tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83710190992950642452024-02-20T10:22:02.737+02:00Baiba's WorldBaiba's WorldBaibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.comBlogger97125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-79301600490005446702021-05-12T10:07:00.001+03:002021-05-12T10:13:00.232+03:00Unwanted House Guests<p>Today is my birthday! </p><p></p><p>I've never had any problems stating my age. Not sure if that's something women struggle with only at a certain point, but 2 days ago a cashier asked for my ID for a bottle of rum, so, with that being the ultimate compliment, I gladly announced I'm about to be 28!</p><p>I'm 28, engaged, mom of 3 cats and a lemon tree. That last one might be a purchase I regret. If the internet is right, it's going to be a giant pain in the ass to take care of it. But it looked so cute at the store! Can you blame me?</p><p>It's been over a year since my last post. Since the world has kind of stopped functioning, I didn't really feel like writing. Nothing happens, we don't go anywhere, don't see anyone, I've kind of been living in a bubble with Brian and the cats. (Who are pretty much attached to me at all times now)</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLMRqOeTLzf67etnPmr-JTLGWnYb0dyZknWF51Y8eeSCOlhHNMZQ2c9-o-c9LskXdjowY6VS4MqKaMc6ibjhz80sSSvupClPTHkUig0irGaUqgKvMx8VBRqwBKyQNgZ_gWxHiz7b71RGir/s1664/catz.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1664" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLMRqOeTLzf67etnPmr-JTLGWnYb0dyZknWF51Y8eeSCOlhHNMZQ2c9-o-c9LskXdjowY6VS4MqKaMc6ibjhz80sSSvupClPTHkUig0irGaUqgKvMx8VBRqwBKyQNgZ_gWxHiz7b71RGir/w260-h400/catz.jpg" width="260" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">[even as I'm writing this post]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">But today I'm feeling great. It's my birthday, the summer is coming, birds are chirping, even though they shouldn't be at 5am... </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;">My life is pretty good, compared to everything else going on in the world. Or at least it was, until I found an unwanted party of guests in my apartment this morning. And this time it wasn't 3 strange men, who just casually entered my house, like last time. This time it's worse. This time... it's ANTS! And not just a couple of ants. A whole COLONY! </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Brian's at work and I don't know what to do. The internet has 100 different solutions, but how do I know which ones actually work? Do I kill them? Do I make friends, infiltrate the army and lead them elsewhere? Do I give them a hot beverage because I'm a good host? Do I just set the house on fire? SEND HELP! Or good advice, I'll accept both.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: right;">Stay safe and healthy</div><div style="text-align: right;">-B- <br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div>Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-41608493816456563802020-04-09T15:42:00.001+03:002020-04-09T15:42:40.296+03:00Is It Worth Being A Good Person?<div style="text-align: justify;">
Have you ever been so close to an emotional breakdown, that even the smallest thing like dropping your sandwich sends you on the floor, crying your eyes out?</div>
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That was me two days ago. The only good thing is, I'm a really ugly crier, so every time I start crying, I make myself laugh because of how ridiculous I look when I'm bawling.</div>
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The world is a scary place right now. And not because of the virus, but because of people. Obviously, everyone is aware that there are pretty bad people in this world, however, it takes a global epidemic to see how truly shitty the mankind can be. </div>
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People are trying to scam those who help, trying to get some money, things or attention for no reason and so on. But what surprises me the most in this whole global mess, is how truly mean and pathetic some people can be. I usually don't read any news and specially the comments, simply because there is never anything good. It's mostly just lies and fabricated garbage, just to get people all riled up. However, since I live far away from my family and friends, I like to be updated on the current situation back at home, so I have to read the news whether I like it or not. But, unfortunately, the little devil in me makes me also click the comments, and that's where things start to go wrong.</div>
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There are so many articles about people not being able to get back home because the borders are closed. And to me that's sad and scary. But the comments mostly consist of: "It's your own fault. Stay where you are, we don't need you and the virus here. If you wanted to leave so bad, then don't come back. I hope you get the virus." Or, whenever there's an article about a politician or a celebrity getting the virus, people post comments like: "You deserve it! Finally! I hope you die!"<br />
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Now, the last one is the scariest one. How pathetic does ones life have to be in order to wish something so bad to someone else? This jealousy, this anger, spite and hatred towards someone they don't even know. Where is it coming from? And why? Why are there so many bad people in this world?<br />
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And this brings me back to my meltdown. I'm not claiming I'm an angel or a saint, however, my whole life I've tried to be a good person. I donate money to charities, I adopt animals instead of buying them, I've bought gifts to children for Christmas, I've bought food for a lot of homeless people, I always help all my friends and family and so on. Countless times people have told me that I'm actually too nice.<br />
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I do all this without expecting anything back, because I truly believe in Karma. And I can't complain about my life, because I know so many people have it way worse than I do. However, for the last couple of months, a lot of bad things have happened to me and my family. We barely get back on our feet from one problem when the next one occurs. So the other day, after months of stress and financial problems, when I dropped that sandwich, that was the tipping point. And as I sat on the floor, weeping in total defeat, I couldn't help but ask out loud: Why do bad things happen to good people? <b>Is it even worth being a good person?</b> <br />
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And the answer is <b>Yes</b>. Here's the thing. I know I'm too nice, there's no denying it. I let people take advantage of me, I do work for my friends for free, I don't ask enough money for my work, because I hate asking people for money, I care too much about others and their problems, I've been scammed twice, because I only tend to see the good in people, and so on. Those are obviously my mistakes and I try to learn from them. BUT! I do think it's worth being a good person. <b>Being good costs nothing, but it means everything.</b> One act of kindness could brighten someone's day or even save someone's life. And if I can make even the smallest difference in a world full of grayness, I will do it. Being good makes me feel like there's hope. Hope for a better future, a better society. And if there's ever a time to quote a line from one of my favorite movies, this is it:<br />
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"Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things. And no good thing ever dies."<br />
/Stephen King<br />
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Be good, be kind, be safe!</div>
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Take care.</div>
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-B-</div>
Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-68002102058058757082020-02-26T15:51:00.000+02:002020-02-26T15:51:30.796+02:00A Morning Surprise<div style="text-align: justify;">
If I got a penny for every time something awkward or incredibly stupid happened to me, I would be on Forbes as the wealthiest / weirdest woman alive.</div>
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And this isn't one of those cute awkward stories. When you mix the ultimate awkwardness with shyness, insecurity, anxiety and clumsiness, you get the opposite of cute. You get ME! The amount of awkward situations I've got myself into is just ridiculous and I'm not sure what to blame. Is it me? Is it my fear of human interactions and lack of social skills? That can't be right... So the question remains - WHY ME?!</div>
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I'm not even going to list all the times I've tripped or knocked something over by simply being me. There was that one time I fell and laughed at a funeral, but people just assumed I fainted from all the emotions and were super nice to me and told me to sit. </div>
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There was that time in Paris when a guy in McDonalds opened the trash can lid for me. I thought he was being super polite, so I poured my trash in, said the one word I knew in French - <i>Merci </i>- and walked away. As it turns out, his phone was on his plate and he had dropped it in with his trash, so he was about to fish it out. But instead he had to watch me pour my trash on top of his phone, smile, thank him and walk away. </div>
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I am SO AWKWARD, I don't even know how to politely interact with people. I had a job interview on the phone and at the end of it, the guy said - thank you for your time, Ms. - to which I replied with - you're welcome. ONLY BECAUSE he kept calling me Ms. and was so formal and polite the whole time, I'm not used to it.</div>
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Okay, as I'm writing this, I get the feeling that it might be mostly my own fault. It's still debatable...</div>
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However, the surprising encounter this morning tops all of those above mentioned cases.</div>
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For the past 3 weeks, the apartment above ours has been under construction. Since I work from home, it's been a real nightmare, trying to translate under a constant noise. Then about a week ago, one of the workers told us that the water pipes in the bathroom have to be changed, so - some time in near future - they will work in our bathroom as well. No one said when exactly, no one said how long it will take, no one said anything. This morning, when Brian had left for work, I decided to sleep some more and get up around 9am. As I was drooling on my pillow, all snuggly in dream land, I got woken up by the sound of 3 male voices <b>inside the apartment</b>. The bedroom door was not fully shut, so I could hear them loud and clear. I got the courage to let out a quiet "hello?", to which all 3 men responded immediately. One of them shut the bedroom door, the other kept saying "oh my gosh", and the 3rd one said: "We told you we'll have to change the pipes! We knocked, but no one answered the door, so we let ourselves in!"</div>
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Now, I might come from a 2nd world country, but even there things are not handled this way. In my opinion, (correct me if I'm wrong) they should have come to us yesterday and told us that they're coming today. Not just knock a couple times at 8am and barge into someone's apartment without a warning.</div>
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Of course all the guys are really nice and I can laugh about it now, but this morning I was not that happy about this whole situation. And the worst part is, I don't speak German that well, so I have no idea what they're telling me. I don't know how long they'll be here, I don't know how long it will take to change the pipes, I don't know if we can use the bathroom... AND I REALLY NEED TO PEE!!!</div>
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I hope you're all having a better day.</div>
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I think I need a drink.</div>
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-B-</div>
Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-63020955182030980752020-01-02T14:55:00.000+02:002020-01-02T14:55:42.277+02:00New Year, Old Me?Greetings, people from far away lands! It is I, the weird raccoon-loving, positivity-leaking Latvian ray of sunshine!<br />
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I know it has been far too long since my last post. But for the first time in history I have actually been busy - [hold for a dramatic effect] - living my life! *gasp* (I hope at least one of you theatrically fainted somewhere in the distance).<br />
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But yes, it finally happened. I got a life.<br />
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A year ago I decided to stop being an anti-social hermit, pack my entire life in 1 suitcase and move to Germany. For someone who's been very comfortable living in the shadows her whole life, this was a giant step for me.<br />
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And here I am, a year later, living with the love of my life, three adopted kittens and a dream of moving to America! Oh, AND, a brand new slushy machine! So, cheers to a New Year!<br />
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Left to right: </div>
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<b>Amy</b> (Ames, A-moosh),</div>
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<b>Cooper</b> (Coop, Coopowski, Coopman),</div>
