A letter to Jasmine-Happy 5th Birthday

Happy Happy 5th Birthday to my beautiful daughter Jasmine Emma! I can't believe it has been 5 years since you were born. I remember the night you were born so perfectly. It was getting real cold out but there wasn't any snow on the ground yet. Your due date was on the 21st of October but I wanted to meet your pretty face so much i had them induce my labor early. You took 21 hours to finally get here but it was worth the wait! We were all speechless and so happy when you got here...i clearly remember this special moment when you reached up and held your father's pinkie finger and watching the tears run down his face, how proud and happy we both were. You had beautiful thick black hair and these piercing blue eyes...you were perfect. I have so many years of such amazing memories with you and I am so proud to be your momma. The memories all have been running through my head this morning, the mornings watching cartoons and laying in bed laughing tell mid afternoon. The trips in the car and you singing "Country girl shake it for me girl" haha. The time down at Stoie's bridge when you were playing in sut and you got it all over your face. The time you got a really bad flu bug and holding you and rocking you for two days straight because that was the only way to comfort you so you could sleep. The time you caught your first fish, you were so excited! Now it has been five years and I am missing your birthday. There is no apology or excuse that can make this ok, but I do know I would do anything to be there with you! Your dad has strict orders to send me lots of pictures and I get to talk to you on the phone later and I can't wait!!! I love you more than the moon loves the stars and the sun loves the sky, Happy Birthday my baby girl! I love you so much! Love, Momma

Norstebon Family Recipe

This entire journey so far has been so life changing for me...I have learned so much about myself this whole way and have changed only for the better. I have seen so many family's that are broken and heard stories of people that don't even speak with there family. This breaks my heart but reminds me of how lucky I am.

I am Kimberly Emma Norstebon and I am damn proud of it! Being a Norstebon is not just a name it is a life style and a privilege. It means that family is always first, that you must have way more children than you planned on, and that success is measured by who is laughing the loudest when we get together. Being a Norstebon is being selfless on certain occasions and sharing your beer, stating your opinion loudly at all times even if no one cares, and fighting vigorously for what you believe in no matter what. Being a Norstebon mean's loving with every bit you got even your enemies, indian leg wrestling at every family occasion, and knowing the most miraculous nights happen around a bon fire. Being a Norstebon means for Christmas we knock over our tree every year, take cleavage shots as a formal photo, and all our friends show up because yah we are that awesome to be around.

Being in my family is something miraculous that i wish others could learn to do with their families. My best advice for a family recipe like this is let the BS go, forget all the small stuff and drama. Appreciate who and what you have. Always be there for each no matter what. And also know when to and not to over step your boundries... this is especially important. You need to be able to have your own life and your family doesn't need to run it for you even if your screwing it up. The best thing that had happened to me was hitting rock bottom. My family watched it all happen but did nothing...why...cause i needed to learn. But when I finally hit this point they helped me pick myself up again.

A beautiful Storm

I love storms, from a snow storm, to a tornado, and especially thunderstorms. The day usually starts off quiet and calm, than the clouds roll in and it begins to thunder than followed by lightning. The wind blows and the rain pours down. Full of chaos and force. I have always been fascinated by this since I was a little girl. The most beautiful thing about it is the rainbow at the end with the sun shining brightly. I have endured many storms of my own, some smaller than others. But I have found there is always a rainbow at the end. Life is never fair and when a storm has appeared it may seem like it will never end. I have had more magical amazing moments in my life than storms, but sometimes it takes a storm for us to hold on to these moments. I have watched my life crumble around me, but I have always had someone to help me put it back together again. In the end I have become wiser for it and there is always a reason these things happen, a bigger purpose, even if you don't see it at the time. I watch friends/family struggle with things that they shouldn't have to go through, but I was taught by a very wise woman that the best help sometimes is no help at all. Sometimes as a friend, family, or even parent you have got to watch them fall flat on there face and just be there for them when it happens. I feel everyone has there own path so how can you tell a person what to do or how to feel, you can't. So my best advice if you going to help them is to ask what do you want with your life? Are you going to hide or run from the storm? Or are you going to embrace it and enjoy all the things god gave us? "It's never to late to be what you might have been." - George Elliot A marvelous first step to this might just be a black cup of coffee and an open ear that you trust. This is one thing I learned from back home, going for coffee is like therapy, at least for us women.

"AFTER THE STORM BY MUMFORD AND SONS"

And after the storm,
I run and run as the rains come
And I look up, I look up,
on my knees and out of luck,
I look up.

Night has always pushed up day
You must know life to see decay
But I won't rot, I won't rot
Not this mind and not this heart,
I won't rot.

And I took you by the hand
And we stood tall,
And remembered our own land,
What we lived for.

And there will come a time, you'll see, with no more tears.
And love will not break your heart, but dismiss your fears.
Get over your hill and see what you find there,
With grace in your heart and flowers in your hair.

And now I cling to what I knew
I saw exactly what was true
But oh no more.
That's why I hold,
That's why I hold with all I have.
That's why I hold.

I will die alone and be left there.
Well I guess I'll just go home,
Oh God knows where.
Because death is just so full and mine so small.
Well I'm scared of what's behind and what's before."

LOVE THE BEACH

Reggie in the Water


Hey everyone! How have you been? Things have been going pretty well here! Last weekend to on Sunday I had a fabulous day rewarding myself for getting A's on my midterms. On Sunday our apartment had a bbq for the residents that was fun. They had food, face paintings, a petting zoo, pony rides, big blow up jumping castles, and over 40 reptiles to hold. So we went down and had lunch and I held a python which was pretty cool. Saw a 150 pound turtle too, I LOVE turtles. Afterwards since it was almost 80 degrees out which doesn't happen here to often, Shawn had promised to take me to the beach, so we went to this beach in Pacifica. It is a beach we found about 15 minute drive from us that we had seen on an earlier trip there. So we went and it was so perfect! It's a beach on the Pacific Ocean with a pier, a little cafe, a boardwalk, not to many people, and amazing views! We brought a blanket, towels, some water, and just layed in the sun for a few hours tanning. Than we played in the surf for awhile and headed home. It was a great way to end the weekend. Other than that I've just been doing homework and hanging at home. O yah, and in and out of the dentist, two more root canals...this accident haunts me still apparently. I hate all of it and the pain sucks but I got to do it I guess. O and Jasmine lost her first tooth this week, I can't believe it! She is so happy about becoming a big girl...it makes me a little sad, but a very proud mamma! But I suppose I'm gonna sign off. O yah and I forgot I'm not sure If I mentioned my trip to Vegas and Orange County before I came back to SF. They were both amazing I got to see my best friend Chase in Vegas and see the strip. And I got to see where my boyfriend grew up and meet his little sisters, whom were great.

Chase and I the day I flew in to see Shawn

Fremont street Downtown Vegas

Shawn's dad's backyard and view from Orange County

Birthday's when your older...

