Pure Joy

1. Watching 3 year old compete in Swordplay on the Wii.
2. Watching 6 year old peform on stage (fireplace hearth) using her new karaoke machine.
3. Defeating my sister-in-law in any Wii game by one point (numerous times).
4. Deciding on who was well enough to cook to dinner (everyone was sick).
5. Playing games every night with family.
6. Having nieces and nephews copy my mom's and mine dancing skills.
7. Watching my mom dance on the coffe table.

The Pick up

I was excited about returning to home base (Tara-for those that have seen "Gone with the Wind.") My family made special preparations for my arrival at the airport.


They blended into the environment. They were incognito.



Jealous onlookers at the airport wanted to be part of my family.

Gift giving Quandry

The holiday season can be a difficult time. You have decide who to give gifts and what people to send cards. Are they close friends? Are the worth the stamp? Are they worth the time and effort of hunting the perfect gift for them? Some of you have been smart and have established yourself with the same gift to friends to save stress. Then, the added stress of someone giving you a gift that you had not planned to give a gift, then you feel obligated to give a gift back.(very problematic in the workplace). Then, when you decide to give the same gift to everyone, it needs to be budget friendly. Even $5.00 per person times 20 is $100. That is money you may or may not have. Then, there is the breads, cookies, treats, I do love that these are made with love and taste great. We should not feel obligated to give something every year. STOP FEELING GUILTY! Sometimes you can and sometimes you can't.

Often, we have to give candy or food, this is not good for those of us who are trying to lose weight or not gain any. It is hard to find the perfect gift and make sure you remember everyone. I resorted to giving the gift card of appreciation (a thank you note). It means more because you take the time to think about how the person has affected your life and you are not making them fat. (that is what good friends do). Friends don't let friends get fat!

Shout Out!

1. Thanks to the guy who happened to have a slim jim with him at church and was able to help me unlock my car, because I had left my keys in the car (ps-the car was running).

2. Thanks to the Wal-Mart truck driver who went around me as I was stuck in the snow. He didn't get right behind me. He let me back up and get a running start to get on of the snow.

3. Thanks to the two guys who helped push me out of the ditch that I had slid into.

4. Thanks to everyone who tolerated me driving me on the road with bald front tires.

5. Thanks to a friend for giving me a ride home from church because I was decided to walk to church in the snowstorm after my adventures from the morning.

Woot! Woot!

I have to share exciting news. My JV girls basketball team won their first game yesterday. It was a nail-bitter. We only play two 10 minutes half (running clock). My girls were down by 8 baskets and was able to come back and tie in the last minute of the game. OVERTIME! 2 minutes were added to the clock. My girls played hard, but the scored didn't move for either team. OVERTIME AGAIN! (yes, I almost wet my pants). Then, my girls were able to steal the ball and score in the first 30 seconds of the 2nd overtime. After the girl scored, she went crazy, took the ball slammed it down and ran off the court (as if it was sudden death). Quite funny, I was trying not to laugh and also let her know that we are still playing and the game is not over. We were able to score 3 more baskets, before the game ended and it was official. WE WON!

Holy Tar

This is my new phrase "Holy Tar", I can't believe it has been two weeks since my last post. I have tons of funny stories from teaching jr. high students and helping coaching jr. high girl's basketball, but what if they read my comments about them. Not Cool!

So I decided to rant about being aware of who will or might read your blog or facebook. We are all facebook/blog stalkers. We know we do it. It is the reason we joined facebook right. Please be aware of who you tag in your photos, ask permission. I have found that many people have no idea that once you place something on the web, that anyone can find or see it. Privacy setting can help with what can become a very awkward and uncomfortable situation, but not always. Please be smart, protect yourself and your family. I admit, I thought I was protecting myself, but realized that my blog has my complete name. One day it will change, when I get married. HAHAHAHAH!

Weekend Excitement

I was able to go to the Columbia River Temple this weekend.
Highlights from the trip.
1. Visiting the Twins Falls Temple (super windy)
2. Staying with my cousin (thanks Clarks)
3. Attacked by a HUGE tumbleweed and my worst fear of it sticking to my car happened. I had to pull over and pull it off my car. Don't worry on the drive home, I lashed back at the tumbleweeds and took them out. BAM!


4. Sacajawea Trail along the Columbia River
5. Pondering the following signs seen on the road:
U.S. Ecology
Idaho Waste Site
This signs really confused me. Ecology is growing things and nature, while a waste site is a waste site. Is the U.S. making sure Idaho is using is at a waste? Are they two separate things or the same thing?
5.1 and
Oregon Trail Interpretive Center
What is there to interpret? Is the trail written in a foreign language? Maybe it includes a interpretive dance! Then, I would stop.

Some post Halloween thoughts!

