Beauty on the Beach

Second day on this beautiful beach. Last night Cass and I went on a lovely walk with my mom. We sat in on a local country concert that took place just down the boardwalk. We sipped coffee on the balcony and played hilarious games thought up by my brother in law Jeff and my mom. Cass and I shared nutter butters and observed the magical, enchanting midnight sky. That brought us back to a beautiful evening from a few nights prior. How magical nighttime could e when one shares it with a best friend...

Especially when that particular best friend just so happens to bring love and laughter into everyday life. Or happiness. Or just plain cuteness. That's what Cassie does. My sister brings all of those wonderful things into my life. What a wonderful friend.

Sea Isle Bound

Today is our first day on the beach. We spent the last two days traveling, eating, laughing, and dancing. We saw Madagascar 3 and fell in love with the Afro circus song. Cassie tried Turkish coffee for the first time at a Lebanese restaurant in celebration of her brother's birthday. We ate shawarma. We visited a blueberry factory and bought two cases of blueberries. We stayed at a hotel and had a lovely suite all to ourselves. We enjoyed tea and cookies in a humid poolroom, all dressed up, a few hours before going out for Japanese. We stayed up late and watched Say Yes to the Dress and Toddlers and Tiaras. Both crazy shows, but highly entertaining.

It felt so good to be back here, especially with Cassie. We are still in celebration of her moving in with our family, so it's been non-stop fun.

Sand between our toes, sea mist playing with our hair, and sunshine tanning our bodies: it's been beautiful and today is only the first day.

Our room is on the bottom floor. I shared a similar room with friends last year but this year's establishment is very charming. We are completely organized and our futon is made. We are ready for a week full of magnificence. What more greatness does the Lord have in store for us?

Little Ladies

Chloe and I are in the process of reading and writing for pleasure and school. We want to be able to get everything finished before our beach vacation that is quickly approaching. Chloe has just finished the literary classic, "Pride and Prejudice" and I am working through the last few chapters of "Little Women" (I have been working on the second half of this book since January...). I love the story of "Little Women". There is so much in this novel. So much real, honest human experience. What sets this novel apart is it's innocence. You can't find books anymore like this. The content in this book spans childhood games, teenage angst, and marriage and babies. All the novels I have come across today about a girls journey into womanhood are laced with promiscuity, and dark subject matter. It's disappointing to have that be the honest, human experience of today.

Chloe and I try to live up to the standards of being a true lady. It really is rare to find young girls today who are striving to be ladies. It is almost laughed at and looked down upon as some unattainable and pretentious goal. Quite the opposite my friends. By striving to be a lady you are working towards knowing your true self. Who you are meant to be. You are moving away from the forced, phony, personalities that everyone puts on to fit in and be accepted. When you pretend to be someone you're not you step into shady territory. It becomes an unhappy, and unsatisfied environment no matter how hard you try to force the opposite.

Being a lady is not just about manners and frills. It is really about being brave enough to be different and to be true. Not by rebellion, by discipline.  "Little Women" emphasizes this fact. The importance of morality and staying true to what matters. It was Marmee's teachings that influenced and grounded the girls. It really is so important to have a good Mom. To be influenced by a positive lady. To have the right teachings. Marmee's love and guidance sets the March girls apart from many other characters that they meet on their journey to womanhood.

Reading the classic novels of the past can enrich and add so much to your perspective. It has been a pleasure to read about the March sisters, although hard to get through at times, it has made me feel connected to them, and to my goal of being a good young lady. It is funny how fitting and timely this subject matter is, as Chloe and I are both putting great effort into refining our habits and minding our manners. I see it as reinforcement as well as encouragement, and looking forward I know our journey will be a happy one.

Love,
Cassie

Matter of Memory

Lately, I have been noticing that my memory is not up to speed. I have been having trouble remembering the sequence of events and recent conversations. It has been a little frustrating and concerning especially since I am only 22 years old. I should be sharp as a tack! I know a few people who have excellent memory. They can recall situations with such detail and exactness. Chloe is one of those people. She remembers the smells, the sounds, the feeling, the words, and the expressions perfectly. My brother Peter is another. He never forgets a face and is known for memorizing every movie release date, all the actors, directors and producers involved, and all oscar winners and nominations of the past and present. I really admire those who remember fully. Who recall things with such precise and exact descriptions. I think it is very important.