So things around here have been a little stressful but over all good. School is still going great! I'm starting my fourth week of class and I still have straight A's. i have been watching this great show called brother's and sister's, I love it and highly recommend it. It in a weird way reminds me of my own family. Were all a little crazy and there is always stress and complicated issues, but at the end of the day we all love each other and support each other very much! And that is what brings me to my title, birthday's when you get older.

Tomorrow is my eldest sister's birthday, she will be 31 I believe, it get's hard to keep track with such a big family. My best friend Chase's birthday is today and it was my boyfriends birthday a few weeks ago. I noticed the older we get the less fuss we make of birthday's, some even say birthday parties are for kids. I highly disagree with all that. I think there is always great reason to celebrate your birthday know matter how old you are. I know your all thinking i'm just saying this because my birthday is around the corner and I'm just spoiled and want tons of presents, which is partially true ;) haha. But honestly the truth is it is a time to celebrate life and that god has given us another fabulous year. Life is a blessing and I think we all at some point lose track of that. We get caught up in school, work, stressful things, and how sometimes things can be hard. But on our birthday we should celebrate being here, and having the wonderful people and things in our lives. I am about to turn 23 years old. Man where did the time go? I have a daughter who is about to turn 5 years old. the older I get I feel the faster time flies by and the more i realize how precious it is. All the great memories I have made in this past year and how blessed of a life I have. I think it is a day to let go of everything we are caught up in and just enjoy the day with close friends and family. It makes me a little sad because this year will be the first year i will be celebrating my birthday without my family. I never had a huge party or anything before, not by choice necessarily because I was born opening weekend of deer season, but I have very fond memories the last few years on my birthday. Going to the fashion show with my mom and sister. Getting new shoes which I LOVE! Than going out with them and my best friends to the bar for a few drinks and than always up to deer camp after. So this year will be different of course but i'm sure it will be great all the same. And for my Jazzy Pooh, I pray I could maybe make it home around her birthday if I get this job with Delta, but if not I will celebrate her birthday when I do make it home! As kids birthday's are about presents and cake, but even now when I think back when I was young. My memories weren't of the presents or the cake. They were of all my friends and family that were there.

So here is to everyone that has a birthday coming up. Happy Happy Happy Birthday! Celebrate your life with the ones you love, and look forward to another great year! Stop being modest and let your hair down for a night. Remember, you only live once, live it to the fullest! So on your birthday share a bottle of wine with your special some one, share your cake with your children and save the biggest piece for yourself this time, make jokes and talk about great memories with old friends, make new memories with new friends, and go to bed looking forward to another year. I love you all!

To Better Health

SF on our drive in to the city

also from our drive in to SF, fog coming over the hills. I see this everyday out here. It's so beautiful


I have now started my second week of class, and I love it so far! I am taking 2 classes every nine weeks. My current classes are Introduction to University Studies and Foundations to Personal Finance. They have been fairly easy and I just got my first weeks grades back and I got perfect scores. The website is easy to navigate and I think online school was a great choice. My major is Travel and Tourism Management which I love, but I am still not exactly sure what I want to do as far as a career yet. Hopefully I will figure that out by the time I finish school. I am hoping as long as all my roommates decide to stay for summer semester I can stay and also do summer semester which would enable me to finish school in about 18 months. Than I will full fill my promise to my princess Jasmine, and bring her here and take her to Disney Land. I can not wait! All this work is going to be well worth it!

Not only am I working on a healthy mind but now I am working on a healthy body. I have been eating really healthy, no eating out. Just cooking at home. Lots of fruits and veggies! I also have been working out in the gym at my apartment. It feels great! Shawn is trying to quit smoking, so I am trying to be supportive and have cut back a lot. I might even quit myself, but we will see.

Life is fabulous, still settling in, I think I will get even more done once the boys start their classes on Thursday. I won't have as much distractions, even though they are so entertaining! They both just woke up and they are rapping back and forth about sesame street and i'm laughing so hard I can barely get this blog done. The other day we drove in to the city and picked up some stuff we left at our friends house and spent some time with our friends. Driving in the city was terrible, never want to do that again.

boys playing the WII

me goofing around

*Jasmine Summer*

Man i know it's been a while....ok yes I haven't wrote anything all summer but in my defense...I had no internet. But I will catch u up on what's been happenin! I did make it home eventually...and Shawn barely survived his trip to the boondocks. He ended up getting very sick while he was visiting and was in the hospital, but apparently he didn't hate it to much cause he would still come back to visit again. So after Shawn left and reality kicked in I started bartending at my favorite little bar in Badger called Across the Street or the ATS. I loved my job there and had a lot of fun and saved some money to get back to school. I spent lots of evenings with my family at the riverbank fishing. I spent time with old friends and new ones. I watched my best friend Kayla get married to a really great guy. But the ultimate part of my summer was Jasmine Emma!!!! I got to spend almost everyday with her and I just can't believe how much she has grown up! my little girl is going to become a young lady before I know it. I need to finish school so I don't miss to much. I learned some hard lessons this summer, I found out how cruel some people can be. (for some reason I still think all people should be nice) I know that having a seperated home for my child is always going to be a struggle/battle..but I have learned to be the bigger person and to control my temper. And I also learned that I don't think I ever want to come home other than for a short vacation again. My summer home was great don't get me wrong but I don't want to live there and I am not happy living there. This leaves me with a problem though, what about Jasmine...well I had a couple of things that would make this work. But the ideal oppurtunity just came my way when I got back to San Francisco. I had gotten back in to San Francisco late Thursday night and moved into our new apartment. 2 of our room mates were already here, Lauren and Trevor, they helped us unpack and showed us around. After all that was done Lauren mentions to me that Delta Airlines is hiring, where she works. This would be the perfect job for me. Really good pay and me and my immidiate family fly's for free basically. I could go see jasmine whenever i want!!!! So please say a little prayer for me to get this job!!!! Ok....so man I have covered alot of things already i don't want to overwhelm you. And I feel really scatter brained today....for an ending note for the day...I usually never dream...but lately I have been having bad dreams every night. But they're like i didn't get the job i wanted, or I cut myself shaving and the cut hurt really bad and bled on my favorite dress just dumb things like this. Does it mean anything?

Son of a...

