tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53137721772964055962024-03-13T19:08:13.023-07:00Alexandra OrlandoWELCOME TO MY LIFE. TAKE IT IN. CLOSE YOUR EYES. FREE FALL.Alexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.comBlogger97125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-43714778501615073532010-09-16T07:58:00.000-07:002010-09-16T07:59:36.911-07:00People in Your LifePeople come into your life for a reason,a season or a lifetime. When you know which one it is,you will know what to do for that person...When someone is in your life for a REASON,it is usually to meet a need you have expressed.They have come to assist you through a difficulty,to provide you with guidance and support,To aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually.They may seem like a godsend and they are.They are there for the reason you need them to be.Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or dosomething to bring the relationship to an end.Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away.Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand.What we must realize is that our need has been met,our desire fulfilled, their work is done.The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.Some people come into your life for a SEASON,because your turn has come to share, grow or learn.They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh.They may teach you something you have never done.They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy.Believe it, it is real. But only for a season.LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons,things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation.Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life.It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.Thank you for being a part of my life,whether you were a reason, a season or a lifetime.Alexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-91627847534737971292010-09-15T09:05:00.000-07:002010-09-15T10:34:09.024-07:00Amazing Woman of the Week - JANE ROOS<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TJEDfsPAAFI/AAAAAAAAANc/bRfjnFDhhR0/s1600/n551257120_191689_1407.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 139px; height: 194px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TJEDfsPAAFI/AAAAAAAAANc/bRfjnFDhhR0/s200/n551257120_191689_1407.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517194861490470994" /></a><br />Let me tell you a little something about my good friend Jane....<br /><br />There are probably not enough words in the dictionary to describe her, but I'll do my best. Not only is she larger than life, but one of the most incredible women I have ever been fortunate to come across. She is going to blush when she reads this I'm sure, but I'm doing it anyways (love you Jane).<br /><br />There are people out there that have an energy that is unlike anything you've ever felt. It's not that she just lights up a room when she walks into it, but she has the uncanny ability to inspire, motivate and fuel the people around her. She's magnetic. An athlete, business woman, wife, mother, artist, humanitarian...the list goes on and on. It's no wonder she's one of the most influential women in sport in this country.<br /><br />The founder of the Canadian Athletes Now Fund, which has donated millions of dollars to struggling Canadian Athletes, Jane has dedicated her life to giving back and making a difference. She always leaves me in awe and I've said this before, but she makes me realize that the whole world is at the tip of my fingers.<br /><br />Her overwhelming genorosity speaks volumes to the kind of person she is. Thank you for always sending out so much love, grace and strength into this world.Alexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-16648497969530156882010-09-12T05:44:00.000-07:002010-09-13T12:24:40.809-07:00Adult WonderlandFlying over the Grand Canyon on my way to Las Vegas last week I remember a sense of calmness that came over me. That would be the last time the word calm would come to my mind over the next few days. I was glued to the window on this tiny plane and couldn't take my eyes off the incredible view. It was a gorgeous day, clear blue skies and I could see the sandy desert and rugged mountain range that cuts across the south. I've traveled the world and haven't seen anything like it in awhile - actually not what I was expecting of Vegas. <br /><br />When you think Las Vegas what really comes to mind? Let's all be honest - not the beauty of it. <br /><br />Touching down I could already feel the energy rising on the plane. A group of guys on their way to a bachelor party - attempting to recreate 'The Hangover' I'm almost positive, couples looking for a wild weekend and girls leaving their boyfriends at home....the energy was rowdy and debaucherous and we were still on the plane.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TI56Uw4kAZI/AAAAAAAAANU/sbpG6C1O24o/s1600/IMG00772-20100910-1246.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TI56Uw4kAZI/AAAAAAAAANU/sbpG6C1O24o/s400/IMG00772-20100910-1246.