Found the link to this on Facebook and it made me cry. Human life is sacred from the time of conception, we need more dedicated people like this to join the fight to end abortion!
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Friday, November 8, 2013
Accident Prone?
What is it with me and fishtailing all over roads?! I'm getting the feeling that I'm just accident prone. Almost went ditch jumping twice on the way home from class this evening. This fresh wet snow melting all over the roads is not very friendly to turning car tires. But I'm home safe so I change into comfy clothes and brew some coffee with a hint of vanilla and sit down to blog. I'm really not looking forwards to this winter driving stuff, but in reality, just give me a dark, curvy back road and a couple deer doing a photo shoot in the middle of the highway, (seriously? Hasn't anyone taught them that photo shoots on frequently driven highways is dangerous? Even at 2 AM.) regardless of slippery tar or not, I can manage to land myself in the ditch.
It was late, Angel and I had been hanging out in Bemidji all evening and she wanted to go home so I agreed to drive her out to Laporte as I really wasn't tired or ready to be in bed myself yet, despite the fact that I knew when my alarm rang in 5 hours I would think differently about it. Driving down 45, radio on, talking to Angel, with my cruise set at a comfortable 60, the fact that deer frequent this road after dark, never crossing my mind until I looked up as we were coming around a turn and my headlights illuminated three of them strung out across the road. People say your life flashes before your eyes in moments like that, but mine didn't. I think dying did cross my mind as I slammed too hard on the brakes and the car spun sideways, we narrowly missed an approach, things like 'we're going to hit that sign, or roll or something!' crossed my mind. After doing a complete spin across the highway and landing in the opposite ditch facing the road, I paused a few seconds so my mind could catch up with what was happening. The pungent odor of burned rubber filled the car. Angel who wasn't wearing a seat belt was practically in my lap. Shakiness and complete calm fought over my body and my first thought after making sure she was okay were, 'I've wrecked mom's car!' the brakes were locked up and the gas was unresponsive. My second thought after I leaned back against the seat and took a deep shaky breath was, "I've really gotta pee! Maybe I'll just get out and go there are no cars. Never mind it's too cold." with that decision made, I made a couple more unsuccessful attempts to get the car driving and then as a last resort turned it off. It started right up and I drove the rest of the way to her house mostly silent. After dropping her off and as I headed back towards Bemidji alone, I started really thinking about what had happened, that's when I began shaking, as the adrenaline wore off.
"Thank you God for protecting us!" I prayed silently.
"Anna you need Me!" the words rang distinctly through my thoughts and tears filled my eyes.
"I know! Please be patient with me! Keep working on me God!"
As I passed the black skid marks on the road home, I couldn't help thinking, God had angels there guiding us. And as I continued to replay it in my mind the next week or so, even now, I am convinced there is no possible way that we could have walked away from that with only sore muscles, without God's protection. I'm also convinced that God has a plan for our lives, if only we could quit wasting our time caught up in our own selfish and minuscule goals we're set on.
When I told my parents, they said that dad was up late and as he did his late night stuff, he prayed for us. I'm so thankful for those prayers, maybe the only thing that pulled me through yet another stupid teenage accident.
I thought for the longest time that I was unlucky or something of the sort because I always got caught in everything I did, always got in trouble, and I really hated the way God and my parents seemed to be working together against me to make me miserable, (oh the trials of being a rebellious adolescent!) but maybe I'm not so unlucky, because all those times that I did stupid things and was sneaking around, the consequences could have been so much worse, I actually find myself very blessed for way God has protected me so far through my stupidity.
Anyways to my loyal readers, thanks to you who have had a part in praying for me, I definitely need it! And finally, enjoy this cozy, white frosting like snow and drive safe!
It was late, Angel and I had been hanging out in Bemidji all evening and she wanted to go home so I agreed to drive her out to Laporte as I really wasn't tired or ready to be in bed myself yet, despite the fact that I knew when my alarm rang in 5 hours I would think differently about it. Driving down 45, radio on, talking to Angel, with my cruise set at a comfortable 60, the fact that deer frequent this road after dark, never crossing my mind until I looked up as we were coming around a turn and my headlights illuminated three of them strung out across the road. People say your life flashes before your eyes in moments like that, but mine didn't. I think dying did cross my mind as I slammed too hard on the brakes and the car spun sideways, we narrowly missed an approach, things like 'we're going to hit that sign, or roll or something!' crossed my mind. After doing a complete spin across the highway and landing in the opposite ditch facing the road, I paused a few seconds so my mind could catch up with what was happening. The pungent odor of burned rubber filled the car. Angel who wasn't wearing a seat belt was practically in my lap. Shakiness and complete calm fought over my body and my first thought after making sure she was okay were, 'I've wrecked mom's car!' the brakes were locked up and the gas was unresponsive. My second thought after I leaned back against the seat and took a deep shaky breath was, "I've really gotta pee! Maybe I'll just get out and go there are no cars. Never mind it's too cold." with that decision made, I made a couple more unsuccessful attempts to get the car driving and then as a last resort turned it off. It started right up and I drove the rest of the way to her house mostly silent. After dropping her off and as I headed back towards Bemidji alone, I started really thinking about what had happened, that's when I began shaking, as the adrenaline wore off.