The capabilities of the brain is a subject I have recently found interesting. Hearing facts such as, "You only use 6% of you brain." makes one wonder. My mom was recently reading about where memory is stored. You would think, where in the brain, but really its where in the body? Her resource said that memory is stored throughout the body. Our memories are experiences. We feel them, and we use all our senses to absorb them. Our nervous system is highly involved in this. Nerves run throughout the whole body sending messages, calculating experiences and relating them to the brain. This makes sense to me. Memories aren't just snap shots filed away and categorized in the brain. 

In massage school, we learned about the sympathetic nervous system, and the parasympathetic nervous system. The internal responses and reactions to one's environment. There is so much going on inside our bodies at all times. Being a massage therapist, I have experienced and witnessed what happens when a human body enters a relaxed state. When I start manipulating tissue and working through muscle and releasing tension, I am effecting the area where memories are stored. This is why some may experience emotional responses on the massage table. It is called "muscle memory".  

Memories evoke emotions. They are very powerful. And we hold them all inside of us. It's overwhelming to think about how much we absorb throughout our lives. It is interesting to think about the human body, scientifically, and to connect all that information to God. He created us. It's His design. I know that my issues with remembering things can be easily fixed. It is a matter of tapping into the right tools. Accessing more. Maybe it is also a matter of clearing out, and getting rid of some things. It starts with prayer... I know that much. 

I find it funny sometimes, that I am so interested in the human body. Looking back, recalling my younger self, I never thought I would be a massage therapist. I never had much interest in biology or anatomy. I guess I never tapped into it. Never connected it to the big picture until I got that feeling. The feeling that I am meant to do this kind of work. 

I was just struck with a memory of my first grade report card. It was overall exceptional, but in the teachers comment box, there was a concern. My teacher had expressed that I lacked pride in my work. I do remember rushing through assignments, not coloring the best I could, and being a little sloppy with handwriting. I can honestly say now that I do have pride in my work. I enjoy what I do, and I put all my efforts into it. I think the fact that massage is a service for someone else is very helpful in the sense that it forces me to give my best. I know now that I should always give my best, in everything I do because I can do it all as a service for The Big Guy. 

It is funny how memories and experiences come back to you to teach lessons. Or when you start to piece together past experiences and see the meaning behind it and how it's changed you for the better. It's part of a plan, and it only gets better. That is something I have learned from experience.

Love,
Cassie

Rain Walks & Romance

Yesterday Cassie and I decided to go "against the grain" and take a stroll through the gray, misty drizzles the sky provided. As we climbed over murky hills, skipped through muddy puddles, and slid down a few gravel slopes, we were laughing at our crazy life together. Never have we ever had the aspiration to do things like walking through the rain or constructing a pinecone circle in the center of an "enchanting forrest." These would all be considered silly or "childish" to the typical "adults" of modern society, but Cassie and I aren't like the those adults. We are special. We have a special relationship that only God truly understands. We are two young women who happen to love spending time together doing everything. We spent the morning drinking coffee, eating carrots, reading books by Jane Austen and Louisa May Alcott, and discussing romance.

We laughed at how both authoresses seemed to drag a bit in their story telling, but all in all, are splendid writers of romance and love. We loved how they each captured the whimsy side and the repulsive side. We read about the scandals that were involved and the adventures that took place, and thought of how the stories from back then are compatible with today's standards of living and loving.

It's a fascinating thing, love. To us, to love is to live. To live is to treasure every moment; to love every moment. This rain walk revealed a great thing about us. Nothing, not even a rainy day could ruin our fun. Nothing could prevent us from smiling or laughing. Nothing could stop us from loving life. Love is a powerful thing. Friendship is a powerful thing. Both make one incredible relationship.