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516481090713551250" /></a><br />The best way I can describe Vegas to people is an Adult Amusement Park. Anything goes and I mean anything. My shuttle bus driver to the hotel gave a little tour guide for all the newbies and you already knew it was going to be trouble. The amount of people, little rules, tons of distractions (in every kind of way) and entertainment overwhelms you. The strip during the day is still as incredible as it is at night. 6 miles long (wear flats ladies) stores, street performers, fountains, restaurants and loud music fill the streets. I'm pretty sure that no one should ever drive there as pedestrians couldn't care less about street lights, signs...basically anything that's in their way of more drinks and gambling. <br /><br />I was in town for two days - short but definitely sweet. My trip was a whirlwind of little sleep and the most fun I've had in a long time. You literally feel like you're in another world....in over load. Met incredible people, pretended I was wealthy enough to go into all the designer stores and tried things on (so fun) and didn't wipe the smile off my face. <br /><br />I'm keeping all the details my dirty little secret<br /><br />Thank you Nevada and Good NightAlexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-23900588718420688602010-09-09T05:51:00.000-07:002010-09-09T06:00:06.634-07:00Vegas BoundI'm about to board my flight, but wanted to get this down before I forget that it ever happened because it kinda made my day. Actually, pretty sure it just set up my entire time in Nevada - thank god for that airport currency exchange lady or else waking up so damn early and fighting with my mother on the way to the airport might have ruined my day....<br /><br />SO I breeze through security and customs down to the States (faster than normal) and get to my gate in one piece - after getting harassed by the creepy airport security guys (fuuunnn). I mean seriously, if you look down my shirt one more time and snicker to your little buddies behind your big, tough shiny table I might lose it.<br /><br />I digress.<br /><br />So I had some time to kill and was wandering around people watching, one of my all time favorite activities. When I see this currency exchange booth and I figured that it made sense to get some American dollars if I'm heading down to Vegas. Just being practical. <br /><br />Here I am, chatting away with the very friendly woman who is probably about my mom's age behind the glass. She asks me if I like big bills or small bills and I say small - always love having cash on me for once (I'm hiding my bank card). She starts counting it out then stops and looks up at me (knowing that I'm going to Vegas) and says with a little smirk on her face - "want some one dollar bills too?" <br /><br />It took me a second, but I got it. Vegas. One dollar bills. Awesome. So I laughed said well yes I think I may be needing those and she blushed a bit and said she knows what goes on in Nevada! <br /><br />AMAZING - smiled all the way to the gateAlexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-61713352069784112282010-09-04T10:59:00.001-07:002010-09-04T11:04:40.616-07:00Biting the Bullet<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TIKJr4Q7SJI/AAAAAAAAANM/ibGR9BBNj88/s1600/DSC01985.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TIKJr4Q7SJI/AAAAAAAAANM/ibGR9BBNj88/s400/DSC01985.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513120280785668242" /></a><br />Things have definitely changed since we've all grown up. My parents live in our childhood house, my sister is off with her boyfriend and I've been a downtown single girl for awhile now. Getting ready for the next stage in my life I know I needed to make a big sacrifice and save up as much as I can to buy a place of my own. The first step in that plan was the unthinkable - moving back home.<br /><br />So here I am - sitting on the same couch where I held hands with a boy for the first time, did my homework and collapsed on after a long day of gymnastics training<br /><br />It's a little weird, but I'm surviving (acclimatizing I like to call it)<br /><br />There is one thing that I never noticed before and I realize that I'm going to have to bite the bullet on this one and just keep my mouth shut - or else I'm sure there will be trouble. So I've become aware of my parents (mostly my dad) talking out loud to themselves on a pretty regular basis. It's not just talking to themselves though it's just saying out loud what they are going to do next. They narrate their lives. I mean, do I need to know that you're going to change your pants now because you don't have pockets and you can't put your keys in them when you go and work out, but only after you brush your teeth? Not really.