I've been watching the updates about the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico and honestly, it breaks my heart. The people who were interviewed seemed so beaten up and broken, their lively hoods had been destroyed by something they could not foresee or prevent.

The news of this oil spill also makes me very, very angry. Angry at the complete lack of responsibility of a company so driven by greed that they were willing to cut corners on safety. Oil has been coming out into the water for about 40 days now. 40 days. They haven't fixed it and honestly, I'm not even sure if they themselves know how to:

"This scares everybody, the fact that we can't make this well stop flowing, the fact that we haven't succeeded so far," BP Chief Operating Officer Doug Suttles told the media Saturday. "Many of the things we're trying have been done on the surface before, but have never been tried at 5,000 feet."

Wow, maybe if they had taken the time before to make sure everything was working properly this would not be a problem. The damage to the environment is astronomical. Ecosystems are very sensitive, the smallest changes can destroy them sometimes permanently. With oil going in the water, going into marshes, and washing up on shores; the environment is taking a major beating. The area the oil spewing out encompasses is huge:

The oil spill forms a surface slick at least 130 miles long and 70 miles wide that stretches from about 30 miles west of the Mississippi River to the offshore waters of western Florida, according to the latest National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration estimates.

I think how can it come back from that and I hope it can be restored. I don't want to have to tell my children someday, "Oh there were these wonderful and unique ecosystems in southern America but greedy idiots completely destroyed them and now you just have these pictures on wikipedia, just pretend it's the real thing."

I don't understand how people can be so consumed in their greed and the addiction to money that they become blind to something that is now causing serious environmental repercussions from the smallest microbes to birds to sharks to people. It makes me so livid, money is not worth destroying the only planet we have to live on. I am so disgusted.

While researching this oil spill I came across a silver lining, there are hundreds of programs devoted to helping clean up the massive amounts of oil across the Gulf. One program is called Hair for Oil Spills Program and it was created by Matters of Trust. This is a program to collect hair from people or animals and the hair is used to make hair booms which can then soak up water. They also use nylon which can be donated as well. I think this is such a unique program I had to share! Here is the link: http://www.matteroftrust.org/programs/hairmatsinfo.html

Here is a great youtube put out by Matter of Trust that better explains: Matter of Trust

cheers.

Jordan

New Wardrobe Color Obsession

It's official, I am in love with the color teal (or really anything in the teal - sea foam color category). Teal is such a bright and versatile color, I really think anyone can wear it and look stunning. Teal makes those with olive to dark colored skin really stand out by complimenting their skin tone and making it pop. However, those with pale skin can also use teal to their advantage and shine. Blaire, my little sister is very pale with black hair and blue eyes, teal also looks flattering on her, it brings out her eyes and looks very pretty against her pale skin. I think it is such a lovely color for summer, and I keep seeing so many pieces of clothing in it and each time I think, "that's so adorable, ugh I just love teal." So...hello new summer color!

Teal Clothing and Accessory Examples I made (thanks, polyvore!):

lovelove.

Jordan

Hmmm

Do you ever feel disappointed in someone? It seems every chance I give it is just thrown in my face and I am proven that this person doesn't deserve my trust. But, I can't turn my back, I can never turn my back and it is hard because over and over again, I am left feeling disappointed and resentful. I guess the thing is I just need to learn that they will never change, accept it, and move on. By this point I should have realized that people really do not change that much, I have yet to see someone do a 180 and stick with it for more than a couple months, people are who they are. Hopefully, I'll be able to just eventually expect nothing more from them than what they continually choose to show me.

Moving on, I believe that people need to be loyal to one another. Over the course of civilization, loyalty was imperative for the human race to survive, I mean you want someone looking out for you if a wooly mammoth or other giant animal is coming to attack. Lack of loyalty is becoming something I observe more and more in my life. People are all too willing to go behind others back's and say something nasty or to turn their back on someone who is supposedly very close to them. I don't understand it, what do people gain by doing this? An upper leg in a social circle, a boost to their self esteem, or are they just mean spirited individuals. All of these reasons are so superficial, if you are using it as a leg up what's to say those people you wish to associate with won't turn around and do the same to you. Obviously if you are willing you break your loyalty to someone else, why should the social circle extend it's loyalty to you or for that matter, each other. For self-esteem, that I do not understand at all. By not being loyal to someone else you aren't make yourself look better I think you are making yourself look much worse. To me I see someone who is willing to say something nasty as uncouth and not classy. If you dislike yourself that much, why don't you work on it. Finally, if you are just mean spirited then I guess I'll pray for you but other than that I don't know.

I hate to rant like this, but, it was so necessary it's too late to go to the gym and run it off.

Jordan

One More I Swear.

This story is so moving, I wish that these hikers would be free now even more.http://news.yahoo.com/video/world-15749633/jailed-hikers-are-strong-but-afraid-19992151

I know, this post is sooo LiveJournal, but why stop with my last ranting post?

