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.
Friday, December 5, 2008
forward motion
I've come to realize that in my life I am either moving 100 miles an hour or I am not moving--- there is no inbetween for me.
Since junior high I've found myself making daily schedules, which generally have little to no free time penciled in. After my last disastrously stressful 20 credit semester I though this time I'd take it easy with 12 credits. Even though I had inteded for this to be a nice chill semester, it has ended up as my usual crazy life. I quickly found things sneaking into all of my planned free time. My calling in the Relief Society, my job, being a Koch Scholar, clubs, committees, and of course friends and family have filled my time.
None of the things I'm involved with are bad. It's just a lot of stuff. Right now I am pretty burnt out. I've averaged about 3 hours of sleep a night this week. I'm getting down to the end. I have no more classes to go to, but I do still have a 12 page paper for my Law Politics and War final, a 20 page paper about Sarah Palin to edit for my Parites and Elections class, and 2 monstrous- comprehensive finals.
I really don't love how busy I am, but I suppose it is better than the alternative, which is not moving.
This week Elder Wirthlin of the Quorom of the Twelve Apostles passed away. I decided to re-read talk from the last conference, it was one of my favorites. The tag-line in his talk is my new motto: "Come what may... and love it!" It's easy to get down on life when I am so stressed, but this finals week I am trying to love it. I was reading 2 Nephi 4: 16-35 tonight and just felt so happy. I'm realizing that it's really all going to be ok. Rather than falling apart I need to smile and move forward.
While I need to learn to maybe move a little slower in life, for now I'm just learning to love it, all of it.
Since junior high I've found myself making daily schedules, which generally have little to no free time penciled in. After my last disastrously stressful 20 credit semester I though this time I'd take it easy with 12 credits. Even though I had inteded for this to be a nice chill semester, it has ended up as my usual crazy life. I quickly found things sneaking into all of my planned free time. My calling in the Relief Society, my job, being a Koch Scholar, clubs, committees, and of course friends and family have filled my time.
None of the things I'm involved with are bad. It's just a lot of stuff. Right now I am pretty burnt out. I've averaged about 3 hours of sleep a night this week. I'm getting down to the end. I have no more classes to go to, but I do still have a 12 page paper for my Law Politics and War final, a 20 page paper about Sarah Palin to edit for my Parites and Elections class, and 2 monstrous- comprehensive finals.
I really don't love how busy I am, but I suppose it is better than the alternative, which is not moving.
This week Elder Wirthlin of the Quorom of the Twelve Apostles passed away. I decided to re-read talk from the last conference, it was one of my favorites. The tag-line in his talk is my new motto: "Come what may... and love it!" It's easy to get down on life when I am so stressed, but this finals week I am trying to love it. I was reading 2 Nephi 4: 16-35 tonight and just felt so happy. I'm realizing that it's really all going to be ok. Rather than falling apart I need to smile and move forward.
While I need to learn to maybe move a little slower in life, for now I'm just learning to love it, all of it.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Catalyst (Anna Nalick)
IF SOMEONE SAYS "IS THIS OKAY" YOU SAY?
Two Points for Honesty (Guster)
WHAT WOULD BEST DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Somewhere Over the Rainbow (Judy Garland)
WHAT DO YOU LIKE IN A GUY/GIRL?
Such Great Heights (The Postal Service)
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE'S PURPOSE?
I Can Go The Distance (Hercules)
WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO?
Don’t Look Back in Anger (Oasis)
WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU?
Geek in the Pink (Jason Mraz)
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VERY OFTEN?
Snails (The Format)
WHAT IS 2+2?
99 Red Balloons (Goldfinger)
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR BEST FRIEND?
Miles Apart (Yellowcard)
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Honestly (Zwan)
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE STORY?
Shine (Anna Nalick)
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP?
The Luckiest (Ben Folds)
WHAT DO YOU THINK WHEN YOU SEE THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Brilliant Dance (Dashboard)
WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU?
Turn Around (The Kingston Trio)
WHAT WILL YOU DANCE TO AT YOUR WEDDING?