To have this type of relationship with my sister is such a privilege. We love each other and we will always be there for one another. It's like a sisterly romance; it would be a bromance if we were men. Reading classic novels make us dream about love, and how perfect God's love is. How His love overpowers everything.

We felt His love yesterday. In the raindrops. In the dirt. In the warm, humid breeze. We felt His love through scent of pine, and rich flowers growing around us. We feel His love everywhere we go, within everything we do. It's important to feel that.

It's important to love.

Love,
Chloe xxx

The Chair is Rocking

So Chloe and I are thinking this morning, first cup of coffee in, about deep meanings and spiritual matters, symbolism and life lessons. I feel it is important to wonder and to ponder. It is good to be reminded that there is always more meaning to something and behind something that God created. There has to be. Everything has purpose and it is good to recognize that. As I am thinking this morning, I can't really say it is hard now-a-days to see the beauty in everything. Yes the state of things today is a little scary. There is a lot out there that can take down beauty and twist it into something else, and it's a challenge to protect innocence, but The Big Guy makes it so simple and so easy to find and enjoy beauty.

The example of a rose was given today by Chloe and I's friend and teacher. There is a lot of symbolism in a rose. We were discussing it's design. Why the thorns? We came up with a few theories, comparing the flower to life, to beauty, to love, to a heart; and the thorns to trials, danger, suffering, and sacrifice. I like that something simple can be used to tell stories, or teach lessons. I would think that that is the way God intended things. He gave us everything we need to learn about Him and to bring us close to Him. I think St. Francis would agree with this. No books needed. 

Faith and childlike innocence- thats what is important for us to develop. That is what needs to be strengthened to see things and to learn things. 

So as Chloe and I were pondering separately, sipping and contemplating... We noticed a chair. Chloe and I are seated on separate rocking love seats- spread out, with books, papers, and laptops, and there are four empty chairs surrounding us. All are turned in towards the center, as we left them last night, except one. One has shifted and is facing more towards the pool. There is no significant breeze and nature is quite still this morning, except this chair. The chair is subtle, but it is rocking- most definitely. Back and forth, stopping every now and then. We looked at each other and back at the chair. No questions. Somebody is sitting with us, enjoying the morning. 

It would be easy to dismiss it, to rattle off probable causes, but neither of us did. No questions. We know The Big Guy is always around, always with us, but to see and feel physical signs- that will always excite me.

Love,
Cassie

Comfy Cozy

The jig is up, it is no secret. I like to be comfy, and I like to get cozy. Those close to me would agree on this as well. Throughout my life I have heard people's observations of me- my attire, my personality- I am frequently described as cozy. I enjoy this not only because I like feeling this way, but also because I like to make those around me comfortable. I like to be a piece in the picture that provides warmth and stability. I like when those around me feel secure enough to be themselves.

As with any personality trait, there is a need for balance. This part of my personality can swing into both negative and positive directions. I have learned, and I continue to practice, keeping myself in check. I can become overly comfortable and content in my surroundings. This is something that I try to avoid. I have learned a few lessons in pushing myself, getting out of the box, letting go of fear, and setting big goals for myself. And I am still learning the importance of really challenging myself. Thankfully, I have the right people in my life to keep me on my toes, and to push me forward. 

Spiritually, I believe, it is natural to seek comfort. Jesus does give great peace, security, and joy. He protects you, He doesn't want to see you hurt. But I believe He takes great pride in seeing His creation overcome challenges, and push for something greater, to lead to something new. But He doesn't want you to let go of Him. Through these challenges, you can stay secure in His arms, He won't drop you. 

He said many times in The Bible : "Do not be afraid." I think you can take that as far as possible- the goal being to live without fear. Because the comfy and cozy is there. His love, the security He provides, will never be taken away from you. 

He is like the coziest blanket, or the softest shirt. Or like that feeling you get after eating a large, melty, warm s'more. Or when you are looking up at the stars and your heart gets real steady and anchored down in your chest and you sway a little in the breeze. I think of these moments, these experiences, and I have to connect them to Jesus. He is the only explanation. He is why I love holding babies. 

