Hey guys, it's been a while!
I have been working so much and thinking so much that I haven't taken the time to write down my thoughts. But, I'm back and that's all that matters.
Lately I've been experiencing some new things, learning a lot and living well. I am truly a lucky lady with a lot to be thankful for.
If you are struggling financially or in any sort of way, remember to appreciate the little things and that it is so important to stop and realize how blessed we all are.
Sometimes, when I become overwhelmed and realize it, I stop and remember that I have family, friends, a boyfriend, a home, and a job. If what I am worried about will not matter in a day, then I let it go. It's easy to think too much, but that's a different subject. I'll write about that another day.
Right not I want to talk about friends.
This has been on my mind for a while, and I think about it a lot.
It's hard being a twenty something. I work a lot, sometimes more than I would like, but I have bills to pay and my own mouth to feed. Most of my friends are in their twenties or older, maybe a little younger. Whether I met you in high school or in my more recent years, you're still probably old enough to understand or at least be learning the basics of balancing life.
Something I have been learning lately is how to deal with different types of friends.
Most of my friends from high school have been working. We all have different jobs, some go to school, some do not. Whatever your lifestyle may be, when you grow up things are not the same as high school anymore. If you have bills to pay and a job, you can't see your friends all of the time.
My very best friends have all been away at school, I have not seen most of them more than once or twice in the past 3 or 4 months. We are all very cool with that, because we are all understanding and we are all doing our thing. It's respectful to understand that we cannot see each other all week, and a missed text or phone call is not worth getting worked up about.
Unfortunately some friends do not understand this, and become angry or "sassy," per se, when I do not answer a text or phone call. It is not mature to be upset by that, and not something even worth bringing up in a conversation. Consistently complaining about not seeing me, whether its meant well or out of aggravation, is not necessary at this age. I do not have to answer any call or text, and I would never intentionally ignore someone unless they were truly a bad person. It's just not worth being upset about someone not answering, and the first thing that crosses your mind is that they may be working, just doing something else, or maybe they just want some alone time.
Guess what? Alone time is OK. As much as you need.
When you are twenty-some years old you should not be nagging your friends about hanging out. It's OK to miss someone, but when it becomes an obsession there is an issue there. If a friend does not see you three times a week, you should not be calling them five times a day. You should not be whining about how they never call you, or how they never answer your texts. You should also definitely, DEFINITELY not be stalking them on social media or in person to see what they are doing. No one is obligated to do anything, and a spare day off or spare hour is not dedicated to doing anything besides what that person would like to do with that time. If you truly want to see a friend, and they have an hour or two to grab some food or drinks, take that time to spend with them. Don't be spiteful and turn it down because they didn't want to hangout for hours and hours. That is silly and awfully selfish, because time spent is time spent- whether it's a long time, or just a minute.
That being said, it is a little different in a romantic partnership. You are not obligated to do anything, but you should desire to spend time with that person when possible. You should try to call them and ask how their day is going, or even just grab a bite to eat. Whether it's the whole night or just 30 minutes, time means the world. It's important. Enjoying time with that person a couple times a week is understandable. Again, we all have jobs and we all do out own thing. If you can't see your significant other during the week, don't get all riled up. A call or text is a nice idea to let them know you are thinking of them.
These are all some things I have been learning how to handle within the past year. It can be very frustrating dealing with needy friends, a busy, tiring job and life. Try not so loose your cool and hang in there!
It is getting late, but I am so happy I took the time to sit down and write tonight. I needed to get back in the groove and get some things off my mind. Any advice I can give comes right from experience. It's better to be honest with these kind of friends. Don't freak out, but do remember we all have different mindsets.
Night Night, friends!
Angie
Tuesday, October 6, 2015
Friday, November 21, 2014
Rules of being a Gentleman :)
This is a little thing
I wrote up as a part of my blog. A lady’s point of view is ALWAYS important : )
1.
Having a beard or moustache does not
automatically make you a gent.
2.
Being a true Gent doesn’t just involve
treating her nicely whilst trying to win her over, it involves
treating her nicely all the time.
3. Hold her hand.
4.
You can take turns paying for meals!
5.
Hold the door.
6.
Have conversation without shutting down her
inspirations.
7.
Apologies are important when you are in the wrong.
8. Respect her passions, dreams, & goals. Try your BEST to help her fulfill them.
9.
You are never inferior or superior. Neither is she.
10. Surprise her with little things each week. A
note, a simple visit at work, a reminder of what she means to you and how far
you’re willing to show her what she means to you, is the most important thing.
Simplicity speaks the loudest.
That’s all I have for now, but stay tuned for a much longer list! Feel free to comment with input : ). Thanks! Ang, xx
Monday, October 27, 2014
Introducing Health Food to Children
"Ew, Mom, why does this peanut butter look like poop? Why is it lumpy & weirdly shaped??"
"Honey, it's just natural peanut butter with no sugar and nothing you like inside of it."
*5 Year old Angie cries*
Never to eat "real" peanut butter again!! The terror!
I am no parent, no care taker of any chilluns' at this time. Besides the two that I nannied all summer, an 8 year old and a 13 year old. But- We all know how picky they can be!!
As children in a synthetic world, we are taught that synthetic brands are the "real" deal.
Growing up in home with a diabetic Dad & nutritionist, ex body building and modeling Mother, I was taught otherwise.
I learned how to be "reverse picky."