Darling Je Vous Aime Beaucoup (Nat “King” Cole)
WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL?
The Lord is My Shepherd (LDS Hymn)
WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST?
If I Had a Hammer (Peter Paul and Mary)
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SECRET?
I Wanna Grow Old with You (Adam Sandler)
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS?
I Get By With a Little Help From My Friends (Beatles)
WHAT'S THE WORST THING THAT COULD HAPPEN?
End of the Road (Boys II Men)
HOW WILL YOU DIE?
Drowning (Dashboard)
WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU REGRET?
For Good (Wicked)
WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH?
I’m Too Sexy (Right Said Fred)
WHAT MAKES YOU CRY?
Champagne Supernova (Oasis)
WILL YOU EVER GET MARRIED?
With or Without You (U2)
WHAT SCARES YOU THE MOST?
Loneliest Girl in the World (Cary Brothers)
DOES ANYONE LIKE YOU?
Let That Be Enough (Switchfoot)
IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME, WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE?
Demons (Guster)
WHAT HURTS RIGHT NOW?
The Freshman (Vervepipe)
WHAT WILL YOU POST THIS AS?
Catalyst (Anna Nalick)
Two Points for Honesty (Guster)
WHAT WOULD BEST DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Somewhere Over the Rainbow (Judy Garland)
WHAT DO YOU LIKE IN A GUY/GIRL?
Such Great Heights (The Postal Service)
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE'S PURPOSE?
I Can Go The Distance (Hercules)
WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO?
Don’t Look Back in Anger (Oasis)
WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU?
Geek in the Pink (Jason Mraz)
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VERY OFTEN?
Snails (The Format)
WHAT IS 2+2?
99 Red Balloons (Goldfinger)
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR BEST FRIEND?
Miles Apart (Yellowcard)
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Honestly (Zwan)
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE STORY?
Shine (Anna Nalick)
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP?
The Luckiest (Ben Folds)
WHAT DO YOU THINK WHEN YOU SEE THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Brilliant Dance (Dashboard)
WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU?
Turn Around (The Kingston Trio)
WHAT WILL YOU DANCE TO AT YOUR WEDDING?
Darling Je Vous Aime Beaucoup (Nat “King” Cole)
WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL?
The Lord is My Shepherd (LDS Hymn)
WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST?
If I Had a Hammer (Peter Paul and Mary)
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SECRET?
I Wanna Grow Old with You (Adam Sandler)
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS?
I Get By With a Little Help From My Friends (Beatles)
WHAT'S THE WORST THING THAT COULD HAPPEN?
End of the Road (Boys II Men)
HOW WILL YOU DIE?
Drowning (Dashboard)
WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU REGRET?
For Good (Wicked)
WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH?
I’m Too Sexy (Right Said Fred)
WHAT MAKES YOU CRY?
Champagne Supernova (Oasis)
WILL YOU EVER GET MARRIED?
With or Without You (U2)
WHAT SCARES YOU THE MOST?
Loneliest Girl in the World (Cary Brothers)
DOES ANYONE LIKE YOU?
Let That Be Enough (Switchfoot)
IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME, WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE?
Demons (Guster)
WHAT HURTS RIGHT NOW?
The Freshman (Vervepipe)
WHAT WILL YOU POST THIS AS?
Catalyst (Anna Nalick)
Sunday, November 16, 2008
sunday night office shift
I am in a fabulous mood tonight. Sure, I'm stuck in the office til 10 and since no one comes by on a Sunday night I'm incredibly bored, but I'm still in a good mood. All because, yesterday I got so much done! I got up early (well early for a saturday, which is before noon :D) I did tons of homework (research, reading and paper writing), I cleaned my room and got my laundry done-- there is no better feeling than knowing that I have clean socks to wear tomorrow. I am now on my 11th hour in the office this weekend. After 6 hours last night I was tired and frusterated, but I've managed to make it through the night with a little help from my friends.
