Senior Year.
No I'm not about to launch into a high-school musical number... but I am already thinking about the many things I will miss about Utah State. Like Aggie Ice Cream and naps on the quad. This is my last semester and I am torn about whether I want to get out of here, or stick around a bit longer....
Lately my life has been full of change. Each change brings with it a new challenge and also blessings.
New Apartment-- Blessing: I have 3 new roomates and all seem to be cool so far. Challenge: Hot water is off, had to take cold showers all week
New Calling-- Blessing: I get to serve as Relief Society President for lots of incredible girls. Challenge: busy busy busy
New Boyfriend-- Blessing: He's amazing :) Challenge: coordinating two completely opposite schedules
No Job-- Blessing: I don't have anymore on-call shifts for housing. Challenge: $$$
New Classes- Blessing: I'm learning. Challenge: In order to do well in these classes I will need to sacrifice sleep.
Overall though I am really happy with the way my life is going. Yes there have been changes and yes some people have fought those changes. But I am embracing them. Let change come and take me somewhere new. I'm ready for a life adventure.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Monday, August 3, 2009
the wheels on the bus go round and round
My summer job has reached a close. No more fun summer days playing slapjack and 4 square with elementary kids. This job is by far the best job I've ever had. I've learned so much from these kids. Here are just a few of the pieces of wisdom that I obtained from my Summer Camp job:
-not everyone can be an autobot in life, some people are going to be punk decepticons.
-sometimes we all just need to put our heads on the desk for a minute and chill out.
-making it through p.e. without any kids crying is impossible.
-kids, like adults, can choose optimism or pessimism-- who can forget the little girl who came to me sobbing because one of the boys in the class told her she was good at soccer. "Ms. Katie he said I was good at soccer and I know I'm not, he lied .... WAHHHH"
-food is the universal language. "Taco? Enchilada? Burrito!"
-sometimes you are BOOM ROASTED
-I love silence
-I love noise
-paint will go everywhere, no matter what
-you can't please everyone
-jealousy in no way improves your life
-watching kids grow and learn is really rewarding
-Bill Cosby wasn't lying when he told us, "Kids Say the Darndest Things"
-secret handshakes and hi-fives are the best
-walking into school and having all the kids yell "MS. KATIE IS HERE!" is the best self esteem boost in the world
-kids have no idea when you make up the games or when you improv an activity, it's just as much fun for them
-sometimes you have to spike the ball in 4 square, to keep the kids humble
-sometimes the kids humble you with a sweet 4 square shot
-getting out in lightning is not the end of the world
-elementary flirting is hilarious to watch
-I love working with kids
-not everyone can be an autobot in life, some people are going to be punk decepticons.-sometimes we all just need to put our heads on the desk for a minute and chill out.
-making it through p.e. without any kids crying is impossible.
-kids, like adults, can choose optimism or pessimism-- who can forget the little girl who came to me sobbing because one of the boys in the class told her she was good at soccer. "Ms. Katie he said I was good at soccer and I know I'm not, he lied .... WAHHHH"
-food is the universal language. "Taco? Enchilada? Burrito!"
-sometimes you are BOOM ROASTED
-I love silence
-I love noise
-paint will go everywhere, no matter what
-you can't please everyone
-jealousy in no way improves your life
-watching kids grow and learn is really rewarding
-Bill Cosby wasn't lying when he told us, "Kids Say the Darndest Things"
-secret handshakes and hi-fives are the best
-walking into school and having all the kids yell "MS. KATIE IS HERE!" is the best self esteem boost in the world
-kids have no idea when you make up the games or when you improv an activity, it's just as much fun for them
-sometimes you have to spike the ball in 4 square, to keep the kids humble
-sometimes the kids humble you with a sweet 4 square shot
-getting out in lightning is not the end of the world
-elementary flirting is hilarious to watch
-I love working with kids
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
I've gotta get back to the house on Pooh Corner
This summer I am working at an elementary school-- with a program that is essentially an all day, day-care. The past month has been an adventure to say the least. Every day I learn new things about myself and about working with children. It has me rethinking just about everything in my life.
The thing that was most surprising to me was how easy it was to get to know the kids. In most settings I have an almost impossible time trying to memorize names of people. It seems that college students can be so similar that it is hard to remember which girl with long brown hair is which. (I feel ok using the brunette example because I fall into that category).
