Countdown

I safely got through my 23rd birthday, no thanks to the zero tolerance policy towards alcohol on Pine Knot. I'm still working hard at McCreary County Health and Rehab for workbased learning, and I'm just about finished with my 5th week. I'll be finished with my workbased learning on the 18th of November, which will also be the day I take off on my Thanksgiving Leave. I'll get to see my Paul again!

Speaking of, I'm overjoyed to announce my engagement to Paul! We won't officially tie the knot for at least another two years - plenty of time for Paul to get through basic training and get through his nuclear schooling in Charleston, and for me to start building a nest egg once I graduate from the Job Corps program.

After Thanksgiving Leave, I'll have another two weeks to get some work done on my TAR. Christmas Break begins on December 16th and ends January 3rd. Graduation is projected for January 27th, so I should have time to finish my TAR and my CTR classes. I'll be using my breaks to jobhunt, too - wish me luck!

New Approach

My phone is STILL not working with my blog again. SO! I'm going to have a little fun with this blog and post fun quiz results from blogthings.com ! Yay!

But first, a small update. Still coasting through Job Corps, and I actually see a light at the end of the tunnel! In other words, I've turned in my graduation papers and I'm projected to walk in January of next year. I've also volunteered to do some work-based learning at a nearby nursing home, and I still have to do the paper work for that. Today was a bake sale for a family in need - I spent almost $7 on sweets and proceeded to make myself sick! But oh, what a way to go, hee hee!

Ok! Time for a quiz result!

Your Personality Cluster is Introverted Intuition

You are multilayered and complex. No one can quite understand you. You are very inspired and driven to achieve your goals. Whether you know it or not, you are a visionary with a complete life plan. You are intuitive enough to understand difficult problems, ideas, and people.

What's Your Personality Cluster?

Work is Hard. Time for Blogthings!

Ok, until I can re-attune my blog to my phone, there will be only wishlists. Current wishlist: pencils, multicolor gel pens, and stamps. I love you guys!

Ok, apparently my last handful of blogs never posted. But it seems to be working, so I'll just try to keep my blogs down to one text at a time, just as a test.

Testing my mobile blogging right meow. It seems posts haven't been getting through...

Four posts in a week; that's a record!

But I thought since I've been here for a full 4 months, I should update with a rundown of the average monthly schedule. So, here goes!

On the first Monday of each month, we have an awards assembly. Certificates for students who have raised their scores in classes, for students of the month, and for dorm of the month are awarded. Every Monday is a weekly assembly, discussing the week's weather, campus plans and events, etc.

Every Wednesday is Teams. This is when ESPs are done, in addition to other announcements. Also on Wed is trip sign-ups in the rec center... Which sucks because I have my SST group then, and by the time we get done, the line is impossibly long! Blech!

Every two weeks we get a new CPP group, and every second Tues we get paid. These weeks alternate, so CPPs come in on dry weeks.

Finally, every last Friday of the month is a graduation ceremony. The graduates are given a bunch of goodies and declared graduates of the Job Corps program.

I think that's it. Oh, by the way, my harddrive is no longer broken. I fixed it with another good solid thwack! Ha!

Gah!! As if I didn't have enought to save up for!! After taking such good care of it, my 500GB hard drive is rendered dead because of a single drop to the floor!! All of my music and movies and games... GONE!! ... Well not really, if I take them to a computer store and have them take the data from the internals... All the same though, all of my data is now inaccessible...

... Now that I have that out of my system for now, there's good news. My first itinerary for the trip home has come in; I'll be back before dinnertime on the 30th, barring any act of God. Yay summer break!!

A Good Day

Three wonderful things happened today.

First... I worked with Leah on 2nd shift. It was her first ever shift, and it was just the two of us, so I worked extra hard. It felt SO good!!

Second... The results of the ServSafe certification test came in. Bo (my instructor) didn't give me my exact score, but he did tell me that I passed! I am now officially ServSafe certified!

Third... Today was the monthly Awards ceremony. I was awarded Best Dressed in the Humphrey Hall dorm for the month of May! And, as a bonus, Humphrey Hall also won Dorm of the Month, adding a keen $300 to our dorm funds!

Needless to say, a very nice day. The only thing that could make it better is if it weren't Humphrey Hall's gym night... My feet are killing me from shift!!

I finally got a textbook to study with this past week. Slowly I'm working to finish the assigned chapters; I have a feeling the metric system is going to kill me though, since I've never really used it.

