and Seattle, and am trying to pump myself up for Ireland.

I love Ireland, and have amazing friends there, but I have finally grown into my skin here in the States. I am OK living here now. I don't feel as though I NEED to be in Ireland forever, instead I am comfortable being close to family and friends. And the plane journey to Ireland isn't too bad. So slowly I am embracing my Americaness. Not yet at the stage where I would wave an American flag and shout my nationality but a state where I am comfortable with my nation (perhaps not its leaders) and myself.

But for now I have 10 weeks until I come back state side, and although that isn't very long time at all it seems like a life time right now. I am sure my mind set will change once my plane lands Wednesday morning and I am able to see good friends and stop living out of a suit case. Then Ireland may be "home" again.

I guess only time will tell. I am excited to see where this new adventure will take me, I am ready to conquer the next big 2-5...look out 50 here I come!!!

What makes Helena

2004-09-28T08:57:00.000-06:00

On a weekend trip to Missoula this past weekend my best friends mom called and asked why I was in Missoula when I just left 4 day earlier. I responded that I got sick of Helena. And her response was of course you did you don't have 2.5 children and aren't married.

That got me thinking...does it take being married and having your 2.5 children to maintain happiness in this town. I love driving into the valley when I come home for the holidays, but after a week of being here I am ready to leave. I never thought it could be because Helena caters to couples and not singles. Its true that the older generation here in Helena is like a soap opera. Couple B divorces at the same time as couples A, C, D, and F and soon all the couples have found an equation where they are dating so and so's ex. And soon they remarry and have their 2.5 kids plus their spouses 2.5 kids. So now they really are one big happy family.

So where does the 20 something single Helena native fit into this picture...well they don't. That is the problem. That is why something like Octoberfest at the fairgrounds brings out Helena's finest single folk. It gives them an excuse to drink and hit on girls that aren't going to push them away because they too are drunk. As one friend said to me Friday night as I walked into the Octoberfest tent, "wanna find some hot guys?!" I looked at her and almost said, "yeah where are we gonna go for that?!" Instead I suggested we go and dance to the wonderful polka/country/rock music being played on the stage. So that is what happens to those single 20-somethings they kind of blend into the same group as the older generation divorcees.

That said, I am not into any of that. If I go out I wanna have a good time, but remember the night. I want to wake up with a clear head and a conscious recollection of what I did the night before. I want to have life remain to be an adventure. And settling down into "Helena" life just won't do it for me.

Montana Life

2004-09-23T00:35:00.000-06:00

It has been good being home. I have realized many of my childhood friends have left this town to find bigger and better adventures. And some are back on sabbatical, and then there are the ones that just love Helena and will never leave (however, they are few and far between). I have seen a few good friends and that has been nice to catch up. I have also met new friends. Its kind of weird to do so as I live in a foreign country and will be departing soon, but it is also refreshing to get new perspectives and receive new outlooks on life. I had one such friend tell me he thought there were too many liberals in the world, and he thought conscription was a good idea. And after a mild discussion we realized that we both felt strongly about opposing views however, it was nice having a educated discussion about both.

It is also through these new friendships I hope to grow. I hope that they remain and do not dim. Friendship is so important to me. It is right up there with God, and family. I don't think I could live without all my hundreds of friends in the world. And each of them has played a major roll in my life and for that I am thankful. I am also thankful for those 'new' friends who are willing to take a risk and be friends with someone who is leaving the country. That is such an honour to me. So to all my friends out there THANK YOU!

I guess its just like the old nursery rhyme went: Make new friends but keep the old. One is silver and one is gold. Only to me all my friends are gold.

Long time no write

2004-09-21T09:19:00.000-06:00

So life has been quite busy lately. My bestest friend in the entire world got married last Saturday and it was amazing. I think it was the number one wedding, everything went on without a hitch. But being her maid of honour who lives 3000 miles away I decided that I should put a little more effort into the role so I stayed in Missoula for a little longer than a week to help with last minute stuff. It was quite stressful at times but I can only imagine what Hillary felt. Overall, it was a blast, and the end result was flawless. (Thanks Hillary O. for the privilege to be part of such an amazing event.)

Now I am in Helena again, just chillin and relaxing. I think since it's sunny I might go for a run in the woods (I haven't exercised at all since I have been here) then I might go for lunch. It's kind of weird not having anything that HAS to be done. But also nice as well. I venture off to Seattle in the not so distant future and can't wait to see old friends. It should be nice. Then it is back to Derry to figure out what I am going to do with my life. Until then I just get to hang out and smell the roses. Oh the life.

Home...sweet?....Home

2004-09-04T14:44:00.000-06:00

Well here I am back in the ol' US of A. And I am a bit overwhelmed. Besides being a bit culture shocked I haven't got much sleep due to deep convos with the sister, and jet lag. Gotta love it. Now I have a 12 hour drive from Denver to Helena tomorrow and oh how I am looking forward to it. Or not.

Actually it will be nice having some alone time and just chillin in the car. I find driving one of the most relaxing things in the world. So hopefully it will help prepare me for what lies ahead. Since I envision my life being madness and mahem the next month.

On a happier note than my last couple blogs, I found out I got a stipend from the Support Fund at Uni so when I return to Derry I won't have to stess about rent and bills straight away. So that has been a nice bonus. Now I just need to start getting things together for this internship/placement in October. I can't wait.

Well I will sign off for now, still 2 more states 3 towns/cities to occupy before I venture off to the emerald isle.

Almost Home

2004-08-29T10:40:00.000-06:00

Well here it is and I will be states side in 4 days and counting. I can't wait, but I am a wee bit sad to leave this town. Its great. But I am dying to get back to Montana and see family and friends.

I must say I am thankful for all of you who put your 2 cents into my blog. Its weird knowing that what you think and feel is being read by others, but its so nice to get words of encouragement from those around you. I am truly blessed with some of the best friends and family a girl could ask for. And I guess that is worth a lot more than any dollar or currency. I once told my parents (when they were stressing about their debt) that I didn't care if we were homeless as long as we were all together and loved each other deeply I would be happy. And I think that holds true today. I guess being homeless wouldn't be so bad, because I know that I have love and God on my side, and that makes for a powerful team.

I also heard an interesting message in church this morning. Andrew was using the story of Joseph to demonstrate his sermon and he kept asking 'are you living your wildest dream or your worst nightmare?' Well that got me thinking....I AM living my wildest dream (0r one of them) by being here in Ireland. And then Andrew continued by saying that like Joseph things will get rough.... you can live your wildest dream but at times it may seem like your worst nightmare. And I guess that is where I am at now...a low point what seems like my worst nightmare but really and truly its my wildest dream. So this is a shout out to all you who have encouraged me and supported me! Thanx!

Also in other news Clementine has continued to make more Brilliant contacts in the world! I met my hero and roll model Hillary Clinton. I also met Gerry Adams and Martin McGuinness. So this year alone I have met all 3 presidents of the EU (one who is prime minister of Ireland...what they call the Taoiseach) So I feel on top of the world to say the least. Life is good money or none!

Again thanks for all your love and support no matter how far away we are!