<br /><br />I love you guys, but it's an over share. I'm going to bite my tongue, but let's see how you like it when I do it :)<br /><br />xoAlexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-67045543614135429862010-08-30T07:05:00.001-07:002010-08-30T07:06:28.440-07:00BittersweetSince I was a little girl my parents always taught my sister and I that when you make a commitment to something you keep it. Your dedication and promise to someone or something meant more than just simple words. That is something that has stuck with me my whole life. When my athletic career began to take off there were times when I didn’t think I was strong enough to do it. Times when I was being pushed to my limits and wanted to be a typical 14 year old and bow out and quit. My parents have been and will always be my biggest fans and supporters. Even though they knew I had the potential to go to the Olympics one day, they would have let me quit if I wanted to. As long as my sister and I were happy, we could do whatever we wanted.<br /><br />There was just one rule.<br /><br />If I committed to competing for a season, I was competing for that season. The time, energy and sacrifice of so many people around me to prepare for a competitive year on the international gymnastics scene was huge. Everyone becomes emotionally invested because they are basically a team of people trying to get the absolute best out of you. I remember my coach would have trouble sleeping if I wasn’t training well before a big meet and my club and all the families would fundraise to send me to another world cup I couldn’t pay for. It wouldn’t just affect me if I stopped cold turkey, it would affect everyone around me and was ungrateful.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/THu6tqMaBeI/AAAAAAAAAM8/p2reRxK_g0M/s1600/46924_952630084792_28108685_57308509_3854644_n.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/THu6tqMaBeI/AAAAAAAAAM8/p2reRxK_g0M/s320/46924_952630084792_28108685_57308509_3854644_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511203862601139682" /></a>So even now, how many years later, I still keep that at heart. When I decided I needed to make a big change in my life, I did it and didn’t think too much about it. After two years of living with a great friend I just pretty abruptly got out of my lease. A few months ago it didn’t seem like that big of a deal, but as I began to pack up my things and say goodbye to the all the people and memories that have come and gone I wanted to go back on my word and stay.<br /><br />There were definitely a few moments where I doubted if I had made the right choice this week. Standing on my balcony last night for the last time with my last roommate was hard. My room an empty shell, our place not ours anymore. It’s funny because I never thought I would get this choked up, but my life was that place. It was easy and comfortable and fun. I lived with my best friend for two years, it’s sad to think we’ll never be able to be that close again. I mean, seeing her struggle to get up and out of bed every morning is probably one of the most amusing things ever…going on last minute unexpected adventures in the city is up there too.<br /><br />I spent my first night in a new bed, in a new room and it was weird. Something that will take time to get used to for sure. I know deep down that this is what I have to do and moving out on my own is a little scary, but it’s that next step. It’s time to grow up.<br /><br />“last night in the condo. too blurryto even cry. music was just how i like it. deal with the ghetto. love you more than you know. brazilians what? 4am sweet potatoe fries. much love babe”Alexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-24961429995046685812010-08-25T14:01:00.000-07:002010-08-25T17:22:14.098-07:00Learned My LessonI had a very humbling moment last night. I'm not even sure if humbling is the right word to describe it, but it was one of those times where you all of a sudden see yourself and your friends in a different light. A year ago this conversation would not have gone the way it did and that's ok, but it was different yesterday for a reason. <br /><br />We get so caught up in the past and history and things that once seemed life ending that we forget how much we've grown and how far we've come from that point. I didn't see it until now.<br /><br />I didn't give my best friend the credit she deserved, I didn't give her the benefit of the doubt that yes maybe she just did want me to be happy. Drama and scandals and gossip have surrounded my young adulthood and I couldn't open my eyes wide enough to see that we're past all that.<br /><br />I sat across from her with an open heart for the first time in a long time and thought I would lose her. I was stupid to think that she would go anywhere. She's been there for me through everything and believe me I didn't have the typical problems that teenagers go through...but she never ran like so many others before her did.<br /><br />I wish that I had realized we were grown ups a long time before I knew it, but maybe I wasn't ready to see it then. <br /><br />Funny how life works sometimes.<br /><br />As the words fell from my lips I knew that I had done the right thing. The last thing I have ever wanted was to hurt her, but keeping things hidden just makes it worse in the end.<br /><br />Thank you for being such an amazing person. I don't deserve you in my life. I just wish I had been stronger to come to you earlier...<br /><br /><blockquote>before i lost it, before i gave up on something,before i hurt him</blockquote><br /><br />I love you.Alexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-65960607429985891322010-08-24T08:25:00.000-07:002010-08-24T09:23:14.712-07:00Who doesn't know this?