With kids it is whole different ball game. It was incredibly easy to memorize the names of the 30 kids in the program. I've decided that this is because elementary kids are each complete originals. They have yet to fall into the trap of trying to be like someone else. They are not at all self conscious about the way that they act. They are just themselves completely and unapologetically. While many parts of my job leave me exhausted, there is something completely refreshing about getting to know kids who are unconcerned with their hair getting out of place during a game of 4 square and who don't really care that they forgot to zip up their fly the entire day. Kids who are truly unique.
When I meet people it is easy to put them into categories. While stereotyping can be negative, I just find it easier to understand people by personality types. It's sort of a compilation of all those color tests, the A/B thing and other basic observations that allow me to understand people on some level. These kids don't fit into any of those categories yet.
Maybe it is something that comes with age, or maybe we are born with unique personalities and throughout jr. high and high school we try so hard to be like everyone else that we lose it... and then we spend the rest of our lives trying to reclaim our unique personality traits.
The thing that was most surprising to me was how easy it was to get to know the kids. In most settings I have an almost impossible time trying to memorize names of people. It seems that college students can be so similar that it is hard to remember which girl with long brown hair is which. (I feel ok using the brunette example because I fall into that category).
With kids it is whole different ball game. It was incredibly easy to memorize the names of the 30 kids in the program. I've decided that this is because elementary kids are each complete originals. They have yet to fall into the trap of trying to be like someone else. They are not at all self conscious about the way that they act. They are just themselves completely and unapologetically. While many parts of my job leave me exhausted, there is something completely refreshing about getting to know kids who are unconcerned with their hair getting out of place during a game of 4 square and who don't really care that they forgot to zip up their fly the entire day. Kids who are truly unique.
When I meet people it is easy to put them into categories. While stereotyping can be negative, I just find it easier to understand people by personality types. It's sort of a compilation of all those color tests, the A/B thing and other basic observations that allow me to understand people on some level. These kids don't fit into any of those categories yet.
Maybe it is something that comes with age, or maybe we are born with unique personalities and throughout jr. high and high school we try so hard to be like everyone else that we lose it... and then we spend the rest of our lives trying to reclaim our unique personality traits.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
oh what a day is today
It seems like forever since I've updated this blog, and so much really has changed. I completed my junior year at USU and left my job as resident assistant. I am now living off campus (in the cutest apartment complete with a washer and dryer!!) I am working at an elementary school in Hyrum this summer. So far we've just been planning all of our activities, I am so excited for it all to come together. This is a very different job for me, but I feel like it will be good for me. I'm loving my new ward, where I am once again in the relief society presidency. Even though it is a daunting calling, I am excited to try to do better and stretch myself.
My life has fallen into a comfortable rhythym in which I wake up, work out, and then work on my thesis all day. (I will hopefully have a draft done before the end of June!) Afternoons and evenings are spent hiking, picnicking, movie watching and pretty much hanging out with my friends.
I am absolutely in love with Cache Valley in the summer. If it weren't for winter I could see myself settling down here permanently. There have been some incredible lightening storms the last few nights and the whole valley is so green.
This summer has meant a lot of big changes for me all at once, which has never been my forte, but I really feel like I'm growing and getting ready for whatever is coming next in my life.
My life has fallen into a comfortable rhythym in which I wake up, work out, and then work on my thesis all day. (I will hopefully have a draft done before the end of June!) Afternoons and evenings are spent hiking, picnicking, movie watching and pretty much hanging out with my friends.
I am absolutely in love with Cache Valley in the summer. If it weren't for winter I could see myself settling down here permanently. There have been some incredible lightening storms the last few nights and the whole valley is so green.
This summer has meant a lot of big changes for me all at once, which has never been my forte, but I really feel like I'm growing and getting ready for whatever is coming next in my life.
Friday, February 27, 2009
3 am and I'm still awake
Today I got back from class and without meaning to, fell asleep for 3 hours. Due to this irregular nap I'm still awake. It's ok though, I've managed to get a lot accomplished this evening. Including, finishing my Barbie for the USU Barbie Bash.
This is my Feminist Myth Barbie. She has a butch hair cut, nasty eye brows, hairy legs and pits, oh and she is burning a bra. All of the many myths combined into one doll.
My life is crazy busy right now, but hopefully spring break will be a nice chance to catch up on things. Also I just got a webcam, so I'm really excited to start vlogging.