Yesterday, my dormstaff instated me as a new dorm leader. I was completely caught off guard, I've never led anything so I'm super nervous. That's not to mention the girls who were actively seeking the position. So now I feel like I have a target attached to me. Anyway, I've been moved from Room 8 in the back A-side bay to Room 2 in the front A-side bay; since Angela is leaving for advanced in a week, I'll be taking her place. Some of the other girls say I've got the toughest room with Tori and Chantèa, but Angela says I've got good roomies.

After June 5th, all leaves and weekend passes are cut off, in anticipation of Summer Break, which begins on the 30th. The moment I have my confirmation and itinerary, I'll let you know, Mom and Dad. I'm looking forward to visiting at home!

2nd shift was rough Wednesday. I was unusually clumsy; I burned myself three or four times and cut myself once. But Brian was there to help me out. We'll sign up for a trip to the movies on Friday, and he's promised to show me archery on Saturday. Maybe we'll squeeze in some tennis too.

The concert was pretty awesome, but I'm still regretting wearing those cute heels on stage! My feet have yet to stop aching. I didn't get a lot of sleep between friends, family, and band work, but Scarlett and Newton had fun, so it was worth it. It felt so strange to be so close to Jasper and yet so far, though. I want to go back so badly - it's definitely been my favorite place to live so far. ( Key West and Virginia following close behind it. )

A big thank you to Mom for the box of treats she left with me. I shared a portion with a bunch of my buddies.

It's only a few days to the concert now. I've been put on swing shift, 9:30 to 6:30, all week, working the salad bar. It's not hard work, it's just the little details that trip me up. Bo, my instructor, said it would be fine for me to run a early shift on Friday; that means I'll go in at 8, like a regular trade day, and leave at 3:30 - plenty of time for headcount and last minute packing. Brian and Scarlett are equally excited to go - we're all craving a night out like a fat kid craves cake. Today, though, I have an ESP, which is basically a general maintenance and upkeep for my track record. I don't think I'll be graduating to a silver card yet, my dorm score is still too low for it, but I can't wait to see how Bo's graded me. I got to know him and a lot of my other teammates a lot better during Camp Crew in Texas, so I feel more at home in the kitchens. I haven't studied for my ServSafe test in a while, though, so I hope I'll have a chance next week.

Wishlist again!
-Blank address labels. It's troublesome to ask dorm staff to print up a label if I want to send a box.
-Japanese Cherry Blossom from Bath and Body Works. My first bath set is nearly gone; I use the body wash, lotion, and body spray. I'm good on perfume.
-Cherry Blossom reed diffuser oil. This might be harder to find, but the girls love the smell.

I'm a little nervous. It's been a while since I performed on stage, and I'll have a friend there cheering me on. I want to do my best, but what if I've lost my touch?

I've decided second shift's a rough but worthwhile shift. I may take it more often in the future. I also want to make sure I'm ready for when I finish the program; a lot of people go on to advanced training in California. I know one interview question is whether you speak the language of your chosen cuisine. To that end, I'm going to save up for Rosetta Stone Japanese for my computer, and work with my friend Rachel as well.

With people leaving so often, it feels so hard to make and maintain friendships. I wonder if I've been forgotten as quickly by other people as I've forgotten some of the first faces I met when I arrived.

I forgot to do thank you's in my last blog, I think... So! For my big black bag, which I have used every day so far: Thank you Margaret! For fresh stamps: Thank you Grandma! For tasty treats: Thank you Mom and Dad, Linda and Grady, and Uncle Tony! For everyone who is thinking about me while I keep working: THANK YOU!!! I'll be able to come home for a visit soon, for a little better than two weeks. I miss everyone bunches!

New wishlist!
-Melaleuca Lip Conditioner. My stick is running low.
-Melaleuca Toothpaste. FreshMint (blue), not SpearMint (green). The gum was super tasty too, but I'd prefer the breathspray.
-New palette of eye makeup. I can't go around looking like a diva every time I choose to pretty up; gotta save some for stage :P

Camp Crew was less work than I expected, but oh my gosh, the climate! I can live with the 90 degree days and the 20 degree nights, but it was so freakin' dry! My nose bled every other day, and I was half sick with the temperature changes. I even lost my voice for a while there. But when I got it back, everyone kept asking me to sing each morning. One firefighter actually gave me a dollar for singing; I was so embarrassed!

I still feel very discombobulated after the breakup with Alex. I was working so hard to make a future with him possible, so now I feel like I have to recalibrate my entire plan for myself... I'm just happy we've stayed close. He really is the best thing that's ever happened to me.