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<b>Reginald</b> (Reggie, Ragout, Rigatoni)</div>
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Now, I know what you're all thinking - but Baiba, what about your love for dogs? Don't worry. Brian (he's real, I swear) promised me a house in the future for my 5 dogs. And possibly an alpaca? That topic is still to be discussed...</div>
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So that's what I've been doing for the past year - becoming the ultimate housewife, who's darn proud of her garden, three fluffy babies and a patient, wonderful man, who has the strength to keep up with her shenanigans, sarcasm and the never-ending supply of Christmas lights.</div>
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You might be wondering (you're probably not, but I'm gonna tell you anyways) why have I returned and what are my plans. Well...</div>
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This isn't going to be one of those - new year, new me - things. I don't want a completely new me and I don't plan on changing my entire personality or making promises and undertaking some New Year's resolutions, which I will most likely ditch within a week or two. I am already on a great path of self-discovery, growth and improvement since last year, so I just need to keep going in the right direction. However, there is one thing that has been on my mind for a long time now, and I feel like this could be The Year. It's my unconditional love for writing. I love writing. I love reading. I love reading what I and others have written. I love expressing myself in words, and I actually think I'm quite good at it. I love the English language and I think I can express myself in it the best. It's one of the reasons I became a translator. I love sharing my stories and positivity with others, and maybe even inspire someone out there. That's why my dream has always been to become a writer. I just never knew what to write about, in what form and how. I always doubted myself, thinking no one will care or enjoy my writing anyways, I'm not good enough or funny, or smart, it's just a waste of time. But, NO MORE! I am making it happen this year. Whether it's through frequent blog posts, articles or even my own book on how to tame a wild raccoon - mark my words, people, I will write this year!</div>
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Now all that's left is to shoo Cooper off my laptop, make a fresh batch of delicious flavored ice, crack my knuckles (figure of speech, as I hate the sound of cracking knuckles) and get to work!</div>
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But first I have to go check all your blogs and see what you've all been up to!</div>
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I hope you had a wonderful year!</div>
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But for now, take care!</div>
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-B-</div>
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Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-26833010991599434382018-09-03T01:23:00.000+03:002018-09-03T01:23:48.505+03:00When I Grow Up...No one asks a grown up "what do you want to be [when you grow up]"?<br />
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It's like everyone just assumes that once you've reached a certain age, you stop growing, stop dreaming. You stop setting life goals for yourself and no longer want to become someone or make something of yourself. And that's a shame, because that one innocent question can actually do so much. It can help someone start to re-think their life and goals.<br />
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When I was little, my answer to this question would always be "an athlete" or "a singer".<br />
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When I was in Elementary School, like most kids, I wanted to follow my mom's footsteps and become an accountant.<br />
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When I was in High School, I started taking this question more seriously and answered "a translator". (Although, we had to fill in a questionnaire at school and there was a question - if all jobs would have equal pay, what would be your dream job? - to which I answered in bold caps - a <b>BARTENDER!</b> (go figure...)).<br />
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Now, at the age of 25, my answer would be completely different. Just no one asks anymore. But I'm going to answer anyways!<br />
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Observing the relationships of my parents, friends and people around me, has made me realize how truly selfish people can be, and how much I actually desire to be loved and to love someone back. Day by day it gets more clear to me, that my true goal in life is not to reach the very top of my career ladder or to have a fortune in my bank account, but to <b><u>be a wife</u></b>!<br />
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I see people make so many mistakes in their relationships. How selfish, ungrateful and impatient they are. How intolerant and non-supportive. Everything is done by a selfish intent. There are scoreboards with points on them for each and every selfless and kind act, just to shove them in the other person's face in the future.<br />
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Of course, this doesn't mean that everyone is bad and evil in their relationships, but there are some simple wrong-doings that are just so obvious to me and make no sense, as it is not what I would want or do in a relationship and partnership.<br />
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All I want is to just be with someone. To love someone unconditionally, with all my heart, to support, do good and help! Not so I could keep a score on an imaginary scoreboard or to get a big, loud "THANK YOU" in front of everyone, but so I could simply make the other person smile, feel better, safer and not so lonely in this crazy world. With no stupid competitions, pointless mind games, schemes or silly grudges. I just want to truly love someone and be loved back.<br />
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What has brought this all up, you might ask? A lot of things combined.<br />
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First, my dad's mom died today. I'm not calling her a 'grandma' because she's never been one to me. But despite all that, this isn't a time to remember all the bad things and dwell on them. This is a time, when we all must forget the past and be there for those, who lost a mom, a friend and so on. Even if just for the day. But... Everyone else in the family thinks differently. They believe this is the time to think about all the hurt feelings and resentments over the years. Which, if you ask me, is pretty selfish.<br />
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Second, I have many friends who are unhappy in their relationships. I'm everyone's therapist and a private diary, which I don't mind, but it gets frustrating sometimes, since they tell me everything in detail, while they're not willing to talk to their partners at all. And it might be just my opinion, but in order to resolve something, you need to actually talk it out.<br />
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All this makes me think of how selfish and unappreciative people can be. They take these relationships for granted and don't appreciate what they have. They're not willing to put in some extra effort to make it work. Meanwhile, I'm over here just being completely alone with all this extra love and care, and understanding, but no one to give it to. (Which really sucks for my cat Martini, who has to deal with my annoying, unconditional, overbearing love).<br />
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That being said, I love my friends and family, and they are all amazing and wonderful people. Who I just want to slap sometimes. But we all have those urges, right? Someone, please, agree with me.<br />
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Now I must bid you adieu! As I check out all your blogs while sipping my 900th cup of tea, since I am incredibly and annoyingly sick.<br />
AND I DON'T EVEN LIKE TEA! :(<br />
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Take care, everyone!</div>
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-B-</div>
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<br />Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-9224306744896187602018-02-28T12:28:00.002+02:002018-02-28T12:28:33.535+02:00Let Go, Let God<div style="text-align: justify;">
Oh boy, it's been a couple of months... </div>
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And so much has happened, I'm not even sure where to start. First things first, Happy New Year to each and every one of you. I hope it has started out well and everyone is doing great. I've been away from the blogging world for a while because, well... for the first time in history - life happened! </div>
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Now let me fill you in on that dramatic statement. For a long time I've been calling myself an "emo hamster" who had no life. Meaning - I was a workaholic who lived at home with my parents, all comfy in my little "cage", stuffing my cheeks with food and meeting friends as rarely as possible. Life was very comfortable that way. I was living in a constant circle, like a hamster's wheel - eat, sleep, work, repeat. I've always been insecure about myself in every single way, so I've been avoiding people and public places as much as I can my whole life. I liked being alone. I still do. But before New Year's Eve I did a lot of thinking and came to a conclusion that I was in need of some change. I simply said to myself - 2018 is going to be MY year! </div>
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Honestly, everything happened so fast. In a blink of an eye I was a completely different person. I didn't just step outside my comfort zone. It was like I had tied that comfort zone to a balloon, let it go and watched it fly away and disappear into the abyss of the Universe. </div>
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I spent New Year's Eve with my best friend in Riga, which is the capital of Latvia. I've never even liked the city, yet here I was, an ex emo hamster, celebrating with million strangers side by side. I met many new interesting people, made new friends and even arranged a date at midnight because I was determined to get a New Year's kiss and, honestly - it was the best New Year's Eve in my life! </div>
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Next step was dealing with my confidence. My family booked a week long vacation in Canary Islands. Now, imagine someone who's completely insecure about her body being forced to relax by the pool under a palm tree, surrounded by many people. Day 1 was an emotional roller-coaster. I was super excited, since it was my first time in a place like that. But I was also panicking about the whole people/pool/sunbathing situation. But then my sister said those famous words - WHO THE HELL CARES? And I thought to myself - indeed. Nobody cares. Everyone is there to relax, have a great time and mind their own business. So why should I care? And just like that - I stopped. I truly stopped caring and I was laying by the pool the next morning with a cold beer in my hand, enjoying the view of the volcano without a single worry. (Beer was super cheap there and I was on a vacation, and it was super hot so don't judge me, people!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5waoRSfCBSXOYc6-YW6SB5DJKLyFpmPmL-uOavngI8DVogHTFa8HQQQDJJnYnGuBrBzfAMkSvMTAgGmmmEPsYYA1vJS4C1ZbL24dAPwnsc0qb4EqYbKn3W7iXTslC2pLWxJ5B69qIbIrC/s1600/vfsvdsv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5waoRSfCBSXOYc6-YW6SB5DJKLyFpmPmL-uOavngI8DVogHTFa8HQQQDJJnYnGuBrBzfAMkSvMTAgGmmmEPsYYA1vJS4C1ZbL24dAPwnsc0qb4EqYbKn3W7iXTslC2pLWxJ5B69qIbIrC/s320/vfsvdsv.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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My view every day for a week</div>
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Tenerife is the most beautiful place I've ever been to. So far. And I came back happier than ever, charged with positive energy and enough vitamin D to last a lifetime. Or at least a couple of months. Now, I know what you're thinking. Usually this whole - new year, new me - thing doesn't last long. And that was one of the things I was worried about. Since everything happened in full swing, I was scared my enthusiasm would burn out too fast. But then a week after I got back from the Canaries, my friend called and said: "Hey, I got a job offer in Riga. Wanna share an apartment with me?" And it took me only a couple of seconds before the new me was ready to jump into yet another adventure, the words came out themselves- WHY NOT? So as of February 1st I'm officially living in Riga. </div>
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It's been only a month, but my life is changing more and more each day. But it's all good stuff! Most of it is, at least. I've had some ups and downs, some tears, some laughs, some good events, some weird events, some dates and funny stories, but lets leave it for another post. For now I'm just happy that my wish is coming true day by day. 2018 IS my year. And I couldn't be happier. And I'm not writing this to brag; I just want others to know that it's possible to change your life and thinking for the better. And it is actually not that hard to just LET GO! Of everything. It's easier than we think. You just have to want it. For the first time in my life I truly understand the saying 'Let go - let God'. I'm a living example of it. Just let go, people. Let go of the fears and insecurities. Stop worrying what others think and just enjoy life! </div>