As a closing note to tonight's post I'd like to thank all the little people who made tonight's office shift bearable:
Kris Lange for playing the random question game with me
Aldo for telling me Brent Guy was fired-- and Justin for suggesting Stew Morrill take his place
Sharolee and Tess for texting me
The ward prayer crowd who said hi on their way there and on the way back
Jon and Ben for giving me something political to debate about
Everyone who recently updated their profile picture or status on facebook (for me to stalk)
and last, but certainly not least, Ms. Kelsha Bundy who texted me this joke :
why don't kangaroo mom's like the rain?
Cause then the kids have to play inside!
Thanks all!
As a closing note to tonight's post I'd like to thank all the little people who made tonight's office shift bearable:
Kris Lange for playing the random question game with me
Aldo for telling me Brent Guy was fired-- and Justin for suggesting Stew Morrill take his place
Sharolee and Tess for texting me
The ward prayer crowd who said hi on their way there and on the way back
Jon and Ben for giving me something political to debate about
Everyone who recently updated their profile picture or status on facebook (for me to stalk)
and last, but certainly not least, Ms. Kelsha Bundy who texted me this joke :
why don't kangaroo mom's like the rain?
Cause then the kids have to play inside!
Thanks all!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
are we human or are we dancer?
I am obsessed with the new Killers song Human. It is amazing. After listening to it 15 times today I decided to find out about the lyrics. After a little googling I found out that the lyrics are a reference to a comment made by Hunter S. Thompson. He said that America was raising a generation of dancers. (I couldn't find the exact quote). Thompson was a well known journalist who commit suicide in 2005. I haven't read much of his stuff, but Hunter was well known for spending time with the Hell's Angels and writing articles and eventually a book on the things that they did. Thompson is the creator of Gonzo journalism, which is where the journalist is so involved in a story that they are the central figure in the article.
The best way to describe Thompson is through his words, so here are some his most famous quotes:
Myths and legends die hard in America. We love them for the extra dimension they provide, the illusion of near-infinite possibility to erase the narrow confines of most men's reality. Weird heroes and mould-breaking champions exist as living proof to those who need it that the tyranny of 'the rat race' is not yet final."—The Great Shark Hunt, 1979
"We are turning into a nation of whimpering slaves to Fear—fear of war, fear of poverty, fear of random terrorism, fear of getting down-sized or fired because of the plunging economy, fear of getting evicted for bad debts or suddenly getting locked up in a military detention camp on vague charges of being a Terrorist sympathizer."—"Extreme Behavior in Aspen," February 3, 2003
"The Sixties were an era of extreme reality. I miss the smell of tear gas. I miss the fear of getting beaten."—Independent on Sunday, October 12, 1997
"Absolute truth is a very rare and dangerous commodity in the context of professional journalism."—Rolling Stone, February 15, 1973
"I feel the same way about disco as I do about herpes."—Speech, University of Colorado, 1977
The best way to describe Thompson is through his words, so here are some his most famous quotes:
Myths and legends die hard in America. We love them for the extra dimension they provide, the illusion of near-infinite possibility to erase the narrow confines of most men's reality. Weird heroes and mould-breaking champions exist as living proof to those who need it that the tyranny of 'the rat race' is not yet final."—The Great Shark Hunt, 1979
"We are turning into a nation of whimpering slaves to Fear—fear of war, fear of poverty, fear of random terrorism, fear of getting down-sized or fired because of the plunging economy, fear of getting evicted for bad debts or suddenly getting locked up in a military detention camp on vague charges of being a Terrorist sympathizer."—"Extreme Behavior in Aspen," February 3, 2003
"The Sixties were an era of extreme reality. I miss the smell of tear gas. I miss the fear of getting beaten."—Independent on Sunday, October 12, 1997
"Absolute truth is a very rare and dangerous commodity in the context of professional journalism."—Rolling Stone, February 15, 1973
"I feel the same way about disco as I do about herpes."—Speech, University of Colorado, 1977
cleaning checks
It seems like every week this semester I have become more busy. The readings are piling up, the papers and projects are neverending and I still have work, my church calling and friends to factor in. This morning I had to register for next semesters classes. It took me a very long time to figure out exactly which classes I should take. (definitely managed to fit in a yoga class!)