"Thank you God for protecting us!" I prayed silently.
"Anna you need Me!" the words rang distinctly through my thoughts and tears filled my eyes.
"I know! Please be patient with me! Keep working on me God!"
As I passed the black skid marks on the road home, I couldn't help thinking, God had angels there guiding us. And as I continued to replay it in my mind the next week or so, even now, I am convinced there is no possible way that we could have walked away from that with only sore muscles, without God's protection. I'm also convinced that God has a plan for our lives, if only we could quit wasting our time caught up in our own selfish and minuscule goals we're set on.
When I told my parents, they said that dad was up late and as he did his late night stuff, he prayed for us. I'm so thankful for those prayers, maybe the only thing that pulled me through yet another stupid teenage accident.
I thought for the longest time that I was unlucky or something of the sort because I always got caught in everything I did, always got in trouble, and I really hated the way God and my parents seemed to be working together against me to make me miserable, (oh the trials of being a rebellious adolescent!) but maybe I'm not so unlucky, because all those times that I did stupid things and was sneaking around, the consequences could have been so much worse, I actually find myself very blessed for way God has protected me so far through my stupidity.
Anyways to my loyal readers, thanks to you who have had a part in praying for me, I definitely need it! And finally, enjoy this cozy, white frosting like snow and drive safe!
Borrowing from the World
The truck is warm and my mind is jam packed full of all sorts of thoughts tormenting me. I zone out on the red taillights of the truck in front of me, set my cruise at 60 and light a cigarette. I'm starting to feel depressed, thinking about my grades in my college classes, determining once again that am going to try harder, make up my grades. Subconsciously a silent prayer runs through my mind "God I need you to help me!" the words I've whispered in my thoughts a million times. Every time I run into a hard spot, every time I know I can't do it on my own. The radio is playing low and I realize that the station Aaron has it set to is the Christian station. I turn it up and soak up the worship.
The course of my thoughts turn to Christianity, the subject I've been struggling against for so long. Fighting against God, telling him no no I'm not ready. Terrified to be bound by religion. I am an extremist. I can't help it. Everything is black and white for me. I try and make things grey and they turn fuzzy. It's either right or it's wrong there is no 'maybe it's okay' in between in my mind. For me if I decided to recommit my life, absolutely everything would change and I'm terrified of change. I'm hungry for change, something different and exciting, new. I'm restless, but I look outside that plane window and despite the fact that I have a parachute on my back, I cower back, the jump to make the change is what terrifies me. I'm comfortable. Miserable yes, but comfortable.
"An hour of the best Christian dance music coming up." the announcer on the radio breaks through my thoughts, followed by a 10 second preview of hip-hop/rap style music with Christian lyrics. A sudden frustration wells inside of me.
As Christians it sees like we try so hard to make sure we get in on the fun the world has, we copy the things that they're doing and put the label "Christian" on them so that we can still live our holy lives. We try to combine the world and holiness. But in reality are we really doing any more than blurring the lines? Trying to find that grey, 'maybe it's okay', in between right and wrong. Like I said I'm an extremist and I'm not trying to point fingers. I just feel frustrated with this. And trying to find my own balance, fearing giving up everything, then swinging to a grey line that says 'no, I can recommit and then work from there I don't have to jump from sinner to holy just because I ask God to change me.' But what is the balance? And finally, this is a little off topic but another thing about the whole right or wrong, grey lines thing been bugging me lately; Christians, please practice what you preach. Know your argument. Stick to it. If you want to profess something, make sure that when I question it, when I look at your life and ask 'are they living it?' that you have solid, convincing answers to my questions about why you believe it, not just some 'God is mysterious' crap. I know that no one is perfect, regardless, but if you preach it, know it and most of all LIVE it!
The course of my thoughts turn to Christianity, the subject I've been struggling against for so long. Fighting against God, telling him no no I'm not ready. Terrified to be bound by religion. I am an extremist. I can't help it. Everything is black and white for me. I try and make things grey and they turn fuzzy. It's either right or it's wrong there is no 'maybe it's okay' in between in my mind. For me if I decided to recommit my life, absolutely everything would change and I'm terrified of change. I'm hungry for change, something different and exciting, new. I'm restless, but I look outside that plane window and despite the fact that I have a parachute on my back, I cower back, the jump to make the change is what terrifies me. I'm comfortable. Miserable yes, but comfortable.
"An hour of the best Christian dance music coming up." the announcer on the radio breaks through my thoughts, followed by a 10 second preview of hip-hop/rap style music with Christian lyrics. A sudden frustration wells inside of me.
