Well, today I finished my last big assignment for one of my lit classes. It consisted of reading 25 multicultural childrens books and creating activities that extend the book to help with their literacy development. It is a rewarding assignment, but very time consuming.
This year I had 3 different literacy classes, and those are the ones that I enjoyed and learned the most in. Reading is essential to every person, but I am always amazed at how unfamiliar some children are with literature. It seems that it should be in every house, but it isn't. It makes me appreciate my upbringing and how valued literature is in our home.
As a teacher I am hoping to instill some of the same value into literature to my students as I was so familiar with as a child. Just think, I will have that opportunity in 4 months!!!
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Slacker
Well, I am finally getting back to the blog. I have not been writing due to many different projects that are needing attention for the end of the semester. It is funny that at the start of the semester I always print off what big projects are, and when they are due. I look at them and realize that I should really start this now like the instructor said, but I will wait till the week, or the day before it is due.
There is nobody to blame, except me. I will put of projects like the plague. I will even clean my room, and put away my laundry before I want to do them. But when I finally sit down, and concentrate on what needs to be done it seems that they are never as bad as I thought, and I am usually impressed with the outcome. Well to everybody else out there, good luck with the end of your semester, and I hope that you are a bit more savvy than I when it comes to projects.
There is nobody to blame, except me. I will put of projects like the plague. I will even clean my room, and put away my laundry before I want to do them. But when I finally sit down, and concentrate on what needs to be done it seems that they are never as bad as I thought, and I am usually impressed with the outcome. Well to everybody else out there, good luck with the end of your semester, and I hope that you are a bit more savvy than I when it comes to projects.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Emma Louise Omodt Dignan
On Monday morning at 3:25 AM I became an Anutie again!
All day Easter Sunday, Karen, was trying to make it so she would have contractions and start her labor, but nothing happened.
After a wonderful Easter Sunday, Karne, Ryan, and her girls went home at 8pm with the big plan of watching a movie, and then going to bed.
I received a phone call at 6 AM saying that Karen had the baby and everybody was fine, but they needed some help getting the girls ready for school and making lunches and what not.
My little brother John, Dad, and I all went in to do what we could. While Ryan went to school to write up his lessons for the substitue, and then talk to the principle about his plans for the rest of the week.
Emma Louise Omodt Dignan was born at home to Karen and Ryan Dignan.
She has 4 older sisters Stella, Sophie, Sadie and Cecilia.
Emma is 8lbs. 4 oz. 19 in' long. 14 in head. and black hair.
Her lungs work great, and according to Sadie who is 5 "her toes smell like cookie dough."
Mom and Baby are doing well, and Ryan is in a daze.
We are all overjoyed with the new additon, and are all waiting in line to hold her but the compitation is fierce.
So welcome home Emma Louise, welcome home.
All day Easter Sunday, Karen, was trying to make it so she would have contractions and start her labor, but nothing happened.
After a wonderful Easter Sunday, Karne, Ryan, and her girls went home at 8pm with the big plan of watching a movie, and then going to bed.
I received a phone call at 6 AM saying that Karen had the baby and everybody was fine, but they needed some help getting the girls ready for school and making lunches and what not.
My little brother John, Dad, and I all went in to do what we could. While Ryan went to school to write up his lessons for the substitue, and then talk to the principle about his plans for the rest of the week.
Emma Louise Omodt Dignan was born at home to Karen and Ryan Dignan.
She has 4 older sisters Stella, Sophie, Sadie and Cecilia.
Emma is 8lbs. 4 oz. 19 in' long. 14 in head. and black hair.
Her lungs work great, and according to Sadie who is 5 "her toes smell like cookie dough."
Mom and Baby are doing well, and Ryan is in a daze.
We are all overjoyed with the new additon, and are all waiting in line to hold her but the compitation is fierce.
So welcome home Emma Louise, welcome home.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Easter Blessings
Well, I hope that you all had a wonderful Easter!!!
I know I did.
One of my older brothers, Luke who is deployed to Iraq was able to get his two weeks leave and come home on Wednesday. On Thursday My brother and Sister-in-Law fron N.C, and are both in the Army were able to come up for the weekend, and then my little brother J.P who was deployed to Quawait for a short about of time was home. Even though only half of the family was here, it was wonderful.
Mike and Cathy are expecting their first child in June, so it was fun to watch Cathy 'waddle' around the farm with one of the the little girls always holding her hand.
Luke is having a great time with his wife and child, who when he left had just turned one. Now she is talking and walking, and pulling herself up onto benches and getting into things that she shouldn't.
J.P. is glad to be back where he can wear real clothes, and can eat a 'real hamburger'. Something that I always find amusing.