<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/THPxqmrga6I/AAAAAAAAAMs/FMMRykmbCig/s1600/Falling_Down_the_Rabbit_Hole_by_BlackMageChan.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 228px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/THPxqmrga6I/AAAAAAAAAMs/FMMRykmbCig/s320/Falling_Down_the_Rabbit_Hole_by_BlackMageChan.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509012483444075426" /></a><br />Alright I need to put this out there because I actually don't believe that the majority of people don't know what this expression means...<br /><br />If someone says I am <em>falling down the rabbit hole</em> please tell me that the general population would recognize that it's a very famous line from Alice in Wonderland or at least understand what it's referring to...<br /><br />I realize that if you didn't grow up in a Disney household (which kinda makes me sad) you may have not seen it, but at some point at some time in your life you would've had to run into this saying and asked what it meant...I mean cmon!<br /><br />FYI - falling down the rabbit hole means your world is turning upside down and you don't know what's what or what's real anymore...basically spiraling downward into an alternate universe or frame of mind<br /><br />Just in case you are one of those people that didn't know.Alexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-79250108942613966492010-08-24T07:22:00.001-07:002010-08-24T07:25:02.534-07:00Worst pick up line of the night..<blockquote><em>I have two questions for you...<br /><br />#1 - are you single? 100%? <br />#2 - what time do you work in the morning?</em></blockquote><br />Boys please don't try this one.Alexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-60027555961596160182010-08-23T12:39:00.000-07:002010-08-23T12:57:24.441-07:00Something in your eyesYou can see right through me when you're looking into my eyes. No matter what kind of front I'm putting up or how tough I think I am standing there...my eyes give it all away. Everytime.<br /><br />I think that's why I'm always always in big sunglasses...and here I thought it was just a fun fashion statement...your mind plays tricks on you sometimes...(go figure)<br /><br />It's funny - it's so easy to hide emotion behind that thin dark piece of plastic, putting up a wall between you and the person sitting literally at arms length. <br /><br />A quiet defense, a piece of armor to slip away with dignity.<br /><br />Yet the second they come off your face you lose the battle. Your achilles heel. Your wounds open for anyone to see.<br /><br />Making it too easy for you.<br /><br />Cover your eyes little girl, it's not worth it.Alexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-24083215336365444752010-08-21T10:04:00.000-07:002010-08-21T10:10:13.572-07:00Alexandra Orlando LIVE<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyAy0BEEy8DTGkiBYJktjzp_M_1xdEdkzGBrUj5ocUhnZySHa0clST_bpcHGWL1rGySqZ17Tuz4PXzTLvUw-A' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Alexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-41596613057256844412010-08-20T11:37:00.000-07:002010-08-20T11:54:19.139-07:00Am I really an author now...I grew up hating english in school. I was the math/science girl - yes a little bit of a nerd too which I whole heartedly embraced. The writing thing was never my forte. I struggled with essays and could never express myself, not to mention my sister was the gifted writer in the family. An incredible poet, speaker, actress, singer...she is the creative one and I happily assumed the role as the athlete. No complaints there.<br /><br />So it's kind of ironic now that I started to write a few years ago and then dabbled in some blogs for CBC, the Toronto Star, Lenovo, Commonwealth Games Canada, the Strength Within Group...<br /><br />I honestly began to love it. Working with an editor at CBC was one of the greatest experiences in my professional career. Not only did he help me hone my writing skills, but got me to open up and write in a way that could affect people.<br /><br />Raw emotion. <br /><br />So two years ago when my life changed...<br /><br /><em>when I lost the thing I loved to do the most, reached a goal I had had my entire life, walked away from someone that I will always hold in my heart, went back to University and had to deal with ten years of putting my body on a wild rollercoaster ride</em><br /><br />....The feelings and emotions were too much to even understand or talk about so I started to write. I bought one of those big leather bound sketch books and began to fill it up. From lyrics to journal entries to collages and advertisements that meant something to me - my heart and soul went into it. From this book I found my love of writing and I guess the rest is history.<br /><br />A few weeks ago I pitched an idea to the President of a Publishing company, Burman Books Inc, that I met out of luck at an event earlier this year. He loved it. I loved it. Long story short, I JUST SIGNED A PUBLISHING CONTRACT TO PUBLISH MY FIRST BOOK NEXT FALL!!!