The Romano Family Blog

Art Camp Collage

2006-08-28T18:00:00.000-07:00

This is what I used as the front of the thank you cards I sent to various
donors. (Commercial Art etc.) Sherry Alberti donated the flowers in the upper left corner, which were gorgeous in person!

Blah

2006-08-24T08:59:00.000-07:00

I came into this site to remove the two Ithaca photos because I am sick and tired of communities, communes, and cults! I am sick of whack-os parading around as holy annointed ones, ruining it for those of us who try to live in a away that might erase the preconceived notions of what a "Christian" is. This doesn't mean I am any less sick of the Pharisees covered in denim, or in headcoverings, or in beautifully tailored suits, or in new found Jewishness (Messianic of course). My concerns about Gabe and YWAM weigh heavily....
Oooo--I began this day in pain and my attitude is following that course. So I'll post the photo that is a collage of photos of the very successful art camp endeavor. (two girls have come to me to say that they will be old enough to come next year....) By the way, I wasn't able to delete the commune photos. Hope all is well enough with those of you who drop in on this blog.

Garage/PolkaSisters

2006-08-15T08:42:00.000-07:00

Ch--ch--ch--changes

2006-08-15T07:40:00.000-07:00

Meaghan saw the first non-green leaf of the season on Howlett Hill Rd. Wha..??? I HAVEN'T HAD MY SUMMER YET! (And so our Orlando visit is CRITICAL to my sanity!!! and to my ability to make it through a cold winter.)
Yes, I've been busy, busy enough to make me tired enough to fall asleep in my chair. I was positive I would never be one of those chair sleepers! The night of the Art Show I fell asleep while Dad was talking to me, and I woke up clutching the remote with a death grip. Now, there is a conspiracy going on here---no one wants me to have the remote---some sort of de-control therapy or something. I'll admit I do flip channels during commercials, but there are only so many car ads I can take. Also, if I'm going to be vegging in front of the tube, I might as well make the most of my time and see more, right? My current fav show is Project Runway, Wed at 10 on Bravo. If it ran against Survivor I would be hard-pressed to choose.
I went to see a movie along the same vein---"Devil Wears Prada" with Anne Hathaway of Princess Diaries. Talk about gorgeous clothes!!!! But like I told Lisa (scali) my nightmare job would've been like that---waking up in a closet-sized apartment in a huge, noisy city, dressing up in stockings and stilettos, and taking a taxi to a job in a bustling box, working with a bunch of fake beautiful-facaded back-stabbers. I left there feeling very underdressed, but happy happy happy that I have lived my life the way I have. I do think I'm ready to visit NY for a few days, though. I called Grandma Frances during that terrible heat wave to see how she was taking it (and yes, Grandpa was still sitting outside everyday baking in the 100+ sun). While we were having a nice conversation for the first time in ? long, it started raining in the dining room, just past the "arch" into the tv room. Whaaa the monkey??? See, the upstairs sink drain had been running slow, so Dad plunged it, and the clog didn't quite clear the pipe that crosses over to the tub drain....so then the tub drain was spewing some sort of black watery crud...and the, shall we say, vigorous, plunging of that led to an overflow of the water through the air vent of the close-the-drain mechanism....luckily the water that came down in torrents (for a few minutes) had been filtered so that it wasn't too dirty. Except for the sagginess you can hardly tell. If the ceiling had to come down to reveal the original high ceiling, oh well. But we do have other pressing issues first. There is a sinkhole of sorts that occurred in front of the Whitney side of the garage. The front wall of the garage basement caved in! and took with it the pavement in front of the garage door. (about 5'x3')I'm sure it has something to do with the leaky roof of the garage---it needs replacing. Hey I think I'll take a pic and post it here. I had the city here a couple of times. They tried 'fixing' our giant puddle, but the handfuls of tar just didn't work --duh!
Okay, let me post some pics. Let's talk soon.

The Romano Family Blog

2006-05-12T10:59:00.000-07:00

The Romano Family Blog

Checking In

2006-04-28T10:27:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys, I just wanted to let you know I just read the last couple of posts. Yesterday I rigged up my cell phone to work as a wireless modem with on my Powerbook, so hopefully I can be "in touch" a bit more (even though I get a LOUSY signal in our concrete box of an apartment). But the cool thing is that now I can use my Powerbook from the road, so if I need Mapquest directions I can get them whenever, wherever. Katie and I were driving in the car last night and she was on IM. Technology is crazy. Anyways, we are super excited about moving, and we have plans to do alot to the place. I hope everyone can come down at some time or another this year. It's already a third over! Meaghan, it's great to hear that things are going well between you and Sean. There are always those small "details" of validation that are so refreshing to find in the development of a relationship... Gabe, I hope the school thing works out for you down here. It would be great to have you here and live the FL life! Anyways, I have to get back to work. There will be plenty to do when you guys come down, so be ready to work hard and play hard too. Maybe we can go pool hopping at the big resorts...

Photo--Moto!

2006-04-13T14:06:00.000-07:00

::So Fresh::

2006-04-13T12:43:00.000-07:00

Well here I am-- on a wonderfully beautiful day, running a fever... I think this was the only way Mom could get me to stay home and get some much needed rest from my "busy-ness". Stinks that it is under these circumstances, but I am enjoying my naps and getting some homework done. As you know, my b-ball banquet was last night, it was fun! I have been wearing my new hoodie around all day...I love new warm, fuzzy hoodies. My nice new award is sitting next to my other award. ( Did I ever tell you that I made all tournament second team?) I am so blessed to get those awards, I wasn't expecting them at all....So I am pretty sure I will be down in the fall. I have to talk to the Coach from Warner about $$ stuff, but I am pretty sure there will be a scholarship comin' my way. Let's see--what else has been happening? Well, the warm weather has come and the ants are attacking the house again! Mom killed about a gazzillion of them in the cupboard today. I have about 4 weeks of school left after tomorrow. I don't think I even have that many finals, only 1 if I remember correctly! *yay* I like school a lot, but I am looking forward to the break, I have been going a little too much. This is what my normal week looks like for me ( just to give you a little taste of my life ;) -- Monday school from 8-2:30ish, then I workout till 3:45, pick up Mook, go home do some homework go to work by 6 and work till around 10ish or later.
Tuesday I do my internship from 10-3ish, do my homework, then go to work at 6 till whenever....
Wednesday I have classes and I do volunteer work at night for one of my classes
Thursdays are the same as Tuesdays
Fridays I have two classes Tennis and Bowling...lol... I dislike my tennis class because my teacher is a whack job! I have never had a teacher like this before...well, my bowling teacher is pretty crazy too... she always asks the class-- "do you comprehend?" Like we don't get what she says. It's pretty funny! I have about 75 hours done at my internship and only have 25 more to go. I have to do a special project at the end of this month. I am putting on a talent show with the residents....it should be fun, a ton of work though. I have to help the residents find their "performances" and get them going and keep them motivated. After my internship I have to give a presentation on my stay at Alterra to my advisor....

