Penny Pinchers .

There are a good number of people on blogger that write about ways to save money, or just not spending on things you don't need and things like that. Out of curiosity, I always wondered I could save if I really took it to the extreme and didn't actually have any money to spend, outside of bare necessities. Over the past few weeks, I didn't have to wonder anymore... because I had no choice.

Of All the Times .

Throughout the entirety of winter break, I barely saw any snow in New Jersey. Despite several big snow storms happening throughout the country, it's like there is this bubble over my state that just says "don't snow here, ever!". I had really wanted to try out the four wheel drive in my truck, and well, unfortunately just never got the opportunity.

The Final Chapter .

At midnight tonight, I leave for South Carolina for the final time. This is the last semester of my undergraduate collegiate career, and I can hardly believe it. The time has flown by and it's truly amazing how fast it has gone. Looking back on the time, I can still remember the friends I made in my first freshman semester English class (who oddly enough ended up living in the apartment below me a few semesters ago). Life has a way of sneaking up on you, and rushing you through some things you want to enjoy.

More importantly though, it is almost certainly the case that the things around the corner will be even more extraordinary than you can imagine. A new setting, job, or experience will surely take the cake of your life's happenings.

For in all honesty, this is only the beginning. The close of one volume, and the start other a new one. I look forward to taking you friends through the next semester, and continue into life. I feel like we all know each other as close friends and will continue that through and through. Thanks for sticking with me all this time, and wish me safe travels over the next day.

Gratuities .

Earlier today on Twitter, I came across a tweet that had been retweeted by one of my friends that said:

"If you're going to out to eat, tip your server. If not, go to McDonalds. #rudepeople"

Having worked in the restaurant business for several years at a country club, I think I know a thing or two about this. But I'd like to put a few myths to rest. As a server, your gratuity should not be expected. You should be earning this tip. Just because you can throw some silver on the table, write down what somebody wants and plop it in front of them while refilling drinks doesn't mean that you deserve a good (or any) tip. Gratuity is a courtesy and reward for a job well done.

Interesting Perspective .

I read an article today entitled Gay, Catholic and Doing Fine and I have to say I was absolutely shocked. It was unlike any article I've ever read, and actually really inspiring. While I am not gay and have no idea what sorts of adversity a gay person encounters on a daily basis, whether socially or personally, I can appreciate where the writer is coming from. The best part about it though, for me, is the amount of faith and reverence with which this writer comes from. There is acceptance of self, and acceptance of religion and faith and God.

Massage Envy .

One of the things my girlfriend got me for Christmas was a gift card to a place called Massage Envy, since I had been having some back and neck problems. Well, my appointment was tonight, and this is the first time I have ever been to get a professional massage. So naturally, that was an experience.

Feta Cheese & Rye Toast .

My family has never really had a tradition of any sort for New Years Day. Most times it's just a day that we can all sleep in and more or less do nothing, since it's a national holiday and everybody gets off from work. New Years has usually been spent together too, and this year it was the first time in a long time that we all sort of went our separate ways: My sister was back at home in DC, my parents went to a party that doubled as a charity event for those affected by Hurricane Sandy, and my brother went to one of his friends' houses, while I was with my girlfriend and her family.