I am so privileged to attend a post-secondary school that offers so many opportunities for student engagement.

In the past two weeks since my last blog however, there have been so many events and activities around Brescia that I’m have been finding it hard to keep up!

This past weekend is a prime example. The BUCSC hosted two of the most popular events of the year, the Wine and Cheese Social on Friday and of course, Brescia Ball on Saturday evening.

The tickets to the Ball sold out in 4 hours, so it’s not surprising that both events had record attendances.

After the wine was drank, cheese, fruit and pates were eaten, over 100 students left the auditorium on Friday after a night of good conversation and great music, only to gather together with 250 faculty, students and members of the Brescia community the following night.

In between the two events, Workshops for Change, a Brescia Club held makeup and hair appointments with 100% of the proceeds going towards the London Regional Cancer Clinic for Patient Education.

Hair and makeup done, off to the Ball I went, in for a fabulous “Arabian Night” of music, dancing and food.

With Brescia Ball Comissioner Ahlam Abdo (front row, left)

As the glitter of the Ball faded, the BUCSC transitioned back into their Spring elections, with speeches and voting for the 2012-2013 Executive featured this week.

Congratulations to the BUCSC for hosting two incredible events!

-Christine

It’s hard to believe that we’re already half way through the first week of second semester! Unlike the first year students, who have been busy participating in Frost Week events like going to the movies and Boler Mountain, it’s been a relatively boring week back for me.

My couch potato ways are being challenged by Brescia’s latest event in partnership with Brescia student and Global Vision Riding Ambassador Leenat Jilani. The Beyond Empowerment- Women of Change Conference proudly states “if it’s meant to BE, it’s up to me”. This event is open (and free!) for all students and is tomorrow, Thursday January 12 in the Auditorium at 1-4pm. Featuring the following distinguished speakers:

MP Susan Truppe, Parliamentary Secretary for the Status of Women
MPP Deb Matthews, Ontario’s Minister of Health
Dr. Colleen Hancyz, Principal of Brescia
Cheryl Forchuk, Associate Director of Nursing
Dr. Allyson Larkin, Social Justice and Peace Studies, Kings University College
Ms. Naeema Farooqi, CEO Idea Consultant, Creative Workshop & Founder/ Editor-in- Chief of London LINK Monthly

I am looking forward to what I’m sure will be an inspiring afternoon. If it were up to me, I would make sure you would be there too!

Christine

Quote of the day: “

The amount of sleep required by the average person is five minutes more.” -Wilson Mizener

It’s so true that the average person needs five minutes more… or so we think right? I believe it’s uncommon for people not to press snooze once or twice when their alarm goes off in the morning. As Dalai Lama says, sleep is the most important form of meditation. I completely agree! As a nutrition student, I also know the significance of NOT sleeping on your body’s digestion.

The Human Biological Clock!

From a young age, most of us were all taught to sleep well. Being craddled in arms was always nice, having a song sang to you or even just having someone rub your back. Unfortunately NONE of these things (Including counting down from 100-0 by different multiples) have led me to sleep.

I went to bed later tonight, and did enjoy a cappuchino with a friend around 9:00 p.m. but usually caffeine doesn’t prevent me from sleeping. Maybe there is something on my mind? Actually there is a lot. I’ll get to that on my next post!!

I can imagine other people are getting anxious about going back to school as well. It’s not that BRESCIA isn’t an amazing community, but who can’t resist  (or turn down) home cooked meals, no homework and family bonding time. I know that I have been spoiled by my family this holiday break. From visiting family friends to starbucks dates, I haven’t had that much time to myself. Maybe that’s why my body is using some of my natural 8 hours of sleep to think, ponder and reflect on life? I get it, but I would also like to BE ASLEEP. I think it’s worse when everyone around you is sleeping and you can’t. Not to complain or anything :)

Oh well! Good night (hopefully)!

❤ Molly

Sweet Dreams!

Is there anyone else out there awake at 3:00 a.m. for no good reason? If so, what do you do to fall back asleep? Count sheep? Drink warm milk?