All in all, life is busy, but I am having fun and learning a lot. I can't wait to come down and see you both-- soon I hope! Luff yous!

I See Signs of Spring...

2006-03-11T09:17:00.000-08:00

Shawn and Kate,
How are you guys doing? I have been meaning to find a spare second here or there to say hi, but...well, I'm about to explain. : )
So as you have heard, I am surprisingly in a new relationship. I suppose my days of guy bashing are over... DARN IT! :P When I met Sean for the first time, I mean, REALLY met him, there was a lightning bolt and thunder clap...But I didn't say anything to him, except for small talk at Gabe's games. I really thought he was after HER, and we laugh about it because I didn't know he was really after ME all along. He is a solid Christian, and has a leader's heart. It is so evident in the way he treats people, but even more so when he speaks! I can feel the genuineness of his actions and his intensions. .. I never had that with anyone else. God IS, for the first time, the main focus of our relationship. And all along, I should have known that God would let me find what I've been seeking in a partner! I really had given up hope of finding someone who was as passionate about the Faith as me, and I was willing to settle. I am ashamed that I doubted the way I did... And one night as I was sitting there listening to him sing a song that he wrote for me, I cried my eyes out! He just looked at me with the softest eyes, and kept playing his guitar. It was at that very moment that I knew that God doesn't neglect the details! Not a single one. Everything that is important to me, He knows. It was a silly girlish dream, but I always wanted someone to play guitar and sing to me...I just figured it would be a roll of the dice if I actually had that, kind of like a bonus. :) He loves art, the outdoors, wants to build his own house, have a large family, work in the medical field, loves to be active and fit, has a great talent for communication and music, has a love for the Church, and the list goes on and on. One day, I just let him tell me about what he wants in the future without saying anything. It was scary. We were both headed in the same exact direction, down to the smallest details. (He was watching tv and said "oh I love that name!" I just looked at him...I had that baby name picked out. I kid you not, it is just plain weird.) And this time it isn't me trying to force things to "fit"... I wrote in my journal in 2004 that I wanted someone to grow old with, someone to sit on a wrap around porch with glasses of iced tea, and share what God has done in our lives that day. I feel that this IS the person that I can do that with! Sean is amazing. He believes in my whole purity endevor, which is such a relief. I don't have to keep myself and the other person accountable anymore... It was too hard, way way too hard to keep saying "no, no we can't" constantly. But now I only have to watch myself, and even if I were to have a moment of weakness, Sean would be there to smack me upside the head. :) I LOVE IT! I can't wait for you guys to meet him, I think you will be nuts about him. Everyone here approves, and that has never happened before. He has been through the wringer with Gabe and Tiff, even Mr. Hatch. He called Gabe before he talked to me about his intensions to get her ok. He understands if I can't spend all my free time with him! He doesn't get mad that I have to work, or study. This one is THE ONE. My heart is joyous in knowing that everything I went through with Jonathan and Bill was to show me what a gift I have in him. :)
I have to go braid Gabe's hair, but I will continue this converstation with you on the phone later today! I love you guys! XO Me

Even I

2006-03-05T06:31:00.000-08:00

'm going through a bit of basketball withdrawal! To soothe my pain I went shopping at Kohl's! The sale racks are full and I got a secret coupon of 30% off all purchases, even the clearance items. It was a great day! We bought a set of luggage--so now I can get rid of all the weird pieces in the cedar closet that have no wheels.
Anyway, I started this so I could brag on Gabe for a bit---she has worked so hard all season long. Not a small accomplishment since the season began in August! It was sad to see the team lose heart in that last game...Gabe couldn't carry them all, but she sure tried. Becky, who prob would've added some focus and drive with Gabe, sprained her ankle late in the first half. Then, of course the refs made some bad calls at times crucial to our team (like in OT when ball posession was handed to Jefferson twice, after they: 1. stepped on the line under their basket and
2. hit it out after we stole it...)
So, here's to you Gabe! You made us PROUD every time you stepped on the court (even that time you slapped the floor and growled and got pulled out). You showed your spunk and love of the game. Mostly you led your team with integrity, giving the girls and the coaches great testimony along the way. You are our SUPASTAR!

Just like that, it's over....

2006-03-04T11:40:00.000-08:00

Well, well, it's a Saturday and I have no basketball. I am wandering the house wondering what to do with myself, yesterday we had Regional games. If we won we would continue playing this weekend until we lost. We had an 8 pm game vs Jefferson...up by 21 at half, we thought we had it. I was pumped, the girls had been showing and talking about how they couldn't wait till season was over at practices this week. I was glad to see that they wanted it and we would go on to round two of the Regionals. ( Something OCC has never done.) But noooooooo, about 7 mins left of the second half the girls just gave up, or maybe that's just my view of it. Sometimes I have so much heart and passion to play and I get upset because the other girls don't show it....we ended up going into overtime and lost by 2. I was really disappointed. So the season is over, I folded my jersey into my bag and walked away from being a Lazer.... I am sure that you heard that we lost Midstate's last weekend in the championship game. That one was more disappointing than yesterday because that was our real team goal to get Midstate title....sometimes things just don't work out the way you planned even though we had the better record and we're the top seed in that tournament. I was blessed to end the season on a high note with playing some of my best games. I had my career high a couple games ago, something just clicked about 10 games ago and I found myself just making buckets and grabbing rebounds. So now I am off to find a job soon so I can get some $$$ to start saving...I'm looking at schools down where you are with Coach D. She says I will most likely be able to get a scholarship to play--I just can't see myself not playing... well, my hands are cold and I keep on having to erase what I write because I can't feel my fingers, so I am going to go..........Love you both, see you in a few weeks maybe. :) Toodles!