Definition, yes? Reverse picky is learning to be picky about which foods you eat, but the favorite being healthy choices & not junk food.
The quote about the PB up there is a real thing that happened. When I was little, my mom introduced organic peanut butter to me, & I literally cried. I was so angry. What was this odd, unsweetened, lumpy substance?
Then she told me I could never have the "fake" peanut butter again.
NO JIF??? WHAAAATTT???
Yup. She meant it.
So, from then on, bit by bit, she introduced all of these odd, super-foods into my life.
The older I got, the more I loved them. It took time, but I grew into it.
In the beginning of high school I became vegetarian. I enjoy this lifestyle. I try to eat Gluten Free, which, I know everyone makes fun of. But- It works! Gluten is a wheat protein that slows down your energy and causes weight gain. Like eating too much pizza or bread. Same thing! I feel as though all folks should be educated on this.
Now, do you need to go full cold turkey gluten free in order to lose weight and be healthy? No! Nor do you need to be vegetarian. A healthy balance is the key.
The hard part is getting your kids to love it.
Like I said, as a child I was thrown out into the open with health food. I do not advise this as it may cause fits and fusses. I do think that a healthy diet can be eased into any child's life with care.
The secret? Making comfort foods that are healthy and tasty at the same time.
Here is an example of what I mean by that:
Apple baked oatmeal with a bit of cinnamon and sugar on top:
Slice up and peel and apple, throw in some oatmeal, pop it in the oven for 20 minutes and voila! You have a breakfast that tastes like apple pie. Will they know the difference? Maybe, but it is just so darn good they'll want more and more. This dish is full of healthy morning fibers.
I plan on writing a short little cookbook or website of all my favorite comfort recipes, so I can share them with all! I like to cook cheap things that are filling and delicious to all sorts of pickies.
Stay tuned for more! This is a short blog, I know. I've got to peace out for now. If you have any questions feel free to comment! I'd love to answer them all and help in any way I can.
XX,
Angie
20 soon to be 21 year old college student, finding ways to help others eat healthy & happy!
"Honey, it's just natural peanut butter with no sugar and nothing you like inside of it."
*5 Year old Angie cries*
Never to eat "real" peanut butter again!! The terror!
I am no parent, no care taker of any chilluns' at this time. Besides the two that I nannied all summer, an 8 year old and a 13 year old. But- We all know how picky they can be!!
As children in a synthetic world, we are taught that synthetic brands are the "real" deal.
Growing up in home with a diabetic Dad & nutritionist, ex body building and modeling Mother, I was taught otherwise.
I learned how to be "reverse picky."
Definition, yes? Reverse picky is learning to be picky about which foods you eat, but the favorite being healthy choices & not junk food.
The quote about the PB up there is a real thing that happened. When I was little, my mom introduced organic peanut butter to me, & I literally cried. I was so angry. What was this odd, unsweetened, lumpy substance?
Then she told me I could never have the "fake" peanut butter again.
NO JIF??? WHAAAATTT???
Yup. She meant it.
So, from then on, bit by bit, she introduced all of these odd, super-foods into my life.
The older I got, the more I loved them. It took time, but I grew into it.
In the beginning of high school I became vegetarian. I enjoy this lifestyle. I try to eat Gluten Free, which, I know everyone makes fun of. But- It works! Gluten is a wheat protein that slows down your energy and causes weight gain. Like eating too much pizza or bread. Same thing! I feel as though all folks should be educated on this.
Now, do you need to go full cold turkey gluten free in order to lose weight and be healthy? No! Nor do you need to be vegetarian. A healthy balance is the key.
The hard part is getting your kids to love it.
Like I said, as a child I was thrown out into the open with health food. I do not advise this as it may cause fits and fusses. I do think that a healthy diet can be eased into any child's life with care.
The secret? Making comfort foods that are healthy and tasty at the same time.
Here is an example of what I mean by that:
Apple baked oatmeal with a bit of cinnamon and sugar on top:
Slice up and peel and apple, throw in some oatmeal, pop it in the oven for 20 minutes and voila! You have a breakfast that tastes like apple pie. Will they know the difference? Maybe, but it is just so darn good they'll want more and more. This dish is full of healthy morning fibers.
I plan on writing a short little cookbook or website of all my favorite comfort recipes, so I can share them with all! I like to cook cheap things that are filling and delicious to all sorts of pickies.
Stay tuned for more! This is a short blog, I know. I've got to peace out for now. If you have any questions feel free to comment! I'd love to answer them all and help in any way I can.
XX,
Angie
20 soon to be 21 year old college student, finding ways to help others eat healthy & happy!
The Truth About Sandy Cove.
Hello.
This is simply a blog post about my many years of experience working for Sandy Cove Ministries. The good, the bad, the ugly. No filters! If you are looking for the honest truth about this place, what it's like to work here, and the 411 on what really goes on in the back ground, please, read on.
**Disclaimer** I truly advise that if you are not going to read the WHOLE thing, do not read it at all. You may stop short and not fully understand my point of view. Thank You!
I am not looking to ruin anyone's employment, but I am looking to let everyone know the truth so as to save some time before you decide to jump in and either spend a vacation here, or apply for a job in this very tricky atmosphere.
First and foremost, I have been attending Sandy Cove Ministries as a fetus. Yes, I said it. My parents attended far before I was born, and took me as an infant on our summer vacations here. Most of the employees there today, specifically the "Uppers," have not been attending as long as I have.
