June 6, 2007

This is my first posting on my blog. I am really excited to share my journey with anyone who is interested in reading about how insane my life is. You will probably grow tired of reading about all of the daily events that occur in my life. I am an overachiever, so anyone who spends more than a week with me will want to sleep for a month.

In a nutshell, here is my insane life:

I work full time at a consumer healthcare corporation in Pittsburgh (Go Steelers). I have been employed there for eight years. I love my job, but at times, it can get extremely chaotic, and I want to jump out of the third story window that is only a few feet away from my cube. Yes, I did say cube. I should say a small box. There is more room in a bathroom stall.

I am currently working on my doctoral degree (Ph.D). I will start my third and final year (keeping my fingers crossed on the "final") in a few weeks. I absolutely love to learn anything and everything. I am a huge advocate of education and feel that everyone who is capable (that is just about everyone) should strive to the highest level of education possible. I have to admit, after going to school for five years in a row (I spent two years in grad school right before I enrolled in the doctoral program), I just about had enough with education. I can't believe I just said that. I am sure on May 10, 2008, my attitude will........probably stay the same.

My job and working on my doctorate take up about 99% of the stress in my life. The other percent is the "I have to do everything before I die tomorrow". I have taken up painting (on canvas), learning Italian through classes and CDs, constantly changing the decor in my home, photography, hiking, biking, tennis, spending time with friends, and traveling. I love to travel. I just got back from Italy. OK - a year ago, but that has been the most exciting trip for me. I have a lot of family that lives in Italy and up until last year, I have not seen some of them in 15 years. Italy is one of my favorite countries. I have been to many places and I have to say, my favorite place to visit is Europe. I would always pick an European trip over a beautiful sandy beach in the Carribbean. Did I mention I have ADD - I am constantly changing thoughts here. I am tired.

I have so much more to share, but I think I may have scared a few people away. Trust me, you will never get bored reading my entries. I will try to post often and keep it exciting.

I forgot to mention - I absolutely love cats. I have two girls, Monet and Sydney. They are the love of my life. I will post a picture once I figure out how to post one.

Ciao for now. Until next time!

Claudia