Sweet Dessert Bar

Friday night, a few friends and myself ventured out to Worcester for a night out on the town.  After some wildly entertaining line dancing at Dance Ranch Saloon, we stopped at "Sweet", a quaint dessert bar neatly settled next to Funky Murphy's on Shrewsbury Street.  Its luxurious, yet relaxing atmosphere set the perfect mood for the end of a long night.   Upon entering, there was a glass case displaying unique delicacies, mostly cakes and cupcakes with detailed decorations.  Sweet's desserts have actually appeared on the well-known show, "Cake Boss."   After walking further into the venue, there is a wrap around bar with several tables placed around the edges of the room.  Here is where guests can enjoy a choice of any appetizer, dessert or beverage. 

My friends and I devoured several different desserts ranging from cupcakes, donuts, sorbet, martinis and a specialty item called bananas foster.  The waitstaff offered tremendous service while the chefs created delicious masterpieces.  I highly recommend "Sweet" to anyone who has a raging sweet tooth and needs a new, refreshing place to bring a couple friends for a good time.



http://www.sweetworcester.com/dessertbar.html

Europe Extravaganza

On May 21st, 2011, I will be making my way to Barcelona, Spain, with a short visit in Paris before reaching this destination.  Upon arrival, we will be boarding a Carnival Cruise which will parade us around the shores of Europe, more so Italy than any other countries, for a duration of 12 days.  We will be visiting many ancient and symbolic landmarks filled with majestic views and historical importance as we venture out on many excursions on our two week adventure.

Barcelona, Spain

Marseilles, France

Savona, Italy

Rome, Italy: Colleseum and Vatican

Naples, Italy: Amalfi Coast

Messina, Italy: Mt. Etna

Venice, Italy: Murano

Palma De Mallorca, Spain: Caves of Drach

Spring

Spring is when I am the happiest.

As the bitter cold of the winter slips away, warm temperatures invade the air.  People crawl out of their cocooned houses with lighter layers and smiles on their faces with intentions of enjoying the day outdoors.  It stays lighter out later creating a feeling of added length to each day.  With a sense of additional time, productivity is increased and more tasks are accomplished.  The semester approaches the end of its duration, promising a short distance till summer.  All things appear to be perfect.

Baseball season arrives!  Go Red Sox!  Go Palmer Panthers!  I thoroughly enjoy following the Red Sox as they travel through their season of games.  From time to time, I get the chance to visit Fenway Park to see a game with the luxury of my Uncle's season tickets.  My brother also plays baseball for Palmer High School.  He has grown up perfecting his game and striving to be the best player he can be.  Not from a biased opinion, but he is an outstanding athlete who will have a promising future in the sport if he sets his mind to the task.  I look forward to sitting in the cozy spring weather, behind home plate watching him defeat his opponents.

Spring is arriving and I am ecstatic!  Although April showers are depressing, the anticipation for sunshine and flowers keep me going as I finalize many areas of my life to make room for new adventures. 

Greatest Companion

She’s a friend.  She’s a mentor. She’s a sister and a hero.  An individual who gracefully entered my life at the most opportune time.  A time when life was gearing up to throw obstacles my way that would generate more change than I have ever experienced.  Senior year quickly approached as it promised many endings that would hopefully lead to many beginnings.  My passion for playing soccer was thrown for a curve as my eligibility for collegiate participation ran out.  My education began winding down in capacity as my concentration focused more on my near future.  Friends of many years slowly started filtering out as our lives chose different paths to follow.  In a short period of time, my emotions were sent on a bumpy rollercoaster ride generating instability and uncertainty.  To my surprise, a necessary friend unexpectedly placed herself in the middle of my chaos, lifted my dragging head, and led me in the right direction.

            As I started focusing on finding a second internship, she reached out to perspective employers who she trusted to give me the most beneficial influence.  As I thought about searching for job positions after graduation, she sent me on a mission to find a mentor of hers who could offer me a possible opportunity.  A few interviews later and several months down the road, I have found myself employed at the very company she recommended I be aggressive towards in order to start a career.  I now find myself indulging in an occupation that I have dreamed of for many years. 