My very first job at Sandy Cove was Housekeeping. I arrived as a shy, blacked out, almost punk kind of girl. Nothing wrong with that, but I left as an outgoing, sunshiney, totally different girl. My experience in Housekeeping was not fun. My experience with the people there in 2011, was excellent. I was treated wonderfully. Everyone sympathized with me over my horrible position and how mistreated I was, and made me feel more beautiful than I have ever felt in my life. This was a boost that I needed.
Housekeeping was a dirty job, obviously. I was rushed day in and day out because staff was so short in this area. I had to do 15 full room cleans by myself, and I do say very OCD room cleans. Often I was left to do 50 "tidies" by myself, which were basically quick room cleans while the guests were- or- weren't "out and about." Now, this was all in the job description. I will use that as a disclaimer. BUT- being mistreated, overworked because of lack of staff, and pushed around was not part of the deal. The people that Sandy Cove accepted as groups to stay there for retreats were sleazy, slobby, and sometimes even occult groups.
The morning after these events was always the worst for me. I would enter a room to clean and it had been like a tornado hit the place. These people cared NOTHING about the mess they left me, the items they destroyed, and the furniture they decided to move, which, is against rules. I would often spend over an hour on one room because the people they allowed to stay here had trashed the place. I had to move full beds back into place, clean throw up and diarrhea on the floor, and vacuum an extra lot of chips and junk up off the floor. This must have been the norm for these groups, unless they were really so careless to the mess they left me. I can't imagine anyone treating their house like they treated the hotel rooms, and if that is their true lifestyle I can't imagine what their homes look like. All the extra cleaning took up time and this was not my fault.
Aside from creepy cult groups and poopy underwear being thrown on the floor, I had to deal with strange requests and comments from the guests, daily. No one was ever around to help me, and if I asked for help I got made fun of for having a "question." One time, it had been my day off, and I was using my netbook. One woman took advantage of our slogan, which was "Meeting the needs of the guests." She decided to ASK ME if she could "borrow" my laptop. Hold up... what?? That's right. She memorized my face, that I was en employee. She decided to try and steal my belongings on my time off. Tsk, Tsk. One would think a respectable vacation center would be more careful of whom they allowed to stay there. Not to mention the creepy comments I got from some people whilst cleaning.
I mentioned earlier a shortened staff on housekeeping. They were super understaffed which does in fact mean that all of us were pushed to the limit and the blame was 100% on us, for everything. Constant suffering was a part of each day. Towards the end of my stay there that summer of 2011, things started to get worse. Staff began to leave, and things got more busy for all of us. One day I had a large bunch of rooms to clean, when I got a call from my manager to meet her in her office. I walked in, and they said "Angie, it's all your fault that we are understaffed. We hope that you get your rooms done in time today or else we are going to fire you."
I think that is enough there for me to say about that. I will let you ponder that and rethink what I just wrote for a good minute or two.
Done yet? I thought that might be a lot to take in. Very unprofessional. Luckily karma hit the one woman and she lost her job with Sandy Cove.
Since I had only been 17 at the time, Sandy Cove got a call from my parents. The president at the time handled it very well, because he was obviously quite upset over this absurd mistreatment. I was told that we would get a free vacation and I would be allowed back next summer, even though I broke the contract by leaving a day early. Who could blame me though?
All in all I did enjoy the friends I made and the memories I had. So much positive attention from them all.
A year went by and I had graduated High School. It was summer time again. I gave Sandy Cove a call and was told that I could not work there because of the previous situation.
Screwed me over. I thought that I could still work there??
I had almost been jobless that summer, it was the end of May, and I could not find a single position in the area. Thanks, guys!!
Luckily, on a whim, I applied to Camp Sandy Cove, the West Virginia branch off camp for children. Tim Nielsen, was the most positive, wonderful, role model and manager I could have asked for in my entire life. He needed a videographer and I needed a job, so it worked out perfectly. My partner was a little strange, but we got a long. Working at camp humbled me and taught me how to live like a real woman: No air conditioning, no nothing. A cabin with 20 other girls, some dirty old clothes, and beans in a can. It was great! I got to live like a free bird. It took some getting used to, and was certainly not the same environment as Sandy Cove in Northeast Maryland. I did miss the bay. But I got over it and even ran into an old circus friend who I met the previous summer at Sandy Cove. Everything was awesome. I will say though, because of my anxiety, it was hard for me to be so far from home.
I had a very adventurous summer in West Virginia using the Go Pro camera on zip lines, and teaching children the art of videography.
That's a whole different story, as the summer ended, I went to college, and finished up a year.
Summer 2013 was here, and I was again almost jobless by the end of spring. I applied again for the heck of it to Sandy Cove. I figured maybe things would be better this time. Maybe it would all work out.
I got a call last minute from Human Resources, for a position as "CAMP DESK CLERK." Now, the description for this position, was to sit at the camp desk, down the road from the bay a little ways where the tents & trailers are pitched, and check people in to the campground. I spoke to my supervisor at the time, and she told me that I would be, to quote, "Watching movies all day at the desk by myself." "I hope you don't mind buying Netflix," she said. I arrived with high expectations and little amounts of dress clothes, as I expected to be at the camp desk: Watching movies and checking people in.