<br /><br />Does this make me a real author now?! :)Alexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-28018131705595027852010-08-19T10:24:00.001-07:002010-08-19T10:29:33.406-07:00Photo of the Week - the many faces of alexThis is for Nik - I know the facial expressions I somehow come up with never cease to amaze you<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TG1pb_kI4-I/AAAAAAAAAMk/aRPQ0RbuuOI/s1600/23620_886778596702_28108685_54414881_5530420_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TG1pb_kI4-I/AAAAAAAAAMk/aRPQ0RbuuOI/s400/23620_886778596702_28108685_54414881_5530420_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507173848984380386" /></a>Alexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-61302150188170163162010-08-19T10:03:00.000-07:002010-08-19T10:21:15.879-07:00Smile for meIt's not a good day when you wake up in the morning and feel that sinking feeling in your stomach - a mixture of insecurity, disappointment, laziness - that weird dulling sensation that seems to take over your mood and everything you touch. It's as if it follows you around desperately clinging to your back like a scared child, bringing you down inch by inch until it overtakes you. Those are those days where you break down and cry - even if you're not a crier. Those are the days where you don't know where it came from or why it's happening, but you're not happy with your life. <br /><br />I haven't felt like that in a long time, but the more I spend with the people that mean the most to me the more I see them go through it. It's always funny to me because if they saw what I saw - what everyone sees - they couldn't possibly feel this way. I find that people define their lives on what they're doing, how successful they are and the actual tangible 'things' that they have. We all do it, but to a point now where nothing is ever good enough.<br /><br />I should not be one to talk, but when I see an incredibly talented and inspiring person feeling like they are doing nothing with themselves it infuriates me. Please please open your eyes and see that just being you touches the lives of everyone around you. Believe in yourself and you will do great things because you couldn't not. Stop comparing yourself to other people, we're all on different paths, but it doesn't make you any less of a person. <br /><br />Smile for me.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TG1nGHpQviI/AAAAAAAAAMc/A3iZDWKYEwE/s1600/LOVEHEARTNORMAL.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TG1nGHpQviI/AAAAAAAAAMc/A3iZDWKYEwE/s320/LOVEHEARTNORMAL.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507171274172972578" /></a>Alexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-60362541489108479632010-08-17T12:58:00.000-07:002010-08-17T12:59:26.210-07:00Best advice given to me today...Focus on one difficult relationship where you are bringing a lot of judgement to the table. What's one piece of truth you share in common with the person being judged?<br /><br />Think about it - it may blow your mindAlexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-91375800067439175332010-08-17T11:36:00.000-07:002010-08-17T12:50:27.327-07:00Taking it back to Sicily<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TGrkgcc7ziI/AAAAAAAAAMU/PqH9qczRfaA/s1600/alp.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 344px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TGrkgcc7ziI/AAAAAAAAAMU/PqH9qczRfaA/s400/alp.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506464740458352162" /></a><br /><br />If you've never met a Sicilian before let me fill you in - we are an intense, crazy people that hold our family at the center of our universe.<br /><br />They are our blood. Our past, present and future. Don't mess with it if you know what's good for you.<br /><br />So the incredible news that one of my first friends from University may potentially be related to me is possibly the best thing to happen ever. Apparently a Teresa Orlando married a Francesco Agueci way back when in Sicily, joining these two great families together. Basically this is a beyond epic realization and our families are now going to have an even bigger, louder, broken english posse (love you nonna) then ever before :) <br /><br />Bring it.Alexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-25873221800212776202010-08-16T09:22:00.000-07:002010-08-16T10:11:04.293-07:00Leave Your Boyfriends At Home...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TGlwX8X_uyI/AAAAAAAAAMM/-7Y2gBlCsA4/s1600/41172_945631944122_28126820_56981654_4324015_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TGlwX8X_uyI/AAAAAAAAAMM/-7Y2gBlCsA4/s400/41172_945631944122_28126820_56981654_4324015_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506055576083217186" /></a><br /><br />I was literally counting down the seconds until we were on the road heading north this weekend. The past week was a bit of a blur. I was so out of it and a few late nights and early mornings really didn't help me feeling like a complete disaster at work. <br /><br />Even though we were only going up for one night the five of us girls hadn't all been together in forever. Actually - not sure if all of us have ever done anything like this before. Needless to say, it was much needed and I couldn't wait to escape the city and have a full fledged girls trip. <br /><br />No boys allowed.