1. My nephew couldn't stop looking at me, because he said I really looked like "Po".

2. Why do girls think it is OK to dress like "sluts" for Halloween? I am sorry for using such strong language, but I was disappointed in the Halloween stores selection for women. Everything was scantily cladish. Then, I attended a party and saw things that I don't really wish to see and make me and others uncomfortable. Just saying! CMON!

3. Jr. High students are hyper before and after Halloween. Sugar overload!!!!

4. Have people forgotten that when your light is on, that means you have candy to give and when the light is off, you have no candy. Everyone knows this rule, yet for some reason, we don't.

5. If you want candy, you must dress up. I did refused to pass out candy to two or three people who showed up at my sister's door not dressed (older children-13+). You make the effort and ye shall receive your reward. AND YOU ARE NOT DRESSED UP AS YOURSELF!

6. 9:45 pm is too late to knock on the door with the light off to trick or treat for candy. It is over around 9:30 pm. It starts around 6 or 6:30 pm depending on the neighborhood and ends between 9:00 and 9:30. That is THREE hours of candy.

Halloween Photos

Pre-Halloween dress up




Kung Fu Panda and Star Trek

BYU Women's Soccer Game-Halloween Day

We dressed up!

Kung Fu Panda

How I Got My Groove Back!

-teaching reading to jr. high students (who may not want it)
-teaching students who miss you when you were gone for a day
-having students who love to talk to you and love to tell you everything
-students at the school who learn your name but you don't have them in class
-yelling at students to stop running in the halls
-learning how to speak 5 new languages (ok, maybe two or three words)
-playing basketball and sinking a three in front of guys
-coaching basketball at the school
-teaching at a school with great co-workers
-having my own classroom and organization
-laughing
-brought my plane ticket to go home for Christmas (under budget)
-having nieces and nephews give you hugs every time you see them
-Dressing up for Spirit week (first time experiencing Spirit week as a teacher)
-seeing the movie "Where the wild things are" my favorite book.

The art and language of honking

Honking has its own language.

Beep!-The short quick honk is a polite honk letting you know the light is green or be careful. It is not rude or mean. You are quickly communicating the need for awareness. We all understand sometimes we are not paying attention as well as we should. Never be offended when you receive the quick honk and it is not rude to give the short honk.

Beep! Beep! It is the two honk hello. We are trying to get a friend's attention to say hello. We noticed them in another car or walking on the sidewalk and wish to give them joy and wave.

Beep, beep, beep, beep, beep- continuous honking is only appropriate when traveling through a tunnel for echoing effect or signaling excitement when leaving a most exciting sporting event in which your team won. The short quick constant beeping represents excitement and fun.

BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!- The long hold down honk of frustration. This honk signals annoyance and frustration of the other driver's driving skills. It is similar to yelling at someone. It is not polite, but represents complete irritation. This honk should be used when accidents are about to occur.

Hoooonnnk!- The trucker's honk after being signaled for a honk by a passing passenger. (kids love to do this.)

Also, don't forget the courtesy wave when someone lets you in. It can be a full on hand wave or a slight raise of the hand, but you need to acknowledge kindness with appreciation. Who doesn't love to be appreciated?

Pay Day

Such a wonderful day, when you get paid!
Start paying off the debt. WHOOOHOOO!

Deep Thought

"Stress is the difference between reality and expectation."

My 5 Minute Break

This week:
Midterm grades are due tonight
Parent-Teacher Conferences in the evenings tomorrow and thursday
Crazy School Schedule for testing.
Still waiting on my car to get fixed and pay for it.
Waiting for the University to post my degree on my transcript so I can get paid (has to be done by Friday)
Trying to eat, sleep, and exercise right.
Trying to plan for my classess and be a good teacher.
No School on Friday.Phew

My first ....

My first CAR Accident!

The Good news:
My passenger and I were not hurt nor the other people in the car.
My air bags did not deploy.
The other car was able to drive away with no damage. (I didn't see any)
I have a job to pay for new expenses.
I have car insurance.
I have good family and friends.
The engine was not destroyed-that is expensive.
My car will be able to have the front bumper and overflow coolant put back on again.
I was able to stay in the lane I was hit and not hit others after being hit.
Avoided a fight with a passenger from the other car (who disappeared when the cops arrived).
Learn- I had all the necessary and current information needed and knew where it was.
My home teacher was able to come and pick my passenger and I up.
I was able to final get to the place I was going.
My car insurance will pay for a rental car while my car is being fixed.
The police officer was kind considering I was about to cry.
I was issued a citation for improper lookout (the lesser of many evils) because I was the one turning onto the road, even though the other car could have avoided me and was going to fast in a crowded traffic area.

Broken Record

I love that I am teaching again. It is great to have a classroom and students. It is tiring and exhausting the first month of school. Establishing procedures and expectations is really important. The routine is oh, so important with students. They need to know where to put stuff, what to do, what to bring, etc...
Consequently, I feel like a broken record.