            When I need a shoulder to cry on or a listening ear to bare my babbling, she is there no matter where she is or who she is with.  Her constant effort to be the best friend that she could possibly be is more than I could ever ask for from anyone.  It is a comforting feeling to know that she will always be there for me holding my hand, lifting me up, and pushing me along.  I love her like a sister and appreciate our relationship more than any other person could fathom. 

Fear

Fear is an emotion that is capable of controlling your decisions and actions.  Recently, as I approach a time in my life where I will endure a lot of change, I have discovered the type of feelings fear can ignite.  It can force you to turn down great opportunites, take for granted your successes, and restrict you from experiencing the excitements in life.

For my entire life, I have been sheltered by my family, friends, and authorities.  I have created a routine that has allowed me to stay within my comfort zone. For years, I have returned to school in the fall, I have played soccer year-round, I have maintained many friendships, I have lived under my parents roof, I have gone on family vacations, and I have jumped from one job to the next.  After having something for so long, it is difficult to walk off that beaten path.  Don't get me wrong, I have ventured out of my limits by taking chances and learning from my mistakes, but I have always remained in close proximity with the people I love the most, the ones that support and love me back.

Now that I am graduating, I am leaving the school that has supported my education and extra curricular activities for the past 4 years, where I have developed many relationships with a diverse group of people.  Although the idea of graduating does not worry me, I have bits of fear that make me question what my future entails.  With my new job, I will be traveling a lot.  The feeling of independence excites me but I find myself scared when I think about being away from friends and family for long periods of time.  Since I have grown so dependent on them over the years, it is an uneasy feeling to know I will be distant from the communication channels I have created. 

As all these feelings envelop my thoughts, I have to find a way to overcome my fearful emotions.  If I were to let them control my life, I would jeopordize my chances of being succesful, of making new friends and establishing a family.     

Strong Would Be An Understatement

Recently, a kid I went to high school with was diagnosed with a very rare type of cancer, ALL.  There are only 10 other cases of it throughout the world which makes it very difficult for doctors to conduct the necessary research that provide them with vital information that could help cure the leukemia.  It started as little bumps on the side of his neck.  Everyone thought they were side effects to having mono, but obviously that diagnosis was incorrect.  Currently, after completing round one of chemotherapy, doctors say the cancer has been retracted from his body but its a possiblity he could go into remission.  Their best source to a fast, permanent recovery right now is to have a bone marrow transplant. 

Today, in Palmer, they had a bone marrow drive.  Over 100 people from town attended the drive at St. Thomas to support Matt and his family by donating DNA samples.  This was performed by rubbing cottom swabs along the inside of your cheek.  It was a fantastic turnout, lifting the spirits of the Ziemian family.  Now, we have to wait for the DNA samples to be analyzed as we all cross our fingers for a perfect match.

Incidents like this one make me step back and appreciate my good health.  And also to think twice before I complain.  Matt is an unbelievably strong individual who is fighting through this illness.  While he struggles with this cancer, he still finds in his heart to look out for others before himself.  I wish the best for him and hope there is someone out there who can donate in order to make a difference in his life.

http://www.wwlp.com/dpp/news/local/Bone-marrow-drive-helps-to-save-a-life

The Glamour of a Little Girl

Not all girls are raised in similar environments.  As a result, it's not certain that each one will transpire into the world of a stereotypical "girly-girl."  Some desire a much more unorganized and adventorous lifestyle.  Some even fall somewhere in the middle where they strive to be athletic and competitive but still enjoy to be pampered and beautiful.  Personally, that is where I have taken a seat on the bench of womanhood.  It may take quite a few years for most girls to find where they are comfortable in society and to know how to feel comfortable in their own skin.  Until then, it is an exciting experience to watch them transform and grow as individuals.

There are two little girls in my life, my cousin and a friend, that have looked up to me as a role model, and also a female who knows the ins and outs of fashion and beauty.  They have defined the meaning of being a "girly-girl."  Together, we updo our hair, paint our nails, apply our makeup and dress ourselves with the latest trends.  It is an exciting experience for all of us.  Luckily, they have brought me along with them on the journey of learning what makes them feel beautiful, but also what sets them apart from others.  It is fun for me to show them the ropes but also teach them a lesson on how to express themselves through inner beauty.