<br /><br />Seriously - probably one of the best weekends of the summer.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TGlt5lK7JhI/AAAAAAAAAME/p12nMT39nCE/s1600/40803_1443939232440_1651890147_1539303_3960097_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TGlt5lK7JhI/AAAAAAAAAME/p12nMT39nCE/s400/40803_1443939232440_1651890147_1539303_3960097_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506052855435044370" /></a><br /><br />I think the combination of hilariously fun girls, sugary beverages in the middle of the day, boating escapades and incredibly cheesy music made the past 36 hours the funniest I've had in a long time. I'm pretty sure I laughed for a good three hours straight at one point - oh and also expressed my love for ms. tash (on multiple occasions)<br /><br />I know i know. Shocking that my commitment levels just dramatically increased - what can i say she just does that to me? :p<br /><br />love you girls thanks for an amazing weekend - the boys were definitely not missed <br />xo<br /><br />Niki. Steph. Caye. Tash. <3Alexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-42678614241292516802010-08-13T08:13:00.000-07:002010-08-13T08:49:53.793-07:00Awkward Inter-Office EncounterHow is it that only after two weeks in our new office building I have found myself in an awkward social situation already? Only me.<br /><br />There's only 30 of us from the Pan Am group working here right now - taking up a small corner of the 3rd floor AND forgive me for trying to be friendly and interact with the other companies up here...<br /><br />Let me be clear...I've been friendly...as in polite chatter in the kitchen and basic conversation in the elevators...i would admit to a little casual flirting believe me<br /><br />BUT apparently this has compelled someone (who by the way only knows my first name) to somehow find me in the building directory and send me a pretty suggestive email. <br /><br />what?<br /><br />So of course I didn't respond, needing to sit on it for a little bit and analyze my next steps without making this a huge deal as I do have to work here for the next few years...BUT my life would have it that as I'm going to grab a cup of tea from the kitchen who do you think I run into? <br /><br />This was the definition of awkward. I almost wish someone had caught this on camera. Wow. <br /><br />My friend Jess shot me a glance that almost made me burst out laughing right there...seriously I don't need this drama at work...<br /><br />So long story short I had to send possibly one of the weirdest emails I've ever written and politely regretted to inform him that I was just not that into him. <br /><br />I can't even wait for the response.<br /><br />Another typical Friday for Alex Orlando - awesomeAlexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-1746134501759018352010-08-12T08:04:00.000-07:002010-08-12T08:10:55.193-07:00StupiditySince when is "How to break up with her" worthy enough news to be profiled next to a piece on Obama? <br /><br />I'm sorry, but do guys really need more stupid advice on how to be honest....wait I forgot it was so difficult<br /><br />I can tell you the easiest way to break up with someone and I don't need 1000 words to say it.<br /><br />Read my lips.<br /><br />Don't lie. Don't let your ego get in the way. Be real. Stop trying to be the good guy (you're not remember). Make a clean break.<br /><br />Now why is that so hard? :)Alexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-34366629842475880332010-08-12T07:55:00.000-07:002010-08-12T07:59:55.250-07:00Photo of the Week - Jarry Naphtal<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TGQLroif6pI/AAAAAAAAAL0/aGZ-z1WPOKY/s1600/39008_941065684942_28108685_56762743_1502988_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 264px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TGQLroif6pI/AAAAAAAAAL0/aGZ-z1WPOKY/s400/39008_941065684942_28108685_56762743_1502988_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504537488797985426" /></a><br /><br /><br />Stuff Souls are Made Of[ ΩΛΜΟ ] : a selection of works by jarrtan naphtal<br /><br />http://www.flickr.com/photos/jarry85/showAlexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-85607839281588198132010-08-11T14:17:00.001-07:002010-08-11T14:32:05.923-07:00My Source of StrengthThe last little while I've been thinking about the people in my life and how incredibly fortunate I am to be surrounded by people who inspire me. Sometimes I think of myself as still a girl, but I'm at that age now where I can comfortably call myself a woman with a smile.<br /><br />I'm definitely not pretending like I've got it all figured out because I don't and I'll be the first one to tell you that....<br /><br />But I think of where I've come from and how I'm surviving womanhood now and know that I owe it to those who make me stronger and keep pushing myself to be stronger ever still.<br /><br />These absolutely incredible women deserve such amazing things in their lives for what they do for others...