Well...didn't expect my last day to end up like this. I started the day off early, I was stressed out, hurrily cleaning before the RA came to check it out. Said goodbye to Reggie and than it was time for shawn and I to get to work. We get a cab to bring us my huge box with my guitar in it, shawns guitar, a huge bag of clothes, and my purse full of beer, and o yes a huge toolbox full of jackies sparkles. The cab had gone about 3 blocks to far so we get out with all our stuff. I take ja kids box back while shawn waits with all our stuff. I come back and we carry all our stuff to a fedex office to find out we couldn't use that office we had to walk like another 6 blocks to another. So away we go and after we get there we have to 'make' a box for shawns guitar because they don't have a big enough one. Shawn finishes it and than the lady decides to tell him he used the wrong tape and makes him start over. Than he finally finishes a second time when I realize I had put my coat in his bag of clothes cause I was warm and there it was taped up in his box. Needless to say im not getting that back tell shawn ships it from home lol. So anyways we hang with some friends eat and relax awhile than go to the hilton. I start looking online and book a shuttle only to later find out I basically got scammed for $30. So at this point we had no choice we have to take the bart before it closes for the night. So we get ready and head to the airport. Now here we sit tired hungry and waiting for what's next.

Coming home!!!! (only for the summer!)

This week is finals...BAHHHH!!! Stressed out to say the least. On top of that I need to pack up all my stuff, mail some and move some. Spend time with my friends before i leave. The list goes on....

But in all anticipation to see one little girl, I can barley stand myself. I catch myself tearing up every time i think of her, see a picture of her, and every time i hear her voice. I think about the sacrafice i made to be here often. And as much as it hurts my heart...I know it will all be worth it. I know I will come home a better mother because of all the missed time with her i cant wait to make it up all summer! I'm sure Jazz is going to be sick of me after a few days lol.

I love SAN FRANCISCO CALIFORNIA!!!!!!! And I can't describe to you how amazing this experience has been. But I can tell you it has changed me for life. I found myself here. I grew and learned alot. I feel less ignorant, less judgemental, less angry, i feel more happy, healthy, and beautiful all around. Some lessons were hard learned as I have mentioned school didn't turn out the way I hoped. I'm going to continue to go to school. I just picked a major that wasn't fit for me. Next year i'm sure will turn out much better. I found some life long amazing friends here. And I honestly believe I found love. I never thought I would say that again, and if I didn't move here i'm positive I wouldn't of.

Everything happens for a reason....every broken heart, every failed attempt, everything has a reason. I wouldn't be who I am today without all the hardships in my life. And i'm finally at a place in my life where i'm completely happy. And I can appreciate it now. If my faith ever dwindled ... it's here now.

I swear if it's one person at a time im going to change this world for the better. I want to help and encourage people that were in simular situations as me. Cause i know that feeling of hopelessness. I just lucked out i have amazing family and friends too put up with my shit and pick me up when i was at my lowest.

But now that my head is clear and i found peace in my heart, it's time to go home and make peace there. That is where i have done the most damage and it will be a true test to see if i really have changed and i am as strong as i think i am. I feel like you can't truely be happy in the present or future without making amends from the past. I will say change isn't and wasn't easy. And i'm still working on things. But man, i wish i wasn't so stubborn for so long, man i wasted so much time and energy being hurt, mad , and sad.

I miss home...i miss my family...and of course my daughter. This country girl is coming home. can't wait for barefoot, bon fires, fishing, family, fun! And O Yes, A COLD REFRESHING BUD LIGHT!!!!! lol. I hope the coming home party is as magical as the going away party was. Btw, mom don't forget to have a camera ready when i get off the plane. I don't want you to miss the moment i see jazz...o jeeze i'm already crying about it.

I love you all, and don't tune out this will be continued for a long time....i don't think this adventure will ever end! P.S. i've been praying all week that bringing Shawn home isn't going to scare him to much...he gets to meet pretty much my entire family and see the most redneck stuff we do all jammed into a week. poor guy haha...well if he loves me, he won't want to leave :) haha

This is not goodbye...it's see ya later!

Sorry about the long gaps in my blogging...been really busy this last few weeks. It is nearing the end of the semester, so i'm hanging out with friends as much as possible, sight seeing, and have more homework than before.

To say the least this has been one of the most wonderful and mind opening experiences of my life. I am not ready to leave and i can't wait to come back. I will always consider Minnesota my home...but no lie I am officially a Cali girl now! I wish my daughter and family would just move here.

It's coming down to the end now, I leave in like 3 weeks, May 21st. I know I will cry. This year has been my lucky year, like Darcy told me double deuces are lucky. Coming here has done so much for me. I have broadened my horizons, found where my heart is, i found my self, i found some life long amazing friends, i found love (when i was starting to think it didn't exist), i found a family here. The school portion this year was rather unsuccesful other than finding out that i do not want to continue in art school. That has been extremely hard and frustrating for me.....seems like a waste of time and money. But now I know for next year. Even though i'm still not sure what I want to do.

I once again need to thank my family for so much help and support. Exspecially my mom, she has always been the backbone of our family, i wouldn't be able to function without her! i'm so happy here. The only thing missing is my Jasmine.

Anyways....what a crazy few months! This weekend was fun filled with great friends, my first house party, a walk to the pier, a day in the park, some shopping, and the Weird Festival! The festival was great! Even the one i went to the week before was unreal. So Many People!!! lol (I will post pictures when I get home) And to be honest it might sound crazy but I party alot less now than i did at home....most of the time i have a couple drinks. Back home i didn't know what a couple drinks was....terrible I know. But being a happy person makes such a huge difference.

So about my friends, Dear Reggie...a.k.a Reginald/Wedge Salad... a great rooommate, friend, and all around juat a great person. You still need to teach me to rap (kind of upset about this). You always got my back and you always put up with my shit. Cant wait to room again with ya next year in our apartment.

Ms. Jackie Wray...a.k.a the stray....you have become my best girlfriend here. You met me when I was crying and i'll never forget you had the most endearing look and gave me a huge hug. Your someone i can mother over while Jazz is away and I know you will always be there for me. You are never ignorant or judgemental, that is what makes you so endearing...never loose that! Can't wait for you to come to MN!

Last but furthest from the least Shawn Machado-Modirpour ..... a.k.a Babe/prince charming. When i first saw you I though you were an asshole, not going to lie. You wouldn't even talk to me. But I will never forget the night we met and not giving you my number or nothing and still the next morning you went searching the hilton floor by floor to find me. i almost died when you knocked on my door and asked me to breakfast. i almost blew you off, but i'm so glad i didn't. you made me realize what dating should be like. Fun, exciting, spontanious, romantic, ect. you also are nerdy, a gamer, sweet, romatic, had a different upbringing, and background. But your exactly what I needed. Everyday I fall more and more in love with you and you just know when it's right. i'm so happy...I love you very much!

To everyone else thanks you made this a great year for me and i will see you next year!!!

O yah I forgot to mention...i did meet Shawn's dad and step mom last weekend! They were so great! We had a great weekend of eating to much and drinking wine. I also met some of his cousins and seen a fairly traditional Persian gathering. great people and great food! Reminded me of home some what with tons of food, drinking, a game on with the guys watching it, and women in the kitchen only difference is some of the conversation was in Farsi so I couldn't always follow :). His step mom and I became fast friends like we've known each other for years and Tony, his dad, loved me and is such a sweet man and really loves his son. I know I made a good impression on them and i'm excited to meet the rest of the family!