That's all I really have to say for now. remember the alamo.
This is my Feminist Myth Barbie. She has a butch hair cut, nasty eye brows, hairy legs and pits, oh and she is burning a bra. All of the many myths combined into one doll. My life is crazy busy right now, but hopefully spring break will be a nice chance to catch up on things. Also I just got a webcam, so I'm really excited to start vlogging.
That's all I really have to say for now. remember the alamo.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Monday Monday
Woke up this morning bright and early.
Drove back two hours back to Logan in the rain.
Need new windshield wipers.
Went to institute.
Thoroughly enjoyed class.
In my WGS office.
Reading a book on modeling (not what you think).
Debating getting a Marv'n Joe for breakfast.
Marv'n Joe=
thick slice of bread from Hazel's
garlic butter
oil and vinegar
salt and pepper
tomatoes
provolone cheese
parmesan cheese
melted.
It's going to be a busy week.
midterms
making barbies for the bash
speak easy
research
2 weeks to spring break. can't wait!
Drove back two hours back to Logan in the rain.
Need new windshield wipers.
Went to institute.
Thoroughly enjoyed class.
In my WGS office.
Reading a book on modeling (not what you think).
Debating getting a Marv'n Joe for breakfast.
Marv'n Joe=
thick slice of bread from Hazel's
garlic butter
oil and vinegar
salt and pepper
tomatoes
provolone cheese
parmesan cheese
melted.
It's going to be a busy week.
midterms
making barbies for the bash
speak easy
research
2 weeks to spring break. can't wait!
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Valentine's Party
This year for Valentine's Day I had a dinner party with the guys next door and the girls down the hall. We went all out on decorations and food. It was amazing, one of the best meals I have ever eaten. Everything was delicious! After the dinner we had a cleaning/dancing/singing party we washed dishes and belted josh groban songs for an hour or so. Then we brought a couple of mattresses into the front room got lots of pillows and blankets and put on a scary movie.
Maren and I eating our appetizers
Nate and I singing and cleaning
Overall it was one of the most fun nights I have had in college!
Get up, stand up. Stand up for your rights.
It's been awhile since I've blogged on here because life has been so busy! I am loving everything I am involved with though. I am working hard on the Women and Gender Studies Barbie Bash and am planning a retro bake sale fundraiser.
The most exciting thing I've done since I last blogged, was participate in a rally. The Utah state legislature wanted to cut the budget or higher education by almost 20% the cuts were ridiculously huge. So the students at Utah State rallied together and we went to the capitol building with posters where we told our legilators how we feel.
And true to myself-- for the ride down I burned a protext mix cd featuring: Bob Marley, the Kingston Trio, Billy Joel and U2
The most exciting thing I've done since I last blogged, was participate in a rally. The Utah state legislature wanted to cut the budget or higher education by almost 20% the cuts were ridiculously huge. So the students at Utah State rallied together and we went to the capitol building with posters where we told our legilators how we feel.
And true to myself-- for the ride down I burned a protext mix cd featuring: Bob Marley, the Kingston Trio, Billy Joel and U2
Saturday, January 3, 2009
A Great Start to a New Year!!
2008 is out (thank goodness, what a bad year!) and 2009 is already going swimmingly.
I had an incredible 3 week break at home with my family. I was able to sleep in, play games, watch movies, eat fantastic food and relax. It was exactly what I needed. This week my cousin Chelsea came to town. She is in the army and only gets to visit a few weeks of the year, and I am so glad she was able to spend two of those weeks with us (one in June and this past week). The great thing about Chelsea is that we can go months, probably even years without seeing each other and when we finally see each other again we pick right back up where we left off- movie quotes, Special K and a lot of laughing!!
Yesterday morning I got up early and headed back to Logan. I really do love that drive, it is the perfect length of time. I was able to listen to my new Ingrid Michaelson cd 2 and a half times before I pulled into my apartment. After a full day of training for work I crashed at 10:30. I got up bright and early this morning to prepare for my radio interview. I was a guest on Senator Stephenson's Red Meat Radio show. We talked about the research I am doing at Utah State. That was pretty cool :)
I am so excited for 2009. Everything seems to be perfect so far and I have high hopes for this semester's classes. Every year I make a huge list of New Year's resolutions and I usually accomplish one or two of the 60 or so that I come up with. This year I have decided to include more people in the goal making process so that I feel more encouraged to keep these resolutions. So this year my goals are:
1-workout 5 days a week~ the plan is to get up at 6 every day to go running. I'm making the guys next door run with me so that if I sleep in they can bang on the wall and wake me up.