To anyone who didn't hear it from me before, Happy mOther's Day!! I LOVE YOU BUNCHES!

Between my phone being replaced and being on shift, it's been difficult for me to want to write on this blog again.

This is Tim's last week on center; he graduates on Friday, and then he'll go back to Versailles, KY. We've made sure that we'll be able to keep in touch, but I'm still going to miss him very much.

So many people are leaving just as I got here, it seems. It begs the question: Why bother networking? It's gotten too painful for me to make friends and then lose them so quickly. Maybe I'll just absorb myself in extra duties; it might get me noticed for leadership or something...

For the first time since I got here, I've found myself missing home. Luckily, it's only another handful of weeks until we go on summer break :) even shorter until I perform with Mike McCarroll again.

Peatburn on Thursday was a bust! We got all the way there, only to have them tell us, "Oh, we don't need you now, it's been canceled." On the upside, during the drive back, I heard the song "Gimme That Wink" on the radio! I haven't heard that son on the radio since I was a girl in Key West! It really made my day.

It's been two months since I got here, & it already feels like home. The center supervisor, called "Dad" because of his initials, really meets a lot of people on their level. He's lots of fun. The rules are at a constant level similar to a high school, for the simple fact that it houses a piece of the school system, which makes it hard to give anyone a hug if they're opposite sex...

And my phone has decided it wants to die now. Hopefully the new phone my mom's ordered will come in really soon!

Figured out why my phone's been acting up. It'll hold out a while longer....

This past weekend was a little dull. Mostly I kept busy by watching movies with Tim Walton. Hopefully as the weather warms up, we can get in some tennis games before Walton graduates at the end of April. But the weather here is more schizo than Georgia! It snowed this past week yet again. My instructor thinks that's the last of it, though.

Walton's decided to try to take my mind off of Alex by taking me to London, KY on weekend pass. Since I hold a bronze Color Card, I get two weekend passes every month, so it's all good.

A few wishlist pieces...
- Pens. Good ones, superfine tips would be nice, either black or blue ink. I need them for outlining sketches & for labeling foods in the kitchens when I'm on shift.
- A change sorter to keep on my closet shelf. I always have a handful of change left over from payday, & my changepurse is getting full...

How is my closet not full yet? All I can say is, thanks for the door organizer, Mom - it's been a lifesaver!

Tomorrow I go out on a peatburn with the fire team, so I need all my rest. Ni ni!

The End Of Forever

On Monday, I ended my relationship with Alex Ray. It's the very hardest thing I've ever had to do - no words can adequately express how torn I still feel. I still love him very much, but we both seemed to agree that we fought too much & hurt each other more often than not. So, this blog is dedicated to Alex, who gave me two wonderful years full of sweet memories. You carried me through one of the very toughest times in my life, Teddy Bear, & I'll never be able to pay you back for it. I hope to heaven above that our paths will cross again. I love you, always forever, Alex Ray.

This past Friday, I got a box full of goodies from home! I ate some of the PopTarts right away, & I immediately shared the CDs with my friends. The ones who love country best absolutely adored the music, & I'm working on getting them hooked :P The headphone splitter is already becoming indispensable (Thanks so much for all the plugins, Uncle Tony!), & I can't wait to start using the colored pencils (Thanks to Linda & Grady, I love you guys!). If only I could finish a picture now...

Today I helped with the new student lunch. We served Chicken Cordon Bleu, Herb Roasted Potatoes, Creamed Spinach & Cherry Cobbler. What a feast!

This past week has been definitely interesting. On Friday, I went to the movies and watched Rango, which was hilarious. On Saturday, I went to an ice hockey game, and I do believe I'm addicted. ( I still wish that I could have played hockey growing up. ) On Sunday I went hiking in the Daniel Boone National Forest and saw the Natural Arch, which was absolutely breathtaking. And on Monday and Tuesday, I was on the fireteam, sitting on standby for a total of 15 hours! ( I made $17.50/hr. Do the math and be amazed! )

Today I got a letter from Alex! He told me about his current schedules and how Tater Patch's new theater is doing. Oh, I wish I could be there! And he sent pictures too; I've already put them up on my bulletin board so I can see him every day. I miss everyone so much, but I miss you most of all, Teddy Bear, and I promise to send you a letter back really soon!

Lastly, a big thank you to my Aunt Brenda for the extra money! I don't have anywhere to cash the check, though, so I'll send it on to Mom and Dad to deposit.

March graduation is tomorrow. I'll be saying goodbye to more friends. It seems I lose friends as quickly as I make them here! Lots of love always!