But for know i got to run! See ya later!

Ahh man do I miss the countryside! The fresh air, stopping by for coffee without having to call, the slow pace, driving a car, the green, and a lil girl named Jazzy Emma.

I love San Francisco, school, and my friends/boyfriend. But everyone misses home sometimes. School has been going good, not putting things off have saved my life. I do my homework right after class always! haha. We have all been hanging out at my friend Jumanah's apartment she has a roof top pool and jacuzzi. We have some fun things coming up now this spring before I leave. We have hippie hill, concerts, more festivals, and parades to go to. Should be a crazy but amazing last couple months here before summer. Hippie Hill is on the corner of Haight and Ashbury, and on 4/20, next Wednesday, is national weed culture day. As you know i'm living in the place that embraces weed. Everywhere you turn here is a Medical marijuana dispencery, people smoking a joint on the street (even the nicest parts of town), and everyone you meet here yong and old is fine with it. I actually see this old man looks like he's in his nineties all the time in our cafeteria and he has a marijuana hankerchief, lol. Well anyways Shawn's friend who lives here told us on hippie hill next wednesday is this huge celebration where all the hippies gather and there's music, jewlery, tons of people, and yes pot smoking. People travel from all over to go to this. A free event, were all over this :)

But I am very pumped for country living for the summer!!! And TONS of Jasmine Emmma!!!! haha. This summer is booked for me already! Many camping trips, hill fest, my best friends bachelorette party, her wedding, Karen's graduation, my friends coming to MN. I'm looking forward to lots of bonfires, four wheeling, great people, and great food. Than back to the city for another winter.

I'll leave you with some great pictures...

Kimberly Emma in Arabic, my friend from Saudia Arabia drew it

all our names in Arabic

Shawn and I

Spring Break

It's been a while again, sorry but it's been kind of a stressful spring break. I have had a lot of drama at home with my house and my ex. I almost gave up to be honest. Since I have been here it seems like my life at home has been blowing up in my face. I also Had a couple road bumps since I have been here. But all I will say is I have a great boyfriend and friends here that have bent over backwards for me. And that my poor mom, she's going to die of stress. I always call my mom when stuff gets bad, even if she doesn't know what to say or how to help....she always knows how to make me feel better and calm down. She took care of everthing that happened the last few weeks, she told me to stay here and finish what i started and to not give in because of one person. I love you mom, your the best!

But other than that I have kept my chin up and i did have alot of fun over break. I got to meet my friend Jackie's family and see where she grew up last Thursday. They live in California, just a 40 minute bart ride out of the city. Her mom and sister were really nice we went and had a huge lunch and her mom let us take the leftovers :)!!! They have a gorgeous house in a lil suburb. It was nice to get out of the city and hang out with her family. It was as close to home as I could get. Her dad wasn't there but I have met him before, very nice guy, he wants to take us on a lil tour of San Fran, so Jackie when you read this remember i'm holding him to it. I also found out Jackie gets to come visit me June 15th for 5 days, her parents like me :)

Shawn is great, last week when i was having a bad day him in I disappeared and went for a walk found a cute park we both love.

He is always sweet and taking care of me. Him and I had a couple great lazy movie days and a couple exploring days together.

St. Patricks day Amber, Jackie, and I got dressed up we had everyone in our room for a few drinks before we went out. It was Jackie, Amber, Shawn, Reggie, Reggie's friend, and me. Won't lie, Jackie and I were rather giggly by the time we left taking lots of silly pictures. We dropped Jackie off at her dorm and we went to the bar. Shawn and I didn't stay long but we had a great night.

I even had a visitor from home kind of, a girl I met in Grand Forks moved to California recently not far from me. So one night her and her friends came into the city and we showed them around. It was nice to see someone from home.

So overall it has been a crazy few weeks and stressful. But i'm keeping my head above water and still loving living my life here. As excited as I am to come home to see my family, i dont want to leave here. I love it here! oh and not to rub it in at all but this weeks weather is like mid 70's and sunny ;)

FAITH

Once in a while people lose there way, get in a rut, break down, and sometimes these people never get out of this. This brings me to the last two years or so of my life. I did have some fun and met some amazing people but for the most part I was completely lost, scared, hurt, and terrified of failing. My only fear in life is failing and becoming a dissapointment to my daughter. I squeaked by working jobs that still couldn't pay the bills. Yes everyone I was on welfare, and i'm not ashamed. I am a single mom that wroked full time and still just couldn't do it. And on top of the money issues i went through some other really hard lessons i will say in my life that made me a very angry mean person for a long time. I didn't ever feel like myself, i always had my gaurd up, even with my family. I pushed people away out of fear of having my heart broke again. Things were really bad, and than they just continued to get worse. Than I finally decided to make my own life and destiny. I had spent my life trying to please others and do what was expected. But why...I was miserable...I had to get out. So things started falling into place, i got my house rented started applying for schools. This became a process i will never forget, that had me so stressed i probably could of snapped like a twig. I told mom one night this was it, that if this didn't work out for me....that I would just lose it....it would of not been a good thing...that i would probably drink my life away and hated myself and been miserable. I seen mom's face when I told her this, and she knew i was serious and knew what all I had been through at this point. She looked scared....and I was terrified. And I will never forget her exact words...Kim, I promise this will work, dad and I won't let you fail...and we will make sure you make it to school.

The day I found out for sure I was going, I was at mom and dads alone crying and running around screaming, I was so happy and excited, and i'm not going to lie a little scared. I couldn't believe it, i didn't believe it really. Later that week mom also announced her and dad were throwing a party for me, a going away party the weekend before i was flying out. Things in the next few weeks fly by. Packing all my stuff away, spending time with Jazz, my lil angel. Pretty soon it was party night, my two oldest sisters came home everyone i knew was there, to support me. It was unreal how many people cared and were supportive, cause believe me i had alot of haters that were mean and told me i was an idiot. The course of the night was something magical, i made amends with my sister after about 8 years of hurt and hate. there were many tears shed out of happiness. Cheers that made everyone cry, and a love in that room that no one could describe. I have always had faith and stuck by it, exspecially i will never forget when this school stuff was not going well crying in bed praying over and over to god begging him that no matter what his plans were for me that he would help me through it and to pull me out of this rut i was in....and that night i went to bed, said a prayer of thanks, and i know he is very present in my life. Exspecially that night, I could feel his presence all night and that i felt that whole night was a miracle.

Know i have always believed everything happens for a reason and i have always had faith and that god has plans for me. But this blew my mind. My faith was starting to widdle away after two years of bullshit and misery, i was on my last leg and it wasn't looking good. And in a few months my world was flipped upside down!