As Christians it sees like we try so hard to make sure we get in on the fun the world has, we copy the things that they're doing and put the label "Christian" on them so that we can still live our holy lives. We try to combine the world and holiness. But in reality are we really doing any more than blurring the lines? Trying to find that grey, 'maybe it's okay', in between right and wrong. Like I said I'm an extremist and I'm not trying to point fingers. I just feel frustrated with this. And trying to find my own balance, fearing giving up everything, then swinging to a grey line that says 'no, I can recommit and then work from there I don't have to jump from sinner to holy just because I ask God to change me.' But what is the balance? And finally, this is a little off topic but another thing about the whole right or wrong, grey lines thing been bugging me lately; Christians, please practice what you preach. Know your argument. Stick to it. If you want to profess something, make sure that when I question it, when I look at your life and ask 'are they living it?' that you have solid, convincing answers to my questions about why you believe it, not just some 'God is mysterious' crap. I know that no one is perfect, regardless, but if you preach it, know it and most of all LIVE it!
Thursday, November 7, 2013
How do you know they are changed?
I read this post and it really struck me. This is such an issue, especially child molesters but really anyone who has been categorized as a sexual offender tends to get this really bad rep, they are instantly the lowest of lows and there is no hope for them, despite their being forgiven by God or changed, there's always that fear and mistrust. What is the line, what is safe, what's being smart and what is just unnecessary holding on to the past.
Coming from the other side, this is really a big issue... besides murdering someone, probably one of the worst things you can do to possibly hurt and scar someone is to sexually abuse them. Sexual abuse affects even family and other people close to the victim in a huge way and turns lives completely upside down. But when is it time to let go and forgive and look at the offender as if they are really truly changed?
I've seen the abusers change, it can happen! And if God can forgive and accept them back, how can we still hold this sin over their heads? Who are we to judge when our sins are equal in God's eyes?
Coming from the other side, this is really a big issue... besides murdering someone, probably one of the worst things you can do to possibly hurt and scar someone is to sexually abuse them. Sexual abuse affects even family and other people close to the victim in a huge way and turns lives completely upside down. But when is it time to let go and forgive and look at the offender as if they are really truly changed?
I've seen the abusers change, it can happen! And if God can forgive and accept them back, how can we still hold this sin over their heads? Who are we to judge when our sins are equal in God's eyes?
Friday, November 1, 2013
Halloween
I happened across the link to this blog post on a friend's Facebook wall. She's got some really good points that maybe we need to consider. I was with a friend last night helping her bring her kid around trick or treating. Bemidji was really really dead in comparison to most Halloween nights and a good percent of the houses were dark. I kind of had mixed feelings about participating in the events. I'm not totally sure what I think about Halloween, I've been raised strictly against it but I thought that these posts kind of put a new light on it and the people who celebrate it, for me. The author of this blog is by no means condoning the holiday, but her response to the way Christians respond to the holiday made me really think. What are your thoughts?
Monday, October 28, 2013
Being Happy
I just got done ranting to mom about all the stresses in my life right now and finished up with,
'All I do is complain, I used to be so much more positive, now I'm negative all the time!'
I sat down at the family computer to figure out some things about school and accidentally clicked on a tab Sarah had up on Pinterest. Covering nature journals, on the marbled green and brown cover, a quote was printed,
Being happy doesn't mean everything's perfect, it means you decide to see beyond the imperfections.
I've been trying to tell myself 'happiness is a choice' for the last few months but it just doesn't seem to stick. But today I'm deciding, it's time to quit running from my problems, ranting about them doesn't help. I need to turn around and face them. Write them all down, sort them all through and find the answers instead of letting the problems drag me down. I need to stop running away from The Solution to my problems. It's time to see beyond the imperfections and choose happiness.
'All I do is complain, I used to be so much more positive, now I'm negative all the time!'
I sat down at the family computer to figure out some things about school and accidentally clicked on a tab Sarah had up on Pinterest. Covering nature journals, on the marbled green and brown cover, a quote was printed,
Being happy doesn't mean everything's perfect, it means you decide to see beyond the imperfections.
I've been trying to tell myself 'happiness is a choice' for the last few months but it just doesn't seem to stick. But today I'm deciding, it's time to quit running from my problems, ranting about them doesn't help. I need to turn around and face them. Write them all down, sort them all through and find the answers instead of letting the problems drag me down. I need to stop running away from The Solution to my problems. It's time to see beyond the imperfections and choose happiness.
Friday, October 11, 2013
The Effects of Music on Our Brain
My latest article response for my composition class responding to this interesting article I happened upon earlier today; Music and the Brain - Laurence O'Donnell. What are your thoughts on this subject or article?
Anna Lofgren
10/11/13
As a boy Albert Einstein’s grades in school were terrible and his teachers sent him home,
telling his parents that he was too stupid to learn. But instead of giving up on him, his parents
bought him a violin and Einstein used music as a learning aid becoming one of the smartest men
in history. Playing music or singing uses both the left and the right side of the brain, exercising
and strengthening it, making learning and memorizing easier and more effective. Music also has
the power to influence our physical and emotional state.
In the article “Music and the Brain” by Laurence O’Donnell, he addresses the issue of the
effects of classical and jazz music versus rock and acid rock on living organisms and the power
music, rhythm and beats have on our brains. Studies have been done on people that have proven
that the rhythm of music either strengthens or weakens the brain’s capacity to take things in
and to memorize. In the studies, a group of postgraduate students were read a list of vocabulary
words. The first group was asked to visualize the words while Handel’s Water music was being
played in the background, the second group was read the same words with the same music
playing but were not asked to visualize the words and finally, the third group was read the
vocabulary words with no music playing and also were not asked to visualize. Results showed
that the first and second groups had better results remembering the words than the third group
and in the end the first group who had been asked to visualize the words had the best results of
all.