Student: What time do we get out of this class?
Teacher: The Bell Schedule is posted on the wall.
Student: What does it say?
Teacher: You tell me-please read it.

Student: Where do I turn in my assignment?
Teacher: In the basket labeled Period 2.

Student: I don't have a pencil/paper.
Teacher: Extras are located __________(there).

Student: Can I leave class early?
Teacher: No, thanks for asking.

Student:Where is my folder?
Teacher:In the Crate labeled Period 6 under the file with your name on it.

Student: What are we supposed to be doing?
Teacher: It is on the board. (after I had the students repeat the directions to me after giving them)

Oh, the life of a jr. high teacher. I LOVE IT!

So Much Anxiety

I know that I carry so much anxiety (I have a save the world complex.) I completed my first day of teaching at a new place and new school in a new state, with new standards and expectations. After being out of the job force for two years, I was reminded to get more sleep, thicken my skin, be tougher, I have to restablish standards, expectations, etc.... They don't know me, they don't know they shouldn't mess with me. Respecting me is very big.

I survived with my Dr. Pepper, but thinking, wow-this is going to be a hard challenge. I hope I can do it?!

I did it!

I completed my first 5k and my goals for the race, which were not being last and under the Goal time, I set for myself. YEH! My sister and I did it together. WOOT!WOOT! I am hoping this is just the beginning.


After the Race!

It has been...

It has been 8 days since my last post. What have I been doing?
-lesson planning
-ward camp out
-lesson planning
-playing volleyball (twice)
-singing karaoke at the camp out
-dancing at the camp out (good times)
-playing basketball
-lesson planning
-putting up my bulletin boards
-Niece and nephew spent the night
-sisters, their children, and I went to park and had a picnic
-slept 3.5 hours (nap) after camp out and still went to bed on time.
-finally saw Night at the Museum 2 at the dollar theater
-clean my shower (real good with a toothbrush)

Good times!

Myths about teaching and teachers

1. Teachers get their summers off (3 months of vacation)
Reality is that teachers have about one month of real vacation during the summer. We have to stay after school is out and finish grades and cleaning up. Most teachers are in their classrooms a month before school starts, preparing for the new school year. Also, with year round schools-no summer vacations.
2. Those who can, DO, Those who can't, TEACH!
As funny as this quote is, it is not true. Teachers DO teach.
3. Teachers should all be GOOD!
What is interesting is that newer teachers are expected to teach at the same level as experienced teachers.
4. The teacher hates my child.
Most likely, the teacher doesn't hate your child but is frustrated with the child's behavior and choices. Be aware of how your child affects others. We all have personality conflicts-we have learned to deal with those people. Learning experience.
5. It is the Teacher's responsibility to teach my child.
Yes and no-The child, parent, and teacher work together for the child's learning. You can't force feed someone who doesn't want to be fed. Although, they can make the food look more exciting to eat.
6. Teachers should be available in the evenings.
Teachers have lives outside of their jobs just like everyone else. Do you call your boss or clients at dinnertime?
7. My child is perfect and would never do that.
Oh, silly parents-defending your child is important, but also please be realistic about your child. Children have pulled the wool over their parent's eyes. Parents jumped to conclusions very quickly and forget about perspective and civility. I am not taking away teacher's fault or responsibility, but try to find out both sides of the story before making the leap.
8. It is easy to teach. Anyone can do it.
HAHAHAHAHAHA-with No Child Left Behind the expectations for teachers is high. Teachers are expected to do miracles. I would love to see those that think they can, substitute for a day in jr. high or elementary school-see how it goes.

I am so Proud!

In the process of cleaning out my grandparent's house this summer, I was able to acquire a table and five chairs. I decided I would refurbish, recycle, reuse, (whatever the term is) the set. I sanded, painted, and upholstered.
Table and Chairs-Free
Paint and Supplies- $30.00
Time- Two days (one for painting and one for upholstering)
Equals amazing cool dinning set! Priceless!

Ponder this.....

-Landscaping at the Raleigh, NC temple- not temple worthy, does your landscaping have a temple recommend?
-nobody drinks beer from a straw
-it is better to mow the lawn in the morning or evening (in the south). I lost five gallons of water through glistening
-Costco has rules about their samples. You must 13 years or older to receive samples or have parental permission.
-you want to experience true southern women etiquette-Attend a patsy aiken (designer) sale with southern women. I was overwhelmed with "Excuse me's" and "I am sorry." from 100's of women shopping for monogram children's design clothing. No fights or cross words.

Good to Know

Good to know that swim diapers don't hold anything, except to keep solids out of the pool. Solids, not semi-solids.

El Ciervo (deer)

The deer population in North Carolina is quite large. NC does not have laws restricting hunters from how many deers they can hunt in a season.

