riverjacksonx

[riverjacksonx]

I guess that's one way to look at it. But honestly, I don't think minimalism is all that bad. I mean, less stuff means less to clean. That's a plus, right?

As for the perks, there's just a great community vibe. There’s actually quite a bit of stuff to do for a small town too. There's usually something going on for the whole town, we got good coffee shops, and just a lot of little local spots you can hang out with friends.

Minimalist is a label people give themselves when they can't afford what they really want, I don't know how it's become such a cute & quirky thing. What I should have done is gotten a two bedroom instead of a one & used the spare as the closet. Guess hindsight's always 20/20, makes sense why people say that all the time now.

Yeah? Care to elaborate on said perks?

[riverjacksonx]

Blast music as loud as you can and just jam out. Or if you happen to have a guitar or some other instrument, sometimes that can help. Honestly though, the best remedy I've found is food. But hey, if screaming into the void helps, maybe find a place where you can let it rip? Better out than in, right?

The closer we get to Halloween / Samhain, the more I just want to stand outside screaming. Which is neither productive nor a good idea, but it's better than wanting to jump in my truck and drive until I feel like I can breathe again.

What do normal people do to get weird feelings out of their system? I'd like to live vicariously through you.

[riverjacksonx]

Well, he sounds like my kind of guy. You'll definitely want to give that food truck a try, though. I hear the owner’s grilled cheese is legendary 😜 But seriously, a staycation sounds perfect. Sometimes staying local is the best way to recharge. Let me know when you're free, and I'll treat you to something from that amazing food truck.

Well thank you for the reassurance, sometimes even I need a little confidence boost. And I am staying home, just having a little staycation and relaxing around town. You know, maybe hitting up this hot new food truck I keep seeing people talk about, though I hear the owner is pretty cheesy.

[riverjacksonx]

I feel you on that. Moving’s already a nightmare without having to play Tetris with your stuff. Honestly, living out of boxes isn’t the worst thing in the world—you could call it a minimalist phase or something. If the closet's that bad, maybe some new shelving or an extra dresser could help? Bearcreek has its perks, though. You might end up liking it here, once you're not surrounded by cardboard.

Is it even worth unpacking or would it be considered just pure laziness to live out of boxes? Considering my clothes probably won't even fit in the new closet, it makes it all kind of a moot point anyway. You're not off to the best start, Bearcreek.

[riverjacksonx]

Yeah, I hear you on that. I think when you really love something, even the overwhelming parts feel kind of... worth it, you know? I bet those first few surgeries must’ve been intense but rewarding in the same way. And you’re totally right, Bearcreek folks aren’t exactly the type to make your life difficult. Plus, if they did, I’m sure you’d have my back, ha.

It’s great that you’ve been able to ease back into things so smoothly. That whole "relaxation" thing is definitely a weird adjustment when you’re used to being on the go all the time. Maybe next time, you’ll be even better at it. Got any other vacations or big plans lined up, or is it back to full-on work mode for a while?

That's great, though. That's when you know that you have a job you really love. When it can be overwhelming, but you still enjoy that rush of something you're passionate about. I felt similar to that during and after my first few surgeries. I can't imagine it getting the bad kind of overwhelming in Bearcreek; most people here are too nice to make your life hell, ha. I think taking things day by day is a good idea, especially in the beginning phases of a new business. If I've learned anything from watching all those shows on HGTV, it's that you have to take it day by day or you could get (bad) overwhelmed or even burn out quickly. I did! It was really great, and I'm glad that I got to check off so many things from my bucket list. I mean, in the overall sense it doesn't even make a dent, but that's not the point lol. I've been okay since I came back. It didn't take me too long to get back into the swing of things and shrug off vacation-mode, but I don't think anyone is surprised by that ha. I'm still getting used to this whole "vacation" and "relaxation" thing.

[riverjacksonx]

Haha, you’re definitely not slippin’—you’re just juggling a million things at once! But yeah, that vacation sounds like it’s coming at the perfect time. You’ve earned it, Daria. Where are you thinking of going? Somewhere warm and sunny or more of a cozy fall getaway?