Studies have also been done on animals and crops. A psychologist tested rats put into two
boxes with free access to both, rock is played in one of the boxes and musical pieces by Bach
in the second. The rats will choose to move to the box where Bach’s music is being played
over the box where rock is being played, even when the music in the boxes is switched around.
Cows produce more milk when certain pieces of music are played and hens will lay more eggs.
Researchers from Canada also found that wheat crops will grow faster when exposed to certain
ultrasonic and musical sounds.
In 1968 a college student, Dorthy Retallac focused on the different sounds of music instead
of the beat and found that plants grew well for almost every kind of music besides rock and acid
rock. The plants exposed to these types of music withered and died.
I’ve noticed the influence that different types of music have on me. Some will put me into
a good mood where other music will make me feel blue. Also I’ve noticed that listening to
certain types of music either relaxes or riles me, helps me to concentrate or makes my brain feel
cluttered and my thoughts short.
O’Donnel uses a lot of examples of studies to support his point that different types of music,
rhythm and beats affect our brain and body as well as other living organisms in either positive
or negative ways. He has a sound and organized argument that gets his point across persuasively
and effectively. This article is written informatively but an underlying persuasiveness comes
through as he uses valid facts and research to make his point obvious for him without having to
state a personal opinion. Reading this piece by O’Donnell really made me think about the effects
that music has on us and the importance of listening to music that will have positive effects
instead of negative.
Anna Lofgren
10/11/13
The Effects of Music on Our Brain
As a boy Albert Einstein’s grades in school were terrible and his teachers sent him home,
telling his parents that he was too stupid to learn. But instead of giving up on him, his parents
bought him a violin and Einstein used music as a learning aid becoming one of the smartest men
in history. Playing music or singing uses both the left and the right side of the brain, exercising
and strengthening it, making learning and memorizing easier and more effective. Music also has
the power to influence our physical and emotional state.
In the article “Music and the Brain” by Laurence O’Donnell, he addresses the issue of the
effects of classical and jazz music versus rock and acid rock on living organisms and the power
music, rhythm and beats have on our brains. Studies have been done on people that have proven
that the rhythm of music either strengthens or weakens the brain’s capacity to take things in
and to memorize. In the studies, a group of postgraduate students were read a list of vocabulary
words. The first group was asked to visualize the words while Handel’s Water music was being
played in the background, the second group was read the same words with the same music
playing but were not asked to visualize the words and finally, the third group was read the
vocabulary words with no music playing and also were not asked to visualize. Results showed
that the first and second groups had better results remembering the words than the third group
and in the end the first group who had been asked to visualize the words had the best results of
all.
Studies have also been done on animals and crops. A psychologist tested rats put into two
boxes with free access to both, rock is played in one of the boxes and musical pieces by Bach
in the second. The rats will choose to move to the box where Bach’s music is being played
over the box where rock is being played, even when the music in the boxes is switched around.
Cows produce more milk when certain pieces of music are played and hens will lay more eggs.
Researchers from Canada also found that wheat crops will grow faster when exposed to certain
ultrasonic and musical sounds.
In 1968 a college student, Dorthy Retallac focused on the different sounds of music instead
of the beat and found that plants grew well for almost every kind of music besides rock and acid
rock. The plants exposed to these types of music withered and died.
I’ve noticed the influence that different types of music have on me. Some will put me into
a good mood where other music will make me feel blue. Also I’ve noticed that listening to
certain types of music either relaxes or riles me, helps me to concentrate or makes my brain feel
cluttered and my thoughts short.
O’Donnel uses a lot of examples of studies to support his point that different types of music,
rhythm and beats affect our brain and body as well as other living organisms in either positive
or negative ways. He has a sound and organized argument that gets his point across persuasively
and effectively. This article is written informatively but an underlying persuasiveness comes
through as he uses valid facts and research to make his point obvious for him without having to
state a personal opinion. Reading this piece by O’Donnell really made me think about the effects
that music has on us and the importance of listening to music that will have positive effects
instead of negative.
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Roller Coaster
There's something about knowing God is in control of the world and I don't have to be responsible for it makes it a little easier and less stressful, and yet life is pretty crazy right now, so good and so disappointing, so exciting and so scary!
I know it's been forever since I last updated this blog. About two months ago, Cjay and I moved in with one of my coworkers who was looking for a roommate. Rent was cheap and I was excited about being with him. We were also having problems and I naively figured that moving in together would help those problems. I came out of it, realizing it was a good thing as I learned a lot more about him and who he was, as well as who I was and who we were together. I found out that it just wasn't going to work out and I finally told him goodbye and helped him move back to Cass Lake.
I promised myself from the beginning that I would never regret our relationship, and though there are things about it that I regret, I learned so much and am thankful for the time that he was in my life. I feel like I've grown closer to my family the last two months as they've been there for me and supported me through every up and down and poor decision and high I've had. And being single has given me a new freedom and perspective on life.