After talking to my advisor this week, I found out that I could graduate this May if I wanted. To do it I would have to drop my minor and the honors program and start working on my thesis immediately... It still makes more sense for me to wait and graduate next December, but I was pretty tempted. Especially after my long day filled with classes, meetings, SI, homework and cleaning checks. It would be so nice to be done in May. Although, if I were done then I would have to decide what to do next.
I'm starting to check out grad schools and law schools. There are actually a couple of schools that would let me get a masters in gender studies with my JD in just 4 years, which would be pretty sweet. But it would be 4 more intense years of school, which seems like a lot....
I feel so old. Talking about grad school and law school. I can't believe how close I am to be done with my undergrad. Earlier today I was thinking about my freshman year, I can't believe it's only been 2 years since I first got up here. It's crazy how much can change in just a couple of years. I've definitely learned a lot at school.
Anyway, that's enough of my late night rambling. Here is a random video that is very entertaining. How many of the pictures can you recognize? Billy Joel Video
After talking to my advisor this week, I found out that I could graduate this May if I wanted. To do it I would have to drop my minor and the honors program and start working on my thesis immediately... It still makes more sense for me to wait and graduate next December, but I was pretty tempted. Especially after my long day filled with classes, meetings, SI, homework and cleaning checks. It would be so nice to be done in May. Although, if I were done then I would have to decide what to do next.
I'm starting to check out grad schools and law schools. There are actually a couple of schools that would let me get a masters in gender studies with my JD in just 4 years, which would be pretty sweet. But it would be 4 more intense years of school, which seems like a lot....
I feel so old. Talking about grad school and law school. I can't believe how close I am to be done with my undergrad. Earlier today I was thinking about my freshman year, I can't believe it's only been 2 years since I first got up here. It's crazy how much can change in just a couple of years. I've definitely learned a lot at school.
Anyway, that's enough of my late night rambling. Here is a random video that is very entertaining. How many of the pictures can you recognize? Billy Joel Video
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Election Day 2008
Finally election day has arrived. This 2+ year campaign has finally gotten to me. I'm sick of the poll numbers, the ads and the signs. I'm tired of forwards telling me that Obama is a terrorist and a socialist, and that Mccain is a rage-a-holic and an elitist.
In all honesty I think Obama is too liberal, he lacks experience and his foreign policy is weak.
While I don't buy that Mccain is a true "maverick" he does make rash decisions, i.e. Sarah Palin. While he entered the race as a moderate, he sold out in order to gain votes from the conservative base.
I went back and forth and back and forth on my decision of who to vote for. I looked at third party candidates and found no one worth voting for--
I did finally pick someone and I feel ok about that choice.
Now I'm just anxious for the results. See I'm not cheering either candidate on tonight, just waiting to hear who will be president. If polls and things are all right, Obama's got it in the bag, however I wouldn't be surprised if things were closer than expected.
In all honesty I think Obama is too liberal, he lacks experience and his foreign policy is weak.
While I don't buy that Mccain is a true "maverick" he does make rash decisions, i.e. Sarah Palin. While he entered the race as a moderate, he sold out in order to gain votes from the conservative base.
I went back and forth and back and forth on my decision of who to vote for. I looked at third party candidates and found no one worth voting for--
I did finally pick someone and I feel ok about that choice.
Now I'm just anxious for the results. See I'm not cheering either candidate on tonight, just waiting to hear who will be president. If polls and things are all right, Obama's got it in the bag, however I wouldn't be surprised if things were closer than expected.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
A Return to the Simple Life
This weekend was Fall Break! Me, my sister Maren and my cousins Hannah and Mallory loaded up my car and drove to Ashton, Idaho to my Aunt Dede and Uncle Jeff's house. We spent the weekend playing with my cousin Jace (age 7) and my cousin Hilary (age 22) When we were younger Hannah, Hilary and I were very close. So this weekend we decided to remember the good times.