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I'm gonna finish on this spiritual, encouraging note and try to catch up with all your blogs. It's gonna take me some time, since I only stopped being an emo hamster, I never stopped being a workaholic, so I gotta combined work with reading. But I'll get to it!</div>
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Take care for now!</div>
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-B- </div>
Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-81188201248368047272017-12-09T12:40:00.001+02:002017-12-09T12:40:48.633+02:00Christmas lights everywhere!<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've always liked Christmas time but this year in particular my obsession with Christmas lights is getting out of control. If it was a thing, my dad would definitely sign me up for "Christmas light-holics anonymous". The first step towards recovery is admitting you have a problem. So here it goes. My name is Baiba, I'm 24, and I'm addicted to Christmas lights. </div>
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[Reginald the Raccoon looking dashing as always]</div>
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[Try to spot Marty in this]</div>
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Ok, so maybe putting lights on a dog is not a good idea, but I'm handling myself quite well. I've only got one more string of lights left to put somewhere. But don't you worry, I will figure it out.</div>
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Most people think I'm too excited for Christmas. Everyone's always worried about money, presents and everything else. But here's the thing. In my family, we don't really buy Christmas presents. It's been like this for over 10 years now. Of course, when we were kids, my parents would get me and my sister many wonderful gifts, but as we grew older, we realized we don't really need anything. So there's only one thing I ask my parents every year for Christmas - a chocolate Santa. That's all I want. If I need anything else, I can buy it myself. I don't need any expensive gifts, that's not what Christmas is about. So for my family it's a wonderful time of peace, kindness and food. The only ones who get presents are actually our pets. Both dogs and the cat get a cool new toy every year and let me tell you, it brings us the greatest joy to get them something, because they get so excited and happy, like little kids.</div>
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The only thing I have mixed feelings about is snow. In small amounts it's kinda cute and it makes this whole Christmas thing more jolly. However, as someone who drives a lot, I'm not a big fan of it. The roads are terrible, some people drive like maniacs and it just creates a lot more problems than joy. But this year even I get a little excited whenever we get some snow. This morning I woke up to a blizzard and giant piles of snow. My dogs were excited and so was I. I even made a ridiculous little snowman on my balcony. Meet Maverick.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5wMgMUiU1YGKhroF1GhzQAgqMnofK_uNNIEbYFjNd4mUrOskAIx_GF_yXj5HBWJFWvi_qa3yhC09Y6K5xxsg5IdeV87mHZqaSXsSu4_eiHpC564SF8XD_Yn0O8pfNiexoqzeickN6c0eI/s1600/IMG-20171209-WA0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5wMgMUiU1YGKhroF1GhzQAgqMnofK_uNNIEbYFjNd4mUrOskAIx_GF_yXj5HBWJFWvi_qa3yhC09Y6K5xxsg5IdeV87mHZqaSXsSu4_eiHpC564SF8XD_Yn0O8pfNiexoqzeickN6c0eI/s400/IMG-20171209-WA0003.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
Now, I know what you're thinking. "But Baiba, it looks creepy as hell. And is his face made out of cat food?" Why yes. And his nose is a peanut m&m. But if you think that's creepy, wait 'til you see what happened to it 10 minutes later...<br />
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[RIP Maverick]</div>
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The snow is melting fast, but my Christmas spirit stays strong. And so does my will to be kind and do good. Every year I try to donate as much as possible and as of last year, my family joined the so called "Operation Shoe-box". In case some of you don't know, but would like to join - Operation Shoe-box is when you get a small box and fill it with all kinds of goods of your choice. It can be candy, toys, mittens, puzzles, coloring books, Christmas ornaments, anything that would bring joy to kids. You wrap it up all nice and pretty, write a little note with the approximate age of the kid it's meant for and give it to the local officials who take care of this charity. And they will deliver the box to a less fortunate kid in need of a little Christmas kindness. Of course, it's important to do good things all year long, but during this time of the year, when the less fortunate feel the pressure of the Holidays, it's nice to help them out a little and put a smile on their faces.</div>
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So be good and kind to yourselves and others :)</div>
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Take care.</div>
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-B- </div>
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Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-60014508813775674602017-09-24T15:39:00.000+03:002017-09-24T15:39:48.765+03:00Weird Cravings and Self Discoveries<div style="text-align: justify;">
Dear friends and fellow bloggers,</div>
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My apologies for being absent for a while. I've been busy with a tremendous amount of work (which paid off very well) and I've also been in a weird funk that I'm slowly getting out of.</div>
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For the past two months or so, I've been struggling with insomnia. I go to bed at 11pm or 12am every night, feeling tired and ready for the magical embrace of my comfy pillow. However, each night I find myself awake for hours and fall asleep around 4am. It makes me mad, because I'm wasting so many hours. I could be working, but I'm too tired to do that. But apparently, not tired enough to close my eyes and drift off into the dreamland. The thing is, I can't seem to shut my mind off. It's like I'm going for the gold medal in a "Constant Thinking Marathon". And let me tell you... I'm winning! </div>
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I feel like there's something bothering me, but I don't know what. Technically, there's nothing I should be worried about. Life is good. Everyone around me is healthy, happy, I have a good job, there should be nothing stressing me out. But something clearly is. Otherwise... what the heck is going on? </div>
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I thought it was because of my routine. I'm a translator, which means I spend most of my days in front of a computer screen, translating documents, movies or just about anything else. But I love my job and all my hard work has paid off (I was offered a promotion!). And it's not like I work so much I don't see the daylight...</div>
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Another thing (not sure if related to my insomnia or my funk), lately I've been getting these weird cravings. By that I usually mean food wise. But not this time. One day I suddenly had the urge to read a book. It might sound silly, but it's been a while since I last read a book and all of a sudden I wanted to read one. Not just wanted... I <b>had </b>to. So I went to the bookstore and, being the little psycho that I am, bought not 1 but 6! books.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXR_DyNyxLYUOV2iIPdhqtsLaDcD7d3JT4_UXmGr1kIEKUzbTx2AqES9rzHwP5muEbMTcDNj-cs9c7h7_g4DHlWqoEuRR2f-v8nX8QY4BxI0V8ylg9xwTG8U7TRbbI25R8euHCcaq_Aka_/s1600/bhj.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXR_DyNyxLYUOV2iIPdhqtsLaDcD7d3JT4_UXmGr1kIEKUzbTx2AqES9rzHwP5muEbMTcDNj-cs9c7h7_g4DHlWqoEuRR2f-v8nX8QY4BxI0V8ylg9xwTG8U7TRbbI25R8euHCcaq_Aka_/s320/bhj.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Most of them are collections of mystery stories by Edgar Allan Poe, which I'm totally obsessed with. So that week was the week of books. I read 3 in 2 days. Safe to say I didn't do much else and probably looked like an addict, getting my daily dose of mystery. But my needs were satisfied and I felt at peace.</div>
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Much to my surprise, the weird cravings did not end with that. The next one was the sudden urge to go to a forest. I genuinely just wanted to be in the woods and spend the day just walking around and picking mushrooms. I hate mushrooms, but picking them is a fun activity for me. Thankfully, I have a great, supporting family and friends who go along with my ideas. It didn't take long to gather a car full of people and off to the woods we went.</div>
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The day went by so fast! Fresh air, nature, woods, mushrooms, thousand cobwebs in my hair, scratched legs, fights with tree branches and a squirrel... It was all worth it. Not only did we get buckets full of mushrooms, but that night I slept better than ever. </div>
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Now I'm slowly managing my sleep. It's still not ok, but I'm getting there, as my weird cravings continue to grow. (This week I insisted on going to a concert. So... my next Saturday is all planned up). I truly hope my family can bare with me for a little longer, while I try to figure what's wrong with me... Good luck to all of us.</div>
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What have you all been up to? I'm gonna dedicate a day to read all your blogs. Maybe someone has been craving weird things too. I'd love to hear about them. In the meantime, I have some TV series to translate. </div>
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Take care.</div>
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-B-</div>
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Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-64254535117749959282017-08-09T16:11:00.000+03:002017-08-09T16:11:48.956+03:00I'm angry at life<div style="text-align: justify;">
What? But Baiba, you're such a positive person. How can you be angry at life? Well, let me tell you.</div>
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6 years ago my sister took a drastic decision (something she never does, well... never did) and flew to Germany to work as an Au-pair for this little family (Latvian mom, German dad and a little boy who was 1 and a half years old at the time). We were all surprised by this decision, as she had never done anything like this. She's the good kid. I'm the black sheep of the family. Not to say that this was a bad decision, it was just so sudden and out of the ordinary for her. She used to be this quite girl who always does the right thing, stays safe etc. And now she's packing her bags, moving to a different country to work for complete strangers. We were all scared for her, but she was calm and confident about her decision. And it was the best decision she's ever made.</div>
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This family is one of the best people I've ever met. They're open minded, nice and welcoming. My sister has traveled half the world with them, helped them with their son, housework and basically became a part of the family. Imagine my surprise, when I was accepted just as easily when I visited. I used to spend my summers in Germany and they took me in with no questions asked. I was treated like family. </div>
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Last two summers my family has driven from Latvia to Germany to visit them. The bond that we have with this family is extraordinary and simply amazing to say the least. I'm not sure if all Au-pair experiences turn out as ours did. My sister has helped them raise the kid into this young, wonderful little boy who's a passionate hockey player and the smartest kid in class, and our families have had a wonderful 6 year long relationship which, I'm sure, will last forever.</div>
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A month ago we received some terrible news. His dad had lung cancer. His surgery was scheduled in August, so we all agreed that the kid would spend the month in Latvia with my family. He loves visiting here and we had planned some great, fun activities.</div>
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5 days had passed since he landed in Latvia and had settled here for his vacation, when we got the last update... His dad had passed away. </div>
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I've gone through some terrible things in my life. Many deaths, suicides, bullying and just about anything else. But nothing quite like this. Obviously my whole family was struck by this. My sister the most, as he was like a second dad to her. It hit me hard too, because that man was so inspiring and amazing, and we all appreciate the things he's done for my sister and our family. But the thing that hurts the most is the fact that a little 8 year old boy is left without a father. </div>
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And that is the hardest thing I've ever had to witness. </div>
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When his mom called to tell him, I couldn't take it. I cried so much, my eyes were sore. How do you tell a little boy his dad is gone? His best friend, his biggest fan. </div>
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When a kid is hurt, you just want to hug him and make everything better for him. But this time I had to witness a little boy's heart get broken and there was absolutely nothing I could do to make it better. And it's the worst feeling in the world.</div>