I think my phone is about to give up the ghost. When I set a new alarm, it doesn't go off the first time. The charger isn't charging it properly somehow. It blinks on and off at random times, and even delays messages from my friends. I hope it can last a little longer until I can somehow get a new one. Meanwhile, I've missed breakfast for this Saturday (oh sweet made to order omelets!). I went on a tirp to the movies last night and saw Rango. It was perfectly hilarious, the perfect movie to watch with my friends! I did think about going to see The Adjustment Bureau, but I'm of the school that if you go to the movies with friends, make it a funny movie. Memories of laughter and happy times tend to stand out more.

As you can plainly guess by my writing of this blog, I have found my charger! Hooray!

On Monday, I received another package! It was filled with my anime DVDs, detergent, dryer sheets, & foot spray, plus my mimikaki! I can't wait to share the anime & Melaleuca with my friends!
A big thank you, Mom & Dad, & I love you bunches!

My only disappointment in this package is an old one: the third of my six disc Princess Tutu DVD set has been missing since one of our last trips to Helen, GA. Ideally, I'd like to ask Ian again to see if he's found the DVD or if he would look for it for me. Or I could find & download the 4 missing episodes online. I may have to settle with looking up the separate DVD online, though. It's only episodes 10-13 I'm missing, which made up Volume 3 in my collection. I have no idea what volume number it'd be in the separate discs, though...

My current requests are mostly creature comforts now.
-Eraser pens. An artist's book is fraught with many errors.
-Stewart's Key Lime Soda. Really hard to find, & pricey. Last seen at Target.
-A mirror for my locker. Our room's mirror got taken because it wasn't being cleaned in the morning.
-Mike McCarroll's new CD. I need to back up the bragging :P

Thursday I received my new bed sheets. No more ill-fitting hard to make up bed sheets for me!! Thanks so much, Mom!

I've been getting more attention than I thought possible. Someone has already referred to me as a Victoria's Secret model. (As if!) It's strange to suddenly get so much attention. Also, even though the guys outnumber girls 4:1, it seems I still can't even hang out with the opposite gender without someone asking "Do you like him? Are you going out?" ... Unless the man in question is gay. Then it seems to be cool.

Good news: Today is my last day of KP and I start trade this coming week! Terrible news: My phone charger has gone missing. So this will probably be my last post until I either find it or get a new charger for my Pantech phone. (They should be easily found in AT&T stores, not so easily in Wal*Mart.)

Much love everyone!

( I realize I promised this blog would be done by yesterday. Just pretend it was...)

Monday was Awards Day on campus, held monthly. I was selected as one of the CPP Students of the Month for February, by my two Education instructors, Mr. Brown and Mr. Daughtry. Hopefully, many more awards wait in my future!

Yesterday was payday and my second day of KP. I'm not as sore as I was Monday, but I definitely feel like my back could break at any given moment as I work in the dishpit. (Bleh.) Still, it's only a week, so I'll muddle through.

Today I also received my ASVAB results: an overall 94! I had about ten people drop their mouths open at the score! I'm not really interested in joining the military, though...

Another wishlist! (Gosh I'm needy :P)
-A dictionary! I introduced my CPP brother Rade to the alphabet game, and we're driving each other crazy! He's going in culinary too, so I need the extra help
-A 'mimikaki', or ear cleaner. Don't know if you can find these anywhere in stores, but they're definitely available on JBox.com. I misplaced mine, and my ears are bothering me again.

Sorry, I thought of a few more wish items...

-A mug with a lid that I can heat in the microwave. Super useful for when I want hot water for tea or Cup Ramen.
-Colored pencils. My sketching side has been emerging again, and a few friends want to see them colored. The more colors available to me, the better.
-Regular pencils, too, because people either steal mine or I lose them. Mechanicals only, no other preferences.

Today I intend to straighten my closet. Love and kisses everyone!

Yesterday I received two packages from home!!

Both packages were filled with tasty treats! I've already had a roommate offer me a dollar for a PopTart! I was so happy to see my stuffed Jack Rabbit too; he kept me lots of company last night. My other jeans are available to me now, so I don't have to borrow Mia's clothes. And I can't wait to get my computer fixed up and share my fun pictures and files!

But I have to give a big shout out to the Blacks for my beautiful new Bible! I love you guys so much! My new stationary is beautiful too. A shout out to Mom too, for the gorgeous book cover! LOVE AND KISSES!

A few more needed items...