Time went by, and I had been trained at the front desk of the 5-star hotel section. Not the camp desk. Not the snack register. THE actual front desk. Where 500 people a week during "summer together" check in and every single one has to buy a snack before they leave. I was thrown there on a whim, and never trained properly. I had confronted my supervisor about whether I would ever work at the camp desk, and she told me that "I looked good and had a sweet voice" so she would most likely keep me up front.
OH.
The summer went on and I had limited amounts of dress attire. Luckily I always pulled it off and looked fancy. I was very self conscious about my weight, and struggling with that mentally. My parents never did get along super well. Often they would call me in the midst of work to argue with me over school finances and their own problems. This raised my stress level to the max. The ladies were very understanding of it.
All of this caused me great stress during the day, and I would often vent to the desk ladies about it. They vented to me about their problems too. We all have them. I somehow got the vibe that my problems were a turn-off to them. Almost like they didn't care, or patronized me. Silly Angie, the pretty little desk girl. I finally almost exploded.
Through all stress and drama I did not enjoy or intend to occur, the summer had come to an end. None of this I asked for, it was all just a series of events that happen in life.
It came to the day where I had my end of summer review.
Oh no.. I had never actually done one of these before. I sat by my supervisor as she explained her opinion to me. After I had done all she asked me to do, on such a whim, she said this.
"Angie, I do not know how to put this-- and don't try telling on me because I already talked to Human Resources about you. But you're just so--- hmmm, how can I put this.. without being too bold? *snark face.* I'm just going to go ahead and say it. You're just so flighty. You're a space cadet. You have no goals in life. Do you want to turn out like your parents? I say this because I care and want to see you succeed."
My mind was blown.
She continued- "It's not even that it affected your work performance or anything, you were great. I just think that this position isn't right for you. So I can't rehire you the next summer."
"Not that it affected your work or anything, but I can't rehire you."
^ WHAT??
She handed me my review, which, was, in itself, flighty. All 2's, 3's, and maybe one 4. I was super confused. She asked me to sign in agreement, which, I thought that I HAD to do. I did it, and I regret that so much because I don't agree with a damn thing on that paper. I worked my ass off for her, like a slave, did everything she asked, and dealt with so much. My mind had still been processing what she labeled me as.
She then asked me to write up an email to her, with a list of all my goals. Like a little 4 year old. I did it to float her boat, I figured it did make some sense, but not quite. That ended my term at Sandy Cove 2013.
This past summer things had changed, they again screwed me over and would not hire me for a single position. I ended up at Chick Fil A and as a Nanny. My summer was great but I had not had a chance to write this blog. I truly want everyone to know my experience there and what it may be like for you, too.
Now before I close this out, there are a couple people I would like to point out whom I forgot to mention earlier.
Mark, the President I knew for most of my time there. You are wonderful, inspiring, and one of the sweetest people I know. Please keep caring the way you do and truly acting as I imagine God would.
Stephen Weaver, the current President. I am not happy about your position there now. When I was a receptionist at the front you decided to scream at me over a paper you needed printed because you was in stress. That is not the way to handle yourself as a supervisor, and certainly not a way to treat any employee. Especially not in a Christian retreat center. Control yourself or karma will hit you so hard you'll never forget it. You used to be a very nice, very easy-going guy and you have turned into a monster of a big- mohoff. Congratulations, and I really hope you figure out how to do this without freaking out on everyone.
Renee, my dorm mom at Sandy Cove in 2011. You taught me so much and you are still one of the sweetest people I know. You were just what we needed and I had never had such a great time. I made so many friends in our dorm that summer and you were so understanding. You just got it. I loved that, I really did :).
The current Summer Dorm Parents, whose names I will not say- Very nice people but like to play favorites. I was very busy as receptionist and my manager made it clear to you that she would not let me off for summer events. I came there to work, and work hard, and I'm sorry I couldn't have as much play time to get to know you. That's not your fault but I wish you had been a bit more understanding of that. I ask you to please try and be a bit more understanding towards those with high demand positions in the future. It is hard when you can't have time to hang out. I often felt like those with more time were favorites and that's really not cool. I appreciate your kindness and open hearts.
Thanks again for taking the time to read this blog! This is a cliché closing but I really do appreciate it. I look to gain my associates in journalism. I have high hopes for the future.
If you are going to comment please take into consideration that this is my viewpoint and mine only. Everyone has a different experience at this place and it may have been better or worse than mine. If you have worked in a different position than me, please be understanding that your experience may have been totally different because your position was as well. Therefore, you did not have to go through the same situations as me. I will not accept crude comments. Please be appropriate. Opinions are fine! Again please take into consideration all of the above.
Thank You!
Angie Anconetani
This is simply a blog post about my many years of experience working for Sandy Cove Ministries. The good, the bad, the ugly. No filters! If you are looking for the honest truth about this place, what it's like to work here, and the 411 on what really goes on in the back ground, please, read on.
**Disclaimer** I truly advise that if you are not going to read the WHOLE thing, do not read it at all. You may stop short and not fully understand my point of view. Thank You!
I am not looking to ruin anyone's employment, but I am looking to let everyone know the truth so as to save some time before you decide to jump in and either spend a vacation here, or apply for a job in this very tricky atmosphere.
First and foremost, I have been attending Sandy Cove Ministries as a fetus. Yes, I said it. My parents attended far before I was born, and took me as an infant on our summer vacations here. Most of the employees there today, specifically the "Uppers," have not been attending as long as I have.