Now here i sit in the Hilton in downtown San Francisco living my dream. I NEVER EVER thought i would even leave Roseau much less move across the country. I'm still working on knowing a carrer path but i know thats just a bump in the road. I went from having the most ,excuse my language but, Fucked life to living a dream. Everyday I wake up I say thanks, and I soak up everything i can, and I appreciate everything. Not everyone gets this oppurtunity, but I will say, there is such a huge beautiful world out there, get out and see it! If you can dream it and want it bad enough, you can make it happen, just never give it up! Don't settle in life, life is what you make it, so make it something great and worth living!

Now this brings me to something I probably say alot but never enough. I am extremely fortunate to have this huge, overbearing, nosey, loud mouthed, amazing family. I would never have made it here without them on so many different levels. I would have never made it through all the hard shit i went through without them, there advice, and support. I would have never made it out here with out them. And most importantly I would have never been able to leave my daughter without knowing that she is completely taken care of. And I know she is. She has a great father, who no matter how mad he makes me, I thank god for everyday because I know it's not uncommon for fathers to not be involved. My parents take her and spoil her as often as possible, my sister Sara takes her and thats all Jazz talks about for a week. Her daycare is my cousins family and i know they take great care of her! Thank you all so much!!!

I have my mom and dad that are the most amazing parents in the world!!! They have taught me everything i know, they taught me to invest my money, to never give up and finish what u started, to never live beyond your means, to pray and have faith, they taught me the importance of family, and mostly they taught me about love. Love is unconditional, You love your family, friends, but for awhile there I never thought I would love some one else. Mom was even a little concerned about my hatred for men. But always deep down I prayed I could love the way my parents love eachother. The way they appreciate and respect eachother. They have been through hell and back and they still made it through stronger than they were before. Neither of them can stand to be away from eachother for too long. they do everything together because they want to. Loving eachother for them is not a chore for them, it's amazing to watch and see it everday. I just want to say mom dad, never stop being puicky cute even if i complain. your the most amazing people i know and a huge inspiration to me! I love you both so much! I'm not currently in love but i'm open to letting it happen. I defienatly see the difference in me to. My boyfriend actually cares about me and is ready to settle down, he's nothing like the guys i dated before, and i for the first time have all my gaurds down. I finally found myself out here and i love who i am, there is no more reason to be gaurded.

Now for my sisters, i also wouldn't be here without you guys.

Becky your whole life has been inspirational to me. You have always followed your dreams and never let anything hold you back. Your one of the bravest people I know. And you never give up. And you see this in everything you do. Going to Delaware even when you had James and college, and you have been a life saver with all the help u have gave me!

Karen your the most ambitious women i know. You don't ever settle for anything and I know your going to change the world one day. If it takes one homeless girl at a time or a community at a time. You have a great family that you keep in line, you help run a dairy farm, go to school full time, worked part time, and still had time to clean and make a home cooked meal, and this is excluding your little projects on the side. Watching you makes me believe I can do anything!

Sara you toughest person i know. We might not have got along all the time. But no matter what I could call you and you would have wooped whoevers ass made me upset. You were like an older protective brother almost. You have been through alot but you always seemed like it never phased you. You are always the first one there when i needed something. You told me the truth wether i wanted to hear it or not. You always stick by what you do and say, you never second guess yourself. You have taught me to stand up for myself and to do what i believe is right no matter what happens.

Josh my brother, the kindest guy I know. Even though I didn't grow up with him around much. I have a special place for him just like everyone else. He would take his shirt off his back for anyone. Over the last few years I spend more and more time with him, and it makes me happy he wants us to be part of his life. I like to think I get my sweet side from josh. Even though it hasn't been present very often the last few years. I do have a very sweet side and I love taking care of and helping people like my brother.

Everyday I wake up i remember why i'm here and how fortunate I am to be here. My promise to myself was to find myself while i was here. To find who and what i wanted to be. What do I want to do with my life?! I'm half way there, i know who i am and partially what i want. I know i want a family life and like 6 kids. Seriously though i want a big family. I just need to figure out a career. But this doesn't happen overnight, so like mom always says one day at a time Kim. :) So here I am living one day at a time with grace in my heart and flowers in my hair. (the song sara sent me and i got my tattoo from is posted right b4 this blog) P.S. Sara thank you for sending that song to me that day. That couldn't of fit any better right now. This tattoo is not only about being here chasing my dreams its also about mending our relationship and to never lose sight of how important that is to me. I have wasted to many years hating and fighting with you. When i should have been loving and learning from you.

I wanna close this blog with my favorite prayer mom always told me when times were ruff, so god knows I have this one memorized haha.

God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.

Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
as it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
if I surrender to His Will;
That I may be reasonably happy in this life
and supremely happy with Him
Forever in the next.
Amen.

Mumford and Sons-After the Storm lyrics

catching up

Sorry everyone I havent blogged in a while. Been busy with school and friends. Things have been great. This friday was an awesome evening. Shawn, Jackie, 2 of Jackie's friends (sorry i forgot there names again), and Shawn's roomate Reggie all went down to the fisherman's warf about a 15 minute walk from the Hilton. Shawn bought Reggie and I our first In & Out Burger, apparently there the best burger on the west coast.....it was good but i perfer Earl's Drive In :)...So anyways after we all ate we walked over to the beach area and sat next to the water and drank a few beers. It was a beautiful evening, right on time we left cause the cop drove through right when we all were leaving (I don't think it's aloud to drink down there). The walk back was interesting because we took a different way back and we all were a little lost haha walking up hill the whole way we finally found our way back! There is so much to do in this city for pretty much nothing, I love it!

The weekend before Amber and I went and got our tattoo's done on haight street at Mom's tattoo by Barnaby. Amber just fixed and old tattoo and I got a new one. A tattoo that represents many things to me....it represents this point in my life and the changes im making....it represents a relationship that was mended before I left....it reminds me everday to be grateful, work hard, love harder, and pray alot. Life is what you make it, and im going to make mine worth living :)!

Along with the new tattoo I got my hair done and some new clothes

I've been missing my roomate, she is currently moving into an apartment...she wanted her own place. She is moving to Walnut Creek, about an hour and a half out of the city :(...an excuse to get out of the city though I guess. I think this week also we might all take a trip to San Jose for a day so i'm super pumped about that!

Shawn and I are doing great, Friday he bought me this pretty green braclet, he said it reminded him of my eyes, aww :)...everyone here loves my green eyes. Blonde hair, green eyes, and i hate to say it but being white is rare around here, I am definetaly a minority here. Anyways I found out this weekend that I'm going to be meeting his dad in the a couple weeks. His dad and step mom are going to come stay here, they want to meet me. This makes me super nervous, meeting parents is hard in the first place but this is completely different. His dad is full Persian, i'm not sure how traditional he is, or what to expect at all but I think I need to study up more on their culture. Also his dad is a wealthy man. I have met alot of wealthy people here and majority of them are materialistic jerks. I don't think that his dad will be this way but I have no idea what to expect at all! AHHHH!!!!! haha And from what we have discussed he hopefully will be flying with me when i go home right after the semester to visit and meet everyone. Anyways say a prayer that his family likes me, cause I really like him and I don't want his family to hate me. But off to play gutiar! LOVE YOU ALL!