Unfortunately, it is very difficult for a young girl to grow up in this manipulating and judgemental society we live in.  There are high expectations set for the female gender that not everyone can live up to, depending on their standards of living and personal perspectives.  Some girls make it out alive, while others struggle to be accepting of their image.  Since I have experienced this first-hand, I do my best to help the younger generation survive the maturing stage a little bit easier than I was capable of doing.  The glamour of being a girl can be fun and entertaining but it is important to keep realism at an arm's length away.      

  

Lifestyles

I have always been amazed by the various lifetstyles people live.  Although we are all considered human beings, all brought into the world through the same process, everyone consumes a lifestyle different from the individual standing next to them.  Some are born into money and fame, some are considered average middle-class, while some are raised in an unfortunate and under privileged environment.  Depending on genetic make-up and the success of ancesters, every person is categorized into societal groups.    Although I live comfortably and undeniably appreciate everything I have, I still tend to wonder what it would be like to be in someone else's shoes for a day, or maybe a week.  I am curious enough to sleep on the slum streets of cities to fully understand the everyday heartache a homeless individual experiences.  And if I was lucky enough, I would enjoy being pampered and spoiled to a level of extremity to endure the feeling of fame and fortune.

Just recently, I vacationed in Miami, Florida where the sun shines, the clubs roar till the wee hours of the morning, the alcohol pours, and the shiny beemers line the streets.  It felt as if I were in a different country.  As I walked the beach, entered luxurious hotels, danced at famous clubs, and feasted at Italian Bistros, I found myself easily transforming to the lifestyle Miami provided.  Although I did not hate it, I had to realize that that was not how I was raised and I probably could not feel comfortable for a long period of time being out of my element.  My pockets would also empty a bit too fast for my liking.

Me at the Delano in Miami where many famous parties take place.  A little awestruck!  

Influential Entertainment

This past weekend I met an artist by the name of Wiz Khalifa.  Many know him only because of his newest hit single, Black and Yellow.  Most people do not even know his name upfront until they are reminded by the tune, “black and yellow, black and yellow…everything I do, I do it big.”   As an intern at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, I have been given many opportunities to meet some of the latest and oldest icons of entertainment.  Saturday, February 19, 2011, Wiz was coming to perform in the Exhibition Hall where I would be assisting the Senior Event Manager in preparing for the sold out rap concert that night.  I was excited to meet Wiz face to face only because of his title as an upcoming star.  No matter who, it is always an overwhelming experience to communicate with someone of higher acknowledgement.  Unfortunately, how quickly my respect was lost for him shortly after the first informal hello. 

Khalifa and his crew emerged from their tour bus reeking of pot, resulting in them having a difficult time communicating with our accommodating staff.  Also, as I reviewed his list of needs, I was disappointed to see goods such as Trojan condoms and cigarettes.  Although a respected artist performing in front of a rather young audience, I became aware of his most prized priorities and intentions.  It made me evaluate how easily fans are influenced by artists and tricked into believing their lives are glamorous and easier than the “normal” lifestyle we live.    The world of entertainment today has such an empowering influence on our younger generation, depicting how people choose and prioritize their needs and wants.  It is starting to become clear of why our society deems the inappropriate to be acceptable.

Something's Watching Over Me, Like Sweet Serendipity

Sweet Serendipity by Lee DeeWyze

I like music that is uplifting and energizing.  Songs that speak of a message that relates to me forces me to evaluate my life.  Specifically, in this song, Lee sings about appreciating what he has.  He expresses that even when someone doesn't have the luxuries that others do, it is still possible to be happy and content.  Life throws obstacles your way leaving you with the option to fix the problem or let it be detrimental.  If you take the intiative to make changes for the better, you can find a way to land on your feet and move on.  There are many things in life that are too small to stress over.  At the end of the day, it's more important to be a strong individual that can tackle any obstacle than someone who holds grudges and can't let go.

Listening to this song helps me realize I am very fortunate.  There is no need to let the small things in life bring me down.  I have too much to be grateful for.  When I think of who I am, where I've come from, and where I am heading, I fall into a state of positivity and happiness.  I am strong!