My roommate has been amazing! Helps me out with stuff when I need it and does so much for me that she doesn't have to do. Her grandparents passed about a month ago after an accident which was really difficult for her. It was hard watching her go through that. About a week ago, we went down to Valley Fair for a day and stayed with her parents, the family was going cleaning out and preparing her grandparents' house for sale and I think it was a bit difficult for her, but at the same time she was able to say goodbye one last time, and get some things that held memories for her from the house.
Valley fair was a lot of fun, but after the second roller coaster, I couldn't force myself to get on one more. The food was good and the water park was fun. I got super burned, even though I used sunscreen, I'm pretty sure that the sunscreen made it worse! Even though we were gone only two days, it felt so good to be home again!
I've been working on quitting some bad habits and all together turning my life back around on track, trusting God more with my future and yet taking control and making all the dreams I let go happen. Today I was scheduled for my road test to get my license, I made one little-big mistake that automatically failed me. I was a bit disappointed but before hand as I sat and waited for the instructor, I had a little chat with God about how I could really use my license right now but at the same time wasn't sure if I was prepared to drive and that if He didn't think I should get it that was in His hands. So I guess God has other plans, and hopefully I'll pass the test I have scheduled in three weeks.
After failing my road test, mom and I stopped in at BSU to sign up for PSEO, Brett, the PSEO administrator was extremely helpful and nice and took my registration papers and highschool transcript, looked at my accuplacer test scores and said it looked promising and that he'd set up a date after processing my papers to come in and register for classes. That going smoothly, kind of made up for failing my road test. So hopefully if all goes well, by the end of August, I'll be starting school.
In closing, I'd like to ask for prayer for a really close friend of mine who lost her fiance on Sunday in a swimming accident. Their little girl is about 7 months. It tears me up every time I think about that fact that she's gonna grow up without him and my friend's loss. I'm hoping to go up Thursday for my day off with Rachael to be with her for the day. Once more I question the reason but know that God's working something out for the better but right now it's so hard to see what good possibly could come from something so tragic! So please keep her in your prayers!
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Fast Food
Even though I haven't worked since Friday and I don't have to work until Thursday (5 days off!!!:D) I was waiting in town for a ride today so I went to Burger King. I was watching people coming in and going, this one young looking mom and her little boy, must have been 5 or 6 came in, he ran ahead and pulled open the door for her and then the next door. It was just too cute! I watched them off and on while they were there too and they looked like they were having fun. She treated him like a friend, her equal instead of being a mature adult and acting as if he was below her level of entertainment. I admire those parent/child relationships and hope someday my kids love me that much.
As I sat there, I was thinking about the subject that's never far from my mind as I watch my coworkers working, I really honestly don't think that fast food people are appreciated enough, I've been places where they really aren't that good at what they do and probably don't give a care, but I've seen enough people that work fast food that maybe hate their jobs but they still do their best. They're trying to survive just like anyone out there who got lucky enough to get a well paying job.
Fast food might be a simple job but we deal with a lot of crap from people because we are 'lower class' 'cause we work flipping burgers. And if we get your order wrong, well it's the end of the world. I understand if you're on your way somewhere, or on break, it's frustrating getting the wrong food, or having to wait so long that you hardly have time to eat... if your food isn't the best quality or warm. I understand those frustrations, but we are human and we do our best. You get what you pay for and if we can get your order to you within 2 minutes... we're doing good. Think about it, you get a whole frickin meal in less than 5 minutes? How often does that happen and you don't even have to make it! Give us some room for mistakes. Respect us. We're doing our best.
A lot of it has to do with management and the owner of the restaurant too, how it's run.
Working fast food has been a very trying and stressful but exciting and fun experience for me. I've got some really amazing coworkers, like Simona...
Simona is one of the most amazing people. She's rough around the edges a bit, she's talkative and extremely opinionated at times. But she's fun, she's got a big heart and she's got the best smile. I don't think she really gets appreciated enough for her ability to deal positively with the customers. She's extremely friendly and I enjoy working with her.
Roxanne is really quiet, and really doesn't like working with people but she's a lot of fun once you get to know her and she's a good at listening.
Chris, he's still in highschool, but he's funny. We give each other a lot of crap while we work and he makes time pass so much faster.
Sammi is my manager... She can get pretty upset with certain people, but she's great at what she does and works hard. She's really great with customers and in high stress situations. Sad thing about managers is they don't get paid overtime or benefits, so even if they do work most of their week away they get the same amount as if they hadn't.
Steph is another of my favorite managers, as well as Kami, both are super sweet and frequently encourage the employees working during their shifts.
Theresa has the biggest heart. She's pretty rough, but she'll give you the shirt off her back if you ask. And she's loyal. We've become pretty good friends over the 3 months I worked there so far, I've taken shifts for her and she often will offer me a ride if I'm having a hard time finding one.
Another Chris who works there is overweight and tall, he's quiet but every now and then I'll get him to have a short conversation and I'm pretty sure there's an amazing person behind all that shyness. He's the steady faithful type.