I will always be this way, it is a big part of me, but I do not feel limited or stuck. I do not lack motivation and I  am building up a lot of strength with Jesus and learning more and more. I aim to make Him proud, and to take full advantage of His warm, cozy, comfy blanket-like side. Cheers ta cozy. 

Love,

Cassie

A Perfect Dream

As I sit here munching greedily on toasted multigrain Wheat Thins, looking over blog posts I wrote about last night's italian dinner experience, I can't help but visualize a fantastic dream. A perfect dream. A lovely dream. Wouldn't it be wonderful to travel around Europe with my best friend? Wouldn't it be fun to go and have exciting adventures--even if it's just out of state? I often leave Pennsylvania, mostly to visit Cassie and her family down in Maryland; but now that she is moving up, wouldn't if be wild if she and I left the state in search of an adventure? We have often talked about this and have begun setting aside an empty Muscle Milk container of change that we'd save up for spending money. It's just about half full--maybe a little more, and recently while I was organizing Cassie's future room, I discovered a dusty vase full of change! "How wonderful!" I exclaimed.

"More trip money!"
We have a full list of things we want to do and places we want to go this summer. I know not of what will actually unfold this summer, but I definitely foresee fun adventures. All I know is that I am absolutely ready for anything, as long as I have my sister by my side.

Cheers.

Love,
Chloe xx

"When all this craziness is through, I'll spend my happiness with you."

Music is really important to me. On workdays, I really don't feel fully alive until I am in my car and I choose what I want to hear to start my day. It sets my tone and my pace for the day. It's a routine and a comfort and a trigger for me. I enjoy most types of music. If you go through my music library, it is actually something to laugh at- jumping from musicals like Les Miserables to Pitbull, and recently, middle eastern belly dancing to french cafe. It takes me all over the world and puts me in all kinds of moods. Music is a necessity in my daily life.

Personally, I depend on a good summer soundtrack. Every year I wait for those few good pop songs with the undeniably catchy beats and simple chorus's ("Call Me Maybe", "You Don't Know You're Beautiful"), for my favorite artists to release their new albums filled with sunny melodies (Erin Hutchinson's -Moving Up Living Down), and maybe even some old classics that I want to hear again or haven't appreciated until now ("Rhythm of My Heart"- Rod Stewart). I am in the process of developing my summer playlist now, and it is very exciting. New music! I like to compile a list that will remind me of this time in my life and take me back to warm and happy memories. Something that always gets my heart beating: summer drives, windows down, with the music loud. It makes me feel young and free and even a little wild when my hair is whipping in my face and I don't care who sees me singing and dancing like a fool. That is such a big part of summer for me.

So I am getting more and more excited, listening to my new summer playlist on repeat to learn every word. One song that is quickly becoming a stand- out is Eric Hutchinson's "Best Days." I am including the second verse and the chorus below:


I fly around the world to spend
My nights with strangers and their lovers
I notice happiness depends
On if we share it with each other
So when this craziness is through
I'll spend my happiness with you

Give and take, we catch our breaks
We all learn to survive
Oh, but don't look now
I said don't look now
Cause here we are,
Living the best days of our lives
These are the best days of our lives


It is such a good sing- a- long summer hit. I hope to find more like it to set my summer pace; my care-free tone. I will be whistling and humming these melodies and taking long drives with windows down- feeling quite free this summer. And I will be spending and sharing this happiness with my fellow summer-loving, song- whistling, loved ones. 



Love,
Cassie

Excited is an Understatement- Trying to Live in The Present

Today marks five more days- that's right. Five days until a very grand celebration and five days til I am officially taking residence with my sister. There is also nineteen days until our beach vacation, and .... forty-four days til my birthday! (Yeah, forty-four is kind of a lot). I am having a hard time collecting thoughts to write because I have to sit back and take deep breaths to release at least a few butterflies that are currently circulating and flitting around inside me. I have to remind myself to take things day by day because there is so much goodness in every day that I don't want to miss in anticipation of what is coming.