My parents have a garden and the deer have been eating it. They ate the beans, cilantro, and the green peppers (salsa). They are Mexican deer. They didn't eat the raspberries (not fruity) or the rosemary (not Italian deer). I didn't know that Deer would be so picky.

We believe they are illegal deer, but we can't be certain until we check their green cards.

Road Driving Lessons

As you may know, I made another driving trip across the U. S. of A. (it has been 7 years since the last cross country trip.) I was reminded of important highway driving rules.

1. The left lane is for passing cars in the right lane, aka you should be going faster than the cars in the right lane if in the left lane.(the signs on the freeway state this, yet many people forget this very simple rule.)

2. Kansas is prettier in the dark.

3. Beware of rest areas in Kansas at night. My mother and I were attacked by bugs of all shapes and sizes while trying to get into the facilities. (One bug tried to hitchhiked on my mother's back, which led to sudden death)

4.The hazardous of driving all day and night causes one to become "punch-drunk" as stated by my father.

5.Plan well ahead with relatives for drop off points so you don't have to drive all day and all night.

6.Don't open a can of Vienna Sausages while driving (may cause spillage)!

7.Prepare in advance for snacks to keep one awake in the middle of the night.

8.Apparently we are the only people on the road that can read road maps, because everyone else has GPSs.

9.Replace batteries in hearing aids of parental unit. West is not left.

10.West Virginia is not as scary as previously believed. I didn't see any cousins married.

Siblings working together

I have watched my mother's and father's siblings work together recently. In the past year, both my grandmothers passed away leaving the division of their things up to their children.
My mother's mother decided that she would give everything away before she passed away, so there would be no fights amongst her children when she died. My mother and her sibling quietly sorted and distributed the remaining items my grandmother had. No fights or hard feelings.
My father and his sibling recently gathered together to divide everything. My dad's parents were world travelers back in the 1950's and 1960's and had collected some priceless items. My aunts organized all the items into categories. Then, each sibling randomly selected the categories they were picking first in. No arguing, squabbling, or complaining. Everyone was able to work together and no feeling are hurt.
Normally, when I have talked with those that have had to divide up their parent's items between siblings, it seems that causes fights, hard feelings, and resentment. It has sadden me to think that after a celebration of someones life is destroyed because of things and emotions masked by sadness.

Jury Duty

Last week, I was called in for Jury Duty. I went in on Tuesday morning. I brought a book for the down time. After check-in, we watched a great cheezy 1980's jury duty is such a great experience, video. My name was called with a group of people and we were taken upstairs into a courtroom. Then, everyone had to tell about themselves, Name, Age, Occupation, Spouse's Occupation, Children (how many and how old) and how you get your news. With 30 people this can take awhile. Then, we were asked by the judge some questions about if we knew some people involved and other pertient questions. (it was a drug case). The two attorneys picked the jury by passing a piece of paper back and forth. It was done. I was not selected.

I would have love to serve on the jury, but that week was not a great time.

Alright

I have unpacked and settled in and have time to update my blog.

I have received and accepted a job offer at Westlake Jr. High in West Valley (Granite School District) mainly as a Reading Teacher. It all happened so fast. I interviewed last Monday and found out before the holiday weekend, while I was out of town.

I feel very blessed and excited about this new opportunity. This school is a title I school which means tons of lower income families and also has 70% minorities. That is right down my alley. Now I can breathe and travel with my parents for a few weeks.

P.S.

Do you remember that time I wrote on my blog? Yeh, that was fun.

Oh, I got a job-more details to come later.

Letting Go!

I have realized that I am a small control freak, who isn't. We like to know what we are doing and where we are going. It is hard to give up control, especially when it is the direction of our lives. We all have a vision of what we see ourselves doing in the future and when that vision starts to fade or change, FREAK OUT! Things happen, change, shift, etc... in our lives, Can we handle it in a good manner?

Come what may and love it. I have been trying to live my life with that attitude.

Rain, Rain, Stay awhile

Rain, rain, stay awhile-I love the rain. Hence, why I really enjoyed living in the northwest for 5 years. The sun is great, but it makes things really hot and brown. Utah has been experiencing really cloudy and rainy weather for the month of June. YEH, things have stayed green, I don't have to water my lawn as much, and it has keep what looks to be a very warm summer, cool for now.

Although, it seems, people here don't know lots about the benefits of rain. Stop complaining, that you haven't seen the sun in awhile. Rain is good, it is needed and I am loving it. Spring thunderstorms, oh, I miss those in the south. The sun will be back in full force and everyone will be wishing for a cloudy day or some rain to relieve the heat. All I need to say is "Come what may and LOVE IT!"

