Multitasking: Friend or Foe

I remember the good o' days when life seemed so simple and uncluttered...and then I grew up. I went from literally having nothing to do to always having something I could be working on (but whether I actually choose to do something is another story). As our lives become busier and technology continues to improve, we have come up for a solution to getting things done: multitasking. On the plus side, you get a lot of things done and feel accomplished when you cross them off your to-do list, but then (pause) it gets nasty (and not the good nasty either). I recently found myself, engaging in this addictive habit by watching TV, browsing clothing websites online, texting with my sister, and checking my FB/e-mail/second e-mail/iCal plus writing an updated version of my next to-do list. Not cute people, not cute. I literally stopped mid-scribble and was like W-T-F. Even though I was doing everything that I felt needed to get done, I came to the realization that I can't do one thing at a time or else I start feeling like I am wasting my time. If you think I am exaggerating, next time you watch something on TV don't do anything else but watch it...not even check your phone (gasp!). While multitasking is a trait that is admired by many (especially the workforce), I feel that people need to start making a conscious effort to enjoy the little things in life one at a time. Trust me I am nowhere near cured but instead of doing a billion things at once, I try to maybe do two--eat and watch TV. I do have to say, so far so good; plus, I actually know what I am watching is about lol. So is multitasking a friend or foe---I think it's more of a fenemy :)

--Bev

Small Acts of Kindness That Go a Long Way

Today I received the cutest thing in the mail: a personalized card, Halloween candy, and cards with vintage humor. I know...you wish you had received it too :) The person that sent this to me was my sister-in-law, Alex. I honestly don't think she even understands what an impact her gesture made on me. When you are having one of those weeks (you guys know what I mean...), all you want is for it to be over and move on. Alex's kindness and thoughtfulness made my week. It was not only the fact that the package was awesome but that she included things that she knew I would love :) Her and I share a passion for many things, including coffee, reading, and all things fabulous...oh yeah and the love for the cutest girl ever, Maya! So I would like to publicly thank her:

Thanks Alex for the wonderful gift and your thoughtfulness! I will put up the cards in my room and give them to people I feel will get as much joy out of them as I have. I can't wait to see the three of you guys soon!

Kindest regards,
Bev

Confessions of a Caffeine Addict

One of the most terrifying, gut-clenching experiences I have ever had occurred this past Monday. Here is the 411:

The location: UCSD's Goody's Place & Market @ 8:32am
The victim: Bev
The incident: Starbucks espresso machine out of order

..."NOOOOOOOOOOO! How can they do this to ME!" That was my initial reaction. After the initial shock, I went onto full-fledged panic. Mind you, I had hardly slept the night before, had a midterm at 7pm, and was busy all day long. I honestly didn't know what the universe had against me that it refused to let me be in a state of consciousness during the day. So I did what any normal addict would do...deny that I HAD to have coffee to function and went to my classes. And this is what went through my mind during the lectures:

9-10am_Critical Gender Studies: "I can do this. So the girl next to me has a nice venti coffee and I can smell the wonderful aroma of hazelnut...NOT the end of the world."

10-11am_Econometrics: "JUDGMENT DAY. It has finally arrived. I don't care that my professor has a hot New Zealander accent, I am about to pass out! Oh God please make the pain go away " *tear, tear*

At 11am I had a break and I halled ass to the nearest coffee cart. I ordered a Hammer Head (bold coffee with express0) and dove into the wonderful world of caffeine and bliss. I have to be honest; it kind of creeped me out how euphoric I felt after a few sips of coffee...then I quickly got over it because I could function again :)

So, what is the lesson I learned from this earth-shaking experience? Buy Starbucks instant coffee sticks and carry them in my purse! This way caffeine will always be a cup of hot water away; plus, what place doesn't have hot water? Hey, don't judge me...I promised for better and for worst lol.

Your Wiser Friend,
Bev

Just B...Adventurous

One of the best things I have done in my life, hands down, has been studying abroad. When else can you just put your life on hold, pack all your must-haves (who are we kidding...everything I own is a must-have lol), and fly to Europe? I went from never having been on an airplane to flying to England, Italy, Greece, France, and Spain! And let me tell you...it was wonderful :) I saw places I had only read about, befriended people I couldn't imagine not knowing, and have memories that I can recall at a moment's notice that never fail to crack me up. Of all the places in the world I chose to study in Italy, specifically in Rome. I miss it dearly; there isn't a more magical and culturally-rich place. Plus, let's not forget the men...HOT. I felt like a woman in a candy store filled with European men hahaha. Overall, it was the most enriching, life-changing experience of my life. I have pictures, videos, memories, friends, and stories that I will cherish forever. Trust me, if there was ever a way to have an adventure and get credit for college THIS IS IT! So get your business in order, pack your stuff, and experience what the world has to offer!

Baci,
Bev