"Live Like You're Dying"

This past week my roommates and I saw on MTV a show called "The Buried Life". It's a reality show that follows four guys in their 20s (Dave, Ben, Duncan & Jonnie above) who are on a mission to fulfill the 100 items on their bucket list- things they want to do before they die. For each time they cross off something on their list they in turn have to help a stranger fulfill one thing on their list. For example, one episode was focused on crashing a wedding a making a speech, while they were doing this, the guys met an artist who wanted to reconnect with his son that he hasn't seen in 17 years. They found his son and the artist was able to meet his son for the first time in a long time. (You can watch this episode here.)

I think this is the most genuine show I've ever seen...especially on MTV (kudos for this one). The concept is so fresh and touching. I think it's nice that these incredibly charming (and gorgeous) guys want to live their lives to the fullest all while helping others do the same. It's very inspirational and I hope that all four of them are able to cross every item off that list and maybe create another one.

After watching the show, it got me thinking. What can I do to help others? How can I improve the quality of my life? I think that everyone, including myself, can learn a little something from these gentlemen. If you're not happy with you're life, fix it. Be active, you only live once, so make the most of it. So my question for you kids, what do you want to do before you die?

-Catherine

To learn more about The Buried Life and their list, click here. And make sure to catch the show Mondays at 10 pm on MTV.

Reid, you stole my heart.

Sorry to not update in awhile...seems like laziness has won again. Seems like my New Year's resolution of being more productive hasn't been working out so well.

Well let's see, my first week back in Big Apple was very low key...just how I like it. Call me a romantic or a walking cliche but I just get my kicks from walking around and people watching...however I have yet to visit my beloved Central Park- I haven't been back there since 2009....this needs to be fixed very soon.

So what have I been doing? Homework. ha. This semester is going to kick bootaay which I guess is ok. My profs seem pretty cool so hopefully they'll give me good grades! oh, I'm just kidding, "teachers don't give grades, you earn them". So far the extent of my fun has been watching Criminal Minds with the roommates...I am telling you that Matthew Gray Gubler aka Dr. Spencer Reid is extremely easy on the eyes (picture above).

Sadly, last Friday Mr. Conan O'Brien had his last show as host of the Tonight Show. In my opinion probably the best exit from a show I've ever seen. And can I tell you the words he said at the end of the show were so inspiring and touching. What I loved is when he addressed his younger fans and said, "All I ask of you is one thing: please don't be cynical. I hate cynicism-it's my least favorite quality and it doesn't lead anywhere. Nobody in life gets exactly what they thought they were going to get. But if you work really hard and you're kind, amazing things will happen." I feel like he was sending me a message...I should work on that cynicism thing I have. These are some words to live by. Thank you Conan for that, can't wait for your next project.

There's really no transition here but I'd thought I'd mention the article on John Mayer in Rolling Stone magazine. That man I believe is the most misunderstood person in Hollywood. He's a brilliant artist and genius and all he's looking for is someone to love him for him, not the tabloid poster boy he's become to be known as. I respect that and I think he's entitled to some genuine love. Team Mayer.

Ok, I think I bored everyone enough with my ranting. I apologize. Off to return to the real world.

Keep it classy kids,

Catherine

Empire State

After being in the 'burbs of Jersey for a month I have finally returned to the city that never sleeps. Seeing old friends, going to my parish, and visiting my high school were all very surreal. Grant it I only was away since August prior to returning for the holidays in December but it was still all very strange. I had to pack to return to my house, the house I grew up in during my childhood and part of my infancy. It felt good to be in my own bed again. The mini reunions amongst friends were enjoyable. Listening to my pastor speak again was refreshing. But most importantly spending time with my family is what made me feel blessed and happy to return home. I never warmed up to my family exactly during my adolescence but since being away, I have come to appreciate them and all of their quirks. Everyone has a dysfunctional family right? Well, I finally learned to accept mine and have decided not to change a thing about them.

It was nice to see everyone but at the same time I was dying to return to my other home...my dorm. I honestly am blessed to have the roommates that I do, I think God put us all together with the intention of creating long lasting friendships. My four roommates are my other family...the siblings I never had. I'm a fortunate and lucky girl.

Since today is Sunday, and yes I did go to church, 7:30 am mass to be exact, I'd like to quote something from one of the readings taken from a letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians: "Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of working, but it is the same God who inspires them all in every one," (1 Corinthians 12:4-6). We all have unique gifts and ways of serving the community but it is one God that inspires us to fulfill these acts.

Thought for the day: As you try to carry out the works of God look for Him in everyone you meet, you might be surprised in what you find.

Peace,

Catherine

Can We All Just Get Along??

The holiday hangovers have faded and everyone's returning for grandma's house. It's back to school and work for most of us as the new decade makes its way through January. Even though it's only the 16th a lot has managed to happen.

Just when I thought it was a fairly peaceful start to a new year, the tragedy in Haiti began. Now, I don't know what your political/ personal opinions are, but, I think as a rich nation, we should come together and help the people of Haiti. Instead of joining bogus Facebook groups just go the extra mile to type in the URL for The American Red Cross, UNICEF, or Doctor's Without Borders. To make it easier I'll put the links here:

http://www.supportunicef.org/site/pp.asp?c=9fLEJSOALpE&b=1023561

http://doctorswithoutborders.org/

http://www.redcross.org/

How could you refuse to help this face?

On the other end of the spectrum there has been the controversy of Jay Leno and Conan O'Brien. I believe that NBC has wronged Mr. O'Brien and they will regret their decision to kick him to the curb. So what his ratings are down for a bit? What, are the executives worried they'll some of their money? I think they could survive. Conan is a comic genius. I'm sorry if the majority of America doesn't understand his smart humor- God forbid America has to use their brains to understand a joke. Jay Leno, it is time to graciously retire and permanently hand over the torch to its rightful owner, Conan O'Brien. No one likes a selfish man...it's simply not classy and doesn't become anyone. Well no matter where Conan ends up, I support him 100% and I'm sure he'll be successful in what ever he chooses to do next.

So our lessons for today kids? When a person is in need, share the wealth. We are luck people to be living in a free country. No matter how much or little a person has there is always someone who has it worse. Tragedy happens to the best of us. I know I would want a helping hand if something where to altar my life in some earth shattering way. Like I said, selfishness doesn't become anyone. So, don't be like the bullies at NBC, it's not cool to kick a person when they're down. Helping a person in the smallest way can make a big difference in the world. So today, help someone in need.

Peace,

Catherine