Sick or home sick???

Well I had a fun and eventfull few days. This weekend was lots of fun. Saturday I went out with Amber to a bar and had lots of fun, the end of the night was interesting. A couple of her friends had to much to drink and were sick and hard to keep control of. I finally waved a taxi down and Amber went to take care of her friends and I came straight back home (weird to call the Hilton home but for right now it is haha, not sure still how long were gonna be here). So yesterday I woke up really sick with a soar throat and cough....laying down did not help I would just cough harder. So instead I went on i guess a triple date haha sounds corny I know but I actually had fun. It was Shawn and I, Shawn's classmate Martin (from Norway) his girl Casey, and my friend Jackie and her boyfriend Mark. We all went to this great little Indian resturaunt, my first Indian food :) I LOVED IT, it was real fancy, Shawn ordered wine (I didn't drink any :P i'm not a fan of wine unless it's my grandpa's wine) the place was great! Afterwards Jackie and Mark had to leave but Shawn, Martin, Casey and I all went and had a couple drinks and then went home. Overall I felt better and it was a great date. But being stubborn like I am I stayed up late and listened to Shawn play guitar untell wee hours of the morning. I woke up this morning so sick I didn't want to move. This is crazy to me because I never get sick, ever! I had class, now i'm in my room feeling miserable. I haven't even ate today, the thought of having to go somewhere makes me miserable! But being stuck in my room is driving me crazy. I miss my daughter terribly....I miss holding her, seeing her, talking to her. It makes me really wonder if I can do this for at least four years....I feel like a selfish horrible parent. I'm even second guessing my major...is it pratical with such a shity economy, can i still have a family life if i become succesful with this career, every teacher I have seen in this school is very succesful but I have met one teacher with a family. None one else has a life other than there careers here. That is not what I want! I'm not going to school and missing basically 4 years of my daughters life so that i can miss another ten years to start a career for myself. By than she will be 18 and I wouldn't even know her. I miss my family too, I have always lived near to them and being away is hard. None of my friends here have a bond with there family the way I do mine, or most of there friends even. Everday I talk to at least one person in my family and my two closest girlfriends I talk to probably every other day. Family is my life, this has me so confused. I know i'm sick and overtired and am just homesick. And I need to probably get out of my room so that's what i'm going to do wether i'm sick or not. I keep overthinking all this when i'm here. So off to i don't know where yet but it has to be better than here right now.

Thanks to Becky

This week has been rainy and cold :( So most days ive stayed in after class and done nothing. And today is the worst. Today is the end of the Chinese New Year and the're having a parade to celebrate, and not just any parade. But one of the worlds biggest and longest parades. And it ends here at the Hilton. So now you can imagine the hotel is crazy busy and full of people (Chinese culture center is also in this hotel) there is security everywhere cause the princess of China is also staying here. So it's been just nuts around here. All the streets are blocked off around us walking around with an umbrella is very dangerous with a million people carrying around umbrellas running into eachother with them haha. But thank you to Becky for the umbrella so i didn't get soaked. ahh I hate rain!

Be my Valentine

So I know some of you guys have concerns and worry bout me when it comes to boys :) And advice is always great I am only 22 so I know many of you are wiser than me.

Out of past experience I have learned about the "bad" guys. I think I dated everyone that lived in Roseau county. I know the signs of cheating, controlling, abusive, and assholes in general. I have been single for a while now and a huge man hater. Seriously ask mom, she was a little concerned even how mean I was to men and that I would never let myself love again. And I took it to heart that she was concerned. I am fine being alone or on my own, I actually really enjoyed it. Coming here though was for change...mainly school but also for personal growth. I had become a angry hateful person when I was living at home and I started hating the way I had become. So I made a promise to myself that when I moved here that it was going to be all about me. I know this sounds selfish but sometimes you need to be selfish! I wanted to find the sweet nice side of me again, who loves taking care of people, I wanted to be able to be judged for who I am and not who I was or for being a Norstebon (not that i'm not proud, but I hate that everyone has there idea of me because I grew up there). I get to choose my friends here and choose everything really :) I did not expect to meet some one I liked and wasn't looking for it even. Of course I take notice to a cute guy and stuff, but even my first few weeks here I was blowing guys off. And a couple weekends ago I went out with Amber and decided earlier that day when discussing boys that this is the time to change and take chances. So this is the chance i'm taking, and I think he's a great chance!

It was on a Friday I think that I met Shawn and I had seen him around so I knew he went to my school. I said hey and he came over and started talking to me. We hit it off right off the bat. He has been nothing like anyone I have ever dated. He's sweet, very smart, ambitious, and kind of a dork, and I like him alot. We learn more about eachother everyday. And he helps me stay focused with school because thats why were both here. We do have alot in common when it comes to being on our own and being in the real world. But were very different when it comes to the way we grew up. He is from Orange County, is a very talented man, he plays guitar like I have never seen, makes his own beats (music) on his computer, is here for game design (he is excellent at as well), great drawer, is a computer geek, he speaks to me in other languages sometimes :), and I could go on. It's nice to meet someone so smart and going somewhere with his life. And he is nice to look at :) haha. I have met a few of his friends and they also are very nice.

So yesterday was Valentine's day. He came to my dorm after class and suprised me with a rose and a lil present (candle ect...), we spent the day together had lunch, walked in the rain, had a great supper, and watched movies. Than we we found a great lil place with a great view were we hung out and talked. About what we wanted and everything we could think of. We are now officially dating and are taking things slow and having fun.

I'm extremely happy here, I love the city, my friends, the school, and a great guy to spend my time with. And don't worry I know when to run from a guy...i've done it many times.

But right now i'm exactly where I want to be. And I for the first time don't feel held back or like running. I can be me, and make my life what I always wanted it to be. I found my Valentine....and I think i'm going to keep him for awhile =)

Oh and I know all my nosey family has mentioned meeting him...we will see what this semester brings. But if all goes well and you all promise to be on your best behavior i might see if he will fly home with me to visit for awhile. ;) haha I love my family!

Fairy tales and happy endings....

This week has been amazing. The weather has been phenominal, my friends are hilarious, and classes i really enjoy. This week has been busy but relaxing. Going to classes, hanging out with my friends....and maybe spending time with a boy haha. My friend Jessica decided to withdraw from school and leaves tomorrow :(...So this weekend we had one last hooowraahh for her.

It was fun we had a great night of dancing and running around the city. On my down time I have been hanging out with Shawn doing homework, eating the amazing food here. The other night Jessica and I had lunch at this fancy Italian place we can use our night cash at, and it was amazing! I had ravioli and choclate moose cake. YUMM! This is just so unreal to me everyday. My roommate Amber last night i twisted my ankle so she piggy backed me up hill haha she's crazy but awesome!