There's so many people that work there, people who have been there for a long time and people who have just started, I just covered a few of them, I really appreciate all of them, for the patience they've had with me and for the respect they have for the customers and for the ones who have been there for years. I respect them for putting up with the bad customers and the boss.
A few kind words, from a customer or a coworker can go a long ways though. I was working till one day, something I don't get to do often, and a coworker Darrin was on break, as I took his order, he gave me a grin and said, "Anna, you're really good with customer service!"
That sweet comment is still stuck with me. Makes me want to do better.
I don't know what life will lead me to in the next few months or year, there are so many possibilities and so many changes taking places every day but whether I"m here for the next couple of years or move on. I'm thankful for these people who have become my friends. And to those daily customers who recognize us enough to have a good chat, and the ones who are just friendly. You guys are what make my job worth it. I love serving you!
As I sat there, I was thinking about the subject that's never far from my mind as I watch my coworkers working, I really honestly don't think that fast food people are appreciated enough, I've been places where they really aren't that good at what they do and probably don't give a care, but I've seen enough people that work fast food that maybe hate their jobs but they still do their best. They're trying to survive just like anyone out there who got lucky enough to get a well paying job.
Fast food might be a simple job but we deal with a lot of crap from people because we are 'lower class' 'cause we work flipping burgers. And if we get your order wrong, well it's the end of the world. I understand if you're on your way somewhere, or on break, it's frustrating getting the wrong food, or having to wait so long that you hardly have time to eat... if your food isn't the best quality or warm. I understand those frustrations, but we are human and we do our best. You get what you pay for and if we can get your order to you within 2 minutes... we're doing good. Think about it, you get a whole frickin meal in less than 5 minutes? How often does that happen and you don't even have to make it! Give us some room for mistakes. Respect us. We're doing our best.
A lot of it has to do with management and the owner of the restaurant too, how it's run.
Working fast food has been a very trying and stressful but exciting and fun experience for me. I've got some really amazing coworkers, like Simona...
Simona is one of the most amazing people. She's rough around the edges a bit, she's talkative and extremely opinionated at times. But she's fun, she's got a big heart and she's got the best smile. I don't think she really gets appreciated enough for her ability to deal positively with the customers. She's extremely friendly and I enjoy working with her.
Roxanne is really quiet, and really doesn't like working with people but she's a lot of fun once you get to know her and she's a good at listening.
Chris, he's still in highschool, but he's funny. We give each other a lot of crap while we work and he makes time pass so much faster.
Sammi is my manager... She can get pretty upset with certain people, but she's great at what she does and works hard. She's really great with customers and in high stress situations. Sad thing about managers is they don't get paid overtime or benefits, so even if they do work most of their week away they get the same amount as if they hadn't.
Steph is another of my favorite managers, as well as Kami, both are super sweet and frequently encourage the employees working during their shifts.
Theresa has the biggest heart. She's pretty rough, but she'll give you the shirt off her back if you ask. And she's loyal. We've become pretty good friends over the 3 months I worked there so far, I've taken shifts for her and she often will offer me a ride if I'm having a hard time finding one.
Another Chris who works there is overweight and tall, he's quiet but every now and then I'll get him to have a short conversation and I'm pretty sure there's an amazing person behind all that shyness. He's the steady faithful type.
There's so many people that work there, people who have been there for a long time and people who have just started, I just covered a few of them, I really appreciate all of them, for the patience they've had with me and for the respect they have for the customers and for the ones who have been there for years. I respect them for putting up with the bad customers and the boss.
A few kind words, from a customer or a coworker can go a long ways though. I was working till one day, something I don't get to do often, and a coworker Darrin was on break, as I took his order, he gave me a grin and said, "Anna, you're really good with customer service!"
That sweet comment is still stuck with me. Makes me want to do better.
I don't know what life will lead me to in the next few months or year, there are so many possibilities and so many changes taking places every day but whether I"m here for the next couple of years or move on. I'm thankful for these people who have become my friends. And to those daily customers who recognize us enough to have a good chat, and the ones who are just friendly. You guys are what make my job worth it. I love serving you!
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Life in this crazy never stopping world...
Looks like once again I've neglected my blog!
January 16, I started working at Burger King. Always been my dream job and finally I got it! :P Jk it's not my dream job but the money has been really nice! I've pretty much done everything although I haven't done a whole lot of cooking, everyone says that's the best part, I'm not so anxious, they can go ahead I'll keep working front! :P I like my coworkers... most of them.. :) and my boss so far still likes me...despite the times I've been late or snowed in.
Speaking of snow, this stupid snow doesn't seem to wanna go. It keeps coming back every time we get anywhere close to spring, at least the temperatures have steadily been going up! It's about time for some REAL spring! With all the snow melting, our drive way has gotten pretty muddy. It's fun driving in now... no sarcasm intended, though most of my family members disagree on that one. ;) I think it's quite exciting.