Don't even worry about it! You've got your own boomin' business taking off so I totally understand. And thank you, I appreciate all the kind words, as always! Definitely have Thriller down, but oh my god, I can't believe I forgot about Somebody's Watching Me! Especially when that also features Michael Jackson. I'm slippin' up, all the more reason I need my vacation coming up in a couple weeks here.

[riverjacksonx]

I seriously wish I could’ve helped more with the remodel, but even though I wasn’t there, I’m really proud of you. You’ve done such an incredible job and I think it's safe to say that Java Jams is officially my new favorite spot to chill. Also, I’m so ready for the Halloween vibes! Maybe you could toss in 'Thriller' or 'Somebody’s Watching Me'?

Just wanted to thank everyone who came out today and celebrated the re-opening of the cafe. I hope you all enjoyed the tune selection and will have fun getting your groove on now while getting your coffees and treats! For those who weren't aware, Java Jams - formerly called The Confection Connection - is fully back open for business. And, if anyone has suggestions for some Halloween-themed songs to toss into the mix starting October 1st, let me know! I promise, I won't be switching to holiday-only playlists when the seasons change, I know especially if I did that for Christmas I'd likely drive quite a few customers away if it was non stop Jingle Bells. And also, special thank you to those of you who helped with the revamp, you're all amazing and the best friends I could ask for!

[riverjacksonx]

It’s been a bit overwhelming, but in a good way. The customers have been great so far though, so hopefully it doesn't get bad overwhelming. Hopefully you're right and it won't be too hard, but I won't stress that until we get there. Right now I'm just enjoying the ride and taking it day by day. It sounds like you had an amazing time in NYC—I'm so happy you got to tick off some bucket list items! How's it been since you been back? You still in vacation mode or did that shake off pretty quickly?

You should be jealous. Totally. Anjelah was amazing, so I was genuinely honored to see her show. I haven't laughed that hard in a very long time, so I'm happy that I got the chance to see her. The city was great! I've never been able to afford to actually go, so you know I did as many touristy things as I possibly could. I didn't get to do everything I wanted, but I got to do more than a few things that have been on my bucket list for years; with how close the city is, though, I'll get back eventually ha. I'm glad that your truck has been doing so well! Not at all surprised, your food is amazing so I would be surprised if it wasn't a success, but I'm super happy for you! I would offer my help, but with my shifts at the hospital I don't think it would work lol. That being said, I doubt you'll have a hard time finding help if you need it. Are you getting overwhelmed with all the orders? I can't imagine anyone from Bearcreek yelling at you, but if they do just let me know. Your food is totally worth the wait, and I have no problem yelling at someone on your behalf.

[riverjacksonx]

Not gonna lie, I'm a little jealous! Anjelah Johnson-Reyes is hilarious, that must have been an awesome show. How was the city? Did you get to do anything touristy? As for me, things have been good, just busy with the food truck. The response has been awesome, but I’m definitely feeling the grind. I might have to look into getting someone to help if it stays as busy as it's been.

I know I've been gone for a while, I apologize. I know you all missed me, but I needed a brief vacation. That being said, a few girls from the hospital and I went to New York City for a couple weeks for a much needed break. I was able to catchy a show Anjelah Johnson-Reyes put on, and may I just say that I am pretty sure I laughed my lungs out of my body. Anyway, how has everyone else been?

[riverjacksonx]

You're probably not too far off, honestly. I wouldn't be surprised if it was something that simple. Small towns have a way of naming things that just makes you think, 'Yeah, someone was definitely in a hurry.' But hey, could have been worse. Could have been named Boring or something like that.

I want to know what went on in whoever came up with the name of this town. I can picture it going something like... oh, look, a bear is minding his own business, fishing for some salmon in the creek, so let's call this Bearcreek.

What do you think happened?

[riverjacksonx]

Wow, and here I thought most bosses were complaining about not having enough people dedicated to the job these days. But I think I'm gonna have to side with your boss. Being outside is good for you.

Interesting, I will consider stopping by at some point. Boss thinks I spend too much time in my "cave".