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So, why am I angry at life? </div>
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Sure, amongst all the wars and killings, and other terrible things that are happening in the world, this might seem as such a small thing. But it's not to me. I'm angry that there are so many truly evil people alive, healthy and living their pathetic lives. But this kind, selfless, smart, wonderful man who's done nothing but good in his life is now gone because of a stupid cancer, and a little boy is now without a dad. It's not fair. And yes, I'm not a kid, I know life's not fair. But that's exactly why I'm angry.</div>
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My whole family lost a dear friend. The little boy lost a father. His mom lost a husband. And the world lost a truly good man. </div>
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Rest in peace, my dear friend. Thank you for everything you've done for me and my family. Thank you for inspiring me and making me see the world differently. And don't worry, we will all keep an eye on your little boy. He's family.</div>
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-B- </div>
<br />Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-34872196025263432492017-06-08T17:26:00.000+03:002017-06-08T17:26:11.208+03:00Now what?This post is not gonna be about the 'zip it' topic I mentioned in my last post, simply because that would be something too serious and I don't really feel like getting into it. Instead, this post is gonna be about the big, scary world that awaits me as I just GRADUATED UNIVERSITY! Ok, technically, the graduation ceremony will be on June 17, however, University is officially over, my final grades are better than ever and I'm getting my diploma. That's also the reason I've been away from blogging. I had to take the final qualification exams, write my Bachelor thesis and balance all that with 2 jobs and a little bit of life. If anyone's interested, my thesis was about 'Sign Language Translation in Modern Communication'. 60 pages of nonsense, however, I did learn a lot about this topic, and Sign Language is on my bucket list.<br />
Since May was an insane month, I'm taking a couple days off and am just enjoying the nice weather and a ton of popsicles. (Don't judge me).<br />
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Looks like Marty is exhausted too.</div>
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These 4 years went by so fast, and I'm glad they did. Sure, I have a lot of great memories and I've learned a lot, however, dorm life and sitting in classes all day is not for me. And here's the crazy part - unlike all the people posting memes and pictures on the Internet on how they don't like being adults - I don't hate Mondays, I don't want to be a careless kid again and have my parents take care of me and, you're not going to believe this, - I like paying bills. I've had my own apartment for about a year now and I absolutely love all those responsibilities. I like being independent, having my own place and money. I like spoiling my parents since they've done so much for me and I absolutely love adult life. Of course everything is not all jolly and perfect. But that's what makes it interesting and I'm learning a lot.<br />
<br />
It also opened my eyes on something not so great. I turned 24 on May 12. I don't know if I'm only 24 or already 24, and, to be honest, I don't really care. However, I'm noticing how I'm changing and my friends are not and it's making me re-evaluate some friendships and wonder if maybe I'm just wasting my time with certain people. Unlike some of my friends, I don't wait for the weekend so I could get wasted and hit the clubs. Don't get me wrong, I still like to grab a drink or two and go to parties and have fun. But I'm more interested in a different kind of fun, such as concerts, plays, events, hockey games and traveling. Conversations with those friends are becoming more and more empty and I'm finding myself feeling alone since we have nothing in common anymore. And those are people I've been friends with for 15 years now. However, time doesn't make good friends. There are some people from University who I've only know for 2 or 3 years and they are some of the most important people in my life now.<br />
<br />
Anyways, that got too serious so I'll stop there. The big question everyone keeps asking me is NOW WHAT? University is over and the big, scary world awaits. Well, bring it on! I honestly can't wait to just enjoy life and experience new things and people. I'm not gonna get a Master's degree. Not now. Now I wanna grab a beer and some popsicles, enjoy my summer and see where life takes me.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
Take care.</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
-B- </div>
Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-63712023594973485302017-05-01T20:32:00.000+03:002017-05-01T20:35:26.826+03:00P would be for Procrastination.I could have done the A-Z challenge. Starting with A for <a href="http://baiba1205-beginnersblog.blogspot.com/2017/04/f-would-be-for-not-forgotten.html">Alzheimers</a> (you can check out my last post. Grandma's doing good, we visited her again) and ending with Z for "Zip it!" which I'm planning for my next post (when I get to it).<br />
However, as the title suggests, I would have never made it in time for the challenge.<br />
<br />
<b>My name is Baiba, and I'm a professional procrastinator.</b><br />
<br />
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<br /></div>
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No matter what I have to do, whether it's homework, job, housework or a simple task, such as brushing my teeth or going to bed in time, I will always do everything in the last minute. </div>
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A simple example - I need to submit a translation of an episode due tomorrow. It's 8pm and instead of translating, I'm writing this post. But don't worry, I'll get to it. Occasionally. </div>
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<br /></div>
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One question always comes to mind - WHY AM I LIKE THIS?! </div>
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I'm pretty sure I've NEVER submitted anything way before the deadline. And for some weird reason I've noticed I work better under pressure. It also means I live in constant stress. Which I shouldn't do to myself, yet here I am. Procrastinating. 24/7. It's like I have this little monster inside me that sleeps all the time and wakes up only when its the last minute of something and I have to gather all my strength and focus for the task. Don't get me wrong, I'm not sloppy with my work. I always do everything well and precise, just under a lot of stress. But somehow it works for me.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We had 4 months to work on our Bachelor thesis. The draft was due April 20. All my friends were posting pictures of them working on it already in February, March... I started writing mine on April 18. I wrote all 46 pages in 2 days. Of course it's not perfect and I still have some improvements to make, however, it is just as good as those who people worked on for months. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So I'm not really sure whether or not I should do something about this bad "habit" of mine. I know it's awful what I'm doing to myself, however, my whole life it has worked for me.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's not like I'm proud of it. But I also can't help it. Well... I'm sure I could, just not today.</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
Take care,</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
-B-</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
P.S. Any fellow procrastinators out there? How do you people do things on time!?!?</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-69080689443391042082017-04-10T13:10:00.001+03:002017-04-14T21:58:45.095+03:00F would be for (not) forgotten!<div style="text-align: justify;">
We went to see my grandma yesterday. </div>
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A visit which made me both happy and sad at the same time.</div>
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Have you seen "The Notebook"? I'm sure most of you have. A beautiful love story with the gorgeous Ryan Gosling. Makes me cry every time. The movie itself, not Mr. Gosling, of course. </div>
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You might think what do these two have in common? Well...</div>
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My grandma has Alzheimer's. And although the setting is very similar to this wonderful, bittersweet movie, the real life is much, much worse. There are no beautiful actors, no perfect sceneries and definitely no scripts that tell you what to do and how to act. There's just reality. And sometimes reality sucks.</div>
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When my grandpa died in 2009, grandma stayed alone at their country house. My family visited her as often as we possibly could and helped with housework. I mostly went there for the chats and delicious food. With time passing by, we started noticing some flaws in her memory. However, we never thought it could be that serious. But then she started to forget who we were and came up with some ridiculous stories and we knew something was wrong. So we took her to a doctor to find out she has Alzheimer's. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
From that on it just went downward spiral. She got worse really quick and we had to do something. My uncle took her in and she lived with him for a couple of months, but it was clear pretty soon that she needs to be taken care of 24/7. With all of us working and studying it was impossible.</div>
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<br /></div>
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We then had to do the hardest thing ever... put her in a nursing home. </div>
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We know it was the best decision for her. She is now taken care of at all times, she is fed, clean, warm and amongst people. However, for some reason this felt like the ultimate betrayal. </div>
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<br /></div>
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I'm an absolute country kid who grew up on my grandparents farm. My grandma has helped raising me and has been a role model for years. I've learned to cook, clean, garden and take care of things mostly just from her. She has given me so much of her time. And now when she needs me the most, I can't be there for her. And it breaks my heart. There is nothing any of us can do. The worst feeling in the world is to feel helpless. Helpless to the ones we love the most. I never really knew heart could actually ache from mental pain. But it can. And it does. I feel like I gave up on her, even though she is better off at the nursing home than she would be living with me. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The strange thing with Alzheimer's is that only the people around it has to actually deal with it. Although my grandma is the one with the disease, she's having the time of her life. She doesn't recognize us anymore. Well, she does, but only for a short period of time. During our 2h visit she 'came back' to us a couple times. But mostly she lives in her own little world, not knowing what's happening around her, ergo not worrying. And although it breaks my heart, I'm happy for her. Physically she's healthier than a horse. She has friends, she's joined the choire, she's happy and everyone absolutely adores her there. Even with her own little quirks. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When we arrived, she smiled at me and, as I hugged her, she said "How are you, my sweet granddaughter?" Although she recognized me only for that split second, it was the most beautiful feeling in the world.</div>
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</div>
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I left with tears in my eyes. But oddly enough, they were tears of joy. My heart is not fully at peace and I don't think it will ever be, however, my sweet, loving grandmother is still in there. She hasn't forgotten me. She just can't remember me sometimes. And that's okay.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
-B-</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-74601507883753089922017-04-02T17:14:00.000+03:002017-04-02T17:14:58.642+03:00When weird thoughts occurI'm a dreamer. It's a fact. I like to stay up all night thinking about random scenarios that are most likely never going to happen. Like me, sitting on a porch at my beach house, hugging a baby raccoon and reading Pride and Prejudice as the sun disappears into the horizon.<br />
<br />
I'm also one of those "what if" persons, who likes to discuss ridiculous situations. My mind is a strange place, people.<br />
<br />
The other day I was driving home with my sister and a song came up that had lyrics "I have so much to give." Out of nowhere, that triggered some weird thoughts and I started talking about kidnapping and robbing situations. Like, you know how in movies (and, most likely, in real life too) people who get attacked always tend to say the same thing (which makes total sense, of course) - "Please don't, I have a family. I have kids." Etc. So then I started thinking - what would I say in such situations?<br />
"Please, don't... I left the oven on!"<br />
or<br />
"Please, no... I have a dog at home."<br />