My very first job at Sandy Cove was Housekeeping. I arrived as a shy, blacked out, almost punk kind of girl. Nothing wrong with that, but I left as an outgoing, sunshiney, totally different girl. My experience in Housekeeping was not fun. My experience with the people there in 2011, was excellent. I was treated wonderfully. Everyone sympathized with me over my horrible position and how mistreated I was, and made me feel more beautiful than I have ever felt in my life. This was a boost that I needed.
Housekeeping was a dirty job, obviously. I was rushed day in and day out because staff was so short in this area. I had to do 15 full room cleans by myself, and I do say very OCD room cleans. Often I was left to do 50 "tidies" by myself, which were basically quick room cleans while the guests were- or- weren't "out and about." Now, this was all in the job description. I will use that as a disclaimer. BUT- being mistreated, overworked because of lack of staff, and pushed around was not part of the deal. The people that Sandy Cove accepted as groups to stay there for retreats were sleazy, slobby, and sometimes even occult groups.
The morning after these events was always the worst for me. I would enter a room to clean and it had been like a tornado hit the place. These people cared NOTHING about the mess they left me, the items they destroyed, and the furniture they decided to move, which, is against rules. I would often spend over an hour on one room because the people they allowed to stay here had trashed the place. I had to move full beds back into place, clean throw up and diarrhea on the floor, and vacuum an extra lot of chips and junk up off the floor. This must have been the norm for these groups, unless they were really so careless to the mess they left me. I can't imagine anyone treating their house like they treated the hotel rooms, and if that is their true lifestyle I can't imagine what their homes look like. All the extra cleaning took up time and this was not my fault.
Aside from creepy cult groups and poopy underwear being thrown on the floor, I had to deal with strange requests and comments from the guests, daily. No one was ever around to help me, and if I asked for help I got made fun of for having a "question." One time, it had been my day off, and I was using my netbook. One woman took advantage of our slogan, which was "Meeting the needs of the guests." She decided to ASK ME if she could "borrow" my laptop. Hold up... what?? That's right. She memorized my face, that I was en employee. She decided to try and steal my belongings on my time off. Tsk, Tsk. One would think a respectable vacation center would be more careful of whom they allowed to stay there. Not to mention the creepy comments I got from some people whilst cleaning.
I mentioned earlier a shortened staff on housekeeping. They were super understaffed which does in fact mean that all of us were pushed to the limit and the blame was 100% on us, for everything. Constant suffering was a part of each day. Towards the end of my stay there that summer of 2011, things started to get worse. Staff began to leave, and things got more busy for all of us. One day I had a large bunch of rooms to clean, when I got a call from my manager to meet her in her office. I walked in, and they said "Angie, it's all your fault that we are understaffed. We hope that you get your rooms done in time today or else we are going to fire you."
I think that is enough there for me to say about that. I will let you ponder that and rethink what I just wrote for a good minute or two.
Done yet? I thought that might be a lot to take in. Very unprofessional. Luckily karma hit the one woman and she lost her job with Sandy Cove.
Since I had only been 17 at the time, Sandy Cove got a call from my parents. The president at the time handled it very well, because he was obviously quite upset over this absurd mistreatment. I was told that we would get a free vacation and I would be allowed back next summer, even though I broke the contract by leaving a day early. Who could blame me though?
All in all I did enjoy the friends I made and the memories I had. So much positive attention from them all.
A year went by and I had graduated High School. It was summer time again. I gave Sandy Cove a call and was told that I could not work there because of the previous situation.
Screwed me over. I thought that I could still work there??
I had almost been jobless that summer, it was the end of May, and I could not find a single position in the area. Thanks, guys!!
Luckily, on a whim, I applied to Camp Sandy Cove, the West Virginia branch off camp for children. Tim Nielsen, was the most positive, wonderful, role model and manager I could have asked for in my entire life. He needed a videographer and I needed a job, so it worked out perfectly. My partner was a little strange, but we got a long. Working at camp humbled me and taught me how to live like a real woman: No air conditioning, no nothing. A cabin with 20 other girls, some dirty old clothes, and beans in a can. It was great! I got to live like a free bird. It took some getting used to, and was certainly not the same environment as Sandy Cove in Northeast Maryland. I did miss the bay. But I got over it and even ran into an old circus friend who I met the previous summer at Sandy Cove. Everything was awesome. I will say though, because of my anxiety, it was hard for me to be so far from home.
I had a very adventurous summer in West Virginia using the Go Pro camera on zip lines, and teaching children the art of videography.
That's a whole different story, as the summer ended, I went to college, and finished up a year.
Summer 2013 was here, and I was again almost jobless by the end of spring. I applied again for the heck of it to Sandy Cove. I figured maybe things would be better this time. Maybe it would all work out.
I got a call last minute from Human Resources, for a position as "CAMP DESK CLERK." Now, the description for this position, was to sit at the camp desk, down the road from the bay a little ways where the tents & trailers are pitched, and check people in to the campground. I spoke to my supervisor at the time, and she told me that I would be, to quote, "Watching movies all day at the desk by myself." "I hope you don't mind buying Netflix," she said. I arrived with high expectations and little amounts of dress clothes, as I expected to be at the camp desk: Watching movies and checking people in.
Time went by, and I had been trained at the front desk of the 5-star hotel section. Not the camp desk. Not the snack register. THE actual front desk. Where 500 people a week during "summer together" check in and every single one has to buy a snack before they leave. I was thrown there on a whim, and never trained properly. I had confronted my supervisor about whether I would ever work at the camp desk, and she told me that "I looked good and had a sweet voice" so she would most likely keep me up front.