The Search

Now, that I have finished graduate school- you ask, "What are my plans?" I planned to stay here in Utah and find a teaching job. Most school districts have hiring freezes right now, but when the enrollment numbers come out in July, they will know the needs of their schools. The Waiting Game! Also, for those that don't know that social studies is the most saturated subject in teaching. And most social studies teachers are males and coaches which are two serious disadvantages for me, because I am not male, or a coach.

Why don't I move? I wish that was the case, but I feel I need to stay here, if I wanted a job for sure, I would move back to Washington and accept one the two job offers I received.

As with all jobs, it is all about you know, so if you know teachers in this area, let me know. I am doing research on how each school district hires, because they all do it differently.

Keep me in your thoughts and prayers-I know that this is the path I need to be on and things will work out-how? I have faith all things are for a reason.

Being the Favorite Aunt!

Many people ask me "How are you able to be the favorite aunt?" It is hard work. I have 14.5 nieces and nephews. I don't live near all of them. Then, what do I do? Great question-I am unable to afford birthday presents and gifts every year. I don't believe in buying children's affection. I call them monthly. For the younger children, it is just so that they recognize my voice. I rarely understand the ramblings of a 2 year old, but who cares. For the older children, I ask them about school, what they did for the day, anything they will talk about. Sometimes, they are in the mood to chat and others they are not. I don't get upset. When I am around them, I spend time with them. Others-babysit-I DON'T. I take them to movies, museums, the park, a walk, bike riding, the library, etc... Sometimes, it is one-on-one time and others times, I will have two or three of them. I don't do anything special. I include them in my life, because that's all they want and I want. (2 for 1 special)

I am also very careful about disciplining them. If the parent is around-they do it (I just point it out). If I am the only adult around and they get sassy, (first-talk to parents about their discpline strategies for that child), I don't put up with it. Respect is important everywhere. I set clear expectations and consequences before the adventure. All of my nieces and nephews know the rules of spending time with me: No crying, whining, teasing, and fighting!

Rafting Terminology

I was able to raft the Colorado River this past weekend in Moab. I should say, that I have history with rafting. I fall out. I didn't this time, but I did love some new things I learned on the rafting trip.

Before you raft, you receive the lecture from your raft guides. Things like:
1. Don't be stupid
2. If you fall out, feet first down the rapids.
3. Micro trash-not a good thing
4. What is an eddy-ooh, be careful
5. The difference between an oar and paddle. The rafting guides had a small pet peeve about this. We used paddles, not oars.

Oars are a long shaft with a broad blade at one end, used as a lever for rowing or otherwise propelling or steering a boat.

Paddles are a short, flat bladed oar for propelling and steering a canoe or small boat, usually held by both hands and moved more or less through a vertical arc.

Oars are for viking ships and paddles are for rafts and canoes. Who knows? Dictionary.com didn't provide any great insight. Seem the same to me.

Moab Trip

Yes, I went to Moab, Arches National Park, and rafted down the Colorado River this weekend.

It was hot! I wore 50 sunblock and drank so much water.

Good times!

Star Trek

I would consider myself somewhat of a Trekkie. I am not a Klingon speaking, dress up wearing, attending star trek conventions fan, but I have enjoy the show. I grew up watching the Next generation: Star Trek series. I have seen all the Star Trek movies and a few of the older original shows.

My brother and I did see the new movie and I enjoyed it(except one unnecessary scene). I thought the actors did a great job to portray established characters. To my delight, they even through in those one liners I loved by the characters. I have always loved Spock. I have tried the Vulcan grip on many family members (it doesn't seem to work for me). This new movie truly made me love Scotty. I heart Scotty and Spock.

Live long and prosper!

Oh, what to do in the summer time?

Find a summer job.
Find a fall teaching job.
Don't spend the money I don't have.
Try to finish writing my book.
Go to Moab with my ward next weekend.
Adjust to dry heat for the summer.
Read some books.

Any other suggestions?

Awkward moment of the day

So I did something today that many of you have done before and will probably do in the future. I called a friend (I was returning a phone call.) She had asked me for some help about a pattern. I do a quick hello and ask her the status on the pattern. She had no idea what I was talking about. I swore to her that we had this conservation last week. She couldn't remember it. I was perplexed, then realized after a minute of my thinking I was crazy or she was, that I had called the wrong person. I have two friends with the same name and spelled differently (Erika and Erica). I had called the wrong one. Result-their full names(first and last) are saved into my phone.

Graduation

The real deal!

My fan club!

Parental Units!

Master Rachel!

I didn't fight with an old lady!

First-pictures of graduation are coming soon!