Appreciate

As I continue to watch updated news reports on the chaos occurring in Egypt, I can't help but think about how most Americans take their lives for granted.  We go about our daily routines which are made easier through the use of technology, transportation and accessible funds, rarely considering what other individuals are struggling with in order to survive within their society.  Growing up in a country where freedom is all we know, it's difficult for us to understand what it is like to be governed in a totalitarian society, where higher authorities make decisions for you and limit your access to necessities such as money, food and education.

On a recent broadcast, Cairo's government banned access to ATM machines, revoking citizens from receiving money from their already limited accounts.  They restricted stores from preparing and providing too much food for customers coming in searching for resources to feed their families.  The use of technology devices was limited so people did not have the choice of spreading negative news to any outsiders.  These restrictions were put into affect due to the actions of most citizens who were rebelling against the government.  Their desire for a democracy and more freedom pushed them to insanity.  Their rebelling actions have lead to excessive violences that have resulted in thousands of injuries and several casualities.    While watching clips of these outbursts, I feel as if I am watching a movie.

Then I think about how a day in my life would plan out.  I wake up in a house of love, warmth, and care with every possible resource I need to be presentable and to start my day off on a good note.  I have a car that transports me to any location I choose, that is filled with gas and maintenanced regularly to ensure quality performance.  I receive an education at a private school that pays for half of my studies.  I have endless sources of technology that allow me to stay in contact with family and friends who reside in all corners of the country.  I have a job where I make enough income to service my wants and needs.  I can eat at any time of the day and anywhere I choose, whether that be at home or at a restaurant.

Now that doesn't sound so bad, does it?  Yet, on a daily basis, I still find reasons to complain because of something I don't have or something that did not go my way.  Seeing what is happening in Egypt and how citizens of the country are being treated, it makes me second think how I act.  I easily take for granted what I have.  I also become frustrated over little problems that could not possibly amount to what other people face in order to live another day.  I realize now that we are not promised the end of today, tomorrow or even next, so it is very important to appreciate every moment life throws at you.

Why do we believe everything we hear?

http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7299240n&tag=related;photovideo

Once this link takes you to the main CBS news page, search in the right hand side "recommendations" to watch the slip titled, "The Truth About Lies".

Although this video expresses the topic through subjective humor, it makes me think about what we believe on a day to day basis that is true.  I wonder what bits of information I have consumed since I was a child that have actually derived from truthful sources.  And how are we sure that something we hear or read is true or false?  We learn our facts through books, the Internet, and television.  Individuals that publish and broadcast stories and lesson plans are respected for their education and level of knowledge.  We tend to believe without hesitation.  It is also easy to listen intently to those we love and trust.  We do not second guess their ideas and observations. 

Also, once people learn and live by specific facts, it is difficult for them to diverge from those beliefs.  How can they depict whats the truth from a possible false statement? 

How do I get my news and what part does it play in my life?

The news floods our society by controlling every venue of entertainment and social networking systems that have become the center of attraction for most individuals.  For those of us who are computer gurus and would rather scan webpages than the newspaper, we are still exposed to the major headlines that are plastered on the front pages of every search engine home page.  News reports are being broadcasted every hour of the day whether that is on the television, radio, or Internet.  They are posted on numerous news related websites, Facebook ads, YouTube videos, and search engine articles. 

            Personally, I receive my daily dose of news from many of these media resources.  While getting ready in the morning, the news channel, which is normally Good Morning America or CBS, plays the role of background entertainment.  I attempt to grasp the important headlines that affect not only the local area I reside in but also worldly affairs that are detrimental to all societies.  Any other quantity of news comes from conversations with friends and family, radio station gossip, or the quick scanning of the reports published in magazines that are strategically placed to catch your eye.  One way or another, I am bound to learn about the latest news that is circling our gossip driven society.

            For me, news serves as a way to stay updated with the events and issues occurring all over the world that have an immediate and/or gradual effect on my life.  I find it important to understand our society and government at a political, environmental, and economical viewpoint.  This is possible by carefully assessing news reports while also being capable of standing by my own beliefs that guide my every day decisions as an American citizen.