Don’t you hate how memories have the funny way of catching you off guard? You think you have passed the time when a memory that had some weight on it would pop up and throw off your stream of thought. I hate that, but it happened when I was writing this graduation card, I mean, there was nothing special about it or particularly sentimental, but by the time I finished closing the envelope my mind was somewhere else.

Anyway, it just made me turn on some tunes &want to spend the night between two songs: Third Eye Blind Thanks A Lot and Horror Show (I know, my music choices are pretty predictable, but there lyrics are just so kdbfajekz. Yeah, that’s the word.)just writing. It’s been awhile since I’ve just written some prose and put it into lines and made some sort of elementary poem. Aside from the intial inspiration to write, the air conditioning is off and that will keep me awake, it’s so hot.

Here is one of them. I’m not happy with it. It’s really the roughest of rough drafts but oh well:

Ghosts float through your hallways

intertwining with the dust particles through the air.

Sound vibrations ancient shells reside in the walls

that once shook with laughter and loud music

the floors aches for the past spilt courage and

running of feet into that secret part of your house,

the annex of your fears, an adolescent’s playground, your bedroom.

Memories fill your head as you touch

untouched sheets and fluffed pillows in the morning

as you sneak back upstairs after spending the night gone

wishing you could find a way to put all the reminders away

Hahaa, i'm sooo livejournal right now.

Ali (i don't know why this is double spaced) Virden

dkjfaberkhg.

Just going to throw this one out there because it is bothering the living shit out of me. Skinny girls, please stop picking yourselves apart. I have overheard like seven conversations from sizes 0-4s about how there legs weren't thin enough, their abs not flat enough, and their chest not big enough. STFU. Try waking up every morning to the sobering realization THAT not only do I have two dumb stubby legs but I also have a short torso and zero assets. So Really, eat a fucking hot dog & chill out, you can still wear a form fitting dress & i'm sure you'll look smoking in your bikini.

Kisses.

Ali

I love the state of Maryland and polyvore

So.. I have to share.

I found this website where you can create outfit sets with pretty much any item of clothing imaginable. Since I'm up (Law and Order marathon on Bravo...hello!) I made a Maryland themed set because I mean I have to represent, am I right?

Items in this set:

Get Red-y Dress, $90
Shop Steve Madden Shoes Caryssa High Heel Pump in Black Patent Leather, $89
MARC BY MARC JACOBS 'Miss Marc' Bangle, $68
Chanel Beaute Des Ongles Extreme Shine Nail Lacquer, $25
Beach Theme Home Decor - 7"W x 2 1/4"D x 6"H Michael Healy Crab Door...

Cheers!

Jordan

LOST by Catz.

I thought this was hilarious! I hope yall enjoy it!

Blaire Says:

Dinner time discussions at the Virden house often encompass many topics, some more unsavory than others. Tonight was just one of those nights when Ali and I had to look at Blaire and simply shake our heads.

First, she told us that "Bunny Ranches" were all around her college of choice next year. I quickly caught on that "bunny ranches" are not places where the animal bunnies are bred and raised, but, a strip club. Nice, I don't think I am being over protective when I say I don't want my baby sister to be near those things!

She proceed to say(joking of course...right?),

"Give me a bikini and call me Cherry because I'm dancing"

....People wonder why we worry about our little sisters going to college.

cheers!

Late Night with Jane

We got Netflix. My mom found out that the X-files were on it and went bananas.

While watching it...

Mom talking to Ali then out of no where: Aww Scully's crying so sad

Ali mocking Mom: Put that on the blog

Mom: No I can't be myself now!

....weird!

Yard work: manual labor Fridays!

Today was busy but at the end of the day I feel like I actually did something.

Ali and I spent the day doing yard work with our mother who was, "working from home." As a child, I never really liked gardening much it was always too hot or there were too many gross bugs. Today however, I enjoyed spending time with my sister and mother and just talking. I really feel as I am getting older my mother is becoming less of an "enforcer" and more of a friend and confidant. There is so much I can learn from her that when I was younger I chose to ignore because she was my mother and I thought I knew better.

I also got a pretty nice tan. Ali said before we went outside that I looked like Casper, always one to compliment! But by the end of the day I had an almost summer glow! I just really like being outside and working with my hands. I think tomorrow the three of us will plant new flowers in the gardens and around the deck. Our little sister's graduation party is fast approaching and the house has to look its best!

Ali also found a fun link...it's like chatroullette but with kittens (how adorable!)

http://www.kittehroulette.com/

lovelove.

Jordan

So my boyfriend is coming next week.

I come from a big crazy family. A family where no one is afraid to say exactly what's on their mind, one where we are who we are and don't put on a "good face" when company is around. Let's just say, I am a little nervous for my boyfriend to meet...the family.