or<br />
"I live alone! No one's gonna know for days!"<br />
<br />
Safe to say these are completely dumb and random thoughts. But I always tend to say what's on this weird mind of mine. I can't help it. And then I get those strange, concerned glances from my family, like "Are you okay?"<br />
<br />
Or they just laugh with me 'cause I'm a goofball. Either way, there's no limits to where my mind will wander next.<br />
<br />
What about you? Any dreamers, "what ifs" or strange thinkers out there?<br />
Please, tell me I'm not alone in this...<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
Take care,</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
-B- </div>
<br />
<br />Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-72999116012461351442017-03-26T18:01:00.000+03:002017-03-26T18:01:37.636+03:00Let's do it right this time<div style="text-align: justify;">
A year and a half ago I wrote my last post. A year and a half. That's such a long time! </div>
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<br /></div>
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I wish I could tell you some super cool, important story to why I was absent for so long, like, going on a journey of self-discovery or working really hard on graduating university, or being abducted by aliens...</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Unfortunately, it's none of those. (The aliens would have brought me back sooner, I'm pretty sure of that). I've just been lazy. That's right. I could say university and work have taken a lot of my time. And they have. However, if I really wanted to continue writing, I would have found time for it no matter what. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I guess I've been feeling kind of empty for quite a while now. If I ever got in the mood to write something, it either didn't seem good enough or I got distracted along the way. But now I feel like I need to do it (despite the fact that my sister's dog is literally laying on my head right now and his butt is in my face). I've always been better at expressing my thoughts on paper (or in this case - on screen) rather than saying them out loud. So I'm gonna do my best and try to keep this up, since it actually is something I enjoy, and I have a lot of questions and things on my mind. So let's do it right this time, with no dramatic breaks and lame excuses.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So what has happened since my last post? A lot, I guess.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
(First of all, the dog took my sock off and ran away, leaving me sock-less in this cold, cruel world.) </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My sister moved back home so I had to drive Latvia-Germany-Latvia again last summer. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I moved to another city to work for my internship at the city hall. I was a translator at the Foreign Relations Department.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I also got a job at "SDI Media Latvia" which is the main company that translates TV shows, movies etc. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As for now I'm a freelance translator and I have the final 3 months of university left until I get my bachelor's degree. (I hope I get it). </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So what's next, you might ask?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If only I knew. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
With school coming to an end, I keep thinking about what to do with my life and what is it that I want. As much as I hate to admit it (simply because I'm scared of it), I'm in need of some change. That's one of the reasons why I started writing again. My blog needed a makeover too. Why the blog title? Well, mostly because I'm the kind of person who spends 30 minutes meowing back and forth with my cat. If that doesn't say 'weirdo', bare with me as I try to prove the adequacy of it.</div>
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<br /></div>
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In the meantime, I hope you're all doing great. I'm gonna try to catch up with your blogs to see what you've all been up to.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
Till next time. </div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
Take care.</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
-B- </div>
Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-34361116173462710712015-09-27T14:18:00.000+03:002015-09-27T14:18:28.121+03:00The ultimate road trip! Latvia - Germany - LatviaUniversity is in full swing and while it's only been a month, one particular class is already giving me anxiety. But all for the greater good, I hope.<br />
<br />
So right before all this madness I went on a road trip with my parents. My sister lives in Germany and without a doubt we all miss her. I visit her every year but my mom is afraid of flying so we found a compromise - we decided to drive from Latvia to Germany and back. Already I had very mixed feelings about it. I'm a good driver just not a confident one. I don't even drive to Riga (the capital of Latvia) because I hate driving in big cities. And now I was about to drive across half Europe. Scary right? But I wanted to see my sister and honestly Germany is like my happy place and I'm always excited to go there. Plus I didn't really have a choice. Just had to suck it up and prepare for an adventure.<br />
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So I got a haircut the day before, got my journal and was ready for the road! It's around 2000km (1250 miles) one way. My dad drove first and halfway there I had to take over. Basically I had to drive all through the night (it started to rain in Germany and it was foggy and I was an emotional mess to say the least). But I did good. No speed limits, parents were asleep and the roads were not that busy. Around 8am I got to sit in traffic near Cologne and when the navigation said I'm only 1km away from my destination, of course I took a wrong turn and got lost because it said - drive off and then drive off. I'm a good listener. I understand people easily. Trust me. You can ask any of my friends. But til this day I still don't know what the navigation meant by that. But I found my way back and eventually got to my sister. We spent around 20h on the road. I hadn't slept for 48... But in the end it felt so good knowing what I'd just accomplished. I couldn't believe it. We spent the rest of the day kinda just napping and barely functioning because we were all tired and relieved to be there safe and sound. <br />
<br />
The next two days we spent in Bonn.<br />
Bonn used to be the capital of Germany and it is also the hometown of Ludwig van Beethoven. We went shopping and also took a tour bus around the city. It was full of old folks and a golden retriever - both species I get along well with.<br />
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North Rhine-Westphalia is the biggest and, in my opinion, the most beautiful state in Germany. </div>
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And both my favorite cities are there - Bonn and Cologne.<br />
The tour was fun. Bonn really is a beautiful and interesting place.<br />
<br />
When we got home, I had to cook that night. Another part of the adventure, I suppose. I'm a good cook, but when I have to do it for someone else who is an even better one, the pressure is on! But I did good and we all lived. So far, at least...<br />
<br />
We went to Cologne the next day. Their hockey team Cologne's Sharks had their season opening event and it was a blast! Since I'm a hockey addict...<br />
Got to check out some hockey players, listen to great music and walk around and enjoy Cologne. I'm always extra happy there because I really do love that city. It's beautiful and so alive and playful...<br />
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Cologne's crazy architecture</div>
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Got to see Kasalla - Cologne's rock band. Love their songs.</div>
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And of course Cologne Cathedral. A gigantic, breath-taking beauty that does not fit in a photo.</div>
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We finished the night with some tasty drinks and a cake.</div>
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The next day was probably my favorite of the trip. We went exploring the Middle-Rhine Valley. Highway along the river, surrounded by mountains, wine fields and pure beauty. I literally was just clicking my camera's button because everywhere I looked the view was breath taking. </div>
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Koblenz</div>
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A really beautiful spot was at the Loreley rock. Loreley was a female as a sort of siren
who, sitting on the cliff above the Rhine and combing her golden hair,
unwittingly distracted ship-men with her beauty and song, causing them to
crash on the rocks. </div>
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There are also so many castles and churches in the mountains! Too bad we didn't get to go see them all, but that's not really possible. We did go up to one of them and the view was simply amazing.</div>
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Marty, our little companion. </div>
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A random church in the middle of the river </div>
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When we got back I was exhausted. But it was so worth it. I was in awe of the scenery and everything was so beautiful and peaceful. We finished the day with some delicious Chinese food and went to bed because the next day was our last one there and I had to have a good night's sleep since I was the first one driving. It was sad to leave. Germany always charges me up with happiness and I didn't wanna say goodbye to it and to my sister. But I did miss my pets and I had to get back to reality since it was the last week before uni.</div>
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All in all it was an amazing trip. And I definitely gained more confidence when it comes to my driving. I'm still not going to Riga though. </div>
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The pets were happy as well since they got gifts. Martini got a new house and Reno got a fat squeaky raccoon. Life's good for all.</div>
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Who knows where the next summer will bring me.</div>
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Take care.</div>
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-B- </div>
Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-22137389752691819742015-08-17T00:29:00.000+03:002015-08-17T00:29:21.437+03:00*Something about life lessons and having fun*If only my brain worked as well during exams as it does during those sleepless nights when million things are on my mind...<br />
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It's been a while since my last post, and as I sit in my bed, listening to Bon Jovi singing about life, I can't help but wonder what this last year was all about and what the next one has to offer.<br />
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My 3rd year of university begins in two weeks. I would be lying if I said I wasn't excited. I'm not entirely keen on studying, and thinking about tests and term papers makes me shiver, however, I am excited to see my friends and I can't wait for those crazy ideas that will make good stories afterwards. So much has happened since my last post. It's been a year. A year full of good times, great times and bad times. I've learned a lot. Not only about people, places and myself... I also learned Spanish! <br />
I learned what real friendship is. At first I thought I learned what love is. But I didn't. Not the kind you feel for your friends, family and pets. I know all about that one. But the one you feel for someone special... that's still a mystery to me. I learned how easy it is to get used to the feeling that someone actually needs you and cares for you. I learned how easy it is to care for someone. I also learned how hard it is to accept that someone doesn't care for you anymore. The one thing I still need to learn is how to accept myself. And how to love myself. They should teach that in schools instead of math!<br />
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All in all... I'm ok!<br />
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This summer's been fun. Super fun actually. A couple festivals, some quality time with my family and friends and a summer job that put me in stitches! When you're the only female worker in a hardware store, you not only get to learn about grinding wheels and lawn mowers but you also get to hear a lot of jokes and bad pick up lines enough to write a book. But hey, I won a prank war and left that place with a huge smile on my face and an invitation to work there next summer as well. So can't really complain. And the next adventure awaits! I'm going on the ultimate road trip with my parents - 1250 miles - Germany here we come! Wish my parents good luck, because, well... I'm driving!<br />
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Take care!</div>
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-B- </div>
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P.S. HOW HAVE YOU ALL BEEN?! </div>
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Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-33094967473104702882014-09-01T12:55:00.000+03:002014-09-01T12:55:43.371+03:00My summer. Part 2 - GermanyUNIVERSITY STARTS TODAY!!!<br />
