you don't own me

lauryn alexis hayward. 32. spending most of my days as a nurse at bearcreek family clinic & hospital. a little bit of a perfectionist.

[nick-duval]

My spreadsheets have spreadsheets, it's a problem. I like to think I'm prepared for every eventuality, though, so I'm embracing the perfectionism. And on that note -- what are the chances we might see you there, hmmmmmmm?

[laurynhayward]

Nonsense! If extensive spreadsheets are a problem, then I suppose I'd have to admit I have one, too. But I much prefer to think of it as us just being thoroughly prepared for anything. Well, I won't lie to you, if I didn't have a nature-loving boyfriend that feels otherwise, I'd say the chances would be low. Luckily for him, though, I'm so fond of him that I'm willing to bear the wilderness. Doesn't hurt that you've also made it sound considerably more tolerable either.

[jasminexsuttons]

Welcome to the chronicles of my adventures with Gabe. So I was with Gabriel today, doing our weekly "junk food" run so that Jacks doesn't make the kid grow up never tasting sugar or anything he deems 'unhealthy', and there was a DoorDash person waiting for food. Of course, he asked what DoorDash was, and then after I explained it, this kid looked at me and - without missing a beat - said "so it's fast food delivery for lazy people", and it took everything in me not to start laughing.

[laurynhayward]

A smart kid! He's not wrong, either. Honestly, as expensive as getting food delivered is these days, it's way better to simply place an order and go pick it up yourself so you don't have to deal with all the extra charges. He's got the right idea.

[nick-duval]

Okay, so I think I've found an option that might work for both tent and cabin camping, so let me know if you're actually interested in joining, yeah? It's pet friendly, of course -- I wouldn't pick someplace I couldn't take Max, not so soon after leaving him for two weeks. I'm looking at Labor Day weekend, and I figure we can all convene at one campsite or cabin during the day and evening, and then scatter to our respective accommodations at bedtime.

For those who might be interested: Keen Lake Camping & Cottages. It's about a 2 hour drive. Includes tent camping, lakefront "glamping" (tents with beds, but communal baths), and rental units with private baths. Plus it looks gorgeous, with lots of water activities on the lake, including a 'pet beach' that I think Max would LOVE to explore with some of his buddies!

And for anyone who's curious about the poll -- results below!

[laurynhayward]

First off, from one perfectionist to another, I have to compliment the thorough planning! Even though I've never been huge of camping in general, I have to admit, you've done your research and this actually sounds very reasonable and not too bad at all.

[staceylevcns]

alright my famalama-bing-bongs, now that i'm back from one of the most beeeeauuuutiful vacays and am officially starting my big girl job I need clothing recs, and or recs on what to do for meals that are gonna last me a few days.

[laurynhayward]

Well, firstly, welcome back! I'm sure it was over much too soon, but I'm glad you had such a beautiful vacation nonetheless. Secondly, what kind of clothing recs are you looking for?

[laurynhayward]

Nostalgia: what do you miss about summer breaks as a kid?

Honestly? Having nothing to do. Shocker, I know, but I was an overachiever then just as I am now so actually having several months with nothing specific on my agenda felt major. And freeing in a way since it literally forced me to take a breather every year summer break came.

[laurynhayward]

Feather: what’s your favorite animal?

A past me would have said cats undoubtedly, but one dog in particular has very firmly worked his way into my heart over the years, so... I'd have to give this to him. Just him, though. I don't mind dogs, but cats feel more in line with my personality, honestly.

[dariarutherford]

Daria: awesome, you the best! Daria: just keep me posted, i can also make sure to bake some goodies to bring along, we could actually just take a whole cooler with food, snacks, and drinks? Daria: and yassss you definitely need to treat yo'self. also that reminds me don't forget to bring your adorable bf along too because I'm sure you both could use a little date-fun even if it's in a group setting. plus I can see us maybe playing some volleyball on the beach, too? Daria: either way, we'll probably need more than one vehicle if I keep adding more people to invite, do we know anyone with a 3 row SUV? 😅

[laurynhayward]

Lauryn: sounds perfect! you can definitely be on food and drinks duty then. especially since i don't know many people more reliable than you in that area! Lauryn: admittedly, i was thinking of inviting him along, too! and you're right, we definitely do need it. not in a bad way, of course, just that we both have our busier schedules most the year, so summer sounds like the perfect time for us to slot in more time together. oh, and you know i'd be down for volleyball. just don't be too upset when i win, dar. 🤭 Lauryn: i'd... have to get back to you on that one since i can't think of anyone off the top of my head. we'll make it work though!