2-eat healthy~ no longer will I consider marshmallow mateys and m&ms the basis of my diet. Instead I plan on eating fresh fruits, veggies and whole grains. I have a juicer and a bread machine that I plan to use often!
3-be frugal~ in order to save money for my internship in DC this summer I am going to go out to eat less often and not buy any new clothes this semester.
4-write more~ I love writing, but I usually put off journal writing and such until summer and winter breaks when I have time. This year I am going to try and write more often.
5-keep a clean apartment~ no more leaving dishes in the sink for a week because I am "too busy"
6-be less busy~ to avoid burnout this semester I am going to try and free up more of my time by watching less tv and using facebook less often
7-devote more time to scripture study~ last year I made scripture study a consistent habit, this year I want to improve my study by spending more time reading and by being more organized in my study
8-serve others~ when I get busy it is easy to become self-absorbed, so this year I will try to do a good turn a day. I'm going to try to look outside myself and do more to help others
9-be cheerful~ I want to be more optimistic this year by speaking postively about others and myself and looking for the good in every situation.
10-spend less time on school~ I know this sounds strange, but last semester I really spent way too much time on school, so this year I am going to treat school like a job by doing homework right after classes and in the mornings before class, but in the afternoons and evenings I'll put it away and not think about it. It'll be a real challenge for me, but I hope that it will be good for me.
I had an incredible 3 week break at home with my family. I was able to sleep in, play games, watch movies, eat fantastic food and relax. It was exactly what I needed. This week my cousin Chelsea came to town. She is in the army and only gets to visit a few weeks of the year, and I am so glad she was able to spend two of those weeks with us (one in June and this past week). The great thing about Chelsea is that we can go months, probably even years without seeing each other and when we finally see each other again we pick right back up where we left off- movie quotes, Special K and a lot of laughing!!
Here is a picture of all the girls and our fantastic photo shoot.
Yesterday morning I got up early and headed back to Logan. I really do love that drive, it is the perfect length of time. I was able to listen to my new Ingrid Michaelson cd 2 and a half times before I pulled into my apartment. After a full day of training for work I crashed at 10:30. I got up bright and early this morning to prepare for my radio interview. I was a guest on Senator Stephenson's Red Meat Radio show. We talked about the research I am doing at Utah State. That was pretty cool :)
I am so excited for 2009. Everything seems to be perfect so far and I have high hopes for this semester's classes. Every year I make a huge list of New Year's resolutions and I usually accomplish one or two of the 60 or so that I come up with. This year I have decided to include more people in the goal making process so that I feel more encouraged to keep these resolutions. So this year my goals are:
1-workout 5 days a week~ the plan is to get up at 6 every day to go running. I'm making the guys next door run with me so that if I sleep in they can bang on the wall and wake me up.
2-eat healthy~ no longer will I consider marshmallow mateys and m&ms the basis of my diet. Instead I plan on eating fresh fruits, veggies and whole grains. I have a juicer and a bread machine that I plan to use often!
3-be frugal~ in order to save money for my internship in DC this summer I am going to go out to eat less often and not buy any new clothes this semester.
4-write more~ I love writing, but I usually put off journal writing and such until summer and winter breaks when I have time. This year I am going to try and write more often.
5-keep a clean apartment~ no more leaving dishes in the sink for a week because I am "too busy"
6-be less busy~ to avoid burnout this semester I am going to try and free up more of my time by watching less tv and using facebook less often
7-devote more time to scripture study~ last year I made scripture study a consistent habit, this year I want to improve my study by spending more time reading and by being more organized in my study
8-serve others~ when I get busy it is easy to become self-absorbed, so this year I will try to do a good turn a day. I'm going to try to look outside myself and do more to help others
9-be cheerful~ I want to be more optimistic this year by speaking postively about others and myself and looking for the good in every situation.
10-spend less time on school~ I know this sounds strange, but last semester I really spent way too much time on school, so this year I am going to treat school like a job by doing homework right after classes and in the mornings before class, but in the afternoons and evenings I'll put it away and not think about it. It'll be a real challenge for me, but I hope that it will be good for me.
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