-A fitted sheet set for a twin bed. They don't offer fitted sheets here, and it may mean more washing for me, but it'll be easier to make up my bed and more comfy to sleep on. Any color is fine except for red, my roommate Mia has red ones already.
-A headphone splitter. SUPER useful, but everyone else keeps losing theirs.

Ok, time to get ready to go to the movies. Keep in touch!

A new list came in today. Instead of Union Painting, I'll be moving right into my first choice, Culinary Arts!! Woohoo!! I have my trade clothes ready, and I'm raring to rush through Kitchen Patrol!!

This past weekend I was finally able to pick up new tennis shoes! I found the offbrand of the Skechers Step-ups for $25 at Wal*Mart, in a comfy size 9! These will be well loved.

This week I'm working in Supply. Not a lot to do; even the staff says bring a book. I'll also have my first ESP (Evaluation of Student Progress) this week. I will finally be rid of my green color card, and move up to a bronze!

Next week I'll be working on kitchen patrol, which will become part of my regular center duties. And the week after will be the start of trades. Since Culinary Arts is still crammed full, I'll be working in Union Painting for now. I'll keep my nose to the grindstone and work my hardest all the same!

Yesterday I learned how to whistle using an acorn cap! I also received my new slippers in the mail. They're so super comfy! They'll be perfect for cold wet mornings.

This week I was on shower detail. My partner Shaneccia showed me the basic steps, but I was able to find another way. The girls seem surprised that I'll get down on my hands and knees to clean. It's a bit rushed in the morning since I can't change right into my khakis before detail, but I haven't been late yet!

I also got a voice mail from my recruiter, Ms. Collins. It made me feel extra special to hear her cheering me on, knowing that she's definitely in my corner, and I need to make a point to touch base with her.

Today I received the wire components that not only make my phone hands free, but can help me use it as an MP3 player! So much easier to share my music with friends now! I wish I knew who sent it though, there wasn't any note of who... A big thanks and I love you, anyway!!

Yesterday was a holiday on campus. I was approached and asked if I'd like to write an anime article for the campus newspaper! I'm working on it whenever the computers aren't occupied - it'd be easier if I had a working flashdrive and my laptop... My deadline is 2:55 on Thursday. Wish me luck!

Today was my first payday. I'm extra-thankful for the $5 now, Grandma - as a new student, my paycheck is the lowest it can possibly be at barely $20, after deductions for my initial allowances. Two more weeks = more cash though, so it's all good. This weekend is a Wal*Mart trip, so every penny is going first into new tennis shoes, and then any necessities I may find I need by week's end.

TGIF! It's been a long boring week, as I predicted, but not without its moments. My CPP brother Mikhail and I read through more of 'Brisingr' together - he loves to listen to me read aloud. My CPP brother Awan has been a little pestering this week, but Rade (yet another CPP brother, & the first one I met) looks after me. I've watched movies about Nazis & the end of the world, & also about self-esteem & drugs.

My friends were a little surprised & disappointed that I wouldn't be going on the movie trip this afternoon, but I really just wanna chill for now. I'll probably go to the rec center & make dreamcatchers for a while. Next week they're supposed to do lanyards, which would be great for my locker keychain. Life is thankfully more busy here than I expected it to be, & I've made several fast friends more quickly than I expected. All of it keeps my mind off the fact that I'm in a strange place, roughly 1,000 miles from home... If I stop to think about it, I miss everyone & everything, but that's as far as I let it go.

Yesterday I got a card from Grandma, wishing me lots of good luck & love. I love you too, Grandma! (Thanks for the extra $5, I'll put it toward my new tennis shoes when I get them!)

The pain from my packtest for the fireteam is finally almost gone, I'll soon be starting on the field training, and I've started working on my positives for my student evaluation (ESP). New students came in late Monday, and I've made quick friends with almost all the girls who have arrived. Meanwhile, one of my dormmates has begun packing; she's finished her program, and will be sorely missed. My new friend Boone seems to be on track for graduation in the next few weeks as well, which is sad: we'd only begun to get to know each other. But I have his email, and we're sure to keep in touch!

I know I gushed about Alex's roses before, but I have to gush again! They're blooming more beautifully every day, and I plan to use the aging petals as a potpourri - perhaps I'll make it as a special craft for someone. It's been so nice to have my lion blanket on my bed, and my purple satin pillowcase on my pillow. (The fluffy pillows are surprisingly nice here, but the plastic mattresses are older and losing their spring. ) My scarf has kept me extra warm these past few days, and goes well with my uniform.

Today is laundry day. I'll take my things after we have headcount. But first, a nap. Zzz...