Annual Winterfest Medallion Search

2006-02-27T16:25:00.000-08:00

Remember how we always used to tromp around in the snow looking for that elusive medallion? Well...this year was no different----every day Aunt Jo would call me with the clues and we would try to decipher them. I am still the keeper of the winterfest log and area info. This year we narrowed it down to either Thornden or Marcellus Park, then around the 7th clue we knew it was definitely Marcellus. The clue that said, "you can skate to the right or skate to the left" led us to delete Thornden...and the map of Marcellus Park confirmed it with the icons for a skateboard park on one side of the road and an iceskating rink on the other. Anyways, that was the day Gabe had a class (the infamous bowling) out in Marcellus, so she took the first shift and went to the park before and after class. Then Aunt Jo went to look until she couldn't stand the dropping temperature. On Saturday Meaghan and I took our turn. Aunt Jo called with an extra long clue when I was just rolling out of bed, so after a 'short' time (okay, a little makeup had to be put on for when the reporters wanted to take our pic, but I didn't do my hair)we went out over the icy roads to find our treasure! We looked under things (like benches) since the clue said to think horizontal, and after we did that on one side of the park we got in the car to go to the other entrance to look in the thicker wooded area. Just as Meaghan was pulling a 360 in the parking lot, I spied a young woman on a cell phone near her car about 15 yds away. I said, "She must be calling in reinforcements." Then we saw her jumping up and down and we knew she found it! Of course I made Meaghan stop and I got out to check, and see the medallion in person (size of a poker chip), oh, and to congratulate them too. They were a family from Camillus---older parents with grown children, their spouses and 2 grandkids. Guess where they found it? In a fallen log 100 ft into the wooded area we were headed for!!! We were the only two groups of people in the whole park too. Arrrggghhhhh! Gabe had told us to check the large wooded area before we left the house, but we didn't know you had to go out on the main road and down about 50 yds to get to the other entrance near that woods. Soooo close. Closer than ever, and ready for the real win next year! All these years have just been training for that! Boo-yah! Love youse guys.

Now I Know...

2006-02-24T20:41:00.000-08:00

Why the Snowbirds Leave....
The snow is beautiful but the bitter winds are near intolerable. Alberta Clipper, Arctic blast, whatever...wind chill is a phrase I wish I didn't have to use anymore. Today I was getting gas at the Citgo on Onondaga Hill and the auto pay was malfunctioning because of the snow and ice in the credit card slot! I am finding myself understanding more and more about why the snowbirds flock to your area. Reason #1: Icy surfaces are scary. I have perfected a shuffle that comes in handy on troublesome pavements.
#2: Skin lotions just don't help the dry, cracked roughness. Oh, and the itching...
#3: Greyness...anyone who's known me for even a short time will realize I hate GRAY/GREY...the worst being grey skies.
#4: The wind and cold. Remember that windy walk we took at OCC Shawn? Brrrr exponentially.
I'm so glad you guys came for a visit (so brave in this weather) but we all felt bad for Katie's pain.(Katie, I'm so dental- phobic that I could really feel your pain. I hope you're feeling better as you plan the treatment you need.) Unfortunately, you two will continue, like all of us, to have experiences with un-wellness...don't be discouraged! You have to do what you can to be proactive--the basic things 'they' say help, like exercise, good food etc, but you two really need to explore some sort of relaxation/energy therapy. You're probably doing some variation of rolling your eyes, but look into it. If you say you're too busy to do that, I say "Aha! Exactly why you need it!"
I thought it was odd, Shawn, that you were typing and polishing your COWBOY boots at the same time.Never thought I'd say 'your' and 'cowboy boots' together!!! Yee-hhaa. Katie, you have done a great thing!
Maria's house sold and people have been working in there for a week. Regina stopped and talked to a worker there and it seems like the house will be reconverted to a three family. It was sold for $53,000!
Gabrielle prob won't tell you about her fabulous streak on the court. Wed night she made 24 points, had 11 rebounds and 4 steals! Remember she made 23 the game after you were here, and the game after THAT she made 21! Tomorrow's the first round of championship games---being held at our court ---and the winners of those games play on Sunday. Also on Wed night they had a "senior" player night. One of the girls wrote poems for each of the graduating teammates, and this is the one written for and read aloud that night:
"Then there's Gabe, you think she's so sweet,
Well, we've seen the best of her, let's just say she can't stand getting beat.
Gabe is really a lot holier than most
but if you play against her, you're pretty much toast.
We call her Bubbles but we don't know why,
She shoots, she scores and can jump really high.
We'll miss the leadership and the support,
But most of all we'll miss you growling on the court."
New subject. Keri slipped and fell in a new pizza place in Armory Sq last weekend---it was snowy and the shop didn't have a slush rug inside the door. She hit the wrought iron rail, lost consciousness, and KNOCKED OUT HER FOUR FRONT TEETH!! (Three came out roots and all, one broke to a nib)Are you holding your face like I am just recounting it?? Poor Keri--her job is in customer relations and her speech is very affected. (I talked to her and had a hard time understanding her)Worse, she can't have any dental work done for another 1-2 weeks because of the swelling.
Gabe just said this is a long post, so I'll close it. Thanks again for coming here, especially on my (our) birthday. Seeing your faces made my heart laugh...at least until we got to the airport to drop you off. I suck at goodbyes.