We pulled out all the old toys and games. We looked at the "My Littlest Pet Shop" toys and the "Little Kiddles" that we played with when we were little. And then... we got out the old board games. Who knew I'd still jump when I play "Don't Wake Daddy" and that I'd still not have the patience to figure out the real rules to "The Game of Life". We even tried to remember all of those silly girls camp games.
Saturday morning we got up and drove to where my family goes camping every summer. It was a beautiful Autumn day and the weather was suprisingly warm. We got to sit on my favorite rocks, my mermaid rocks. For as long as I can remember whenever we play in the river I always lounge on these rocks, when I was little I would pretend that I was a mermaid. So here are all the girls sitting on the rocks :)
We pulled out all the old toys and games. We looked at the "My Littlest Pet Shop" toys and the "Little Kiddles" that we played with when we were little. And then... we got out the old board games. Who knew I'd still jump when I play "Don't Wake Daddy" and that I'd still not have the patience to figure out the real rules to "The Game of Life". We even tried to remember all of those silly girls camp games.
Saturday morning we got up and drove to where my family goes camping every summer. It was a beautiful Autumn day and the weather was suprisingly warm. We got to sit on my favorite rocks, my mermaid rocks. For as long as I can remember whenever we play in the river I always lounge on these rocks, when I was little I would pretend that I was a mermaid. So here are all the girls sitting on the rocks :)
After a few stressful months of work, school and a very active social life, I was in desperate need of a break. This weekend was perfect. We slept by a woodburning fire place. We ate delicious home cooked meals. We played games, visited with family, remembered old inside jokes and started a few new ones. It was nice just to stop thinking about papers, tests, research, residents and sporting events and just look at the Tetons (the view from Dede and Jeff's house is incredible).
It was a nice reality check of what is really important in life and a reminder to stop every now and then and smell the roses, consider the lillies, and/or fly a kite :D
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Love Your Body Day
Today is national Love Your Body Day.
Dove did an international study asking women how they felt about themselves. Only 2% of women thought that they were beautiful. I was shocked. We are bombarded with images of super models and celebrities who have such unhealthy weights and we are told that this, this unatainable image, is beauty.
So today, instead of looking in the mirror and counting the things wrong with you, smile and realize that you are beautiful!
Dove put together a series of ads following their study, you can watch them all at http://www.dove.us/#/features/videos/default.aspx[cp-documentid=7049560]/. This one is my favorite, a nice reminder to not be so self-critical:
Dove did an international study asking women how they felt about themselves. Only 2% of women thought that they were beautiful. I was shocked. We are bombarded with images of super models and celebrities who have such unhealthy weights and we are told that this, this unatainable image, is beauty.
So today, instead of looking in the mirror and counting the things wrong with you, smile and realize that you are beautiful!
Dove put together a series of ads following their study, you can watch them all at http://www.dove.us/#/features/videos/default.aspx[cp-documentid=7049560]/. This one is my favorite, a nice reminder to not be so self-critical:
Thursday, October 9, 2008
I Chose Lois
I have 3 older brothers and as a natural consequence of this my entire life I have been subjected to nicknames. Some of these nicknames I’ve liked and others make my cringe. When I was little they called me KK and katydid, neither of which was too bad. When I was 6 the names went downhill, for a year or so my brothers called me Francis and Wishbone. They often teased by calling me Katherine or worse, Kathy. I hated all of their nicknames and would get very upset when they called me those names.
One night I somehow adopted the nickname of Lois. I have a very vague memory of this having something to do with the TV series Lois and Clark, but I really don’t remember the specifics. Somehow this name caught on and while at first I disliked it, I quickly realized it was much better than the alternatives Francis or Kathy. My brothers adopted the name easily and it soon became my identity. I was Lois. Maybe it’s just coincidence that I am majoring in journalism now, or maybe the Lois Lane reference is what led me to this career path.
When my brothers gave me the nickname they were too young to realize the benefits of it. Later in life all 3 would go on dates with girls named Katie, and 2 of the 3 seriously dated girls name Katie. It was a clear and simple distinction, those girls were Katies and I was Lois.