Just a few opinions on his impending visit:

My father's take on it, "are you a gay boyyy? cause thats alright in this house."

Jordan, "we can make burchetta and break it in front him, ya know break bread show him whats up."

Nonnie, "how much do you like him, if you like him a lot you better not bring him over."


ALI

I love this quote.

William Shakespeare has such a way with words (obviously) and I enjoy reading so many of his plays but this quote is just so cute an adorable I had to put it on here; I've read it at least five times and each time I read it I am left with the same, "aww I want someone to read this to me one day" or "aww if I ever get married I want to read this at my wedding."

“no sooner met but they looked;
no sooner looked but they loved;
no sooner loved but they sighed;
no sooner signed but they
asked one another the reason;
no sooner knew the reason
but they sought the remedy.."
William Shakespeare

lovelove.
Jordan

Happy Thursday.

It's the first day of real (for realz) no cloudy sky & glorious doses of sun in Maryland. Anyway, I made this playlist of well I don't know...you can decide what genre it is, but I feel like it's an "easy listening while weeding mix" haha because I'm about to go weed my mother's flower beds....because it's sunny & my olive skin is turning green.

Ali's Weeding Weeds Mix

(sweet title right?mmmmm i'm not good with naming things. my poor children one day)

Paolo Nutini: Jenny Don't Be Hasty
Against Me!: Cavalier Eternal & Don't Loose Touch*
Brand New: Fork And Knife & At The Bottom
Aesop Rock: Daylight

Talib Kweli: Hot Thing Remix
Arrested Development: Everyday People (you can't get better as far as 90s rap goes in my mind)
The Band: Atlantic City
--at this point I'm just going to throw in A TON of The Black Keys, they are soo groovy:
Psychotic Girl
So He Won't Break
Just A Little Heat
When The Lights Go Out
Girl Is On My Mind
--done with them :)
Bruce Springsteen: I'm On Fire

The Ataris: San Dimas High School Football Rules

The Kooks: Sway

Jason Mraz:Sleeping To Dream & The Sunshine Song

The Dangerous Summer:Never Feel Alone

Metric: Gold Guns Girls

Miles: Just In Case

Heartless Bastards: Runnin

Mofro: How Junior Got His Head Pin Out

Bomb the Music Industry!: Stand There Until Your Sober

Less Than Jake: The Ghost Of Me and You

Streetlight Manifesto:A Better Place, A Better Time

Catch 22: Keasby Nights

& of course, Third Eye Blind:
1000 Julys

New Girl

Narcolepsy

An Ode To Maybe

Never Let You Go

haha, looking at this playlist it's kind of everywhere & extremely excessive, but I kind of like the "scatteredness" of it.

your future horticulturalist

ALI

(*by the way: Against Me!'s new album White Crosses is SO GOOD, I mean the lyrics are mind blowing in my opinion.)

Rumi: Who Makes These Changes?

Who makes these changes?
I shoot an arrow right.
It lands left.

I ride after a deer and find myself
chased by a hog.

I plot to get what I want
and end up in prison.

I dig pits to trap others
and I fall in.

I should be suspicious
of what I want.

I want to be this little girl when I Grow Up!

Tomorrow I think I am going to do her little song in-front of the mirror so I can have a little pep in my step too!

Summer Reading List

I love summer reading. During the school year I get so wrapped up in assignments and tests that I lose time to just read because I love it. Each summer, I make a list of books and it becomes sort of a contest with myself to see if I can read them all.

2010 Summer List:

-Looking for Alaska- John Green

-1984- George Orwell

- Brave New World- Aldous Huxley

-Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance- Robert Pirsig

-Slaughterhouse Five- Kurt Vonnegut

-The Sun Also Rises- Ernest Hemingway

-Eat, Pray, Love- Elizabeth Gilbert

-Classy- Derek Blasberg

-Naked Lunch- William S. Burroughs

-The Book of Love- Rumi

Hopefully I can get through all of them!

lovelove.

Jordan

bumm bummm bumm.

Lyrically, Mellisa Polinar's song Meant To Be, is maybe the most beautiful song I have ever heard. It's incredibly simple and to the point but the way she describes love is so sweet and innocent. I can't get over it. I love this song. love love it.

Chinese Food Fortune:

"To love and be loved is to feel the sun from both sides"

Thank you Little Phoenix for giving me a quote from David Viscott.

Ali

New Recipe :)

I found a new recipe today and am pretty excited to take it for a test drive. It's called Shredded Chicken and Corn Toastadas. I'm pretty sure it can be made with or without meat, for the vegetarians out there.