Here I Am Again

2006-02-23T12:59:00.000-08:00

Hi Guys. I'm home from work sick (half-day). I can't seem to relax enough to just sleep though. Seems like every time I get a virus lately it's one of those "on the fence" sorts of experiences. I'll be kind of fine, and then kind of not, etc. Just blah and achy with a sore throat and foggy head. Anyways, the show must go on. And by show, I mean the Keith Urban show Katie and I are going to with Bob and Bek tonight. Right now I'm polishing my cowboy boots with one hand any typing with the other. Katie and I had a great time while we were visiting, despite Katie's medical issues. She's been to the dentist a couple of times since then. I always have hope that after "this time" things will begin to get better. Strangely, coming home solidified my reluctant love of Florida. It has been perfect here the last couple of days, with high temps at about 80 and night temps "just right." If only we had some more windows to take advantage of that. Being on the bottom floor, it's not really a good idea to leave everything open. I was sad to see Syracuse looking so dreary and run down. Katie and I were astonished at all of the abandoned brick buildings along I-81, and we still look at each other and look forward to the day when we'll be able to reclaim and convert a building like that into great living spaces. Meaghan, how's the college essay coming? Gabe, how's being team captain going? Mom & Dad, how's the Orchid? =) I hope it won't be too hot when you all come down here, given that it's already pushing 80 during the day (though I think that's a bit unusual). Weather like this really makes you lament having to be indoors all day! That's all for now. Stay warm and get some sunshine when you can!

It's going to be a white visit...

2006-02-07T11:44:00.000-08:00

Hey Katie and Shawn,
There will be lots of snow for your arrival Friday! Just like I planned... ;)
The winter has been so mild that having snow is exciting! (or is it that I don't have to wipe four huge muddy paws many times a day...??)
What kind of clothing etc should I bring to the airport? I mean, are you traveling with any jackets at all? We keep the house at 70, and hope you won't be too chilly--- we have blankets and hoodies and stuff. ;) Niagara Mohawk sold out to a FOREIGN company Nat'l Grid and we are all getting raped. When the weather was mild we had to be careful to not use too little energy, or we would be billed with a 'too little surcharge" ! (that's not the real name of the fee, but oh, yeah, it's real!) Seems like some sort of socialist scam...
Looking forward to seeing your beautiful faces in THREE days!
Love yous, Mom

Break Out the Umbrellas::

2006-01-29T12:53:00.000-08:00

Hey guys,

Just a quick update! The school semester has begun, yet again. It is kind of sad that I am still at OCC for my THIRD year...=) But I am getting a lot accomplished this time. I managed to get into my A and P class during the few days of registration, so I know that it was all God on that one! It is a great class, and I love the lab (so far!) My teacher is wonderful and easy to understand. It IS a LOT of memorization, but luckily I have already been familiarized with many of the topics. In fact, I'm sort of ahead in the class, and my teacher has put me in charge of helping the other students and quizzing them, etc. That is sort of scary, but I like the challenge.=) The other classes I'm taking are:Positive Psych (with my old teacher Prof Cross), Alcohol and substance abuse (just for fun and because it is interesting), English (unknowingly Angela Scali is in it with me!!!) and A and P with a lab... I am at school from 10-9:30 on Mondays, and 10-7:20 on Wednesdays, and have also picked karate back up with Mr. M during “college hour.” So far it's been fun, but because my classes are M W, midterms are going to be CRAZY! But I will worry about that when it comes time...

Besides that, I've just been working at the Mode, and trying to get my essay finished to send to school. Every day I look forward to Florida more and more, it's very exciting. My dislike for guys still continues, and have been thoroughly annoyed with them. It's a bad feeling... But what can I say? All is forgiven in my head, but I'm afraid that it's not so in my heart just yet. I really am working on it, but the days swing from feeling like I deserve better then what they had to offer, and the next I'm thinking that “what was wrong with me? Why don't they like me?” You know, stupid things like that...But I was talking to my co-worker Bekkah, and I just told her straight out that I desired (and need!) someone who loves Jesus as much as I do. She just said, sweetie good luck. It is an emotional adjustment from being excited to share your day with someone, to not being able to do that. Every day I recognize that void, but I'm trying to fill it with quiet time and other relationships...I do have Gabe though.=) I get so lonely when she goes away for games...Shh don't tell her I said that! I'm definitely not forcing the issue of romantic relationships, as I think God is telling me I need some “simmering time” and some alone time with Him. So that is good!

I read that book Perpetua a few weeks ago. It was one of the most moving, deep, and truthful book that I have read in a long, long time! I was so touched by it that I told Mom the whole story one day after I finished it. The point of view is from an unbeliever, who none the less becomes one after witnessing a human sacrifice (a baby she had taken care of) and had all these spiritual battles inside afterwards...And becoming a Christian in that era meant certain death, but found joy in that anyways. I don't know, it was just an amazing story that touched me in ways that I didn't expect. I cried, as silly as it sounds, especially at the end. Here was this girl, 20 years old, who had seen so many horrible things, lost so many people, and finally she had a husband and a baby boy she had waited for so long to have. Yet she knew that her circle of Christians, her family, were soon going to be martyred. As much as her flesh wanted to spend more time with them, and not to be parted by death, she was at peace and joyous in her fate. I guess I could relate, because my deepest desire is to have a family of my own, but I would give that all up for my faith. In fact I wish that Americans faced the same thing! How much closer through persecution we are able to be to God! When everything is taken away, you are only left with one thing, but that thing is THE MOST IMPORTANT! A lot of life seems so trivial, and I know that I get caught up in things that do not matter at all. It makes me feel so ashamed, because I want to know the beauty of suffering for something so incredible.

Back to the books I go. =) See you guys in less then two weeks! We've got to plan some other fun things just in case the snow still hasn't come... For your sake, we're praying for snow. Thanks a lot! Do you remember what going to OCC was like in the winter?! =P Love you!

:currently, there is no snow and it's the end of January, something must be very wrong with the world:

2006-01-29T11:07:00.000-08:00

Hey Brodi and Katie!