Can't say I'm entirely happy about it. Just because I'd much rather work than study. But now that I'm back in dorms and am already chilling with my friends, it's not actually that bad. I just hope I can make this year as awesome as the last one. If not even better!<br />
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My dorm room :)</div>
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Now time to continue about my summer adventures. Two days after the <a href="http://baiba1205-beginnersblog.blogspot.com/2014/08/i-did-things-my-summer-part-1.html">kid's camp</a> I flew to Germany to live with my sister for a month. As I said in the previous post - I was surrounded by kids all summer long. My sister "works" as an Au Pair nanny for a 5 year old boy. I put work in quotation marks because she is just more like a big sister to the little cutie. That family is so amazing, they took me in as their own the whole month I was there. So yeah I basically had to spend a whole month with little Oliver. I'm not saying it's a bad thing, but if you know me you also know that I'm not a big fan of kids and I honestly have no idea what to do with them. But somehow the days flew by and we spent them playing football (soccer for you American folks, lol), throwing dance battles and playing all sorts of games. And to be honest - I had loads of fun :)<br />
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On our free time me and my sister got to do and see some amazing things, places and events.<br />
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One of the things I really wanted to do while in Germany was to improve my German. And to do that I wanted to go to the Cinema. Cologne's cinema is probably one of the most awesome ones I've ever been to. We watched the movie Tammy. It was quite funny and the best part was that I understood almost everything! I guess my German isn't as bad as I thought.<br />
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A chocolate tower and pictures with some friends :)</div>
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One of the weekends was the Cologne's light festival. It was so amazing and spectacular! A half hour long firework show, great music, tasty beer and lights EVERYWHERE!</div>
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This is from google just so you can get the idea what it was like :)</div>
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Also from google</div>
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Another weekend was the Bonn's beer festival. It was probably my favorite one. Not because of the beer. Which I also like, lol. But because of the whole event - the scenery was absolutely gorgeous! And yet again - good music, great beer, great food and great people! There were things to do for everyone! Around 700 different beer flavors can be tasted at this event. And no, I did not get to taste them all! But I did try one of the best beers I've ever had - Belgium Cherry beer. I tell you people - it's the BEST!<br />
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How amazing is this view?</div>
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Even little Oliver had a blast!</div>
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With my sister :)</div>
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One day me and my sister decided to go shopping and do a little sightseeing in Cologne. To be honest - it is probably my favorite city on earth. Do not be surprised if in couple years I write new posts for there. Because I can easily see myself living there :) </div>
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What a gorgeous view :)</div>
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Cologne's cathedral</div>
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It's spectacular!!!</div>
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The bridge is covered with more than 40 000 locks :)</div>
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In between those events of course we went to Bonn and Wesseling for some shopping sprees, we also went out for evening walks - my sister lives a half our walk away from the river Rhine. It's so peaceful and beautiful. All in all - I am in love with Germany. Always have been and always will be. There's just something about that country... I love it! And the month I spent there was probably the best one of this summer :) </div>
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That's it for now. Wait for part 3 :)</div>
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Take care</div>
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-B- </div>
Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-50814554047980204082014-08-22T12:35:00.000+03:002014-08-22T12:35:10.801+03:00I did things! My summer. Part 1For someone who's not so fond of kids I've been spending quite the time with them this summer! But hey, I ain't complaining! Since this has honestly been the best summer of my life!<br />
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Because of my job I've had experiences for life! In a good way! Mostly...<br />
I'm a Project Manager's assistant. Basically, my boss writes all these projects etc. and I have to participate in all of them and do things I wouldn't normally do. For example - attend Student's ball. I don't go to balls. Not my thing. But I had no choice since I was also organizing it. So I dolled up (or at least got as close to that as I possibly could) , got my friends with me and I actually had a blast. I love my friends. They made this whole thing a lot easier and more fun! <br />
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Ready to go!</div>
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Some group selfies! </div>
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<br />The next thing I had to do was organize my high school reunion. I had to make and send out invitations, contact graduates, make name tags and on the actual reunion day I had to work till midnight. And only then I could join my own classmates. But it was so much fun. Yeah I was busy working while others were already partying, but everyone came to me once in a while and even brought me some food and drinks so I had loads of fun. Hanging with my high school classmates is nothing extraordinary because even though we graduated 3 years ago, we still keep contact and have parties together. (We had one yesterday!) So we are not out of each others lives :)<br />
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So now on to the kids... Right after the reunion and right before I left to Germany, I had to work at a camp for 80 kids. Now imagine my freakout when I found out I was going to have to be in charge of 13 kids for a week! I'm not good with kids. Or at least I thought I wasn't. They freak me out. All I could think about was how awful this is going to be. They won't respect me, they'll be stuck up and rude, I won't be able to control them... KIDS!!! <br />
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The camp was called "Healthy and Active". The program was mainly about sports. They had 3 practical lessons - <span class="short_text" id="result_box" lang="en"><span class="hps">athletics, </span><span class="hps">floorball</span>, <span class="hps">aerobics. And I had to guide them everywhere and be with them all day long. I had to work from 8am to 11pm every day... Since those classes were outside in the stadium, of course I got the ugliest sunburn EVERYWHERE! Everything you can possibly imagine - I had that. My face was tan except around my eyes. (thank you, sunglasses). My arms were tan except for the parts of my t-shirt sleeves. My legs were tan except for the parts of my sandal straps... basically I looked awful at the end of the week. </span></span><br />
<span class="short_text" id="result_box" lang="en"><span class="hps">As for the kids... I got the most awesome kids in the whole camp!!! Everyone was so nice and fun, and active, and polite, and respectful, and chatty! I absolutely adored them! They respected me and I respected them! Each morning they would wait for me with stories about how they spent the night or how they enjoyed the day before! I had no problems at all with my kids! </span></span><br />
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On the last day of camp we went on an <span class="gt-card-ttl-txt" style="direction: ltr;">excursion and spent half the day at the seashore. At first I was nervous because they all went swimming etc. But everything went well and we had a blast!</span><br />
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As we returned to the camp and they had packed their stuff and waited for their parents to pick them up, they all hugged me and said goodbye and it was the nicest feeling ever! I - who does not like kids and was scared to even deal with them - was sad for it to be over! I had so much fun! And it was an amazing experience I'll never forget! And as it turns out - I'm actually quite good with kids... Who knew? LoL.<br />
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-B- </div>
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<span class="short_text" id="result_box" lang="en"><span class="hps"><br /></span></span>Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-30553966992963890462014-08-05T16:00:00.002+03:002014-08-05T16:00:32.833+03:00I went places! Part 2Last day in Germany for me. To be honest - I don't really want to go home. I miss my pets and my friends. Specially one of them cause she just had a baby. (The day after I left for Germany. Sneaky little thing). But other than that I'd much rather stay here. I got to see some amazing places and attend some great events but that's a post for another day. I gotta finish my story about <a href="http://baiba1205-beginnersblog.blogspot.de/2014/07/i-went-places_17.html">London</a> . I'm not really sure why I didn't write everything in one post cause quite honestly that was mostly the fun stuff. Now comes the more boring part, lol.<br />
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May 26. Me and my sister left London behind and went to Coventry. A town which I particularly wanted to visit for two reasons. One: one of my best friends lived there at the time, Two: I almost went studying to Coventry University so I wanted to check it out.<br />
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I hadn't seen Justīne for TWO YEARS! No need to say I missed her like crazy. Since I honestly love that girl with all my heart. And she was more than happy to see us cause no one had visited her in Coventry. She moved to UK after high school to study. Anyways, Coventry is not a big city and there's not much to do but I didn't even care. I was just happy to see my friend. So we stayed in and played cards and chatted all night long. :)<br />
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May 27. We decided to go on a little shopping spree and check out what Covetry has to offer. In the town center is a Transport Museum. The entrance is free and honestly I loved it. Me and my sister are big fans of cars and motorsports so we spent hours walking around and checking everything out.<br />
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Justīne chilling with Postman Pat</div>
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After the museum Justīne took us on a little tour around the University campus. It is actually really modern and looks amazing! They have a huge library and The Hub is a great place for students to relax and study. I could definitely see myself studying there... Unfortunately I did not like the city itself. It's very grey and dirty. But other than that it was not that bad :)<br />
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The Hub</div>
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In the evening we were quite exhausted so we decided to buy few drinks and watch Shawshank redemption, as it is one of my favorite movies and Justīne hadn't seen it. The next day (May 28) me and my sister had to take the bus back to London. My sister got a good laugh as we passed the Sherlock Holmes museum. I really wanted to visit it but we didn't have that much time and as we drove by it, I unconsciously put my hand on the window and stared at it with sad, googly eyes! My sister said it looked like one of those movie moments! LoL. So we got back to my friend's place near London and had a quiet night with some last chit-chat and Latvian songs in the background.<br />
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May 29. We packed our suitcases, my friend walked us to the bus station, we got to the airport and flew home.<br />
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Above the clouds of Riga</div>
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So that was our trip. All in all it was a good one. It had it's ups and downs but I really enjoyed it. I missed my friends. I miss them now! But we had a great fun together and awesome memories :) And I'm actually proud of myself and my sister because this was our first time traveling on our own and planning and finding everything by ourselves. And we survived! LoL. </div>
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Now I gotta go pack my suitcase :( Or in other words - sit and watch my sister do the job.</div>
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Take care, everybody. See you all back in Latvia!</div>
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-B- </div>
Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-68449569163928985552014-07-17T20:01:00.000+03:002014-07-17T20:01:10.962+03:00I went places!Greetings from Germany! :)<br />
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[great weather for some outdoor-writing, lol]</div>