Shredded Chicken and Corn Tostadas

*Prep time: 20 min

*Makes 8 Tostadas

Ingredients:

-8 flour tortillas for soft tacos and fajitas

-1 can (11oz) whole kernel corn with red and green peppers

-1 1/2 cups shredded cooked chicken

-1/2 cup sour cream

-1 to 2 tablespoons milk

-2 1/2 cups shredded lettuce

-1 cup shredded cheddar or monterey jack cheese (4 oz)

-1/4 cup sliced green onions

Directions:

1) Heat Oven to 375 Degrees Fahrenheit. On ungreased cookie sheets, bake tortillas for 7 to 10 minutes or until crisp.

2)Meanwhile, in 2-quart saucepan, stir together corn, chicken, and salsa. Cook over medium-high heat 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until hot.

3) In small bowl, stir sour cream and milk until thin enough to drizzle. Top tortillas with lettuce and chicken mixture. Sprinkle with cheese. Drizzle with sour cream mixture. Sprinkle with green onions.

Cheers!

Jordan

Do you ever try to remember the way things feel? Like the certain pressures of someone's arms when they give you a hug or the way the grass feels in the morning when you lay on it as opposed to the afternoon or evening? Sometimes when I really want to remember something I try to remember the way it felt-physically. I don't know if it works or if what I feel like it felt is made up or some synthetic feeling of multiple moments jumbled together, but I still try.

I'm trying not to be impatient about certain things and I'm wishing right now that it wasn't raining and there was not a threat for more rain. I want to go for a walk to clear my head. I'm kind of frustrated.

I talked with Nonnie all morning, but she is making pasta with eggplant and I cannot stand looking at eggplant. It's such a process if you don't know. Egg plants two days to prepare. You see, you have to cut it and cook it, but it's oily so you have to put it on brown paper and sit bricks on it to squeeze all the oil out and then you can do what you want with it. I'm not exactly sure what Nonnie does, but for me, it's not worth all that labor. I guess eggplants are like other things, you realize the work you put it doesn't really make something you really want in the end. Who knows, some people love eggplant.

I need to clean my room, but Jordan has locked me out. I think that's rude of her.

Ali

Blaire Says:

Ali,Nonnie, Blaire, and I looking at monogrammed wedding dresses:

Jordan: The question is, which monogram would you get, yours or your new one with your husbands initial

Nonnie: That's the question.

Blaire: I'd get my monogram so I can reuse it for the next wedding.

Blaire, what a sly fox.

Dinner Time Conversation

Sitting around our dinner table, casual conversation:

Nonnie: I have to get a new address book because too many people are dead, you know, are crossed off or have gone written next to them.

Mom: You know..People don't move, they move on.

Papa: No! They move under!

Oh you know, just mash potatoes and morbid conversation, typical Virden dinner.

UMD

Hey University of Maryland,

Thanks for a good time.

I fell in a pothole, but, I'll still be cool with you.

Maybe we'll hang out again soon?

Cheers,

Jordan

To: University of Maryland, College Park

Every time I go to you, I seem to come home with a little less dignity and something wrong with my foot. And, I can't help but thinking how nasty turtle and bentley is once the sun sets. This time, I challenge you to allow me to have a good time. Thank you and carry on.

College Park I want to love you,

Ali

I got the nicest text from Dave mending things in many ways and he told me to go pick up a People Magazine.

My heart can’t help but feel heavy. I picked up the May 24,2010 issue of People and flipped to Yeardley’s article and within the article was a small and to the point article about Kristin Mitchell. And, I know I never knew either of these accomplished and beautiful women, but I can’t help feeling devastated by the loss of both of them.

Maybe it’s because of all the time I have spent at the Mitchell’s house, looking from Dave’s room into Kristin’s made-up yet empty room. The door was always open and it always felt like she was out and coming back but never did. Or maybe it’s the look in his parent’s eyes when they would speak so fondly of her or show me baby pictures. I don’t know, I can’t really place where these strong feelings come from but, I feel so attached to domestic violence and advocating against it. So, I guess I hope everyone goes out and gets a copy of this issue it has really important information about domestic violence and prevention. I think it’s a great article to read, think about, and talk about.

Ali

consigli di mia nonnie: il matrimonio

"Do you think he loves her as much as he loves his mother? His mother sits in the same place as the blessed mother! I just hope she isn't trying to do Italy a favor and set this marriage up!"

My grandmother's close Italian friend's son got engaged last night. Today, Nonnie gave me the "wedding talk" which I think was worse than when my mom gave me the sex talk. It was a mix of threatening me and advising me, but speaking in her "loud voice" during both sections of the conversation. Oh, and by conversation, I mean me listening and her talking. I never really do much talking, I find I learn more if I just stay silent and let her work the conversation out: Nonnie talking to Nonnie while talking at Ali. Haha, where are all my Italians at? I know you all know exactly what I'm talking about.

To Nonnie-don't worry I don't need you to bring a goat to any boy's house just yet.