[mercedesjonesx]

Mercedes: a beach day sounds perfect right about now. i’m all in for some sunshine and good vibes. Mercedes: just let me know when, and i’ll bring the fun (and the sunscreen).

[laurynhayward]

Lauryn: i definitely will! everything's definitely still coming together right now - mostly due to myself and daria finding more and more people to invite. 😂 Lauryn: that being said, though, feel free to drop an invite to anyone you can think of to come along, too!

[dariarutherford]

Daria: yasss amazing, and that sounds perfect. probably also liv, gabe, lottie.... umm... maybe kurt and dom? personally I'm good for any day because I trust my staff enough to leave them for a day even if it's a day I'd normally be there, they're a good crew, so whatever you come up with just let me know Daria: it's honestly so entertaining I can't help it an i may lowkey crush on vinnie just a lil bit 🙈 Daria: plus it's the seaside heights boardwalk so there's rides and all that other fun stuff ugh man I'm getting so PUMPED just thinking about it!

[laurynhayward]

Lauryn: i'll take care of it! you know i love taking point on these things anyway. 😜 besides, you know how busy i like to keep myself, so if anything i'm the best one to find out everyone's availability and go from there! Lauryn: okay, okay, i can't fault you there at least. it may be varying in actual quality, but there's no denying reality tv is entertaining. especially when it usually always features attractive people. Lauryn: true! honestly, i'm getting excited too! this summer sounds like a perfect opportunity to treat myself more outside of my busy schedule and have more fun!

[mercedesjonesx]

text 📲 @laurynhayward

Mercedes: if no one’s told you today you’re killin’ it. even if you feel like a hot mess. ESPECIALLY if you feel like a hot mess.

[laurynhayward]

Lauryn: thank you, mercy. ❤️ from one confident woman to another, you're obviously killing it yourself. Lauryn: any chance you might be up for a beach day soon, lady? daria brought it up the other day and proposed at least the three of us, maybe some others, start making plans!

[dariarutherford]

Daria: It's finally beach weather! When are we planning a day trip? You, me, Mercedes, anyone else that wants to come? Daria: also is it bad I lowkey wanna hit Seaside Hieghts just to tour the shore house if it's open? GTL! GYM. TAN. LAUNDRY. Daria: don't judge me.

[laurynhayward]

Lauryn: ooh, you had me at planning! definitely the three of us, for sure, and open invitation to anyone else who would like to join us. i could start working on roughly finding out when would be a good time for everyone? Lauryn: it'd be a lie to say i'm not judging, but i'm doing it in a very loving way, i promise. ❤️ Lauryn: and, to be fair, i'm not totally opposed to the idea! why not?

[oliverjcnes]

text 📱 lauryn

Seth: How much blood should there be when you slice your thumb open? Seth: I promise I'm okay just uhhh don't know if I'm gonna need stitches

[laurynhayward]

Lauryn: erm, well, it’s a little difficult to judge from here, but roughly how much blood is there and how deep is the cut?

Lauryn: you feeling the need to ask is concerning, though, and probably suggests you should get it looked at regardless.

[dariarutherford]

text 📱 lauryn

Daria: GIRL.

[laurynhayward]

Lauryn: GIRL! don’t make me wait, what are we ‘girling’ about?!

[ethanxstjames]

Carter let out a disappointed groan as the last of the darts he had bounced off the balloon—not popped, bounced—and landed on the ground. He'd been so determined to win something for Lauryn, and so far he wasn't doing a great job. "I'm gonna blame the weather, this weather has not been the greatest this week," he half-joked, turning to look at his girlfriend with a goofy grin. "I guess, instead of me spending all my cash at the game, maybe we could take a look at some booths and I'll buy you whatever you want?"