CPP Phase: School again?

Happy Valentine's Day!

And so begins a boring part of my acclimation to campus life. The next two weeks are set in a classroom environment, dealing with computer and interpersonal skills. ... Didn't I do this back in high school? It was hard for me to stay awake today; I finished the bookwork quickly and the videos we watched had that droning tone to them. On the upside, I got notice that sometime near Friday, I'll head out for field training!! Beyond that notice, they told me to keep my ears open. I'm super excited!

Everyone is both complimenting me on Saturday night, & teasing me about making friends w/ Daniel Boone. There have been more than a few comments about us being a couple. It's a bit infantile, but I can't deny that he's fun to hang with. Too bad he'll be leaving for advanced training soon.

After headcount, I received 2 packages. The first held my much missed blanket, & a few other wishlist items. So many thanks go out to my family for all the love! ( The calendar is beautiful!)

My second package: roses from Alex!! I was giddy the entire time I was putting them in their vase! In other news, a new roster of students showed up, & there are a few new girls! I'm excited to meet them!

Tonight was the Valentine's Dance. Initially I had no intention of going, but my dormmates convinced me otherwise. The music was a hiphop mix mostly, but it was still fun. I got several compliments over the night, and danced on nearly every slowdance with two close admirers. Near the end of the nigh, though, my legs started to cramp, from my morning pack test. I'm glad to be in my warm bed now, and I hope to relax a good deal tomorrow :)

A wishlist...

-All previous food items except for Pocky are welcome. The chocolate melts and binds all the sticks together.
-A living Bible. I think that's the term for it... A Bible written in modern text.
-My computer and hard drive. I've deemed my dormmates trustworthy and also deemed myself capable of locking up my stuff. Also, my new friend Boone has offered to repair my laptop for me :D
-Anything with a cherry blossom scent. My roommates love the air fresheners I brought, but it's hard to find. (I'm using a Glade scented oil plugin.)
-Anything with a cherry blossom motif. Stationary welcome. Bonus points if it's white instead of pink :D

Goodnight everyone!

My three shirts are soaked with my sweat.

I can still barely catch my breath.

My feet, shoulders, neck and back burns.

My right toe feels like a crushed grape.

My head is cloudy and light.

And even though I was the last in my group, I'm done. I've passed my pack test. I'm ready for field training as a firefighter.

... I'm going to take a nap.

Today I chose my three trades for the last time. Since I have a wait for the first two, I'll have to study Union Painting till the others open up. I also made a new friend - he reminds me of people back home, but especially of Zeke and Tomo, with their love for gaming, intelligence, and wit. (I miss you both, btw!) We spent the afternoon watching movies in the rec center, which I can count as hours toward my ESP review. ( Yes, that's a good thing! )

My pack test starts at 9 am tomorrow morning. The tennis shoes I've borrowed from the rec center are amazing! And tomorrow night is the VDay dance on campus. I kinda want to chill in the dorm, but some of the girls wanna take me to party with them. I'm a little nervous...

Time to get some sleep so I'll be fresh for the pack test. Goodnight everyone!

Yesterday I was supposed to go to Culinary for my next hands-on... Apparently the schedule was switched without our knowing, which made us late. The Computer Tech teacher was understanding, though. The class, despite the bookwork, seems pretty interesting; I may choose it as my second option for the sake of being able to fix my own computer.

Today I went into the culinary classroom. The day's activities consisted of peeling & cutting potatoes, scooping biscuit batter, & washing dishes. Despite the stiffness of my hand from peeling, I felt rather peaceful while doing these tasks; more than ever I want to study culinary arts! We were able to sample several tasty dishes as we worked, including chocolatey florentine cookies, a very cheesy risotto, & the mozzarella-garlic biscuits we helped to shape on the pans, & which will be served for dinner tonight :P

Tonight I completed all my class time and paperwork to be a forest wildfire fighter. All that's left is to pass the pack test and to field train. On paper, I am now a wildfire fighter!

Today was hands-on in Union Painting. A good bit of videos, and painting of course. Lunch was a Fat Tuesday Feast! Crawdad Etouffe, Red Beans & Rice, Jambalaya, Gritcakes, Blackened Fish, and Bananas Foster for dessert! And yes, I got beads. :D

Today was also payday for the rest of the campus. My next payday is officially two weeks from now. Store runs are made on paydays, so I'm actually typing this from the bus to town.

Tonight was also my second fire class. I'm warier all the time of what I'm getting into, but I feel like I'm actually going to be doing something, instead of just sitting around and playing it safe. It's not quite the military, but I think it'd make my parents proud if I were able to make it through this training.