Ali

[*ps, i know in the title it's supposed to be nonna, but I have never called nonnie nonna sooooo sorry! I changed it :) ]

ONE MORE RULE FOR MY LIST:

YOU PLAY WITH FIRE...YOU WILL GET BURNT.

sometimes badly.

just google image 3rd degree burns and just imagine that...on your soul.

yes, I think that's my golden rule.

Ali

1st Day of Summer Preliminary Playlist

It is officially summertime for Jordan Virden and I could not be happier to be in the 21042 with my family. Although it took forever to move out (Dad came at 9 AM we left at ...7PM bahaha true Virden family style) I am finally home! Along with the coming of summer and work also comes...summer playlists. I love making them, although this year's work playlist is still top secret (Ali won't even let me release the name, which by the way is epic and will bring people to their knees) I have made a preliminary "relaxed" playlist.

"Relaxed" Playlist also known as "BroChill"

*Heartless (Kanye West Cover)- The Fray

*Your Touch- The Black Keys

*Feel Me Flow- Naughty by Nature

*If it Kills Me- Jason Mraz

*Sarah- Fleetwood Mac

*Here I am- Freestyle Fellowship

*I'll Follow the Sun- The Beatles

*Piazza, New York Catcher- Belle and Sebastian

*Golden Days- The Damnwells

*The Chain- Fleetwood Mac

*The Nosebleed Section- Hilltop Hoods

*Solsbury Hill- Peter Gabriel

*Carolina- Corey Smith

*Motorcycle Drive by- Third Eye Blind

*Collie Man- Slightly Stoopid

*She's Got You High- Mumm-Ra

*Blackbird- The Beatles

*Werewolf- Coco Rosie

Merhhh there's more but, it's too late to type, I need to hibernate.

lovelove.

Jordan

Iron Man 2

I think the only highlight of this movie was Bill O'Rielly's cameo, outside of that it was too long and I really don't like scarlett johansson as a redhead/brunette mess.

Aside from that, Jordan Virden has yet to arrive to 3917 from Blacksburg. She is REALLY REALLY killing me. I made meatballs....was she home for dinner? Nope. Ugh.

Ali

All the kids are making lists.

Well, since Jordan made a list of things....Allow me too, please.

Things I, Alexandra "awesome" Jane Frances "extra rad" Virden, has learned:

-Look both ways when you cross a street. (haha who didn't see this one coming. Ugh, I'm soo obvious). Wearing a neckbrace is as horribly uncomfortable as it looks, plus having a walker....embarrassing.

-Nothing good comes about after midnight, nothing. Well, I take that back, initially it may seem super sweet that whatever you're engaging in post midnight is happening, but TRUST ME in the morning you'll be like-well goodness....that was _________ (synonym for:bad, waste of time, or down right shameful)

-I'd say have a 40 to 60 ratio of dicking around to studying. Please for the love of god do not rely on your final grades to make up for foolishness all semester. It just doesn't equal out.

-Hold someone's hair back when they puke, God will return the favor.

-Don't become a "pre game" (that's 3 boys ladies) or "main event"with the same fraternity.

-Read & stay informed, don't be a jackass and not know what is going on in the world, on campus, on the hills, whatever...stay in the know.

-If you're single, go on every date that someone asks you on. Don't refuse...don't be a bitch.

-Bring three pens to writing tests, you never know.

-Always smile, someone is always looking at you.

-Don't take symbollic logic, it will lower your sense of worth.

-Budget your money....realize that money is real and does not grow on trees.

-On that note: don't open tabs at bars.

-It's alright to cry. It's okay to have moments where you are disgustingly balling on the ground. Crying is a way to learn.

-Join a sorority, gkodb.

-if you're into someone, just tell him. being coy does not work with college boys. they don't get it, and most likely will never get it.

-don't pick a major that some could see as a hobby.....like comparative lit....unless youre rich and won't have to sell seashells to get buy.

ALI

Jane Virden:

Me: Mom, Belle (my most likely inbred dog) humped my leg twice today

Mom: So does that mean you two are going steady?

Wow, Jane Virden sure does have firm grip on 21st century relationships.

Ali.

Jordan Virden

ps i saw ____'s gal pal today

	she like stared at me

I was like...BITCH YOU TRYNA ASK ME ON A DATE *Jordan Virdan can be sassy, but only when appropriate. It was so necessary.

Obligatory End of School Year Blog Post.

Well, it is finally almost summertime (T-minus 24 hours) and I am so excited to enjoy the warm weather and bask in the fact that I have will have no responsibilities (academic wise) for a couple of months. I am also reminded that as this school year draws to a close (pause for dramatic effect) I am halfway done my undergraduate years (unless I take that victory lap....).