Quote of the day:

“Persistence.  Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence.
Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent.
Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb.
Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts.
Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.
The slogan, ‘Press on,’ has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race.”
- Calvin Coolidge

How often do you NOT answer the phone if the number is…

1. Unrecognizable
2. A 1-800 number
3. A definite telemarketer
4. Your parents (Just kidding!!)

Well this past month I had the privilege of being asked to telemarket. Initially I thought that nobody would answer the phone because they knew I would be asking for money (For people with caller ID it would show up as Brescia, which some classify as solicitors!!). Boy (Or should I say girl!) was I wrong…

Ring Ring Ring Ring Ring Ring Ring...

Over seven thousand dollars were raised from the three days of phone calling. I learned that the Brescia community is definitely a supportive family. I had the opportunity of calling Brescia alumnae, most of which graduated in the 1950s and 1960s. The conversations I stroke up were unbelievable. I think some of the ladies were just happy to have someone to talk to. I also learned a lot about how the school has changed. Each and every one of the ladies who answered had a unique story to tell (Some of their husbands spoke to me as well. Those were equally entertaining conversations). Although none of the alumnae I called were food and nutrition graduates, they had a lot of advice to offer. Most of them agreed that they haven’t lost touch with the friends they made in first year.

Brescia Trailblazers

Not only did it feel good when people answered the phone, it was nice when the alumnae donated. After all, it is a holiday season so many people maynot be financially well off. Regardless of the amount, whether it be 20 dollars or 200 dollars, each donation was very much appreciated. It is nice because the Ontario government will (and has) match(ed) every dollar donated. Each donator had the option of choosing how their money was used (i.e. Bursary fund, Student Council…) which is also a neat factor.

If you or someone you know still wants to donate it isn’t too late. You can do so online, by phone call or by sending a cheque to Brescia.

So I hope that next time you see a 1-800 or “Solicitor” number, you think twice. After all, maybe the money is going to a GREAT cause like the money we fundraised is.

❤ Molly

Have you ever conversed with a friendly telemarketer? Have you ever had an experience similar to mine? Leave a comment below!

Merry Christmas!

Christmas is supposed to be about giving, sharing, loving and visiting but all too often we get caught up in the idea of getting.

Life Is About Giving Not Only Getting

The word Christmas comes from the old English “Cristes maesse” meaning Christ’s Mass. After all, the Holiday celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ with caroling, gifts, feasts and family gatherings. The concept of  jolly old St. Nick delivering presents has also been around for some time. While he used to distribute clementines, socks and smaller emblems, “Santa” has begun carrying larger gifts in his sleigh. This “Father Christmas” knows just what to bring because children write letters detailing their requests. It used to be that these letters were tossed into the fireplace rather than in the mailbox, because “Father Christmas” could read the wishes through the smoke. It’s for that reason that Santa is also said to enter houses through the chimney (This magical location is enhanced by the mystery of smoke and secrecy). It’s thought that “stockings” are hung to catch anything that Santa drops (In the old in days they believed that he dropped coins) down the chimney by accident (To prevent it from falling down the ash grate).

Another holiday tradition is singing. Caroling comes from the meaning “Song of you”. Serenaders used to travel from house to house singing songs while spreading the holiday spirit. While today they are known as Carolers, groups of people still rejoice ancient carols in hopes of lifting the winter spirits.

I can never resist a Candy Cane treat!

Decorating Christmas trees and hanging greens such as holly and ivy are also winter traditions that help boost winter spirits. After all, winter can be one of the most depressing seasons. These traditions not only build a sense of routine, they also create community through generations.

So while presents may seem like the BIGGEST part of Christmas celebrations, they aren’t! Food, Family and Friends are definitely MUSTS along with the memories, love and support that they provide.

❤ Molly

What did you do this holiday season? Were you able to give back by volunteering in the community? Did you go Christmas Caroling? Did you at least have a full Christmas feast?

Leave a comment below!! (Stay tuned for photos of my holiday celebration!!!)