Just sending you a little update on my busy days...
school has started and I'm going on to week two. I only have classes Monday, Wednesday and Fridays, so it is nice to have 2 days off in the week. I am taking a rec class, bio, public speaking, bowling (i know, laugh,but it was this or golf...) and tennis ( are you ready to be schooled when I get down there Shawn?), and an online course on nutrition. So far things have been good, I am loving my bio class. I also have to do an internship of around 90 hours and work with a disabled person for about 15 hours for my recreation and diversity class.

Basketball is still going. This week has been a very heavy schedule with 4 away games in one week. . . one night I didn't get home until 2 in the am because we played in corning. So far, my team in rockin' out at 18-2, 7-0 in the conference. We did have some problems with a team saying that one of our players wasn't eligible, so we got audited, and somethings got messed up and we had to forfeit 2 games we played. (so really we are 16-4,6-1) But we know that we really aren't. It stinks for Brie who the one that was being looked on as uneligible, because it was her former coach that brought it against her...he is a real stink...a lot of teams are trying to find ways to bring us down, but it's not going to happen. Brie is currently eligible and playing. . . *wooo hooo*

Other than that, it is a waiting game for me to finish my season so I can get a job because I am pretty broke, but I know that God will bring in ways to make money on the side that can fit into my schedule instead of a part time job at this time. I was almost hired at blockbuster, but the orientation to get the job is always on a Saturday, and lo, I have games every Saturday until March. So if I can just get through another month with pennies, I should be ok.... :)

I hope things are well with you both, and I can'ttttttttttttt wait till you come in and I get to see you!
Luff you....

Ghost town::

2006-01-19T19:39:00.000-08:00

Hey Shawn and Katie,
You guys are MIA from this site huh? =) You must blog!!! Blog lots and lots so that I know what you've been up to lately!
Gabe and I just went to a sneek peek with Richard. We saw Underworld. Despite me just naturally disliking movies with vampires and the like, this was THE worst movie I have ever seen. If you were a fan of the first one, don't bother with the second. There was no "art" to it at all...I don't know who wrote the script but they did a really bad job. It was just one large blood bath and two eyebrow-raising sex scenes. Yeahhh.....
Anyways, Gabe and I are about to commence on our last semester up at good old OCC. It is kind of exciting, but also stressful because I am always thinking about what is next. And even though it is constantly on my mind, I am not always sure in what order I need to do things, or even WHAT those things are! But I feel a little more focused after talking with mom today... So just a few more months until school here is done and I FINALLY get my art degree in my hand (I was lacking my Eng 104).
The "school room" is still not finished, although I have been putting in the most hours.=P I'm sure I'll hear it for that comment.=) I just want it done so that the eliptical machine can be removed from the hall...If I ever had to get up during the night to pee I'd end up wrangling with it I'm sure...Ok I know you are laughing now because I never get up to go to the bathroom at night. Just saying that IF i did (MOM)! =D
Gabe and I have spent a little bit of time with Michael lately...He came over for dinner last night and stayed until 12:30 AM. Of course there is speculation, and Mrs Kribs is sort of hinting and getting involved in the whole "who likes who" kind of thing. I don't know what it is lately, but it really just rubs me the wrong way. It's not like this is highschool. I'm so tired of people being immature and not thinking before speaking or acting. Not to say that I am exempt from this... But when it comes to friendships and relationships I suppose I am a little bit hardened. Can you blame me? As far as I'm concerned, it will be a very long time before I let another guy into my heart...That poor thing is going to have a tough road ahead of him when it comes time. But at the same time it is strange to be 21, in a previous significant relationship, now without that "someone." The someone that completes my life, my heart. God was made to fill the void, I know that, but letting that happen has proven to be a very difficult challenge. I do believe that I am a walking contradiction, because I do not want a relationship, but yet long for companionship and "wholeness." People will say that it is natural and completely understandable, but I myself do not get it. How is this possible? I refuse to rush anything just for the sake of being comfortable and needed. The strange thing is that I hadn't looked or thought of Jonathan or Bill as rushing into anything. But in hindsight, I forget what I felt then, what I was thinking. Except just to trust, see where it would take me... I believed Jon was the one. Weird how things change. Bill was everything that Jon was not, but I had not expected a relationship to come from it the night I met him. I needed a friend, and he was that for me. But on the other hand, I wasn't anything that he needed. I've accepted that, forgiven him for the way he went about it, and have pushed ahead. I've learned that emotions cannot be trusted, and it is not in my best interest to rely on just that. The Bible talkes alot about that...It kind of sticks out now...=)And so these are just minor growing pains, and I have to remind myself not to become bitter over being "used". After all, I was the one who lacked judgement. I may wear my heart on my sleeve, but I won't be taken advantage of anymore. Because frankly, it just sucks... That is my new year's resolution I think!=) Another one of my resolutions too is to speak my mind, and I intend on doing just that.=P I've heard that I have changed alot in that way lately so stay posted! You never know what I'll come up with next!=)
Alright, well I'm going to stop my nonsense here tonight because it is getting really "out there" and I'm sure you are saying by now "what is she thinking?!". I'd clarify that for you now but I promised Dominguez I'd call him tonight so I can't... =)
Talk to you both soon. I love you! XO Me

It's::

2006-01-17T12:35:00.000-08:00

The "schoolroom" (aka Katie's old bedroom) is now eggplant::

||...ramble on polka girl...||

2006-01-14T15:36:00.000-08:00

Howdy Brodi and Kate!!

Today I had a game. We beat them by about 20 points. They are supposedly our biggest "rival" in our conference. If they are, that is a good sign for us! I stayed and watched the boys game, then came home and ate with Mook and stuff like that...

I wanted to share some pictures from the cemetery that we went to the other day. It has been really nice out, the other day it was 50! IN JANUARY!!! that never happens, so we took the sunshine and went for a long walk.

I can't wait for you two to get in town. Mom has us painting the school room so it will be a fitness room and we are slowly working on the house to maybe get it into "selling" shape. Anyways, here's some pictures I have been taking lately...enjoi
The pup went for a run...