I cannot believe these two years have flown by, it feels like last time I looked back I was getting ready for prom or playing in band or walking to leadership class or going through recruitment, but I am here, a rising junior. It's a little scary that I only have two more years left at this wonderful place but I am amazed at the realization that I am becoming the person I set out to be at the beginning of my freshman year. I am involved in activities, hold leadership positions, and am taking classes that at one point terrified me. It's so interesting how life happens and day to day we go through it, for the most part not realizing that we are working towards something, that we are moving forward.

I feel as though I should try to impart something or things that I have learned over my first two years in college. Because I love lists and they are pretty much how I organize my life, I created a list of "things" I have learned.

Things

-Take chances; don't be afraid to put yourself out on a limb. Feeling embarrassed about trying and failing is way better than wondering what if.

-Whitney Houston's "I Wanna Dance with Somebody" is always an excuse to get a little crazy and dance on a table.

-Don't sweat the small stuff, it will just make you wrinkle faster.

-Do things that you love and that make you happy. If you spend your time doing things because you think that’s what others want you will just end up feeling empty and resentful.

-Always bring an extra pencil to a test.

-Don't spray Pam on a cookie sheet when it specifically tells you not too. The entire kitchen will smell like burnt hair.

-You can't study all the time, sometimes you need to let your hair down and let loose.

-After 2AM, people get a little nutty.

-Tell people in your life how much you love and appreciate them, they might not always be there.

-Remember to breathe, don't freak out.

-Life is always changing; to try and stop it will only end up making you miserable.

-Find happiness in simple things.

-Clean your room and put sheets on your bed.

-In the fall, football is life. Live it, Love it.

-Quarters are crucial. So many things need quarters to work in college.

I have some more maybe I will put more up later, but these will do for now. Time to get back to microbiology, I wouldn't want to bring shame to my family on my last final of the semester!

Cheers!

Jordan

My letter,finally.

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell,

I have been watching all the interviews you have done this past week about yeardley, domestic violence, and kristin. I just wanted to say how strong I think/know you both are and that both my prayers and support are with you. I truly believe HB911 is an extremely important piece of legislature and I hope it will get passed and give valuable information to Maryland's youth and others. Despite the immense challenges that you have faced and may continue to face, you both refuse to indulge in negativity or pessimism because you both are empowering people with knowledge and helping them to be their best. I hope all is well and that Dave has a great graduation and easy transition into law school!

sincerely,

ali virden

http://www.kristinskrusade.com/

^incase anyone is interested in look at who I have been talking about in a few of my last posts.

Happy Mother's Day!!

Happy Mother's Day!!!! WE lovee you!

Letter Writing.

Well, I have been trying to write this letter for about an hour and all I have is the address on the envelope.

I assume this writers block comes from the son of the people I am writing, considering his most recent (as in today) insult-thanking me for making him realize how I was not good enough for him, how terrible I am, and for doing him the favor of moving on. I guess the only appropriate response is-why you are most definitely welcomed, asshole. But, I don't know, I try desperately to keep all people good or bad in my life ( a downfall of mine I guess) because I like to circulate in a pool of familiar people, and I just don't understand how people can get so angry and stay angry for so long at me for just wanting to be happy. I mean I'm happy-can't that be enough for certain people to inspire them to find THEIR OWN happiness and not dwell on the fact that their happiness will not be found with me. I mean, I do try my best to make others happy and I try to be considerate of other people and give 100% to anything they ask of me, but when it comes to not being true to myself and making me unhappy- well isn't that where most people draw the line? I think so.

So since that "thank you" message, I've been stuck all day trying to figure out how to write something simple and from the heart to show my support for his parents and to commend them on their efforts to comfort another family who is in immense pain over the loss of their daughter/sister AND to encourage them to continue to fight for the bill they failed to pass during this legislation session.

Ali

Nonnie's advice always starts with a comparison to food.

But, I think it's because she is Italian and well, food is life's better half and because of that it can be related to almost anything.

Anyway, today she was asking me when she'd finally get to meet Michael (which believe me, she is VERY eager about considering the amount of nice things my sisters have said about him to her) and then that conversation digressed to her talking about all my old boyfriends (yes, all three glorious relationships........haha.) and she just looked at me and said, "well you know when someone is used to eating hamburgers their whole life and then finally get steak...well that's when you know you got it right. When you finally get some steak," and then she just laughed. I don't know who she was referring to or what that really means but, I thought it was funny. I like the advice she gives me, it's both sincere and comical.

Happy Mama's Day to all you ladies out there with kids :)

Ali

Sometimes,

I like to sleep in my nice clothes (so tonight it's my chiffon magenta dress: ruched at the top with some extra fabric neatly swirled down the center until about half way down my rib cage with a bubble bottom). I like waking up in the morning feeling like I still look pretty despite my messed up hair and worn off make up. It's like they say-dress up to wake up...right? Well, that doesn't sound right, but I think my logic on this issue is pretty solid-waking up in a pretty dress automatically puts one in a good mood.

