I used to be embarrassed...

I was born with a hyper-sensitivity to what other people think of me. Sometimes it is a blessing, most the time it is a curse. However, I feel that I have made STRIDES of improvement in this area lately as I grow into my adulthood. I'd like to share with you a few things that I used to be embarrassed about, and how I feel about them now.

I used to be embarrassed that my mom delivers the mail. Now, I like it because I know she is a hard working, dedicated employee.

I used to be embarrassed that I have 2 webbed toes. Now, I show them off because they make me unique.

I used to be embarrassed that I did not have a wardrobe full of Abercrombie & Fitch clothes. Now, I have no desire to wear clothes that expensive.

I used to be embarrassed that I am from the Mid-West. Now, I LOVE it and am extremely proud of it.


I feel that my embarrassments have matured, and so have I. For instance:

I am embarrassed that my dogs sneak into the neighbor's pool. However, it is something that we are working on, so I can get over it.

I am embarrassed that my dogs poop in the neighbor's yard. However, it is something that we are working on, so I can get over it.

I am embarrassed that I have "love handles". However, starving sucks. I try to work out frequently and it is still a goal of mine to have a "nice" stomach.

I am embarrassed that my now fiance broke up with me a couple years ago. However, it made him realize that (DUH) I am the one for him, and now our relationship is amazing!

I am embarrassed that we live with my parents. However, someday I know I will miss being able to see them everyday.

I am embarrassed that our engagement will end up being 2 years and 2 months long! However, we are working hard for our wedding and nothing is being handed to us. I think we will be stronger and happier because of that.

Anyone brave enough to tell me what you are embarrassed about? ;)

Generation Y

In a recent meeting with about ten of my peers, we were told by a potential employer that our generation seems to display an attitude of ownership and self righteousness. We seem to just expect things to be handed to us without hard work. Hmmmm....really? Well, if you are like me, you have come out of college with a mountain of student loan debt, no health insurance, 10% unemployment, and a future bright with increased taxes to pay off the national debt. So, if I do indeed have an attitude of ownership and self righteousness, I guess I haven't been using it correctly.... To be blunt: I think that our generation is being used and abused. We went to the polls in record numbers and were one of the largest supporting groups of Obama. Yet not much is being done to help us out. Do I feel that we are OWED help and that we deserve it without working hard? No. I could list several things that I wish my generation was doing to help the nation and the world. I guess the point of this sarcastic rant of a blog post is that we, as a generational unit need to take some action. FIRST: manage your money wisely. I really like to use Mint.com, its a website that helps you keep track of all your accounts, and provides you with budgeting tools customized to your lifestyle. Secondly, educate yourself about what is happening to our generation and how its different from the opportunities and perks that were available to previous generations. I would highly recommend reading "Generation Debt" by Anya Kamenetz. She came and spoke at Central Michigan University while I was an undergrad there. She is extremely smart and an asset to our generation. Lastly, please find out who your senators and congressmen are. Call them, email them. I'm not going to tell you what to ask for ....actually yes I am: lower taxes, better financial aid, more job opportunities, health insurance. That's what I want for Christmas.