Me in a mausoleum, I climbed in a broken window and laid down where the caskets go, it was creepy, but I had to do it, Mom was freakin' when she saw me!

Luff you both

Hungry not creative...

2006-01-12T14:18:00.000-08:00

Hello all!
I wanted my first post to be special and creative and all the rest that I am...but alas I am rumbly and not creative because I am getting ready to put a turkey LOIN in the oven. It looks like a porkloin but I am trying not to eat or serve pork this year. The thought of pig's flesh containing all of the slop it eats just freaks me out....there is still a pound of bacon in the freezer, so I will have to deal with that sometime. Anyhoo, yeah, my test-that-shouldn't-be-discussed went fine and I don't have to think about that for ten years! I am so thankful for that! Yesterday I learned how miserable I can be when told not to eat or drink anything but clear yellow liquids...maybe I should've been stoic, or pious or cheerful but I just didn't want to be. Now that is the type of "flesh" that is much worse than a pig's! I want to say 'sorry' to those of you who had to deal with me last night (briefly, as I kept myself in isolation). My inability to stay cheerful through such a minor inconvenience was made worse by realizing that even though my flesh was weak, my spirit wasn't even willing to try! Arrggghhhh! Resolving to deal with that right away. Well, turkey loin has to go in now...it's already marinated from weg's so it should be good. I made a salad with zuke, tomato, orange pepper, and carrots...colorful!! Shawn and Katie, I can't wait til you come up. Gabe and I have already been talking food for your visit. Please put in any requests you have. So far we are thinking of chicken piccatta ( a given?) and the girls said chiminchangas...I have to make jamaican meat pies because I have been wanting to try them for a long long time. What else do you want me to have on hand? Make a list and post it in the next couple of weeks, k?
Toodles with love and hugs everyone.
Mom

Your average Sunday afternoon...

2006-01-08T11:15:00.000-08:00

I knew that I'd be addicted to Blogspot! What a great invention...
Tomorrow I head back to work for the first time since being sick. I can hardly believe that all this time has passed already. My coworker Bekkah and I went out Friday night for dinner, where we tried Phebe's, but ended up going to Applebee's instead. We caught up on the goings on, and in true girl fashion, the tricky subject of relationships. Surprisingly, she had changed her position on dating and marriage...So unlike Bekkah! =) But having tasted the dating scene for the first time, however short it was, showed her what she's missing in her life. Me on the other hand, have completely given up on any sort of romantic relationships, at least for a WHILE. I have to learn not to wear my heart on my sleeve and to use more discression when meeting new people, guys OR girls.(No Dad, not like THAT!) So until that time comes, I refuse to even consider considering giving my heart away. It's hard because more then anything I want to have love, and to be able to give my love too. But I keep running into people that could be "it," someone who is good for me, who is going to think that I'm worth everything to them...And then find out that it was all a big game, and I'm left with unanswered questions and confused beyond all get out. I guess I will just take it as another lesson well learned. So I'm trying not to be bitter, which is hard, because almost every guy i know is ridiculous, save Michael Kribs and Richard. Where are all the good guys?! But maybe I don't need love right now, because I can't take another broken heart. They've always seemed to walk hand in hand...
Ok enough about that. What else, what else...The sun is shining!!!=) The first time in a LONG LONG LONG time! It makes everything look really dirty though since there isn't much snow left. But it's a feat for Syracuse in January I'm sure. (Who really talks about the weather? I'm such a loser.)
I have a list a mile long of things that I want to do in the next few months...However I got to save my moneys for school and moving. Cus what'd I'd love to do is blow it on Karate lessons and horseback ridding.=) Do they have any sort of ranches in Florida? Perhaps when I'm done with my first year of school I can afford to do one or the other! But for now I think I will just invest in an 80lb punching bag so Dad and I can knock it around a little.=) Oh!Did I tell you I jumped into the middle of a fight at the mall the day after Christmas? Yeah it wasn't very heroic or anything, but it got my blood pumping for sure. I laugh because I was mad at Bill and if it hadn't been for him i don't think I would have done it.=P What I had REALLY wanted to do was punch the guy in the face, but I was actually forcefully polite instead. EXCUSE ME SIR! Haha I surprised myself when I stepped inbetween them. For a second I was thinking "what the heck am I doing?" but apparently my body and mind were not on the same page! You know that bounty hunter show with "The Dog?" Makes me want to do that for a living, because not only is it detective work, it's risky and physical too... It's nothing new, the fact that I find interest in this sort of thing. Does it weird me out a little? Yes. I think I was supposed to be born a guy...;) Ok well maybe not.
I have to go finish cleaning now, but i love you guys. Talk to you soon. XO

. Bonjour .

2006-01-07T18:57:00.000-08:00

Hey happy peppy things!!

FINALLY!! I can publish a post, it just took me forever to find out what was the matter and lo and behold, it was me not the site that I was blaming these last week(s)!! Sorry I missed your call earlier, but I was out at my game. We had our first conference opener which was really exciting. We did well as a team and won 76-67. It was a tough battle...but we pulled through. I am really enjoying this season as a returner and captain. It's a lot sometimes, but it is so challenging and rewarding. Coach thinks I may get a scholarship or something to go on and play, he wants me to finish up school, but I don't know if that's were my heart is at. I want to travel, experience something different. School is great, but I sometimes feel boxed in, like I can't be creative with myself and life when I'm in it. Florida is where I will hopefully be coming in the fall. For YWAM or not, I am not sure. We will see where God is leading me...please pray about that for me! I sometimes don't know what his direction for me is, and although it is super exciting having it that way, it can be a pain sometimes! :)Let's see, what else is happening, hmm... still pretty low key on the "boys" end of this party called life. I keep in touch with Benjamin Anna a lot, he is coming out to see me play on Wednesday, but so far, nothing has developed out of that. There is a guy on the boys OCC team called Church (nicknamed that by the boys because he is the only one who goes every Sunday.) Rumor has it that he "likes" me, but he is kinda shy... ahhh, the juicy tid bits!! Richard is still hunting me down, but I somehow keep having to tell him over and over that I don't have feelings for him. I think it will be that way until one of us either gets married or dies! ;)
Anyhoo, grades were good again this semester and I currently have a 3.72 and have an internship this semester. I am excited to finish up and complete something that I started. I have liked all my classes and professors so far.