Monday evening after FHE, I play volleyball with my ward. The stake center we play in is locked up at 10 pm (I know early compared to every other building- 11 pm). Anyway, our bishop has given us permission and keys to leave at 10:30. 30 minutes of extra play and often he is there with us. Every monday night at 10 pm, somebody from the stake comes to lock up the building. We have never had problems before, maybe because our bishop has talked with them or we had our keys. Last night, we didn't have the keys (the guy hurt his ankle), so when the couple came in to lock the building, we decided it would be best to leave at 10 pm. We started cleaning up the nets and preparing to leave the gym. Then, the older woman (the wife, I assumed) came up into the gym (10:07 pm) and told us, in a condescending I am older than you, you are 12 years old tone, "You guys should be out at 10 pm." (it was only 10:07 pm, give me a break, we are cleaning up and leaving already). I responded kindly that our bishop had given us permission until 10:30, normally, but we didn't have our keys tonight. She demanded to know what ward and who our bishop was. Everyone else was like yikes- I don't enjoy being treated like that. I responded with our ward and bishop's name. (I should have whipped out his phone number so she could call him, right there.) I walked out of the gym quickly because I was afraid I would continue to respond to her.

Some dork I have never meet was walking out with us and commmented that I was rude to the old lady. Excuse me, I don't know you and I was not rude. Rude would have been telling her to shove it and staying playing volleyball. I stated the facts.

Here is my issue: I hated being treated like I am 12 years old and I don't know the rules. I was not trying to break on purpose. I had talked with my Bishop about this rule. I was not trying to be defiant. The lady could have come in the gym and said, "are ya'll done?, We need to the lock the building so we can get home and go to bed." I am going to jump the gun more and state that I hate being treated like a 12 year old. I am 31 years old, I am an adult. Don't mess with me.

Hi's and Low's

I haven't posted recently because I have had a rough emotional week. I don't enjoy being negative and didn't want to be "negative nancy" on my blog (that is what my journal is for.)

What has been difficult for me this week?
-Single and 31 -trying to find my place as an active member of my church.
-Finishing the last week of papers/projects/tutoring, etc... before Graduation
-Finding out I have to rewrite some of my thesis/comprehensive exam because of a small but big misunderstanding. (feeling like a failure)
-Filling out applications for school districts-trying to find a full time job
-Filling out job applications for the summer (school jobs aren't available until the fall.)
-Money-realizing how much I have to pay back for going to graduate school.
-Feeling stupid and smart in the same week

What has been a blessing for me this week?
-Family-daily phone calls and emails to mom, sisters, and brothers
-Friends-watching me sob uncontrollably and telling me I am cool and fun
-Nieces and nephews-making me always feel important to them.
-Hugs!!
-Exercising-I am still getting up at 6 am to walk/run two miles with a friend.
-Home teachers/Bishopric- for doing their home teaching and meeting with me.
-Making Graduation Announcements-knowing that I will be done soon.
-Someone telling me that I am 23 years old-couldn't believe I was 31 (young at heart)!
-Laughing at myself for being just plain silly sometimes

Fun at Subway

On Tuesday evenings, I get out of class fairly late and have made it a habit to have Subway for dinner. I am officially a regular. This past Tuesday, I walked in in "my subway" and the line was uber long. I was worn out and exhausted I didn't want to bother driving some where else and getting junk. I was like "Be Patient." While in line, I ended up having conservations with a recently returned missionary from Austria, a mother of 3 children (one is 12 years old) on her way to a study session, a inactive LDS member, a guy who runs 5ks every weekend with his friends, and an employee of Blockbuster. We were sharing books we loved to read, swapping stories of where we have lived. They noticed my accent, I said ya'll. The mother of 3 children, her parents had lived in Winston-Salem, NC for 11 years and they were the institute director for that area. I know I know people they know. The return missionary was planning on going to school at the U of U and interested in becoming a seminary teacher. We talked about EFY! The inactive LDS was my favorite, because I asked him "What do you do?" He answered "Sexually?" I laughed aloud, "I meant for a job." He had served a mission in Missouri-that is where my dad served his mission (except it was called the Midwest mission, back then.) He was super social and invited to me join the parties that happen every night. I politely declined because I was in school. The guy that runs 5ks every weekend can run a 8 minute mile. I am not even close. The Blockbuster employee was on break and I let him jump me in line, he offered a free rental, but I didn't take it.

This is what happens when you are uber friendly while waiting in line at Subway.

Clean up

Clean up, clean up!
I went with my roomie to help clean up at the dairy plant at welfare square. "Welfare Square has emerged as a powerful example of what The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints does throughout the world to care for the poor, foster self-reliance, and provide meaningful opportunities for work and service. Welfare Square is a modern facility comprised of a towering, 178-foot-tall grain elevator, a large storehouse, a bakery, a cannery, a milk processing operation, a thrift store, and an employment center—all designed to help people help themselves."
It is super cool place, I think I will take my nieces on a tour next week. Back to the story.

We arrived at 6 pm (ok-6:15 pm), received some training (aka-don't be stupid putting your hands in machines and drinking the cleaning solutions.) Put on some great looking hairnets and off we went cleaning.