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My vacation is in full swing! 20 more days with my sister and 20 more days left for me to learn German! Ja, das ist nicht gut! I'm usually good with languages but with this particular one I'm not in a good relationship. But since German is the only subject I almost failed in, I have no other choice but to learn it. </div>
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Anyways, as promised, in this post I'll tell about my trip.</div>
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Me and my sister hadn't been anywhere for quite a while. well... she lives in Germany so technically - I hadn't been anywhere. So we decided to go on a trip together. Since we didn't have enormous amount of money and time, we decided to go to London. And since I have the natural talent of being awesome, I had to plan the trip. It wasn't that hard, to be honest. We didn't have to worry about our accommodation, since I have friends who live close to London. We simply crashed at their place. But I wanted to see something outside London as well, so I had to do some research. And with a little help from my sister, the trip was fully planned! May 23rd - May 29th - London! (Probably wasn't the wisest decision to plan a trip for the last week of university (In Latvia schools end on May 31st and in June is the exam session) Before I left I had to take 4 tests in one day and arrange everything so I wouldn't have any debts). </div>
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May 23rd. Our plane lands in London at exactly 12:25pm and the excitement begins... Only it didn't last very long as we had to stand in a line at the "border" for one and a half hour! And after the nice lady got to see that my face matches my passport picture (only I don't look beat up in real life as I do in it) we got our bags and finally met our friends who had been waiting on the other side for this whole time! Anyway, we decided not to do anything the first day. Since me and my sister were kinda tired from the flight and I hadn't seen my friends for a while, we just stayed home and had some delicious cherry whiskey and spent the whole day and night chatting and laughing.</div>
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May 24th, which was a Saturday, we spent in London. Went to see all the typical tourist places and objects, experienced the famous London weather. As in - chilling with our sunglasses on one minute, soaked wet in rain the next. But we were all in good spirits, excited and didn't mind the weather at all. We even got to see the Bupa Westminster mile (world's biggest one-mile running event - according to google) and got home at about 10pm. It was a day well spent. And my legs could approve that statement, as they were hurting like hell from walking all day long. Honestly - the only moments we sat down were in the underground and the train back home.</div>
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May 25th was probably my favorite. Since we wanted to see something outside London as well, I booked a one-day tour for me and my sister. It started at 8:30 am. The thing I really like about London and probably UK in general - it is really easy to find everything. And the underground is the easiest thing to use ever! So we got to the meeting place early, chatted with some nice police officers, according to whom I was in trouble since it was illegal to smile at that place. Oops!<br />
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[ Me and my sister before the tour ]</div>
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The tour consisted of 3 stops<br />
*Windsor<br />*Bath<br />
*Stonehenge<br />
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We didn't have much time to explore everything in all those places. But we did get to see the huge and beautiful Windsor Castle. I don't think a week would be enough to walk through and around it!<br />
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The next stop was Bath. It is so cute!!!</div>
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<span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">Right
next to this park there is a small bookstore where - of course - you
can buy Jane Austen's books. I swear I was more than tempted to buy
Pride & Prejudice and go sit in the park and read about the charming
Mr. Darcy while the orchestra plays in the background! I absolutely
LOVE Bath. It's as idyllic as I imagined it would be</span></span> <br />
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[This was delicious!]</div>
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The last stop was Stonehenge. And honestly - I was totally disappointed. Not as much about the fact that there's nothing really to see as about the entrance fee! This might be nothing for many of you, but for me... if I have to pay 25 <span class="st">£ to walk around a circle of stones... No thank you. That's half of my plane ticket. So we decided to simply walk from the parking lot up to Stonehenge (about 1.6 miles) and of course if you don't pay, you cannot go really close to it. But from what I saw, it was enough for me.</span></div>
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<span class="st">We got back to London at around 7pm. The tour was actually awesome. We both loved it. And our tour guide was a hilarious and wise man. After the tour we went straight to the train station to head home. At least we hoped for it... London, however, had other plans for us. All the trains got cancelled for some unknown reason so we spent 3 hours waiting for them to start working again. Funzies...Not really. We got home around midnight. Starving, tired and quite angry. But the day itself was quite amazing :) </span></div>
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<span class="st">Take care everybody!</span></div>
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<span class="st"><br />-B- </span></div>
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Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-4185825372989169692014-07-05T16:58:00.000+03:002014-07-05T16:58:08.176+03:00Why? Why me?! :D<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Oh wow. I've been gone for quite a while. But do not worry my fellow bloggers. I was here the whole time - reading and enjoying your posts :)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">As for me, life is good. I just finished my first year at the new university. May I say - it was a great one. So much laughter, adventures and also tears of the pre-exam panic. One simply cannot live without them, lol. But I ended this year with good grades, wonderful memories and no regrets. And to think how scared and doubtful I was in the beginning... Random road trips, game nights, parties and jokes. That's how I'll remember it.I got to go on a vacation too, but I'll write about that in my next post. In this one I actually wanted to write about something that happened to me TODAY!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">My high school Latvian teacher died on May 28th. I actually saw her in my dream that night! And as I once wrote in a <a href="http://baiba1205-beginnersblog.blogspot.com/2013/07/in-search-of-meaning-ofdreams.html">post</a> - I'm the queen of weird dreams. And I almost never see the dead. So that was freaky. Anyways...She was a special teacher to me and my class so of course I decided to attend her funeral. I don't know the traditions for funerals in other countries, but in Latvia, here's how it goes - everyone goes to the chapel and puts flowers on the floor around the coffin, then stands around the room for a little ceremony...</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Now, I've told this before, but I'll say it again - I am the queen of all things awkward. This is not a joke and I'm not overreacting... (and I say I'm the queen of a lot of things, yet, I don't see a crown... Someone should do something about that, lol.) but it's true. If there ever is a possibility of something weird or awkward happening - it's gonna happen to me! Til this day I actually thought it had limits. Apparently not. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">... So I walked into the chapel with my friend, she put her flowers down and then it was my turn... As I crouched to put my flowers down, I suddenly lost balance and totally fell sideways on the floor... The most awkward part was that I couldn't get up... Someone helped me and I just wanted to walk outside as quickly as possible. The worst part is that I couldn't laugh because it was a funeral. My friend Linda already had tears in her eyes but even she wanted to laugh and it was so hard to contain ourselves... but we did. Now, of course, as I'm typing this, I'm laughing in tears as to how clumsy I was! The whole time I was standing there, I was thinking - why ?! why me?! :D </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">At first I thought it was a huge embarrassment. Obviously all these people saw me and it was probably the most embarrassing moment of my life...so far. But then I thought about it a little... and I figured how to calm myself down. My teacher was always happy and smiling and joyful. She loved life and lived it to the fullest. And I'll never forget her cheerful laughter. And that's how I want to live my life. So as I look at my clumsy moment - it was a sign from above that this is exactly how I should remember this day. With a smile on my face because I had the honor of knowing her. Or at least that's what I'll keep telling myself to justify my clumsiness. Either way - I'll probably avoid public places for quite a while now. *facepalm*</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">-B- </span></span></div>
Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-42499998848159160732013-10-04T02:21:00.000+03:002014-01-04T03:29:22.819+02:00What I've been up to...<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">A whole month has passed. And I survived! And actually a lot has happened! And it's all good stuff. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">First of all - my sister moved back to Germany. She got an amazing offer which she couldn't pass and I'm happy for her. And I'm happy for myself as well, cause I got the car and now I have someone to visit in Germany again :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">And right before she left, we got to go to Tallinn, Estonia again to visit our friend. We had a great time - went to the cinema, ate some Sushi and had fun. And it was a double goodbye party because my friend is moving to Australia for a year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">[I already miss both of them :( ]</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">[on our way back home]</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">After we got home, my sister flew to Germany the next day!! And I'm happy for her because she's happy there :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">As for me - University is going great. I have some awesome people around me, we're studying, laughing and partying together. Sometimes we're combining those 3. I've also become good friends with my roommate. And this is a lesson I learned - once you get to really know someone - they might turn out to be great persons. Just like my roommate. And here comes the big news - I got my own room in dorms! A single room just for me. I wanted it in the very beginning. And now I'm actually only partly happy about it, because I liked living with my roommate. But on the other hand, I also like my privacy which I had none of in the double room. But no worries, I'm now living only 2 doors further. So nothing will really change. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4CnbKFdhTMx2usRKaWNHRiTqhMMGFyoKnpxx9ihGFCp5-zctCFPdPxktcYYPeC5jxnaiq8VYitzVTwrTlNpuKofWzNg0zT4wBrO6ty7sSjwqKnxqKDBQVwWQ-z-wG1i8qnwR-vXBZgXKR/s1600/Photo0475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4CnbKFdhTMx2usRKaWNHRiTqhMMGFyoKnpxx9ihGFCp5-zctCFPdPxktcYYPeC5jxnaiq8VYitzVTwrTlNpuKofWzNg0zT4wBrO6ty7sSjwqKnxqKDBQVwWQ-z-wG1i8qnwR-vXBZgXKR/s1600/Photo0475.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"> [This is how we studied for a test :D ]</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0lrULzfJ41suO5LXtH5Ep3CcVgaHQ0ZRHQIHCnvNtszI3KyO0vggQkyApEWZR7KnACImGMz_EJKl0pUhqH0QGx_zv4CQM5H-sPZL1thDNGYK4B8kK1Qn4qqkoA7crMpf_RuYX3ktIcmZt/s1600/Photo0469.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0lrULzfJ41suO5LXtH5Ep3CcVgaHQ0ZRHQIHCnvNtszI3KyO0vggQkyApEWZR7KnACImGMz_EJKl0pUhqH0QGx_zv4CQM5H-sPZL1thDNGYK4B8kK1Qn4qqkoA7crMpf_RuYX3ktIcmZt/s1600/Photo0469.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">[First poker night]</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span> <br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Another thing I did - I applied for a voluntary work. Starting from next week I'll be reading for people with vision impairment. I figured since I have a lot of free time, I might as well do something good :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I also am thinking about joining the Debate club. But I don't know about that yet. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">So anyways, I'm sorry for not reading your blogs as often as I wish I could. But for the first time in a while - I've been really busy in a good way. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Take care, everybody :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">-B- </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span>Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-76126582823666864182013-08-30T06:38:00.000+03:002013-08-30T06:38:09.435+03:00I want to sleep but my brain won't stop talking to itself<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">It's 6am and I'm STILL awake. I've already lost count on how many nights it's been like this. And since I can't sleep I might as well write.