While I’m not on my way to the North Pole, after closing residence for the Christmas Break, finishing my Christmas shopping and writing three exams, I am finally on my way home.

Sitting in the train station, I was a part of a small number of students extremely anxious to get home for the holidays.

As some of my fellow passengers almost broke out in a half-run when the train pulled up, I started to reflect on all the great things about being one of the last students on campus.

1. Getting a guaranteed seat on the bus (and train)! No more standing for me, even during rush hour times on the busiest bus routes.
2. No lines at the Starbucks Kiosk!
3. Having time to do my aforementioned Christmas shopping!
4. Reduced times for takeout- never has my pizza come so fast
5. Open displays of Christmas become acceptable (I apologize to my floor for the constant loop of Christmas music and the frequent wearing of my always obnoxious, yet classic, “Grinch” socks)
6. Coming home is so much more exciting, and I actually almost finished my Holiday chocolate calendar this year!

The best feeling? My station stop is next!

Wishing you the Merriest Christmas yet,

Christine

I’ve decided that I am going to start many of my subsequent writings with an applicable quote in hopes of capturing the theme of the post in an inspirational manner. After all, many of you enjoyed my last post and it was solely composed of quotes. So here it goes:

“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” – Leo Buscaglie

Recently, I was in a vulnerable position and was unsure of what to do with myself. Overwhelmed by my fear of failure, exam time was just becoming too much for me to handle. While my parents were able to give me great advice, along with MANY supportive friends, I still felt an emptiness in my stomach that yearned for a solution.

With time, a friend suggested that I look to God for an answer. And so I did.

Although this was only a few days ago, I have progressed into a much better place now. For this reason, I still seek God’s advice and courage.

I’ve never been one to go to church or even read the bible. I grew up in French immersion (not Catholicism or Christianity) and even when I accepted Brescia’s admission offer I had no plans of going to church.  Religion has always been in the back of my mind, but because I wasn’t baptized nor did I celebrate my first communion, I figured I had “missed the boat”. Thank goodness for a fried of mind, otherwise this WRONG attitude would still be taking place in my mind.

You can pray anywhere. You don't necessarily need to be kneeling or in church. Try praying on the bus, as you walk to class or even in bed.

As I said this week, I started going to church. My friend dragged me there (I went reluctantly and hesitantly) and even introduced me to the Father. While I still know very little about the bible and it’s stories, I do know how to pray and how to believe. I was honoured when Father Vincent gave me a rosary and a personalized bible. It is really neat because it is a book of new testaments with a “directory”. The directory allows you to choose how you are feeling, and provides perfect citations that relate to that emotion.

I am glad that my misconception was corrected otherwise I know the gap in my stomach and heart would never have been filled. This isn’t to say my fears are miraculously cured however I am doing much better.

So I guess what I am trying to say is that it doesn’t matter how old you are, it is never too late to go to church. Even if you can’t go to church, you may want to pray on your own. Or if religion isn’t your thing, leave a comment to let me know how you get over your worries and qualms. I find it very reassuring to know that someone is there looking out for me. It doesn’t matter which religion you are, as long as you are faithful to your beliefs your uncertainties and doubts should dissapear.

I think this relates to the quote, because the power of the prayers I am saying and the power of the sermon performed by the Father really impacted my life. We often look for life changing events or presents to cure our sadness when in reality  small words can add up to huge impacts.

❤ Molly

Have you been to church before? If so, what is your favourite part? I personally like hearing the choir sing and internalizing the theme of the day.

Since this has been a VERY stressful time for most university students, I thought I would try to ease some anxiety and write a simple post (for my own sake included) with a few of my FAVOURITE motivational quotes! I hope you enjoy the preceding sayings as much as I do. I find that reading them on days where I just want to “give up”, (Whether that be to not study, to not go to class or to not go to the gym) definitely lifts my spirits and changes my attitude!

The Truth about Success!