The dairy plant packages normal milk, but also powdered milk (horrible memory), fruit punch mix, hot coca mix, and gelatin mix. The warehouse has a layer of dust from theses mixes everywhere. (STICKY-when wet) You first get to sweep or vacuum the warehouse, but a small layer of dust still exists. Then, the mopping begins. I learned that you can't use the same bucket of water, because you are just spreading the gunk around after awhile. You must constantly be getting clean water. We had two people who were the official bucket swappers and fillers the whole time. Washing everything off is the only way to really get this place clean. The only yucky part was wiping the plastic walls slates down with a rag and it turns my hands a little orange from the dry mix. It was great fun.

Defying Gravity!

I bought tickets to see the play Wicked. It was my Christmas/Birthday present to myself this past year. My sister and I were able enjoy the amazing play.


I wore green in honor of the play.


We were three rows away from the stage. We could see them spit and sweat. I am in love with the music and overall theme of the story. It was great, great, great.


The ceiling in capital theater

The stage with the dragon

Sidenote: I do not recommend the book, it is crude compared to the play (from what I have heard)

A Southern Moment

The south is truly friendly and you can talk to random strangers and it is normal. You can also call strangers; sweetie, honey, and sugar.

This weekend, I was able to attend the Sat. afternoon session of General Conference with some friends. We were in the front row of the plaza section so there was a walkway in front of us. I love to people watch. I noticed a middle aged woman walked by with a beautiful diamond brooch (like a firework.) I commented on it to my friends, then the lady walked by again. I had to tell her that I like her brooch. I stopped her and I told her that I loved her brooch. She thanked me and I noticed she had a southern accent, she was from South Carolina (I am from North Carolina.) She explained to me why she bought the brooch. She thought it looked like the palmetto tree. Those that don't know that the palmetto tree is on the South Carolina flag. I understood and noted that she was wearing a blue background just like the flag. We laughed and thanked me and went on her way.


My friends were laughing at me after the lady left. They couldn't believe that I would stop a random stranger. It is normal for me because I am a southerner.

Happy Birthday

I need to report on the exciting adventures of my birthday weekend and day.
-attended laser light show with music from U2 at the Clark Planetarium.
-went to BYU men's volleyball game
-brother took me to lunch.
-played volleyball
-got up at 6am to walk in the snow with a friend (every day)
-went to doctor
-went to class and took treats
-sisters took me to lunch on the special day
-sisters took me to get pedicure
-received many phone calls, emails, birthday cards, and facebook messages

Being single, the birthday is such a great way to be reminded that many people do love you and I needed it. Thanks!!!!

It is done!

Thank you to all that supported me during the most stressful week. My exam is turned in all 36 pages (3 pages of references.) Anyway, it is done. I was able to enjoy a family day during this week to celebrate my upcoming golden birthday. Here are some photos.

The girls helped me blow out the thousand candles and helped me open my presents.

Green cake and frosting because it is March Madness!

Enjoying the cake.

My Spring Break

I have Spring Break this upcoming week. What am I going to do?

I wish I was going to a lighthouse!

Instead:
-Receive my comprehensive exam (thesis) and have 10 days to complete it. It will be 3 questions and 10-15 pages per question.
-Tutor on Monday
-Think about my comprehensive exam questions
-Hopefully, make FHE and volleyball
-St Patrick's Day-favorite Holiday- I have my green outfit ready!
-Write my comprehensive exam
-Fill out my NCAA brackets
-Tutor on Wednesday
-Work on my comprehensive exam
-Tutor on Thursday
-Freak out about my exam.
-Exercise
-Become crazier than normal because I will have spent tons of time on my computer writing my exam.
-Finally, Turn in my exam by 5 pm. 3/23 (if I pass the exam, I can graduate for real)
-FREEDOM!!!! Wait Spring Break is over!

A Change of pace

On Sunday, I decided for a change of pace. (No, I didn't skip church, seriously you don't know me well enough to think that.) I went to my sister's ward, a family ward, instead of all singles ward. My sister and her husband work in nursery (18 months to 3 years.) They were bunny and fish slippers during Nursery, they say for the children. Anyway, I didn't want to go to nursery and smell diapers (wasn't feeling it) and I wasn't feeling like going to Sunday School with lots of strangers. So I did the next best thing and I went to Primary (3 to 12 years old). I sat with my 3 year old niece and sang songs. I quickly learned some new primary songs, because it has been FOREVER since I have been in Primary and of course they have new songs. I did learn a new Favorite song "SCRIPTURE POWER" and I understand why it is a favorite. I fit right in with the kids because I don't sit still very well and there is always something or someone to watch. They try so hard to sit still, precious.