Over the years my brothers have had fun with the name, well mostly my oldest brother Justin. It began with the simple rhyme “nois, Lois” and adapted into games and funny texts rhyming Lois with everything from tow trucks “Tow-is, Lois” to Enya songs, “Orinoco Flow-is, Lois”.
The nickname which originated from my brothers quickly spread. My cousins and my brothers’ friends all took up the nickname. My sisters-in-law refer to me as Lois now and I fully expect my nephew to call me aunty-Lois when he learns how to talk. Often times people don’t realize that I am both Katie and Lois. My family once had some friends visiting and their grandson, who was only 4 looked at his grandpa, who had just called me Katie and said, “Grandpa, that’s not Katie, that’s Lois!”
My most memorable Lois experience was my senior year while on Orchestra tour in San Francisco. We walked into the hotel and throughout the lobby there were giant posters which said LOIS all over them. At first I thought it must stand for something, maybe some weird environmental group, but then I got into the elevator and was surrounded by elderly women who wore Lois name tags. It was an international Lois conference! Just for people named Lois. The next morning at breakfast I explained to them that Lois was my nickname, they were thrilled that I wasn’t just a Lois by birth, but that I chose to be Lois. One of the Lois’s whispered to me “you know Lois stands for ‘Look Out I’m Sexy.” I still have my Lois pin that they gave me.
Through the years my friends and my little sisters have given me numerous other nicknames including: Kat, Kate, Caffeine, Katarina Strofakova, Red, Kiki, Reeves, Reevers, Lowenstine (an adaptation of Lois), Fat Face, Katherine Hepburn and Kathy (only my sisters can ever call me Kathy). But none of these nicknames means as much to me as Lois does.
As a little sister, being teased is something you learn to put up with, at the time I resented the nicknames, but now being teased by brothers is something I miss most about being away from home. No matter what happens in my life whether I am a wife, a mother, a lawyer, a teacher, or even if I become president of the United States I fully expect the name Lois to come with me, because it is part of who I am.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Top 10 Favorite Movies
My Top 10 FAVORITE Movies:
10- Love Finds Andy Hardy-- Mickey Rooney is hilarious and Judy Garland is such an amazing singer. It's really a charming movie.
9- My Best Friend’s Wedding-- Julia Roberts at her best. The scene in the restaurant where they all sing 'I Say a Little Prayer for You' is simply hysterical.
8- The Mighty Ducks-- All 3 really... those movies are pretty much my childhood, I once watched the 2nd one 7 times in one weekend, I can still quote the entire movie.
7- Breakfast at Tiffany’s-- This movie is classic in every way. Drinking milk out of goblets, window shopping at Tiffany's and of course singing Moon River on the fire escape.
6- To Kill a Mockingbird-- It is one of my favorite books and the movie is really amazing. There is a reason Atticus Finch was the #1 movie hero of all time.
5- Mr. Smith Goes to Washington-- This movie, like the one before it, is a reminder that people are good. That even though corruption is everywhere, people can rise above it. I think this should be required watching for every politician in Washington.
4- Better Off Dead-- "I know it's bacon, but what have you done to it?!" "I want my 2 dollars" "Sorry your mom blew up ricky." Seriously one of the most funny movies ever made.
3- Elizabethtown-- This movie is just different, which is why I love it. It stayed away from the cliche "romantic" gestures that are in most chick flicks and really re-invented the whole idea of love. If someone made me a road trip like the one in this movie, my life would be complete.
2- Dan in Real Life-- Everything about this movie is awkward and yet refreshing at the same time. Steve Carrell is a genius.
1- The Goonies-- No matter what mood I am in I can always watch the Goonies. It is an action/adventure/comedy/romance/drama/extended cyndi lauper music video. Really all I have to say is "Hey You GUYS!"
Honorable Mentions that didn't quite make it: Italian Job, All the President's Men, Anne of Green Gables, Mulan, Pretty in Pink, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Karate Kid, Heavyweights, August Rush, Cinderella Story, Babysitter's Club, Sound of Music, My Fair Lady, Pride and Prejudice, She's the Man, 10 Things I Hate About You, Indiana Jones, and Back to the Future.