OH.
The summer went on and I had limited amounts of dress attire. Luckily I always pulled it off and looked fancy. I was very self conscious about my weight, and struggling with that mentally. My parents never did get along super well. Often they would call me in the midst of work to argue with me over school finances and their own problems. This raised my stress level to the max. The ladies were very understanding of it.
All of this caused me great stress during the day, and I would often vent to the desk ladies about it. They vented to me about their problems too. We all have them. I somehow got the vibe that my problems were a turn-off to them. Almost like they didn't care, or patronized me. Silly Angie, the pretty little desk girl. I finally almost exploded.
Through all stress and drama I did not enjoy or intend to occur, the summer had come to an end. None of this I asked for, it was all just a series of events that happen in life.
It came to the day where I had my end of summer review.
Oh no.. I had never actually done one of these before. I sat by my supervisor as she explained her opinion to me. After I had done all she asked me to do, on such a whim, she said this.
"Angie, I do not know how to put this-- and don't try telling on me because I already talked to Human Resources about you. But you're just so--- hmmm, how can I put this.. without being too bold? *snark face.* I'm just going to go ahead and say it. You're just so flighty. You're a space cadet. You have no goals in life. Do you want to turn out like your parents? I say this because I care and want to see you succeed."
My mind was blown.
She continued- "It's not even that it affected your work performance or anything, you were great. I just think that this position isn't right for you. So I can't rehire you the next summer."
"Not that it affected your work or anything, but I can't rehire you."
^ WHAT??
She handed me my review, which, was, in itself, flighty. All 2's, 3's, and maybe one 4. I was super confused. She asked me to sign in agreement, which, I thought that I HAD to do. I did it, and I regret that so much because I don't agree with a damn thing on that paper. I worked my ass off for her, like a slave, did everything she asked, and dealt with so much. My mind had still been processing what she labeled me as.
She then asked me to write up an email to her, with a list of all my goals. Like a little 4 year old. I did it to float her boat, I figured it did make some sense, but not quite. That ended my term at Sandy Cove 2013.
This past summer things had changed, they again screwed me over and would not hire me for a single position. I ended up at Chick Fil A and as a Nanny. My summer was great but I had not had a chance to write this blog. I truly want everyone to know my experience there and what it may be like for you, too.
Now before I close this out, there are a couple people I would like to point out whom I forgot to mention earlier.
Mark, the President I knew for most of my time there. You are wonderful, inspiring, and one of the sweetest people I know. Please keep caring the way you do and truly acting as I imagine God would.
Stephen Weaver, the current President. I am not happy about your position there now. When I was a receptionist at the front you decided to scream at me over a paper you needed printed because you was in stress. That is not the way to handle yourself as a supervisor, and certainly not a way to treat any employee. Especially not in a Christian retreat center. Control yourself or karma will hit you so hard you'll never forget it. You used to be a very nice, very easy-going guy and you have turned into a monster of a big- mohoff. Congratulations, and I really hope you figure out how to do this without freaking out on everyone.
Renee, my dorm mom at Sandy Cove in 2011. You taught me so much and you are still one of the sweetest people I know. You were just what we needed and I had never had such a great time. I made so many friends in our dorm that summer and you were so understanding. You just got it. I loved that, I really did :).
The current Summer Dorm Parents, whose names I will not say- Very nice people but like to play favorites. I was very busy as receptionist and my manager made it clear to you that she would not let me off for summer events. I came there to work, and work hard, and I'm sorry I couldn't have as much play time to get to know you. That's not your fault but I wish you had been a bit more understanding of that. I ask you to please try and be a bit more understanding towards those with high demand positions in the future. It is hard when you can't have time to hang out. I often felt like those with more time were favorites and that's really not cool. I appreciate your kindness and open hearts.
Thanks again for taking the time to read this blog! This is a cliché closing but I really do appreciate it. I look to gain my associates in journalism. I have high hopes for the future.
If you are going to comment please take into consideration that this is my viewpoint and mine only. Everyone has a different experience at this place and it may have been better or worse than mine. If you have worked in a different position than me, please be understanding that your experience may have been totally different because your position was as well. Therefore, you did not have to go through the same situations as me. I will not accept crude comments. Please be appropriate. Opinions are fine! Again please take into consideration all of the above.
Thank You!
Angie Anconetani
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
The Veggie Struggle.
Okay. Howdy Y'all.
B- Some guys will go the complete other end...trying to baby me and treat me like some sort of princess. I don't need that.... I'm...I'm fine, really. Just respect, please.
Now, the girls... unless they are truly my friends, they tend to be a little snarky.
Just kidding, I'm a a northerner, we don't say that there. Y'all up north is a term used by ghetto people.
Let me start over.
Hey.
So, I am a vegetarian. Going strong for about 4 years, and one sad year eating meat.
I can say that after a year of trying to eat meat again, I hated it! I was miserable.
With this LIFESTYLE, (notice I said lifestyle, not "diet") there comes a sad pressure from society which intends to make us feel guilty for our habits and choices.
Imagine that! Society trying to make us feel guilty about something that makes us happy!! HUH!
Isn't that something.....and a gosh darn shame.
This pressure that exists, I hear it, every day. I do not tell anyone that I am veggie, because of the remarks I have gotten. I should not have to feel anxiety. I should be able to live this lifestyle without worrying whether people will want to hang out with me, or what they are assuming.