“Be the change that you want to see in the world.” – Ghandi

“If you never change your mind, why have one?”
- Edward De Bono

“Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.” – Helen Keller

“It is never too late to be what you might have been.” – George Elliott

“Sometimes you have to fight a battle more than once before you’ve won.” – Margaret Thatcher

“You can’t pick the hand you’re dealt, but you can choose how you play your cards.” – T.H.

“A person who wants something will find a way… A person who doesn’t will find an excuse…” – Stephen Dolley Jr.

“Worrying is like a rocking chair, it gives you something to do, but doesn’t get you anywhere.” – Van Wilder

“If you chase two rabbits, both will escape.” – Author Unknown

“Don’t let yesterday use up too much of today.” – Will Rogers

“Whether you think you can or think you can’t – you are right.” – Henry Ford

❤ Molly

What are your favourite quotes?

I am delighted to report the London received it’s first delivery downpour of snow last night.

For those of you who didn’t know, London was on a rain watch from Monday night until Wednesday night. I wasn’t kidding when I said it rains a lot at Western. Thankfully, temperatures decreased enough that the rain turned to snow and Brescia literally became white. Ok.. the white didn’t last AS LONG as I had hoped but it did stay for a couple of hours.

I wish I had captured a better picture but I was on my way to an 8:30 chemistry class. A snow storm + 8:30 + Chemistry = A dedicated student. I seriously think there were only 40 of us in our normally full (700 people) lecture hall. Thank goodness for my heavy duty winter coat and my new boots ! (Ok I may be exaggerating slightly, especially considering the winters London gets, but come on, it WAS cold! A tree also fell down!

This is on Western's Main Campus! Doesn't it look similar to Brescia? The hill isn't quite as daunting!

I couldn't figure out why traffic was backed up. When I finally reached the stoplight I saw this! Eek!

In spirit of the winter season, I thought it was appropriate to post a few pictures of my door decorations. As a fun activity on the weekend (I was fortunate enough to go home), I painted a christmas tree on brown paper (Environmentally friendly) and made a paper chain. The tree was based on a picture from a Chatelaine Magazine my mom received.

My door from afar!

I'm not an artist (or an Art student) but I do think it looks pretty good!

Up close! Thankfully my sister helped me paint!

It looks almost as good as a real sunday. Remember those vintage sundae cups I bought at the Brescia united way sale? I decided to decorate them by stuffing them with homemade pom poms!!

I used two different christmas papers to make my chain! My mom cut out the strips and I did the glueing!

What do you think? Spirited enough? There are lots of other great door decorations here at Ursuline hall. For example…

A Present door!

Pink wrapping paper!

This door is so colourful and is definitely one of my favourites. It reminds of the festival of lights! Have you been before?

Our lounge is covered in christmas lights!

I don't know who isn't counting down the days until Christmas (Or at least until exams are over)!

Paper snowflakes are always a fun craft!

Who can resist a big sparkly bow?

I encourage each and every one of you to decorate your house/room/apartment/locker in some way shape or form. If you don’t celebrate christmas, why not decorate it with a winter theme? It’s definitely a great activity to de-stress!

Be sure to share comments below about your favourite winter activities! (Snowboarding, Skiing, Building Snowmen, Making warm soup, Cutting out snowflakes, Baking gingerbread cookies, Decorating your Christmas tree…)

Like the high winds that have almost blown me off my bike, the month of November has flown by! Preoccupied by what seemed to be a never ending list of assignments and readings, I finally have a moment to collect my thoughts on all that has happened since my last blog.

As I was on my way to grab a late night snack in the cafeteria tonight, I heard laughter and giggling coming from the Booth Lounge, only to find a Movember Party in full swing, put on by the Brescia University College Residence Council.

Residents had the opportunity to make moustaches out of faux fur…and then take pictures with their “mo’s” in exchange for a small donation.

It was quite a process….

with some pretty great (and hilarious) results…

It’s hard to believe, and easy to get stressed about next week’s mid year exams, but after tonight’s observation, I recommend donning a faux moustache and remembering that in less than 25 days, we’ll all be home for Christmas.

- Christine