Reviewing Children's Literature

You may not realize that I spend all of my time reading about reading. I am getting my Masters of Education in Reading and Literacy. I have learned tons. I have learned that many parents don't know about the great children's literature or authors that are out there. My friend, Erika, and I are both love to read. We thought it would be a great idea to start a Children's Literature Review blog. You will see what great children's literature is out there and maybe what is not. We will be reviewing picture books, chapter books, and young adult fiction. We want parents to know what their children are reading about. The Link is on the side bar. Click and enjoy and share with your friends.

Thanks,

Rachel

Taking Risks

I saw the most amazing example of taking risks last night at a halftime show during a basketball game. (Normally, the halftime show is little girls dancing in ways that I wouldn't dance like). Ladies from the age of 50 to 92 came out and provided a little show/dance. It was clean and fun. The 92 year old woman did her own little dance which included a high kick (higher than mine) and a perfect spilt on the floor. WOW!

I wonder if I would be brave enough to take risks when I get older, then I realized why I am not taking risks while I am young. What is holding me back? I am afraid of what people will think of me? Why do I care what so many people think? Why am I a coward? Am I scared of being hurt or rejected? Am I scared to let people see the real me? Is there something wrong with the real me?

Taking risks just doesn't apply to putting yourself out there like this 92 year old women. I think it applies to standing up for ourselves and speaking out against things that are not right. I don't want to be scared to tell someone to put away a porn magazine or stop smoking or cussing if my nieces and nephews are around and can see or hear it. I am protecting them. Why am I afraid to offend others with my beliefs? I have been trained to not offend others and be careful, which is some situations is great. Other times, I need to take a stand. I stand for something, do my actions speak what I stand for?

Hoofed or Hooved Animals

I have to share the most interesting thing I learned last night at my class. We were doing an activity about previews and our sample reading was about Hoofed Animals. I have to share what I learned because it is most intriguing and is going to be a jeopardy questions one day.
Hoofed animals:
-examples are horses, camels, rhinos, unicorns, reindeer, hippos, pigs, cows, goats, sheep, elephant, wildebeests, water buffalo, zebra, and giraffes.
-Two main groups: Odd-toed and even-toed
-Most are plant eaters and have cheek teeth to help chew the veggie material also have a stomach that has several chambers for digesting.
-Some have cud chewers, which means they chew some food and it goes to the stomach and then it returns to the mouth to be chewed more thoroughly.
-Most travel in family groups. Elephants travel in groups of about 40 and are all related. When a mother elephant is giving birth, the other lady elephants will encircle her.
-Pregnancy lasts a few months and non-domesticated animals are in heat only once a year.
-Seacows are considered hoofed animals because they have front legs with flattened horny nails (hoofs are nails).
So instead of getting a pedicure, they get hooficures.

What is your tooth fairy's name?

I heard the greatest idea in the world last week. (ok, maybe not the greatest, but pretty cool). One of my teachers started a tradition with her children. Everyone has a tooth fairy, but the teacher gave her daughter's tooth fairy a name and life. Bethany is her daughter's tooth fairy name. She leaves little notes wrap with a gold string. The notes talk about what she is doing and how busy she is. The daughter is always wondering what Bethany is doing and how things affect her. (great for developing questioning skills) She doesn't understand why other kids don't get notes from their tooth fairy. Maybe, these other tooth collectors should try to establish a relationship the person's whose teeth they collect.

100th post

I can't believe I have posted a 100 times. Can I get a Woot! Woot! (don't forget to emphasis the t's)

Anyway, here is the quote of the week-

"Research is sexy."

My "Intro to research and design" teacher really loves research, it is what turns her on. It is a good thing her husband enjoys research as well. Now my cohort and I have been giggling because we are thinking "What are really passionate about it our studies? or really love learning about?"

It is no longer a brick!

Cell phones have really changed over the past ten years. It is really amazing.

It is no longer a brick, my cell phone. My first cell phone was a donation from my father's company. I wish I could have a found a picture for you. Let me describe it. Nextel phone, 2 inches thick and could have been run over my a tank and still worked. It had been dropped a few times (by my dad), when we was working on the roofs of some building (3 stories at least). It was still working. That phone lasted me a couple of years, 3 years I think.

I was lucky to have a friend (Thanks, Holly) donate me a new phone 4 years ago. It was only a 1 inch thick and it was a flip phone. I had the batman ring tone. That phone lasted me 4 years. This past week, I had to retire that phone.

Both cell phones, I have had have been laughed at and mocked because of their size (both being referred to as a brick.) I loved them and cared for them. Even once the cell company laughed that I was still using an old cell phone, that was 1 year ago. I finally made the decision to join the "rest" of the world and get a slick new phone. Actually, I was not swayed by the world, my old phone was dying and my brother in law had an old phone(newer for me). It is so little and tiny, what to do. Oh, thanks to my brother in law for helping to bring me to the exciting world of a slicker cell phone. Whoo hoo.