Sweet romantic dreams-lalalalaaaaaaa wear your best to bed,

Ali

oh you know, cheelan at the holiday inn.

I went to a truly beautiful wedding today.I feel like if I tried to blog about it,it would go something like this:

"awwww....and then she came down the aisle and looked beautiful and awwwww I want to find someone to marry....and then they said I do and the deacon forgot to say you may now kiss the bride...and aww then he stopped the ending of mass to let Andy kiss Erin...and awww when she was giving the flowers to mary and ave maria was playing I teared up a little....okay, a lot....and awwwww I want to be in loveeeeeeeeee.......and then the reception by the beach with that view from those angles, omg...and the lights with the teal decorations...and the beach umbrellas place cards...and the way they numbered the tables-pictures of them with the table....and Erin's father crying during the prayer...and their first dance to the Adele version of that Dylan song that makes me cry......and dancing with my sisters....and the way the place looked when it got dark, how romantic it all was....and how happy, truly happy both Erin and Andy looked...awww, loveee i love loveeeeeeeeeeee."

Yes, I think that's how I think of that wedding and I think that's how I described it to people who asked how it went today. I think i'll post some pictures later to show everyone how pretty everything was. I love weddings, I love being with my cousins and dancing with my sisters and hearing 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 and the way my grandmother and mother start planning my wedding. I hope the best for Andy and Erin, I think after 7 years of dating their whole life together from today forward will be filled with love. Sometimes, I feel so lucky to have so many strong relationships to look at within my family and realize it is possible to find someone that makes you happy, that puts you first, and who you want to love for the rest of your life.

Amore regge senza legge.

(love rules without rules)

Ali

Organic Chemistry...and...unicorns

I have been studying organic chemistry for 48 hours. I finally learned how to add to unicorns to a benzene ring....this is a scientific break through. Someone call the police, I AM DOING SCIENCE.

Good luck on exams everyone!

lovelove.

Jordan

Kevin is not sensitive

Me: "Kevin you are not sensitive"

Kevin: ".....Dolphins..sunsets...crying"

wow.

breaks my heart.

http://www.wbaltv.com/video/23459050/index.html

http://www.foxbaltimore.com/newsroom/top_stories/videos/wbff_vid_3709.shtml

I think I'm going to send the Mitchell's a message and just show my support for them and I know how difficult the upcoming month is for them. It's been 5 years since Kristin's absolutely and unnecessary death, and the murder of Yeardley must destroy them. I just wish legislation would go through to educate middle and high school students about domestic violence and abusive relationships. I just feel my hear breaking for both families. Domestic violence is so unnecessary and so many women and young girls find themselves in relationships in which men are verbally and physically abusive, and can't get out of it. I just pray the Kristin Mitchell bill passes one day, it will be one major step against domestic violence.

Ali

Thoughts.

*actual post time is 12:50 AM on 5/7/10

I am sitting in a classroom of sorts in Hillcrest, studying for organic chemistry and feeling very nostalgic and kind of sad. Lately, I have been so preoccupied, studying for finals and packing, that I have forgotten what the day/ date is . Tonight I looked up after doing a problem, saw the date, and just kind of stared at it. Most people would say that today is insignificant, nothing special about it, but to me in years past it has been one of the most important. I guess it's hard to look at it like it's just another day when I am so keenly aware that it is not.

It's hard to realize that even though you may care for someone, they might not be in your life forever. Rationally, I know that this can happen, things change, people change, life happens. It's still not easy, I feel like part of me is missing. I know that sounds really drastic, but it's a big change I'm still getting used to. I'd like to think that someday things will be different from how they are now, but realistically, I know I have probably burned a bridge beyond repair.

It's difficult but I really do believe I did the right thing. Each day I learn something new about myself, little by little I am figuring out who I am. It's amazing what I have already learned, I am finally beginning to understand who I am and what direction I want to take in my life. There is a certain confidence that comes with having the knowledge of knowing what you want in life and what you stand for. I am excited to continue my journey of self-discovery and see where that journey takes me.

Jordan

direct quote from ali

"I just want to say- i love you dude.like...i love the shit out of you. And I want to just give him a hug, you know? Like one that will make him have to wear a back brace or something."

3:30 shuttle, 7:11 take off, 8:45 touch down, 9pm homee

Well, I'm heading back to Maryland. Phoneless.

But, I finally got to tell someone I loved them and it felt....awesome.

Obviously....Ali

Yeardley Love

What happened at UVA makes me sick, and the fact that Maryland won't pass Kristin Mitchell's bill makes me extremely upset. Dating violence prevention NEEDS to be taught at a high school level. It is so important.

Ali

message from Ali.

Everyone, stop telling me I write sad posts. I literally have gotten 10 texts with suicide prevention hotline numbers....well more like "hey girl, everything alright" or "that post made me depressed." which is basically the same thing as 1-800-dont-kill-yourself.