I can't help but day dream and imagine what life will be like day to day with my sister, Chloe. So many adventures. One of the best things about Chloe is that EVERYTHING is an adventure. I know most people these days going through life, doing every-day things really do just look at things as ordinary- nothing special. They complete tasks with a mundane and thoughtless approach. Makes life so colorless. I guess you can't even call it life. If someone spent just an hour with Chloe, I guarantee they'd say to themselves "So, THIS is living....Cheers."

There is so much value in everyday I spend with Chloe. So much to contemplate at the end of each day, and so much to smile about. There is true magic involved in the way Chloe lives, and yes she does have supernatural gifts, but there is no room for jealousy or self-pity in thinking that you could never live this way. There will be some work involved, but the magic of living this way is out there for everyone. You have to be able to recognize it and treasure it.

The romance of Life is overwhelming. I am pausing for deep breaths now- not just in excitement of what is to come but in amazement of the gifts Life has shared.

I am trying not to day dream too much- again- because I know there is so much in the here and now I have to appreciate. I have been living a lot in the past and wondering a lot about the future lately, I admit. I think that may be why I haven't been able to write much. The present is the gift. That is what I have to remember. That is where Life is. Where my heart is truly beating. In moments. In every-day tasks. In adventures. The times that I feel MOST in the moment- I usually have no control over. It is not that I consciously command myself to be present, it just happens. All my senses are involved, and it is as if nothing else matters or even exists. It is something that grabs me. It is just hard to stay in that grasp- that is where my effort comes in.

It is easy to do this with Chloe. With a best friend. With someone who I genuinely enjoy being around.

Sighh. My breathing has slowed, and become more steady, more consistent. In and out, slowly and smoothly. It is a peaceful, pondering moment.

.... Wait I just thought about five more days... !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



Love,
Cassie

Eight More Days

We are down to the final eight days. "Just eight days!!" is what I keep telling myself as I struggle to get through a few chapters of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. The excitement billowing inside of me is indescribably much to handle. There's still so much to do, and so little time to finish. I still have more than 8 days worth of examinations to complete before school ends officially, and yet I take on the air as if I have all the time in the world. I'm not one in favor of rushing or stressing out over things, but lately I'll admit I've been in need of a good push. That particular push has been in my favor, as it is the realization that my sister, my dear, beloved sister, will be permanently moving in with my family and I. The push comes in when I realize that much celebration for this event will be required, and school examinations cannot be there to stand in the way! This has given me the motivation to plow through my final weeks of education as best and as well as I possibly could.

Much organization is required as well; as you very well may imagine, my excitement has been inspiring me to start "getting ahead of the game" by clearing out any unnecessaries from the guest room to make room for our permanent guest. Boxes have been filled and set aside in the hallway, (all thanks to me, by the way,) which have surprised other members of my family for their sudden apparition. Humorous to imagine, but I don't think I've ever been more excited in all my life. Venturing into Philadelphia to watch the Jonas Brothers perform two nights in a row three years ago doesn't seem to compare! This excitement has me feeling restless; cleaning the house top to bottom, reading Pride and Prejudice with fervor, and exercising like a mad woman are just a few of the things that have managed to keep me from going insane.

I find myself spontaneously and randomly laughing alone, picturing in my mind the most hilarious and indescribable adventures that could take place in the future. I have come to such a state of happiness that I don't quite know what to do with myself. Apparently, this happiness is very evident, for various members of my family have brought it to my attention. Finding out that it makes them happy only adds to it. With all of this joy in my heart, I can only hope it is as strong and apparent to my dear sister, Cassie as well. I only hope that my excitement does not suffocate her when her arrival for permeant stay comes. I laugh at this very thought, and I am aware of how ridiculous it will appear, but I cannot help but to share it with you all. I have this image in my head of the two of us developing such excitement for this move-in to take place, that when it finally does, all we will be able to do is sit and stare with huge smiles on our faces. Just as a pair of highly sugared kids experiencing a sugar-crash, that is how we will be.

Reminding myself that I only have to patiently wait for just eight more days continues to motivate me. With the speed and momentum that I am currently at pace with, one could only predict that I could very well have everything done, finished and prepared in less than a week. Let's hope that happens!