He held out his hand for her to take, but paused before they could start walking. "Though first…" His stomach gave a low, insistent grumble. "I might’ve been rushing around this morning and forgot to eat." Most of his morning had gone to getting Scooby settled at his mom’s. Even if she’d be out for part of the day, her place was still the better option over his cramped apartment. He knew it was the right call, but he still hated heading out without his sidekick. "So, food first?" he asked, nudging her gently. "Anything catch your eye?"

@laurynhayward

[laurynhayward]

A hand reached out to her boyfriend's shoulder, a teasing yet genuine gesture of comfort as he failed to win the game. "Sure, let's go with that. Maybe we'll come back later and I'll win you something," she agreed with a joking smile. Lauryn certainly was competitive herself and had half a mind to try her own hand at it, but for now, she was content to simply spend time with Carter.

Not being able to help a laugh at the tell-tale grumbling of the man's stomach, she leaned in and pressed a kiss to his cheek. "I think that's a great idea, but yes, let's feed you first," she responded with a giggle. Humming in thought, she motioned across the way from them. "Maybe something from Lizzie's Place?" she suggested. "There's Matt's barbecue too, but unfortunately, if you want that, I'd have to suggest you come back later without me. Barbecue has always been a bit too messy for my liking."

[ethanxstjames]

Oh trust me, I didn't watch it either, but my students did and I saw a few articles about episodes. Talk about a fever dream in the worst way, from what I heard and read. Which is why I fear for the Mystery Gang... Thanks, babe, I appreciate that though. But we don't have to wait until this potential nightmare begins to binge watch some good ol' OG Scooby! And honestly, I think in the end I just needed to vent about it. Especially after what leaked of the Powerpuff Girls live action that thankfully won't see the light of day. And I hope since that failed, that they also don't touch Ed, Edd, & Eddy, Dexter's Laboratory, or... I shudder to even think how a live action Cow & Chicken would go.

[laurynhayward]

This is true. My only condition would be that Scoob watches with us and I get most of the cuddles from him. Yeah, honestly, I can't say I see how live actions of any of those would work, so I think you're safe. Particularly Cow & Chicken, which... although I never caught many episodes of that growing up, based off of the bits of it I do remember, I... can't really imagine how they'd go about that. In any case, though, you know I'm happy to be the soundboard for any of your rants. God knows how many times you've been mine for any unruly patients I have.

[mackfabray]

I spent a few years living nearby when I was a kid, but I don't remember much of that time. In many ways this place reminds me of Texas, of where I called home for most of my life. I'm a poet, so it's not something that requires continuous reading. But I will definitely let you know.

[laurynhayward]

Well, now I'm curious in what ways this reminds you of Texas. Otherwise, though, I'm glad that you've managed to find a sense of home here all the same. Even better then! I read books rarely enough, so you can imagine it's even rarer for me to dabble in poetry, so I'll be looking forward to it.

[ethanxstjames]

You're not wrong. Velma did set the bar super low, so I guess technically anything else should be better. But come on...Riverdale's creators? They took Archie and somehow turned it into a mix of murder, cults, secret twins, and high school musical numbers. What are they gonna do with Scooby-Doo? Fred’s secretly in the mob, Daphne’s cursed, and Shaggy’s some tortured soul with a tragic backstory? It just feels like they’re gonna take something meant to be goofy and fun and twist it into something gritty and dramatic. I know I’m probably overthinking it, but the OG series and live action movies meant a lot to me growing up.

[laurynhayward]

Now I can only wish I could say anything about all that. I didn't really partake in any of the Riverdale craze when it was a thing. Perhaps a good thing, in retrospect. But the good thing is that nobody's forcing your hand and even if you did watch and were disappointed, it doesn't have to ruin anything about the original series for you unless you let it. How about this? Whenever it gets released, how about I set some time aside to have a little marathon and watch of the original movies with you to keep your mind off of it?