Beginning of March, Cjay proposed after talking to dad, I said yes of course! :) We had talked about a summer wedding but agreed that waiting at least until next summer would be better, which is good, I got pretty stressed over the idea of planning a wedding in 3 months! Cjay's also hoping to join the Army, he's going to Fargo to register on Wednesday and if they will actually accept him, he'll be going to Basic Training Camp sometime and May for about 10 weeks, not sure where he'll be going after that but will be Active Duty, I"m not sure how much I'll get to see him over the next little while. It was quite the struggle for me to accept him going which caused enough fights for us. But I think I'm finally getting to the point where I"m genuinely proud of him, I'm still a little afraid and I don't like the idea of him being gone but I'm sure that will all work out just fine in the end.
It's only 6 weeks (from yesterday;) until I can finally get my license! I'm really excited! Also looking to buy a car by beginning of June.
I'm also planning on taking my ACT this spring and hoping to apply to some Universities, not sure where I'll go yet but I'm interested in a general English Major, something I could use for either teaching or business or something like journalism. UMD has a program like that that I was interested in but not sure if I want to go to Duluth. I'm glad I took the year off of school, it actually sounds half way exciting to go back to school this fall now.
About two weeks ago, a lady that comes into my work recommended the job she does, which is care for older people, bringing them to appointments, shopping, cleaning or laundry, or just spending time with them, whatever they need. She said it pays good and the hours are very flexible. Which if I could get the job I'd love. One of my managers put in her two weeks and is switching to a similar job through another company and one of my friends is working through another company that is also similar and loves it. So we'll see what happens with that. If I can't find a job like that, maybe once I get my license I'll be able to get more hours where I'm working now. About a month into my job I got a $0.50 raise but I still make under $8 an hour. Which is just fine right now, but a few more hours would be really nice!
Monday night is free bowling at the bowling alley here in Bemidji, Bubby was coming in and so he offered to bring Mimi and I, it was great spending some time with her and bowling was fun, even if we both suck! :P
This snow makes me want someone to cuddle up with, a hot drink and a movie! I like sweatshirt weather, but pretty sure, this is a little colder than that! lol Who else is ready for spring? T-shirts, flip-flops, beaches and natural tans! I think my skin is missing the sun too! lol Oh well, we just gotta keep believing and it will come eventually... I think... :)
January 16, I started working at Burger King. Always been my dream job and finally I got it! :P Jk it's not my dream job but the money has been really nice! I've pretty much done everything although I haven't done a whole lot of cooking, everyone says that's the best part, I'm not so anxious, they can go ahead I'll keep working front! :P I like my coworkers... most of them.. :) and my boss so far still likes me...despite the times I've been late or snowed in.
Speaking of snow, this stupid snow doesn't seem to wanna go. It keeps coming back every time we get anywhere close to spring, at least the temperatures have steadily been going up! It's about time for some REAL spring! With all the snow melting, our drive way has gotten pretty muddy. It's fun driving in now... no sarcasm intended, though most of my family members disagree on that one. ;) I think it's quite exciting.
Beginning of March, Cjay proposed after talking to dad, I said yes of course! :) We had talked about a summer wedding but agreed that waiting at least until next summer would be better, which is good, I got pretty stressed over the idea of planning a wedding in 3 months! Cjay's also hoping to join the Army, he's going to Fargo to register on Wednesday and if they will actually accept him, he'll be going to Basic Training Camp sometime and May for about 10 weeks, not sure where he'll be going after that but will be Active Duty, I"m not sure how much I'll get to see him over the next little while. It was quite the struggle for me to accept him going which caused enough fights for us. But I think I'm finally getting to the point where I"m genuinely proud of him, I'm still a little afraid and I don't like the idea of him being gone but I'm sure that will all work out just fine in the end.
It's only 6 weeks (from yesterday;) until I can finally get my license! I'm really excited! Also looking to buy a car by beginning of June.
I'm also planning on taking my ACT this spring and hoping to apply to some Universities, not sure where I'll go yet but I'm interested in a general English Major, something I could use for either teaching or business or something like journalism. UMD has a program like that that I was interested in but not sure if I want to go to Duluth. I'm glad I took the year off of school, it actually sounds half way exciting to go back to school this fall now.
About two weeks ago, a lady that comes into my work recommended the job she does, which is care for older people, bringing them to appointments, shopping, cleaning or laundry, or just spending time with them, whatever they need. She said it pays good and the hours are very flexible. Which if I could get the job I'd love. One of my managers put in her two weeks and is switching to a similar job through another company and one of my friends is working through another company that is also similar and loves it. So we'll see what happens with that. If I can't find a job like that, maybe once I get my license I'll be able to get more hours where I'm working now. About a month into my job I got a $0.50 raise but I still make under $8 an hour. Which is just fine right now, but a few more hours would be really nice!
Monday night is free bowling at the bowling alley here in Bemidji, Bubby was coming in and so he offered to bring Mimi and I, it was great spending some time with her and bowling was fun, even if we both suck! :P
This snow makes me want someone to cuddle up with, a hot drink and a movie! I like sweatshirt weather, but pretty sure, this is a little colder than that! lol Who else is ready for spring? T-shirts, flip-flops, beaches and natural tans! I think my skin is missing the sun too! lol Oh well, we just gotta keep believing and it will come eventually... I think... :)
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
These Crazy People I Call Family - =D
I was thinking about what to write for a New Year post and decided I wouldn't write my normal 'Oh yay it's a new year to start over and etc.' this post is for my family, a thank you an apology a tribute --
People say, 'friends come and go but family is forever' and that is a true statement. Not for everyone. But for me it has been. 16-1/2 years they've put up with me, loved me, made me laugh, made me cry, listened to me, encouraged me. My family has been my biggest fan club, they know who I am and what hurts me, what I love, what I hate, what makes me smile. They've seen me at my worst (And believe me, anyone who has seen me at my worst and still loves me... they deserve a medal of some sort!). My family challenges me.