Today I attended my first fire team class. I'm excited and nervous for the pack test on Saturday, and I realize it's not gonna be a camping trip if we're called out - but I love the idea of the extra money!! $4000 for being out 2 weeks? I'm yours to command at the fireline Mr. Wilson!

I also received an invitation to the VDay dance! I didn't even know there was gonna be a dance! Awkward... I don't know if I'll accept yet, I never liked these awkward little dances... I mean, dressing up pretty and fancy for a prom is one thing, but from what they're telling me it's mostly just food and music for a half hour... Time better spent exchanging sweet I-Love-Yous with my valentine :)

And I received my very first care package, filled with lots of love and NOMs! (That's short for Nuggets Of Munching) There were also some adorable jewelry pieces and a word search - it's sure to help me earn my rec points!! The only let-down was that my Pocky was all melted and stuck together. Which was bad because I've gotten my dormmates addicted to it :( I'll have to buy it myself on store runs or get it shipped special somehow...

Yesterday was moving day in the dorm. Too many leaders were in the same rooms so they did some switching. I got caught up in it. So, after sleeping in and nearly waking up the whole dorm with an alarm clock that I didn't set, I spent the day moving from one room to the next. And just when I was getting cozy. At least it happened before my care packages arrived. :)

As I expected, my brown Japanese skull shirt is definitely taboo here. I'll be sending it home soon. And somewhere in the move, I misplaced my newly printed PineKnot ID! I couldn't imagine where it went, I turned both my new and my old room upside down searching for it... I have a surrogate for now. I just hope someone turns it in.

Today has been a lazy Superbowl Sunday. Snacks instead of meals mostly, but I'll be getting a good dinner soon. A big Happy Birthday to my sweetheart, Alex, and my dormmate, Tiffany! Sorry your big day got spoiled by the game you guys! I love you Teddy Bear! <3

Today at Job Corps, I took my TABE test. It's basically an opportunity to test out of the core education classes. As to how I did... Let's just say some of the other students were saying 'Tutor me. Please'.

I got my TB and STD/Drug results back. They didn't start screaming, so I guess I'm clear.

We toured a few of the trades today, which means the head instructors gave us a brief overview of the class. I already know what to expect from Culinary, but surprisingly I also find myself drawn to Urban Forestry. Weird, but I'll go with it... I have Monday to check out the rest of the trades, and then Tues - Thurs is dedicated to exploring each of my first three choices. In other words, working a day in each. Fun e.e;

Lastly, we got our official PineKnot IDs and our first payday! But my picture sucked :( And since the rest of the center doesn't get paid until this coming Tuesday, that means I have to wait longer for my next payday :(

The center is encouraging us to join some of the teams that make money so that we can earn a little extra - like, there's a fire team that goes out about three days every week, and it pays well, but the work's tough. There's a camping team that's easier, but pays less. Hmm, gotta weigh my options...

There's a centerwide talent contest for Black History Month. The subject matter has to concern someone from - you guessed it - black history. ... I wonder if I would get lynched or beaten up for singing Billie Holiday's 'Strange Fruit'...

And so the weekend is upon me. The girls have warned me that it gets pretty boring on center. I'm hoping for a chance to just chill in my room. I need to do my laundry at least before Sunday. Maybe I'll actually get a feel for how detail duty works before Monday strikes...

For some reason I've made instant fans out of the guys in my newbie group. ... Maybe it's because I'm one of the only two girls in it, and the other seems like she's... Well, I'll say it nicely: she's more boyish, and rather quiet. It's fun, and I can't say I don't like the attention. Still, I know the one who's just for me is back in Georgia. (I love you, Teddy Bear <3 )

Today was physical exams and immunizations for those without shot records. Lucky me, they got my file-no needles! :D So a regular checkup for me. Tomorrow is the TABE test - even though I already have my diploma, they have to be sure I can still strut my stuff in reading and math. If I don't score sufficiently, they'll put me in some education classes.

Math. God help me.

... Some more for my wishlist:

-Hangers. Wire ones are preferred.
-Jerky, regular flavor. They have none at the cantina that I see, and people eat it up around here :(
-Pocky, chocolate flavor. Found in the international foods at Wal*Mart. Same reason as above.
-A hanging closet storage. You know, Mom, that thing on the back of the closet door that we store things in. I just don't have enough shelving!

A current wishlist...