And my other friends are great im always on the verge of tears from laughter hanging around them all the time. And Shawn is always putting a smile on my face, the other night we were walking back from supper, holding hands, and i couldn't help but think this is a fairy tail or a dream. I STILL CAN'T BELIEVE THIS! All I can say is that dreams do come true. And everything happens for a reason! I haven't ever been so happy, the only thing missing is Jasmine :(....eventually ill have it all as long as i keep striving to do better and work my ass off for it. And speaking of Jasmine, I got to skype with her yesterday! Sara had her overnight at her house and I talked to her on the phone and as soon as I hung up my roommate says, "Kim you can skype with my Itouch." OMG, THANK YOU AMBER! BEST ROOMMATE EVER! So i skyped and got to see Jasmine for the first time since I left. It was so nice to see her expressions and her gorgeous face. I miss her terribly! Overall, Amber is a life saver!! My friends are amazing! And I met a sweet guy I love spending time with! This is going to be a happy ending, I KNOW IT!!!

STUPID BUS!

The buses here piss me off, there has been a ton of complaints about them and still nothing has been solved. I run late for classes sometimes because the buses are late and today they are going to make me miss half my class, i just dont understand! As a student paying a very high tuition to learn, I would appreciate being able to make it to my classes! And most teachers have been understanding but seriously it makes it harder when u miss things in class!!!! So today im going to call and complain for my third time this week, sad i know. ugh i need some lunch!

My only fear in life....

So as every one can tell life is great and I love it here, but I dont want anyone to be mistaken. It is still extremely difficult. My classes even though i feel im learning and I enjoy my teachers, I feel im behind in my skills than the majority of students. I also am a fashion design major, everyone in my class are like young right out of school girls/guys that dress to the t everyday..look amazing head to toe. Kids, that when they talk I feel dumber for listening ( LIKE OH MY GOD, REALLY), ya not my cup of tea. So I stand out like a soar thumb, I care more about my work and not apperance, my apperance wont get me a degree or a job, my skills will. Also most of my favorite designers always look like a hot mess and dont care about there own apperance, Betsey Johnson for example. So This makes for a long day and makes me for some reason second guess my major, cause i usually dont care about these things but will i ever be as up to date with fashion exspecially where i live. I dont fit in, I guess that doesnt matter but its weird for me cause i have never been the odd one out.

Now for the hardest part, I left my daughter Jasmine 4 years old, to be here and to chase my dreams. Some dissagree with my choice to be here and think this makes me a bad parent. For every one this is why im here, I am here to make a life for my daughter and I, to give her more oppurtunity than I had growing up. Don't get me wrong my parents supported anything i wanted in life but it was very difficult sometimes. I am here so that when is all said and done I can show my daughter that dreams do come true and hopefully inspire her to dream big. I also want to afford to do things for her and move her away from where i grew up. This is so beyond words to describe how hard it is to leave your child to pursue something. It kills me to hear her on the phone "mommy I miss you (crying)". She's to young to understand why im not there but in the long run I pray all this pays off and that she knows why I did all this. I am here for her, to provide better for her, so that she has a happy mother, so that hopefully i can inspire her to be somebody amazing and that anything is possible if you want it bad enough. Because to be a dissapointment to my daughter is my only fear in life...im not scared to be alone...im not scared to move....im not scared to die....im scared of not being the best parent I can be. I know after Josh and I split up that i went through a party phase and i could use every excuse in the book ( I had to grow up fast, I wanted to act my age, blah blah blah) and thats all they are is excuses. I was miserable torn apart heartbroken and very confused about life in general, and the person who suffered for this was Jasmine, and its not fair and I cant take it back or fix it. But what I can do is try to change it and improve it. So here i am...and still second guessing myself. As a parent I dont think your ever sure your doing the right thing but as long as your trying your hardest and doing your best than i pray my daughter knows im doin everything i can for her. So here i sit scared and unsure, so im going to do what my mom always tells me, im going to say a prayer and keep my self focused on whats important. Jasmine, I hope one day you can read this and know that your everything to me, my whole world. No man, no friend, no one will ever mean as much to me as you do. You have been the most spectacular miracle I watch everyday. You have been an inspiration to me since you were born and I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for you. You keep me motivated when im ready to give up, I love you and mommy will be home soon sweatheart!

This has to be a dream...

I have been having an amazing weekend...Friday night Amber and I went out dancing, on our way to a new club we stopped back at the hilton so Amber could change her shoes. I waited against the cab smoking and this very cute guy I see every morning before class is outside smoking also. He introduces himself and we talk a bit, so invite him to come with us. His name is Shawn very cute :)! So we go out dancing and hang out having fun....at the end of the night i go back to my room and realize i didnt give him my number or what room i lived in or anything....i felt bad cause he was so nice a gentleman...and i didnt want him to think i blew him off. So the next morning I wake up and go have an amazing breakfast

with Amber and than soon returned to the Hilton to find a Chinese Dragon dance going on...it was amazing to watch!

After we go upstairs to get ready to go out to Haight and Ashbury for our friend Jackie's 18th birthday.

Were all waiting to leave and there is a knock on my door, Amber gets up to answer it and its Shawn. I go to the door and he asks to take me to lunch :) He remembered i was on either the 14,15,or 16th floor so he walked around them untell he found my name on a door, how cute! of course i just ate and had plans so instead I invite him to come with us. So a huge group of us go to Haight and Ashbury to do some shopping and for Jackie to get her tattoo. The shops were awesome cheap hand made awesome clothes and ect...and the tattoo shop was unreal! I was thinking since I got here that I wanted another tattoo to symbolize this transition in my life. And it comes to me exactly what I want and where I want it! On my forearm im going to get "With grace in my heart and flowers in my hair" thank you to Sara for telling me to listen to the song and Mumford and Sons for writing it...its called after the storm. So Amber and I have appointments for the 26th at Mom's tattoo to go get them done by Barnaby :) It was above 70 degrees and I was exhausted so I went back to the Hilton to relax before we go out for the night, Shawn was a sweetheart all day and I was a little smitten about it. As I was getting ready for the evening Shawn texts me and asks me out to dinner, he took me to this really great Kantanese place not far from here. Dinner was great, he was really funny and sweet. It was so great to go on a real date...

so afterwards we get back to my room where everyone was hanging out before we were going to the club to dance. We all get ready and go to the place Amber, Shawn, and I were the night before. Dissapointed looking at the huge line and expensive cover charge we decide to just go back to our room instead and have fun there. we were playing quarters and having a couple beers, everyone was having a great time and than Shawn pulls out his guitar, yes he plays guitar, and he is by far the best guitarist I have ever seen! omg just melts you, he has a completely different style its so hard to even explain. But I just watched in awww, he keeps telling me he is going to teach me :) good cause i could use the lessons for free, haha. He also is a computer nerd (Becky lol) he told me if i need anything fixed or need help I can just call him. So now im up and just thinking about today with the superbowl and the fun im going to have today, Im just pumped! I met a very cute boy, btw he is 24, and have amazing friends in an amazing city, some one pinch me cause this feels like a dream.