2012 has been rough, the relationships have been rocky, I've hurt my family, they've hurt me, I know I've said and done things that I shouldn't have, I've made life 10x's harder for them. I've probably brought a lot of the gray sprinkled through dad's dark hair... I account for probably at least half of the tears mom's shed. I've cut my siblings down, I've added stress, I've shattered dreams for peace and perfection, I've influenced siblings... and as the count down to the New Year comes around, who am I surrounded by? My family, grudges and hurts for the moment forgotten all that's there is support, and love.
If I could add up the grace and second chances, the forgiveness I've been extended by my family, It'd be an unfathomable amount. There have been many moments of misunderstanding, fighting, differences, words that cut, days I wish I had never been born into this clan, that I could just run away, I could disappear and start over. But in the end I know I'm lucky, I'm lucky that I still have them and no matter where the road takes me, no matter what my future, my destiny, I know that they will always be there and I'll always love them because they're a good family.
We're not the family mom might of dreamed of having. Perfect. But they're the best kind of family. The kind that when it get's rough, band together and support each other. The kind that doesn't judge and discriminate, might not approve, but instead of alienating they still love. No matter the relationship status, no matter how big of a fight, or how hurtful the words, we need something, they won't grudge or deny us it. My family is loyal. They know how to laugh when it hurts so bad you think you're gonna die, they're not so good at crying, but they're fighters and don't give in to the pain easily, they know how to work together. My family is fun, strong, generous, hospitable and amazing. That to me is a good family, so mom, you might not have a perfect family in the sense you wanted, your kids might not be everything you want them to be but you've created an amazing family, I think you can be proud of that.
We've still got rough months ahead... relationships aren't perfect, they never will be, but I can rest assured, in the fights and the pain, I'll always have their love. They'll always be here when I need them. I've realized that I'm blessed. Honestly, there are a lot of things I want to do different when I have a family of my own, I'm not afraid to say that, but when I think of my future, what I base my future on is what I've grown up with and I'll always be thankful for the memories, the love, and the support of my family. Not everyone has family they can depend on. So I wanna say thank you and I love you all!
People say, 'friends come and go but family is forever' and that is a true statement. Not for everyone. But for me it has been. 16-1/2 years they've put up with me, loved me, made me laugh, made me cry, listened to me, encouraged me. My family has been my biggest fan club, they know who I am and what hurts me, what I love, what I hate, what makes me smile. They've seen me at my worst (And believe me, anyone who has seen me at my worst and still loves me... they deserve a medal of some sort!). My family challenges me.
2012 has been rough, the relationships have been rocky, I've hurt my family, they've hurt me, I know I've said and done things that I shouldn't have, I've made life 10x's harder for them. I've probably brought a lot of the gray sprinkled through dad's dark hair... I account for probably at least half of the tears mom's shed. I've cut my siblings down, I've added stress, I've shattered dreams for peace and perfection, I've influenced siblings... and as the count down to the New Year comes around, who am I surrounded by? My family, grudges and hurts for the moment forgotten all that's there is support, and love.
If I could add up the grace and second chances, the forgiveness I've been extended by my family, It'd be an unfathomable amount. There have been many moments of misunderstanding, fighting, differences, words that cut, days I wish I had never been born into this clan, that I could just run away, I could disappear and start over. But in the end I know I'm lucky, I'm lucky that I still have them and no matter where the road takes me, no matter what my future, my destiny, I know that they will always be there and I'll always love them because they're a good family.
We're not the family mom might of dreamed of having. Perfect. But they're the best kind of family. The kind that when it get's rough, band together and support each other. The kind that doesn't judge and discriminate, might not approve, but instead of alienating they still love. No matter the relationship status, no matter how big of a fight, or how hurtful the words, we need something, they won't grudge or deny us it. My family is loyal. They know how to laugh when it hurts so bad you think you're gonna die, they're not so good at crying, but they're fighters and don't give in to the pain easily, they know how to work together. My family is fun, strong, generous, hospitable and amazing. That to me is a good family, so mom, you might not have a perfect family in the sense you wanted, your kids might not be everything you want them to be but you've created an amazing family, I think you can be proud of that.
We've still got rough months ahead... relationships aren't perfect, they never will be, but I can rest assured, in the fights and the pain, I'll always have their love. They'll always be here when I need them. I've realized that I'm blessed. Honestly, there are a lot of things I want to do different when I have a family of my own, I'm not afraid to say that, but when I think of my future, what I base my future on is what I've grown up with and I'll always be thankful for the memories, the love, and the support of my family. Not everyone has family they can depend on. So I wanna say thank you and I love you all!
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