-A small notepad for my pocket. I don't need huge notebooks. Yet.
-A new sketchpad. I used it writing things that could have gone on the aforementioned notepad.
-House shoes or slippers. Something considerably warm and durable, since I have to walk from the dorm to the cafeteria for breakfast; they should hold up against constant gravel, and occasional wet & cold.
-Tennis shoes. I don't dare wear my business shoes to the gym.
-A nice warm scarf. I'm looking at you, Mom o.o
-Poptarts, in case I feel far too lazy to walk to breakfast, even with a pair of good house shoes or slippers. S'mores, Wildberry, Blueberry, and Cherry are preferred. If you send Fudge or any of the Sundae flavors, they will be given to charity, aka my dormmates.

Today I was stuck with needles and made to pee in a cup. Current results show I am not pregnant, and that the iron levels of my blood are normal. Drug test and STD test will be back on Friday.

It's started snowing today, and acted as if it were going to stick. I wanna play in the snow :)

Things I learned on my first day at Job Corps:

-There was little point in bringing my own coat. Although I'm allowedto wear it after training and on weekends, the one I was issued is very warm and quite functional, if not fashionably furry.
-I cannot wear men's boots comfortably at any size. Too bad that's all I'm issued.
-Bringing socks was also mostly unnecessary. They recommend the socks with the boots. They look and feel like Dad's...
-I even got a warm black toboggan and white work gloves and long johns. About the only thing they didn't issue me was a scarf.
-It was a good move bringing dorm snacks, in case of missing meals. I must remember to put more on my wishlist :D
-'Man who sit in chair with mouth open wait long time for roast duck to fly in mouth.' Interesting proverb.
-The head culinary instructor makes a KILLER mac&cheese! I need to get his recipe :D

Most of today was spent running from building to building, meeting this and that counselor. The combo of "dad socks" and heavy men's boots really bothered my legs and ankles after a while. I didn't even make it to lunch before I discovered I had misplaced my locker key. Luckily my new dormmate Tiffany had kept it safe for me. With all of the stuff going down, I haven't had a chance to miss home, but there have been several points during the day where my brain has screamed "Where am I and what am I doing!!" It's still very disconcerting, and I only hope I'll figure things out in the first month.

Things I have learned in traveling to Job Corps:

-Don't try to spot that moment when the plane takes off. You never will capture it perfectly.
-I get motion sickness from reading in a small plane. Same as in a car.
-Hartsfield-Jackson airport is huge. I mean big enough to require a small train to get you from one part of the airport to the other.
-Starbucks sells tasty coffee anywhere. Period.
-It's a real let down when you discover you can't text your boyfriend at 10,000 feet.
-Airport bookstores don't carry manga. I looked in three of the dozen available.

The planes felt cramped, and their interiors were kinda dingy. Not a good impression for Delta Airlines, but this wasn't exactly a luxury trip, so I shouldn't complain. It kinda balanced out with the actual flights - it's really the most magical feeling in the world. I realize that must sound sappy, but I've loved the idea of flight for so long. I want to always fly... *sigh*

... This is a test post, the first one from my phone to my blog. I don't know how much access I'll have to a computer when I get to Job Corps, but they at least allow me to have my phone on after training's finished for the day.

... I feel really nervous. Scared actually. I've never really gone anywhere without someone I know, I'm used to using the buddy system, so to speak. And I've had so many bad experiences to date with doing things on my own. It feels like the world wants me to stay near my mom and dad, and that's the last thing I want right now. I need to get out from under their feet and figure out how to take care of myself, how to make my own way, live my own life... I guess I sound like a dozen other young adults my age. And I feel insulted when I have to think of it that way. Maybe it's selfish, but I'm only worried about my life right now. I have to focus on making 'me' happy before I can make everyone else happy.

The Beginning Of The End

Job Corps in Pine Knot, KY called me on Monday, after roughly two months of paper work. I hate dealing with my ADHD stuff, it seems to haunt me in everything I want to do o_o

Tomorrow (Sunday) is my very last day at home. I'm packed up with necessities for the first few months, if not weeks. I have a mini-itinerary ready for that morning as well.

...How did I get in Job Corps? I attended a recruitment meeting in my area. Mrs. Tonya Collins is my local counselor, and I met with her alongside other people my age who are looking to get a new lease on life. This was my first encounter with the paperwork I would be dealing with, and she went over it with us, step by step. After the meeting, I kept in touch with Mrs. Collins and we continued to finish up my paper work, which included my ADHD diagnosis. I've been off of my medicines for roughly a year now, and I'm ready to try new techniques to keep it under control. But I'll discuss that more later...