<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Thank you....<br />for your good heart Marisa<br />for never leaving my side Victoria<br />for being my soul sister Annamay<br />for making me feel like the whole world is at my fingertips Jane<br />for showing me that I am beautiful Mercy<br />for helping me find myself Rose<br />for letting me drive you crazy Niki<br />for pushing me Gaby<br />for your brutal honesty Veronica<br />for always being there Rita<br />for inspiring me Barbara </span>Alexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-74280726897415513532010-08-11T13:53:00.000-07:002010-08-11T14:04:51.295-07:00When you were young...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TGMNwx3OQCI/AAAAAAAAALs/H6pqpTBNVyU/s1600/n28108685_42578417_2599.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 278px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rxBecrAUmuo/TGMNwx3OQCI/AAAAAAAAALs/H6pqpTBNVyU/s320/n28108685_42578417_2599.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504258301246717986" /></a><span style="font-style:italic;">When you were young and your heart was an open book...you used to say live and let live...<br />you know you did<br /><br />But in this ever changing world in which we live in...makes you give in and cry....<br />say live and let die</span><br /><br />- PaulAlexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-23516679367508352932010-08-10T21:51:00.000-07:002010-08-10T22:00:44.902-07:00Paranormal Activity?Call me paranoid, but I swear something freaky is going on in my parent's house. It could be that I just watched this stupid paranormal movie and even though it wasn't that scary it still made me all jumpy OR my house is just possessed. Take your pick.<br /><br />Alright you may think I've gone completely crazy (which is entirely possible)...but listen to this...<br /><br />I'm sitting in my dining room with all the lights on working away on my laptop when the lights start flickering. I could hardly notice at first, but then it kept happening. I didn't really think anything of it, but then I just got this really weird feeling. I can work in my dining room all night because believe me I've done it before, but this time I had to get up and move. It was really bizarre. <br /><br />So it's 1am and I picked up my laptop and stuff to go and leave when the lights went out completely. That has never ever happened to me in my life. Then my dining room door slowly started to open...thankfully we have another door that leads into the kitchen... and needless to say I ran like a crazy person to my room upstairs.<br /><br />I am fully aware I sound like I'm 12 right now, but I swear this all happened and it really creeped me out...<br /><br />Could be too many late nights and horror movies, but I doubt I'm going to get any sleep tonightAlexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-12277323052618566812010-08-10T19:45:00.000-07:002010-08-10T20:09:00.358-07:00Beyond StressedI think there's a point when you're so stressed out you just become numb. Deadlines are piling up around me and not just at my normal day job. Of course I can't be like every other person and have one job - no I have to be superwoman and have about 5 or 6. Anything else you would like me to take on? I'll probably say yes because apparently I don't know how to say no.<br /><br />Not a good little pattern I've gotten myself into.<br /><br />I kind of want to just have a good cry, but...<br /><br />1) I don't cry (there goes that plan)<br /><br /> AND<br /><br />2) I can't feel anything to muster up some sort of reaction beyond some sort of intense/empty look on my face<br /><br />Those of you who really know me, know that I love everything I do. That's the problem. I wouldn't trade my life for anything, but there are those days (and nights like this one) where I honestly don't know how I've gotten myself here. It's 10:51pm and I'm probably going to be pulling an all nighter and heading to a meeting for 8:30am tomorrow. It sounds like it might be a glasses kind of day...maybe they can hide the bags under my eyes...<br /><br />It's ironic though because I'm not even upset or concerned....just numb. It will get done because I'll make sure it gets done no matter what, but I can't help wondering if my body can put up with it forever. My guess is probably not.<br /><br />If I can just survive the next two days I'll never do this to myself again.<br /><br />Who am I kidding - you know I will<br /><br />If I didn't have my family and friends to pick me up sometimes I don't know what I would do. Thank you for putting up with me and this crazy life. I love you all <3Alexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5313772177296405596.post-51994284109906810402010-08-10T07:42:00.000-07:002010-08-10T07:48:19.904-07:00Reliving the Toronto 2015 Pan Am Bid<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzvHREeU92-lN91xog6YMOweL2A2npGxCUfkm0jY5WkASJ8n6gb7ffKVjDzeoAfMh5d-INsiKEsywDk6pGQLw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Alexandra Orlandohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02568667103124846833noreply@blogger.com0