Tiffany came home from school for break and I had the best time with her. She is a wonderful chicky... she went back the other day, I was sad, because I knew my fun was over! :) She certaintly brings out the best in Meaghan and I!

I have been playing my guitar a lot, and love to write songs. (Been playing my mando a bunch too over break. I love it!!!!!) I have been listening to a bunch of music... The Format, Bethany Dillon, Ladytron, Fernando Ortega,Stray Light Run, Kasey Chambers, Black Eyed Peas etc. Always on the look out for anything that's fresh and "mellower". (well, not Black Eyed, but they are fun to rock out to.. "...don't pull on my hand boy, you ain't my man boy, I'm just tryin' to dance and move my hump..")
Ahh, yes, savory lyrics, so deeeppp...

Well, I am tired, and I am going to read (some relevant bookies) and call it a night, or something. . . LOVE YOU BOTH like the clouds love syracuse.

Go well in Christ,
g.a.b.e

The Romano Family Blog

2006-01-07T18:28:00.000-08:00

The Romano Family Blog

Ice blocks::

2006-01-07T11:58:00.000-08:00

Hello Katie and Shawn, =)
I think I figured out how to post a new blog...Don't ask, we were all going, "I don't remember how to do it!" for at least a week! Anyways, I was just online doing some things for school. I was pretty excited when I was printing out my application because it makes me realize that I'm finally going to be doing what I love. =) So yes, I'm still very much looking into nursing school, and I'm sort of hanging all my hopes on Florida Hospital College of Heath Sciences. (Oooo, fancy name!) God knows how much I desire to do this, and I haven't ever been more sure that this is what I'm supposed to do! I'm praying that this works out, but I am confident. There was this quote that I live by now by Corrie Ten Boom. She said "Do not be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God." Makes perfect sense in a million different ways!=) But keep this situation in your prayers too, because it's a big step for me.=)
So my book is finally REALLY underway... And when I'm writing, I become so grateful for every experience I've had, good or bad. It gives me a whole lot of different perspectives which is very useful... This book is sort of a reflection of who I am, and what I'm about on a personal level. I'm not talking about woe is me super depressed teen who doesn't have motivation to do anything, because thankfully I left that girl behind awhile ago! This is a new fresh, realistic memoir of what girls in their early 20's go through, be it from school, jobs, political views, spiritual views, relationships, friendships, heartbreaks and healing in right time! Nothing should be off limits...When I read Christain books, I just feel like what they are talking about isn't ME, because they aren't covering the issues in a personal, convicted way. It's almost as if they are skating around the "truth."How many other women my age are looking for something to fill that void just as I am? Granted, not everyone shares similar beliefs, but I just feel like I can bring a sort of honesty in a new way. Any thoughts?
Ok guys, hope you are doing well. Oh yeah, and as far as snow goes...Lately there hasn't been much of it. More rain then anything else which is so unlike Syracuse in December and January. I think we got more snow before Thanksgiving then in the last month or so! The other day I went out and was like "wow it's warm out..." No jacket (much to the parents' dismay of course)...A hot 39 degrees and I was set!=)
Prayer request should be posted on here I think!!! I'm sure you've heard about the Cases' situation, with Mrs. Case in rehab and Uncle Ernie home alone. It's really sad to see that compounding an already stressful time...Also Aunt Jo goes to a specialist on Tuesday, who is a cancer/gyn doctor. So pray for some solid good news there too...And her to give up her cigs too.
Alright love you guys, see you next month! I'm really looking forward to your stay here with us!=) XO

The Blog rolls on...

2006-01-05T18:34:00.000-08:00

Hi Romano fam!
I'm excited about being able to keep up with you better on here. We will have to see how that turns out. We are finally coming to visit in February! Yippee! It will be so nice to see you all and the cozy house on Milburn Drive. The holiday season came and went and all of the gifts that you sent were fabulous. I have already used the running gear quite a bit. I have to get out running at least twice a week to combat the "blah" feeling from working a desk job. The latte mugs and "LoVe" hooks are also personal favorites. It's those type of little things that make this rinky dink apartment feel more like home! Meaghan & Gabe, the box of girl stuff was great, I didn't have nearly enough colors in my makeup collection and I was so excited to receive it. So, thank you so much for sending Christmas joy to us. I know it isn't the same as being home to celebrate with you but I am already looking forward to next year with you & the snow!
So, how are all of you?? Gabe & Meaghan, where do you stand on coming down here? It would be so great to have you nearby and of course the 'rents would have to come more often to visit everyone. That sounds like a great plan. Gabe, I heard that the money situation is tight. Don't give up yet, give God a chance to work some things out for you. Yahweh is provider too, don't forget. Call us and tell us what's going on with that. Meaghan, there is a school that you want to go to down here? Where is it? I'm assuming that you would be going for nursing? They definately need lots of nurses here. As I said, it would be wonderful to have you girls nearby and the weather is beautiful this time of year! Keep me posted!
Donna & Vinny, how are you both feeling? You know if the girls come down here, you may have to look around the neighborhood too. :) I have all these idealistic schemes worked out perfectly in my mind. Maybe, some day!
On to other things, how is the weather there? Snow? Boy, do I miss the snow! At least I think that I do. I am becoming more of a Floridian every day. The 60 degree days are getting colder and colder. I would have been in a t-shirt & shorts with that weather in NY, now I'm in a turtleneck sweater & boots. ugh. We are settling in here and getting more and more used to it. I'm glad you will be here in March to visit, I wish our place was big enough to accomodate everyone staying here. We will get there soon. Until then, I'm just happy that you'll be visiting! I can't wait. Happy Post-Holidays & Happy New Year! I love you all!

Me says...