I'm fine, I'm happy, but maybe blame mother nature for my being a sensitive bear..so I'd just like to thank tampax,teapot chinese food,jason mraz, my bed, and soft serve ice cream for being my support group. I would also like to condem my jeans, jorts, and everything I can't fit into this week because I'm bloated.jerks.

HAPPY HAPPY JOY JOY.for real, it's fuggin' cinco de babi mayo babi

Clearly, Ali

Summer Platters

So I'm sitting in the office (also known as my bedroom floor) and just looking around at my now blank walls, stripped bed, and empty closet. I can't believe this year is over, sometimes I felt like the weeks were never going to end and then other days I found myself praying that time would slow down for a while and just let me take in everything with all senses. First semester this year was interesting, my first place, football games,parents weekend, pretty lights, disco biscuits,UGA,UNC, my 20th birthday, and I don't know a jumble of problems mixed into that. And then I left for break, Kelsey left for good, and Meg,Erica,and Emily left for Europe. Then January came. January brought with it a choice, which I made and got by with the help of a few friends. And my father got a job, my sister accepted to college, and me a new place to start (in my head I guess that is). Then February downtown, house hunting, flowers,snow, kelsey came to visit,fun fun fun and March downtown, random outtings, cup, kappa things, jahan, more fun, more fun, even more fun, and a boyfriend and April virginia tech, coastal carolina, blaire virden,school, haha a lot of school, fun (most obviously) and now May- see ya later 334. I know this is a very rough sketch of the year and I left out 70% of my life at 334 but I think most of these are a good place to start when thinking about the year. It's been real I suppose and now I'm a junior and I really have only one thing to say on that subject: what the fuck. no really, what the fuck. How/when did I get so old? I remember senior year of high school like it was yesterday but that was two years ago. Is this how growing up is? I'm always going to feel 18 and then one day I wake up and I'm 48? Sweet jesus.

Anyway, it's Cinco De Mayo. Fiesta!!!! No tequila for me or else i'll need to be locked in a cage, shot with a tranquilizer or tazered to the ground.

Ali

I am a nerd. Shut the front door.

Tonight at the gym I was examining my water bottle (gotta stay hydrated if you want to be right and tight) and it said that the company has the largest PET recycling plant. I instantly felt nerdy (like the inner Velma I secretly am, let's be for real) because I know exactly how that works and could even possibly draw out the mechanism. Thank you, organic chemistry.

cheers.

Jordan

Nonnie's Advice to Jordan:

"I mean, if you eat chocolate cake all your life....how do you know you don't like strawberry shortcake?"

amen.

Ali & Nonnie

jello takes too long to prepare.

I Will Follow You Into the Dark is almost as depressing to me as Casimir Pulaski Day.

It's pouring here. And I'm packing all my things up. I'm not really near finished though, I just keep taking these small breaks and remembering different things from this past year. The metal buttons on my jeans that are in the dryer keep scaring me when the music gets soft, I keep thinking somone has opened my front door and wants to punch me in the face.I took all the covers,sheets,pillows,stuffed animals off my bed and put them into trash bags then I realized what will I sleep with? But I don't want to tear the bags open and waste like six trash bags. I think I'd just like to vaccum or pull my life together with one lovely giant bow. I don't know. What a weird mood. I found ten dollars, no really I did.

modernist writer, Ali

mid day thought.

"anyone can take fucking professional pictures and god damnit anyone can use photoshop...so stfu." -this is the true. Not telling who said it, but it made my day. cheers to fugly biotches that look like dimes in polaroids.

It's sort of weird having a semi-famous exboyfriend that tells me about his travels across the country and now the world just playing show after show for hundreds of people. It makes me think that only 40% of the time that kind of lifestyle is good,fun, and exciting but 60% is not all that great. Anyway, the dangerous summer go check them out. The lead singer is a good guy that occasionally does bad things...but honestly, don't we all?

Ali

Strech...It's good for you.

Dang, I have neglected my duties to this esteemed virtual publication....haha. No but really, I've been totally "busy" with "alot."

Well, actually I've been trying to write this short story, but so far it just keeps becomming more pretentious than an episode of the hills. It's killing me. Maybe i'll post some of it later today, depends if I feel like being completely embarrassed or not.

Aside from writing heart-wrenching prose, I have become obsessed with Glee and Madonna ( I mean the epidose featuring Madonna really was the jump off point in this addiction.I like to think it was fate beeming a giant white light onto my crap television saying-here, I want you to be happy, i want you to uh, dance) both "borderline" and "open your heart" have been on repeat. I love it. It makes me want to wear some sort of neon polyester blend and glitter...a lot of glitter.

Ali

There are people graphically making out in the dining hall. Why must I be subjected to this? I didnt know they were giving away free throat exams along with the daily soup. Offensive.

cheers.

Jordan