Yes, there is actually a thing where people don't want to hangout with me. They think it will be too difficult for me to find food to eat.
So these misunderstandings.......
They mostly come from guy friends, when we are all eating together.
Tendency #1- They complain that I seem to be missing a food group, so I respond telling them that I am vegetarian. Then t
They immediately respond rhetorically.."You're a vegetarian?!"
They immediately respond rhetorically.."You're a vegetarian?!"
First comes the "What!?" then the "Why??" then the .."...For how long???"
As if i'm some sort of girl friend who has been cheating, or something.....
My response to the "What" is always nothing, because I have literally just told them "what."
I am vegetarian. It is what it is. I am sturdy in my choice.
My response to the "Why"....well, sometimes I don't even get into that one.
It's worse than politics, sadly. I believe that animals have feelings. I also do not digest meat well.
THAT's why. Do I really need to tell you that while we are standing in the food line??
My response to the "How long?" Well, I tell them. about 4 years, & a year gone astray.
Now after all of this has been cleared up, there is always some sort of sad silence.
Most likely because everyone in the group is thinking something about this new idea...
this new perspective.....
Not so bad a conversation, eh? All of the hangouts time & time after....
That's when the storms roll in.
Guys, will either,
A- Make jokes about my lifestyle, which depending who, what, etc...
I will generally just smile or laugh them off.
But guys have a tendency to argue, or defend themselves automatically, as If i have been plotting some huge debate against their carnivorous habits.
NO! I do not, & will not, argue about this choice. I will stand up for myself and declare my choice.
B- Some guys will go the complete other end...trying to baby me and treat me like some sort of princess. I don't need that.... I'm...I'm fine, really. Just respect, please.
Let me clear something up..... I STILL LOVE FOOD.
I cut one food group....I still love sugar, ice cream, all that fun stuff!! Waffles!! Take me out to Waffle House, for crying out loud!! I'm a cheap date..... get the jist?
That's where the "not hanging out with me anymore" thing comes in....
People don't want to hangout with me, because they think I'm high maintenance, too hard to take care of, or that I won't eat.
FALSE.
:)
Now, the girls... unless they are truly my friends, they tend to be a little snarky.
Yeah, snarky. Like, making crude comments about my choice, letting me know how annoyingly high maintenance I am, asking eat very meal if I will eat what is available, & rolling their eyes in...snarkiness.
These types of chick friends I tend to stray from, because they're just as bad as the dude friends who do the same thing.
Ah. I am tired. Time for hall meeting. Meh.
My attention is focused on writing right now.
So I just wanted to let you know that you can treat me as a normal person. Love me.
I just really like veggies.
thanks. :)
Angela
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
THE AVENGERS!
For those of you looking to comment for english honors, this is my post for tonight/ Tuesday May 22 . I decided to do this one just for fun the other day, because I like critiquing movies :). So, here it goes.
Sometime last week, I went to see a play with some friends, then headed over to Yogo Factory by the Cinnemark in Somerdale. After Yogo, I ran into some friends who invited me to see the late night Avengers with them. Of course, I said yes. I am usually on of the last of the human race to see movies like this so soon, and I am surprised I got to see this already.
I ended up taking a young freshman friend, who I consider a baby brother, along with me to see the movie. After paying for his ticket, the brat told me I looked wierd.I should have smacked him in the face. Anyways, we didn't get home until around 2 am. I didn't go to bed until 4. So if you do not like long, action films- this is not for you.
Avengers was very entertaining, but I reccomend watching the individual superhero movies or reading the comics before seeing this. The team consists of Black Widow, Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Hawkeye, and the Hulk. Also starrring the aweful Loki. The only movies I had seen before hand were the Hulk, and Captain America. One of the lead roles was played by Scarlett Johansson, "that girl that doesn't do anyting but be sexy." Scarlett's role was Natasha Romanoff/ the Black Widow, from Iron Man. I have not seen Iron Man yet, but I feel as though her character was a little unessecary. Even so, the film was still good. Of the 2 individual movies I had seen before hand, my understanding of the film was almost 100%.
There were many many funny parts, I found myself giggling throughout the whole movie. The humor between the superheros and their differences, as well as the superheros and the human race, keeps this sort of lightheartedness that made me laugh alot. All the main characters had this witty, love hate sense of humor with each other. Just wait until you see the fight with Iron man, Thor, and Captain America! I will not give away the end though, it was a great. You have to go see it yourself! :) As Marvel Comics fan, I enjoyed it.
Tips- If you want to save yourself some money, don't see it in 3D. The 3D was quite awesome of course, but not all the difference if you're a broke, future college student like me.
Next on my list: catch up on both Iron Mans, see Thor, and, when it arrives in Theatres- The Amazing Spider Man. I always say, what's Spider Man without Toby and Kirsten, but the new Spider Man is just as hot, or even hotter. ;) He's my favorite, can you tell?
http://marvel.com/avengers_movie/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=atCfTRMyjGU
Sometime last week, I went to see a play with some friends, then headed over to Yogo Factory by the Cinnemark in Somerdale. After Yogo, I ran into some friends who invited me to see the late night Avengers with them. Of course, I said yes. I am usually on of the last of the human race to see movies like this so soon, and I am surprised I got to see this already.