[riverjacksonx]

Life's funny like that, isn't it? It's not the first time I've had a weird job change though. I was actually working retail before I signed up for the firefighter academy. That sounds like a plan! How about you let me know what kind of flavors you’re into, and then I can tell you what we have that fits?

Who would have thought, huh? Firefighter to grilled cheese connoisseur. Honestly, I'd sooner trust your judgment than my own when it comes to this particular subject, so I think I'd probably just let you give me your recommendation from the menu. I have been thinking about what to eat during my lunch break tomorrow, so maybe you just made that decision easier for me.

[riverjacksonx]

Oh, absolutely! We do have our own version of the buffalo chicken grilled cheese, and it’s become one of our popular items. We use a blend of spicy buffalo chicken, creamy cheese, and a touch of ranch dressing for the perfect kick. I think you’ll love it, especially if you’re a fan of that Disney version. And don’t worry, I’ll make sure to have it ready for you when you swing by. As for the apple one, it's better than it sounds. Kind of like putting a slice of cheese on apple pie. You think it's weird, but then you try it and wonder where it's been your entire life. It's definitely the thing to try if you're looking for something different.

You got your own take on the buffalo chicken grilled cheese like the one they have at Disney? I've been dying to try that recipe, but I never think about it when I'm getting groceries or when I actually sit to think about what I'm making for dinner. And a trip to Disney hasn't really been in the cards lately. So if you have one, I'll definitely make that my first purchase at the truck. Apples in a grilled cheese does sound pretty good, though.

[riverjacksonx]

A whole week of couch lounging and binge-watching? That sounds amazing! I don't know if I have any cheesy movie recs other than grabbing a bunch of movies from the 80's and 90's. Those were always cheesy in the best way. And of course it wouldn't be me without the cooking recs, but I absolutely suggest checking out The Great British Bake Off -- or there's a new one on Netflix that's all about carnival foods. Both are fun. Honestly I think most cooking shows are fun to watch, but that just be me.

I have a whole weeks' vacation coming up -- shocking, I know -- and my plan is to go nowhere, do nothing, and become one with my couch. Which begs the question: I need recommendations for the most ridiculous, cheesy, fun things to watch while I am going for Olympic gold in loafing. Movies preferred, but tv shows are also fair game. The more fun, the better. I have zero shame and a highly developed appreciation for the ridiculous.

Three-two-one-go.

[riverjacksonx]

Wow, that sounds intense! I can’t imagine getting smacked by a gust of wind and then dealing with a tree branch on top of that. I'd end the ride right there. You good though? Any cuts or anything? Not to go all first responder on you, especially since I know you got that area covered. Force of habit though, gotta ask if you're okay.

Please, please, please do me a solid. When it's a windy day, and you decide you want to go to the ranch for some horse riding or other activities that the ranch offers - don't wear something loose like a scarf or hat or something that could easily be blown off by a strong gust of wind. Do you know how jarring it is to be hit in the face mid-ride, and then have a tree branch knock you off your horse?

[riverjacksonx]

Thanks so much, Daria! I can’t wait to see you and hear your thoughts on our specialties. Your idea for a dessert grilled cheese sounds amazing—I haven't played around in the dessert area too much other than adding apples to one of the sandwiches, but it sounds like a delicious twist! And honestly, even if it was just a French Toast sandwich, that'd be bomb. I've seen people make grilled cheese with donuts, so I think I might try that and see how it turns out.

Ayy, congrats, Riv! You know I'll definitely be stopping by at least a few times a week, just so I can get a chance to try out each different specialty grilled cheese. Also I'm kind of tempted to figure out a "dessert" grilled cheese, just to have at the cafe in your honor. I'm thinking something with cream cheese and fruit filling with some brown or powdered sugar sprinkled on top. Which probably sounds more like a french toast sandwich, but hey, it's a work in progress now.

[riverjacksonx]

Moving around for now, so I've got a social page up for the truck that announces where we'll be if we've moved to a new spot. I'm hoping to also branch out, maybe hit Allentown or Philly once we get up and running.

Interesting. You a perma-location truck or do you just kind of set up anywhere you can get permission?