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Million different thoughts are running through my head and they are freaking me out. Why is it that whenever something bad happens or you're feeling bad, more and more things go wrong all at the same time? It's like the universe is thinking "Hey, things are already crappy for her. Lets make it worse. It'll be fun!" </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">This week has been a complete bust. Except for few moments. University starts on September 2nd and I'm moving into dorms on Sunday. I'm a super private and shy person so the fact that I'll be living in a small room with a complete stranger stresses me out. Also I've had trouble with the previous university. The Tourism program director hates me because I left. And now she's trying to do everything possible to make me regret leaving that place. Little does she know that her actions actually make me feel happier about my decision. But I guess that's just life. Full of Arrogant and nasty people. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Also things at home are not so great and I don't even know what's going on here. I can't explain it cause I don't understand it. All I know is that something is bothering my parents but no-one is talking to anyone in this house. So I'm just letting it be. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">And to top all of this crap - I'm sick!!! And this is the thing that's stressing me out the most because I'm already scared of the new beginning at new university, living in dorms and all, and now I have to start with a cold! which just adds extra stress to everything. So basically I'm eating pills and drinking tea cause I have to get well in two days! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">The only good thing is that I have some friends who are pulling me out of all this. I found time to go to a hockey game, went on a road-trip to the sea and today I got invited to a Pancake Afternoon. So I guess not everything is so bad after all. If only I could get some sleep!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">-B- </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">P.S. I know this is one of those weird posts when you don't know what to say other than "it's going to be ok" etc. So don't feel pressured to comment. This post is more for me... Take care :) </span></div>
Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-8968674346509685632013-08-05T22:39:00.000+03:002013-08-05T22:39:17.874+03:00I have a habit of caring too much!<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">First, some good news --></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I posted some time ago that I wanted to get into a different university for Translation program. Guess what? I GOT ACCEPTED! And not only that - I got into Budget group again, which means - free studies! This is because I'm a Nerd, as <a href="http://harithaharsha.blogspot.com/">Haritha</a> said, lol. My grades are really good and that is one thing that's appreciated in universities here. I'm excited. And scared. But mostly excited. :) So in 4 years I'll have my Bachelor's degree in Translation. [Hopefully]. I don't like the 4 year thing, but that's what it is in Latvia...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Now, on to the story...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">My kindness has no limits and it scares me </span><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">sometimes</span> cause it might just get me into trouble someday. I care too much for everything and everyone on this planet. For example, if I see a dead dog, bird or even a frog on the road I will feel bad for the whole day. Or even if I see an alive animal all alone on the street - I will feel sorry for it. This has happened a lot. And I can't help it. Just like I can't help the feeling I get when I see old people walking alone with huge grocery bags. It breaks my heart to drive by them in my car when they have to walk. I always want to just stop and ask if I can help them. Of course I never do, cause I'm too shy. That was 'til today.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I was just coming home from work when I saw this old lady who was walking with a walker. She was small, her back was bent and she was walking really slow. I felt so bad for her that I decided to actually do what I always want to do when I see someone like that. So I stopped and said: "Good day. Can I give you a ride?" </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">She came closer and said: "Oh, no, thank you. No need to bother that much." And just when I was about to close the window, she started telling me all about her life, family, childhood etc. So half an hour later I found myself listening to stories about her younger days and how she has traveled a lot. She even spent some time in Armenia together with some -soon to be- Astronauts. And how she was deported to Siberia when she was 10 and got back when she was 16. And now she wants to get insurance for her house etc...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">There I was, in the middle of the street, listening to her stories. When all I asked was if she wanted a ride. It was quite funny and interesting at the same time. And sad a bit too. Because I think some old folks have no-one to talk to and they are happy to tell everything to the first person who is ready to listen. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Lucky for her, I'm always ready to listen. Besides - I'm too nice to not to listen, anyway. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">This was one strange day for me. But on the bright side - I did overcome my shyness and finally just stopped to offer my help. :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Take care, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">-B- </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"> </span></div>
Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8371019099295064245.post-41150643687239378082013-07-13T19:47:00.001+03:002013-07-13T19:47:52.453+03:00In search of the meaning of...dreams!<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Since the day I decided I wanted to study translation, I've been obsessed with it. But now I've taken it to a whole different level. I started translating my DREAMS.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I know it might sound strange, but trust me - I'm the queen of weird dreams! Here are some reasons why:</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">*I can remember 99% of my dreams;</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">*I have 2 dreams which I see repeatedly, every year;</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">*There are 4 things which usually dominate in my dreams ( My grandmother's house, Snakes, Bears, Catastrophes/Death (usually mine or my grandma's)).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Pretty weird, huh? And that's why they usually get me intrigued. Which is why I wanted to know their meaning.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I could figure on my own why I see my grandma's house all the time. It's simply because I worry about her and she's on my mind. Also Bears don't freak me out but I do not like snakes and I'm definitely not so keen on catastrophes and death, which I do see often. But they look quite interesting and even cool sometimes, lol. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">To answer my questions and clear my doubts, I've spent quite some time on websites with dream translations. And this is what I found:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><b>Bears</b>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">- To
see a bear in your dream represents independence, strength, death and
renewal, and/or resurrection. Bears are symbols of the cycle of life. You
may also be undergoing a period of introspection
and thinking. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">*In particular, if you see a bear in your grandmother's house [which have always been the cases with bears], then
it implies that your grandmother is a dominating figure in your life. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Okay, I've always liked bears. Now that I've read the description, I don't mind seeing them in my dreams :) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><b>Snakes:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">-To see a snake or
be bitten by one in your dream signifies hidden fears and worries that are
threatening you. Your dream may be alerting you to something in your
waking life that you are not aware of or that has not yet surfaced. The snake may also refer to a person around you who is callous,
ruthless, and can't be trusted. <u>As a positive symbol</u>, snakes represent healing,
transformation, knowledge and wisdom. It is indicative of self-renewal and
positive change.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Hmm. I'm not sure which meaning to trust when it comes to snakes - the positive or the negative one. All I know is that I still don't like snakes and each time they appear in my dream it becomes something insane and ridiculous. [For example, one time I was trying to save a snake from the bad guys and <b>Ninja turtles </b>were helping me. What the hell? And that's just one example of how insanely weird my dreams are].</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Now comes the part that I do not like the most about my dreams.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><b>Death / Catastrophes</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">They wouldn't bother me so much If I didn't see them as often as I do! And the weirdest part is that when someone dies or when something terrible happens, it usually happens to me, my grandma or the world (while I'm at my grandma's house - further called - The house).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Some examples:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><b>*</b>I was at The house when a War started. I was hiding inside and all I heard was that my grandma went outside to defend us and she got shot.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">* I got kidnapped while I was at The house.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">* Me and my friends were at The house, when suddenly a lava started to flow from the woods. We all climbed on trees and then a giant wave came from the woods and went over our heads. When it was over, I went to look around and found my grandma dead, frozen next to the pound.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">*I once drank water from the well near The house and when I got home, I was sitting with my family in my room and suddenly my voice got more and more quiet and in the end I couldn't speak or breath so I just died. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">*There was a comet coming directly towards the Planet Earth. Everyone could see it but no-one could stop it. So I just stood and waited for it to reach me. It did and everybody died. But then I woke up with my sister at The house and we were little and in different bodies, like if we were re-born. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">*But I have also dreamed about the death of my sister, my mom and other relatives. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">And many many more and even weirder dreams like that. Pretty freaky, if you ask me.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">So here are some of the meanings of these things:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">- To
dream about the death of a loved one suggests that you are lacking a certain
aspect or quality that the loved one embodies. Ask yourself what makes this
person special or what you like about them.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">To
dream that you die in your dream symbolizes inner changes, transformation,
self-discovery and positive development that is happening within you or your
life. You are undergoing a transitional phase and are becoming more enlightened
or spiritual. Dying does not always mean a physical death, but an ending of something. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">To
experience a catastrophe in your dream represents sudden instability and
upheaval in your walking life. You are feeling extremely anxious about the
unknown changes that are in store for you.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">How can something so terrible, as death, mean something positive? even if it does, I do not like dreaming about me or others dying. I wish I could do something about it.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Well, these are just the most weirdest things about my dreams. There have been few with numbers. I once had a dream where somehow everything was about number 12. It was the most important thing and it was dominating throughout the whole dream. I've also had a dream (in a terrible time of my life) when my dead grandpa put his hand on mine and said: "Don't worry, everything's going to be ok." That was sweet, but still - odd, because he knew what was going on with me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Do you believe in those dream translations? Or do you think it's just a bunch of crap? And please tell me you also have strange dreams, otherwise I'll feel like a complete weirdo.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Take care,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">-B- </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"> <b> </b></span><br />
Baibahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08910099607668121369noreply@blogger.com14