2006-01-01T14:17:00.000-08:00

Testing! =)

2005-12-30T14:37:00.000-08:00

Hello .everyone.,
I have completely forgotten about this site. There's a shocker! =) I may start journaling here on a daily basis... Thanks for getting me hooked on yet another online web communication tool! =P
Anyways, today was a pretty low key day. I was eager to get up this morning and get started on some artwork...I have a new HUGE drawing table (thanks Dad.) in my bedroom, and I thought I'd break it in. But then wouldn't you know, I had TOO many ideas and found it hard to concentrate and execute one. So I went to Barns and Noble, which just made it worse. There are so many interesting art magazines out there, but they cost an arm and a leg to buy! What excites me lately is anything which is mixed media, especially ink and marker. But what to do with that exactly is the hard part. If you get the chance check out DeviantArt.com...It really is a good place to go and look at what others are doing. I'm jealous of all those who use computers and create these AMAZING pieces of art! Well, I still like the traditional tools, but when Mr T let me use his "pad" with the computer is was so much fun! He got me hooked.
Other then *trying* to produce fresh art ideas, I've been doing alot of thinking about school. I can't wait to get to Florida. I need to get a move on with applying for the fall, and all that great stuff that comes with it. =) I'm excited. I'm glad I'm not going to VA anymore, because even though I'm upset at what happened, I really can't see myself being away from Gabe. At least not for that long of a time...=) So it is a blessing!
Pizza's here, so I'm going to go eat. I'll catch up with everything else tomorrow. Shawn, I hope you are feeling better.=) Say hi to Kate for me. ::XO::

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

2005-12-29T12:26:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. Well, here I am, at home, recovering from this cold that descended rapidly upon me after our return to Orlando. Of course, the free time I find myself with is too precious to sleep away. So even though I feel crappy I'm shuffing stuff around the house and unpacking all of our wonderful Christmas goodies, and generally being neurotic as usual. I just wanted to tell you all that I really miss you, and that all of the gifts were excellent. I know its harder to buy gifts for people who are far away, but you all did such a great and thoughtful job. Meaghan, the Narnia book is perched by the bed, ready to be read. Katie will only hear about half of whatever I read because she always falls asleep, but at least I'll get it. Gabe, I just transferred all of my stuff into my new wallet. Great choice---I love how its got a bit of worn-out-ness to it and some paint on it. Mom, like I said, that flipper calendar is "just what I wanted" even though I didn't know it. Dad, thanks for all the DVDs. I printed and applied labels to them today, and put them right in their new case. I loved The Iron Giant; finished it today. I also look forward to using my new bag when I head to work tomorrow. It looks and smells good! Bringing the R/C car with me too. I'll be playing with it at lunch. I know there's more, but we loved it all. I just wish it didn't cost 55 bucks to send it here. It was nice to have something to open a couple of days after Christmas. As usual, Mom always adds a little something extra with the notes she tucks away in the box. I can't wait to come home! We need to make a plan of what we want to do. I want to go sledding (hasn't been outlawed yet, has it?), and eat some good food, and check out the new Starbucks they put in where I used to work at Nancy's. What else? Y'all tell me. Love you all. Blog! Blog! Blog!

Hey party peoples!

2005-12-15T16:42:00.000-08:00

What's shakin' Shawn and Katie?!?

I just finished my last final today and it feels good! I had four finals this semester which was the most I have had, so it has been a busy study week for me. I just wanted to post a little something on here to say "hello" and that I miss you both.

Oh, if you want to check it out, I post stuff sometimes on here. Talk to you sooooon! :)

Love ya!

Christmas tiiiiiiime is heeeeeere!

2005-12-04T12:31:00.000-08:00

What Christmas would be complete without singing the Charlie Brown Christmas song? Girls, don't let me down --- you've gotta sing it for Mom. I am posting my and Katie's Christmas lists, complete with links to examples. Enjoy.

KATIE:

subscription to Dwell or Architectural Record magazine, candles, mini juicer (like this), nail polish, eyeshadow colors, lip gloss, earrings, accessories, purse, belts, wireless headphones, computer mouse (i like this one), "History of Architecture" by Jonathan Glancey, hydration backpack for running (like this), running gear, 19" flat-panel LCD monitor for computer...

SHAWN:

Clothes, etc: Express 1MX shirts (size M), boxer briefs, dress socks, belts, wallet, watch with wide black leather band and square face (like this), over-the-shoulder bag (like this), aftershave balm.

Toys: external USB 2.0 hard drive (150+ gigs), radio controlled car, iPod clock/radio stereo (this is awesome), legos, Alienware PC of destruction (like this, ha), doorway chinup bar.

DVDs: Gladiator, Braveheart, The Patriot, Batman Begins, Alien Quadrilogy, Iron Giant, Passion of the Christ, Scent of a Woman, Total Training for Adobe After Effects 6.5 Pro Win/Mac.

Video Games: "James Bond: From Russia with Love" for Gamecube

Books: "About Face: Reviving the Rules of Typography," "Creating Motion Graphics with After Effects, Vol. 2: Advanced Techniques" (3rd Edition, Version 6.5), Chronicles of Narnia book set, books on CD (politics, government & US history are great subjects), any book on the Russian Avant-Garde, any unique coffe table books on photography, design, furniture, etc.

Websites With Stuff I Like: YouWorkForThem (everything design-related), Aesthetic Apparatus (their test prints are awesome), Karmaloop (cool clothes, etc.).

Introducing the Romano Family Communications Hub!

2005-12-04T11:43:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! It seems we've all gotten to the point of being quite internet-savvy, so I figured that making a blog for all of us would be a great way to stay up to date with what's going on. Katie made a blog for her family (see links), so why shouldn't I make one for us too? Soon enough we'll all be scattered around the east coast, and staying in REAL touch will become even more difficult. So now is the time to get forming some good habits! That, and I know Mom is great at writing and can write alot, so I figure that she'd like to be a regular contributor as well. We can share this blog with whoever we want to so that they can get connected too. This is the perfect time of year to cultivate our family ties. I miss you all and being home for Christmas, but don't worry, next year we will be home for sure. Anyways, I will let you know how to get usernames of your own so you can post entries here. Love you all!