I LOVE COLLEGE

College is suppose to be an adventure, and it definately has been for me every day. My classes have been great, I have awesome teachers! For my illustration class i get to draw nude models 3 days a week, history class will be a great class cause i want to learn it. Buisness is a great stepping stone and thats on mondays. And than there is my sewing class.....i cant wait to learn and make and fix my own stuff! My sketching is ok, I would say I am better than about 10 out 25 people. So im glad im not the worst. The library is great and now i have my labtop in my room. Ive been keeping my homework caught up and still having fun. Last night I took my first city bus with some friends to meet up with another friend, i brought antibacterial, and im not a germaphobe, but people on buses gross me out.

I have seen many cute boys, pretty sure they all live on the sixth floor of this building haha, it seems that way anyways. But definately have to be carefull this is San Francisco California. Every where you walk people are smoking weed right on the sidewalks. I know its medically legal here but its so weird. There are a lot of homeless people here begging and most of them i believe are mentally impaired so dont make contact with them cause if you do they will follow you and keep begging. Dont be to nice to strangers...I have met some people that go to school here but still im trying to be catious, cause everyones like come to my room lets hang out, haha maybe in a public place but not your room. Oh I met this awesome guy from Norway, i cant remember his name right now, but he said from being an American I still have a thick Norwegian accent....seriously I cant argue it anymore i have an accent....But I love it! lol, just so you know I will probably talk different when i get home these people talk funny out here. Ahhh Happy Chinese New year everyone! The festivities were awesome lots to see hear and watch. Im sick of the fireworks though, three days straight now they have been going off day and night a block up from my hotel, the main part of Chinatown is there.

So now i need to get ready for my sewing class. Wish me luck, ill probably need it for this class.

relaxing day off

Today was a beautiful relaxing day. I woke up at six, ugh couldn't sleep and relaxed in bed tell 10. Got ready for the day and put all my clothes in the closet and cleaned my room. Afterwards I packed up my laundry and went to my friends dorm, Jackie. She just got done with class and her and a guy Leo she met came and Hung out with us, he is from Russia and is very cute :) lol. After Jessica got there Leo left and us girls went to find a place to eat. After walking forever trying to find this place we talking away we realize were in the tenderloin area "the ghetto". There's homeless people everywhere, people dealing drugs, and were getting stared at by everyone. It's fairly safe during the day but non the less still scary. We hurrily walk back and go to a different cafeteria. Eat a great supper than its time for laundry. My friends and I are waiting for our laundry to get done and there is a door in the laundry room with a sign saying patio.

Well curiosity killed the cat, Jessica decided to open it and sets an alarm off ha ha. How embarrassing! So than we finished up laundry and I leave to catch a shuttle back to the Hilton. As I'm waiting some guy asks me what time the shuttle was coming, I notice he has a thick accent. We got to talking and I guess he is front Norway! We waited forever and decided to walk because the shuttle wasn't coming. We had a great conversation, I love meeting foreigners, there so interesting. I'm now in my room, just got laundry done and put away. All ready for my 2 classes tomorrow. Ready for bed! Long day tomorrow have homework after classes :)

Catching up

Sorry everyone, its been really crazy around here. My night out was a lot of fun, I even met a cute boy ha ha, he is in school also for pre-med and is a really good baseball player. I gave him my number and has been begging for a date. My roommate told me I have to go on it, but I'm still hesitating ha ha. I guess we will see. Sunday was a fun day also. Amber, Aaron, and I checked out the Chinese new year festival, it was amazing! And I have some awesome friends. Aaron went to by himself the san Francisco sweatshirt I wanted. Than he comes over and tells me to go get the one to...I'm confused at this point. He explains the store owner wanted Aarons red aeropostle sweatshirt, and traded him it for 4 sweatshirts! So Aaron got us all a sweatshirt, what a sweetheart :) afterwards our other friends met us later for a nice dinner and hanging out in my dorm. Apparently the Hilton is the cool place to be lol! All nervous for class I got all prepared and went to bed. Early the next morning I got up got ready and went and waited for my bus. The shuttle was easy, our school makes it so simple to ride. While waiting up on sutter for my transfer bus I seen a kid skate boarding down the street, apparently he has a death wish. For those of you who aren't familiar with the city, I say this because san Francisco is built on 43 hills, and is comparable to Duluth except can be much worse.I give props to the women the walk in heels in this city. And just from walking in this city I'm sure I'm going to loose weight :) ha ha. So anyways, I got to my class fine, it was a small class about 20 people, a lot of people didn't show up not sure why you would skip your first class but whatever. I met a really nice girl from Manhattan named Tushiya, the teacher was nice. Not to much homework, and we got done with class early. Tushiya and I had lunch at chipolte, Yumm! Our knight cash they call it, part of our meal plan works at a ton of local resturaunts and grocery stores, its awesome. Than we met up with all the girls Jackie, Jessica, and Amber and did some serious window shopping. And no I didn't make it to haight and ashbury yesterday :( it got to cold for these girls so we came back to the Hilton lol. We all watched tv and Hung out for the evening and all went to bed early. Everyone except Jessica had a good first day though. Poor jessica had a teacher who made fun of her in class and was completely a huge a**hole to her. Poor girl, I felt bad, but we keep telling her today will be better. O ya and Amber and I went to our mandatory meeting for the Hilton students Sunday night, it went well. We realized our R.A's are really unorganized ha ha. But we found out that there setting up laundry for us at the hotel and it will be free :) awesome! And they might set us a room with a fridge microwave and ect...since all other dorms have it. The way it sounds we might be here all semester. Personally I don't mind at all ha ha! Now I'm gonna shower and go through my clothes, I'm gonna wash um at a friends dorm sence we don't have laundry service yet. And hopefully I'm going to pack all my clothing away so we have more space for our superbowl party were throwing on Sunday, I'm sad I'm going to kiss mom and dads party though :( For such a huge change in my life, I'm loving it so much...I haven't got home sick, I'm always doing something fun and I have met some really awesome friends! O by the way Karen I told them you said I love you to them for taking care of me, they all replied Aww, we love her cause she's your sister so she has to be equally as awesome as you....than they spent a minute admiring how close my family is cause there always calling me being supportive and amazing. And I told them how mom bought us all webcams so we can all Skype/ video chat. And how Becky and Ryan fixed my computer and sent it to me. Or how Sara and bill watch my daughter and call me as many times as I ask them to, to talk to jazz. So FYI everyone is in live with our family. I can't blame them, you guys are awesome. !