I ended up taking a young freshman friend, who I consider a baby brother, along with me to see the movie. After paying for his ticket, the brat told me I looked wierd.I should have smacked him in the face. Anyways, we didn't get home until around 2 am. I didn't go to bed until 4. So if you do not like long, action films- this is not for you.
Avengers was very entertaining, but I reccomend watching the individual superhero movies or reading the comics before seeing this. The team consists of Black Widow, Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Hawkeye, and the Hulk. Also starrring the aweful Loki. The only movies I had seen before hand were the Hulk, and Captain America. One of the lead roles was played by Scarlett Johansson, "that girl that doesn't do anyting but be sexy." Scarlett's role was Natasha Romanoff/ the Black Widow, from Iron Man. I have not seen Iron Man yet, but I feel as though her character was a little unessecary. Even so, the film was still good. Of the 2 individual movies I had seen before hand, my understanding of the film was almost 100%.
There were many many funny parts, I found myself giggling throughout the whole movie. The humor between the superheros and their differences, as well as the superheros and the human race, keeps this sort of lightheartedness that made me laugh alot. All the main characters had this witty, love hate sense of humor with each other. Just wait until you see the fight with Iron man, Thor, and Captain America! I will not give away the end though, it was a great. You have to go see it yourself! :) As Marvel Comics fan, I enjoyed it.
Tips- If you want to save yourself some money, don't see it in 3D. The 3D was quite awesome of course, but not all the difference if you're a broke, future college student like me.
Next on my list: catch up on both Iron Mans, see Thor, and, when it arrives in Theatres- The Amazing Spider Man. I always say, what's Spider Man without Toby and Kirsten, but the new Spider Man is just as hot, or even hotter. ;) He's my favorite, can you tell?
http://marvel.com/avengers_movie/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=atCfTRMyjGU
Monday, May 14, 2012
"Homecoming"
514/2012.
I am reading this wonderful book that my Aunt lent me called Homecoming, by Cynthia Voigt.
Written in 1981, this novel is about four children, who are not exactly runaways but who have been abandined by their mother who is crazy, and later found in a hospital, unresponsive. The children are now on their own, much like the Boxcar Children , and need to make money, in order to have supplies to endure their long journey to find "home." what is home, to you? Is it Heaven, or is it the home you live in, with your loved ones? Or do you even consider that place with your loved ones a home, because maybe life there isn't that great? I'm sure you can all relate.
"This is not my home, i think I'm better off alone." ~ Adam Gontier
http://www.sing365.com/music/lyric.nsf/Home-lyrics-Three-Days-Grace/863C7ABCDE504B6348256D5A0004D33F
In this case though, the children are in search of a place to settle down, to live, and be loved, and grow up. Just like all children wish for, if they do not already have it. So they set out on journey, first to find the only relative they know, their great Aunt Cilla, who they discover is dead. After doing some research and hard work on the only relatives they have left, things don't work out with Aunt Cilla's daughter, cousin Eunice. So they flee to find their Grandmother, Abigail. This is where I left off in the story.
My favorite part is the strengthening feeling I get when I read about all the scarey things the children endure on their own, and how they suffice with so little, escape all the troubles right when they think they should give up, and the biggest thing- stay together. Dicey, James, Maybeth and Sammy, all must stay together as a family- that is their main goal. So far, so good :).
If these children can live on their own- so can I.
I have, last summer, to be exact. I lived on my own for 3 months, and only saw my parents twice. This was right about the time my Aunt lent me the book, because the storty took place part time in Maryland, where I left to work housekeeping. I am just now reading the book, though she meant for me to read it durning my lonely times last summer. It is a great read.
I am ready for college, my friends.
Angie
I am reading this wonderful book that my Aunt lent me called Homecoming, by Cynthia Voigt.
Written in 1981, this novel is about four children, who are not exactly runaways but who have been abandined by their mother who is crazy, and later found in a hospital, unresponsive. The children are now on their own, much like the Boxcar Children , and need to make money, in order to have supplies to endure their long journey to find "home." what is home, to you? Is it Heaven, or is it the home you live in, with your loved ones? Or do you even consider that place with your loved ones a home, because maybe life there isn't that great? I'm sure you can all relate.
"This is not my home, i think I'm better off alone." ~ Adam Gontier
http://www.sing365.com/music/lyric.nsf/Home-lyrics-Three-Days-Grace/863C7ABCDE504B6348256D5A0004D33F
In this case though, the children are in search of a place to settle down, to live, and be loved, and grow up. Just like all children wish for, if they do not already have it. So they set out on journey, first to find the only relative they know, their great Aunt Cilla, who they discover is dead. After doing some research and hard work on the only relatives they have left, things don't work out with Aunt Cilla's daughter, cousin Eunice. So they flee to find their Grandmother, Abigail. This is where I left off in the story.
My favorite part is the strengthening feeling I get when I read about all the scarey things the children endure on their own, and how they suffice with so little, escape all the troubles right when they think they should give up, and the biggest thing- stay together. Dicey, James, Maybeth and Sammy, all must stay together as a family- that is their main goal. So far, so good :).
If these children can live on their own- so can I.
I have, last summer, to be exact. I lived on my own for 3 months, and only saw my parents twice. This was right about the time my Aunt lent me the book, because the storty took place part time in Maryland, where I left to work housekeeping. I am just now reading the book, though she meant for me to read it durning my lonely times last summer. It is a great read.
I am ready for college, my friends.
Angie
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