10- Love Finds Andy Hardy-- Mickey Rooney is hilarious and Judy Garland is such an amazing singer. It's really a charming movie.
9- My Best Friend’s Wedding-- Julia Roberts at her best. The scene in the restaurant where they all sing 'I Say a Little Prayer for You' is simply hysterical.
8- The Mighty Ducks-- All 3 really... those movies are pretty much my childhood, I once watched the 2nd one 7 times in one weekend, I can still quote the entire movie.
7- Breakfast at Tiffany’s-- This movie is classic in every way. Drinking milk out of goblets, window shopping at Tiffany's and of course singing Moon River on the fire escape.
6- To Kill a Mockingbird-- It is one of my favorite books and the movie is really amazing. There is a reason Atticus Finch was the #1 movie hero of all time.
5- Mr. Smith Goes to Washington-- This movie, like the one before it, is a reminder that people are good. That even though corruption is everywhere, people can rise above it. I think this should be required watching for every politician in Washington.
4- Better Off Dead-- "I know it's bacon, but what have you done to it?!" "I want my 2 dollars" "Sorry your mom blew up ricky." Seriously one of the most funny movies ever made.
3- Elizabethtown-- This movie is just different, which is why I love it. It stayed away from the cliche "romantic" gestures that are in most chick flicks and really re-invented the whole idea of love. If someone made me a road trip like the one in this movie, my life would be complete.
2- Dan in Real Life-- Everything about this movie is awkward and yet refreshing at the same time. Steve Carrell is a genius.
1- The Goonies-- No matter what mood I am in I can always watch the Goonies. It is an action/adventure/comedy/romance/drama/extended cyndi lauper music video. Really all I have to say is "Hey You GUYS!"
Honorable Mentions that didn't quite make it: Italian Job, All the President's Men, Anne of Green Gables, Mulan, Pretty in Pink, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Karate Kid, Heavyweights, August Rush, Cinderella Story, Babysitter's Club, Sound of Music, My Fair Lady, Pride and Prejudice, She's the Man, 10 Things I Hate About You, Indiana Jones, and Back to the Future.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Rainy Days
This weekend was amazing! Friday night I went to the Utah State vs. BYU football game, it was so good! I know we lost by 20 points, but what people don't understand is that scoring twice was a miracle. First of all BYU is a really good team and second we're not. The stadium was packed and we were all there to see if Utah State could do what UCLA and Wyoming could not, score... and we were amazed as we scored, TWICE! I'm proud of my Aggies. Let's be honest, I'd still go to games when we don't score because I like to sing the Scottsman (one of our fight songs)and our crowd is just too funny (big sign in the usu section said, "BYU- keeping ugly girls from Utah State since 1888) :D
After the game I went to Olive Garden with friends, my older brother, sister in-law, nephew and my little sister who came up to visit. After dinner my sisters and some friends stayed up late dying hair and watching the Sound of Music (such a great movie). I finally got to bed around 4.
I woke up bright and early, 8 am, Saturday morning so I could hit the last farmer's market of the season. I loaded up on fresh fruits and came home to make breakfast for my friends and family. The rest of the weekend has been spent cooking, cleaning and watching conference with friends and family. It has really been great. There were many conference talks that touched me and I feel reenergized and excited about life. I am so blessed with good friends and family. Even though I got no homework done all weekend, I'm feeling great about life.
After the game I went to Olive Garden with friends, my older brother, sister in-law, nephew and my little sister who came up to visit. After dinner my sisters and some friends stayed up late dying hair and watching the Sound of Music (such a great movie). I finally got to bed around 4.
I woke up bright and early, 8 am, Saturday morning so I could hit the last farmer's market of the season. I loaded up on fresh fruits and came home to make breakfast for my friends and family. The rest of the weekend has been spent cooking, cleaning and watching conference with friends and family. It has really been great. There were many conference talks that touched me and I feel reenergized and excited about life. I am so blessed with good friends and family. Even though I got no homework done all weekend, I'm feeling great about life.
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