As for the reast of us, we are just happy to be able to all sit and talk and enjoy a beer together, and watch the children run around the dinner table chasing each other. This reminds me of my childhood when we would go to Grandma Cochrans ( my moms' mom) and she would get together with her family. I always thought that the adults were so lame, and old cause all they did was talk. Well Now I am the old and lame adult! That is what it is all about. Sharing stories, and just enjoying each others company.
The weekend was shortlived, but it was well played. I am always looking forward to when any family can get together and sit and talk.
I hope that you were blessed as I was this Holy Season.
I know I did.
One of my older brothers, Luke who is deployed to Iraq was able to get his two weeks leave and come home on Wednesday. On Thursday My brother and Sister-in-Law fron N.C, and are both in the Army were able to come up for the weekend, and then my little brother J.P who was deployed to Quawait for a short about of time was home. Even though only half of the family was here, it was wonderful.
Mike and Cathy are expecting their first child in June, so it was fun to watch Cathy 'waddle' around the farm with one of the the little girls always holding her hand.
Luke is having a great time with his wife and child, who when he left had just turned one. Now she is talking and walking, and pulling herself up onto benches and getting into things that she shouldn't.
J.P. is glad to be back where he can wear real clothes, and can eat a 'real hamburger'. Something that I always find amusing.
As for the reast of us, we are just happy to be able to all sit and talk and enjoy a beer together, and watch the children run around the dinner table chasing each other. This reminds me of my childhood when we would go to Grandma Cochrans ( my moms' mom) and she would get together with her family. I always thought that the adults were so lame, and old cause all they did was talk. Well Now I am the old and lame adult! That is what it is all about. Sharing stories, and just enjoying each others company.
The weekend was shortlived, but it was well played. I am always looking forward to when any family can get together and sit and talk.
I hope that you were blessed as I was this Holy Season.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
The Wedding
Well, It was a successful weekend. I didn't get lost in Seattle. I rode a Ferrie and it was awesome. Wore a dress and heels, and made it home all in one piece. It was a beautiful wedding. Tiffany looked like all brides should, glowing. And I ran into some old high school friends that I haven't seen in a few years.
Well We danced the night the away and had a wonderful time. I made the ferrie this morning, and was able to go to Palm Sunday Mass. The ride home was also interesting. In the pass it snowed so hard it was a white out for 5 minutes. There was 3 different army convoys on the road, all of which were honked at by posser-bys and they waved back.
And when I hit the Gorge it was beautiful and sunny.
It was a wonderful 3 day vacation that I had no idea how how much I needed it. Looking forwad to Easter.
Well We danced the night the away and had a wonderful time. I made the ferrie this morning, and was able to go to Palm Sunday Mass. The ride home was also interesting. In the pass it snowed so hard it was a white out for 5 minutes. There was 3 different army convoys on the road, all of which were honked at by posser-bys and they waved back.
And when I hit the Gorge it was beautiful and sunny.
It was a wonderful 3 day vacation that I had no idea how how much I needed it. Looking forwad to Easter.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Road Trip and Driving in Seattle
Blog
Road Trip
I’m sitting here on a Ferry heading to Bremerton Wa for a high school friends wedding. In order for me to get this far I had to drive, by myself to Seattle. Now the drive it’s self is easy but when you have to go through the City I don’t like it. I’m a Sandpoint Navtive who lives in Coeur d alene, and hates driving in Spokane, because traffic sucks. Now put me in downtown Seattle. White knuckle, explicit words, and my GPS isn’t working. Not good.
It is illegal to drive and talk on your cell phone in Wa, but I figured that for the safety of all on the road I needed help with directions so I called my sister on speaker and had the phone in my lap. Karen my sister, lived in Seattle 5 years ago and I was praying that she could remember the streets and how to get to where I needed to go ( I was staying at her in-laws for the night so I hoped that she remembered.) The exit that I needed was closed for construction, so Karen had to think of an alternate route, fast. I hit Seattle on a Friday, at 4:30 Rush hour. Perfect.
So, Karen is telling me directions on speaker, asking what exit I just passed. I’m talking to her at the same time asking what lane I need to be in. I’m going the speed limit which is 15 under the speed of traffic, and finally Karen tells me to get off at this next exit. So much better, right? Wrong.
The exit that she told me to get off at was the one that takes me trough down town Seattle. There are no lines, just the little white bumps to distinguish that there is some sort of lane. There are no cars in front of me to follow, they are all following me, and to top it off an Ambulance comes roaring down behind me. Now like all good North Idaho people you pull over as far as you can when you see the crazy red lights. Well Seattle people seem to think that turning their wheels the opposite direction is good enough. I get over in the other lane and let the ambulance go, but there are people following the ambulance to get to where they want to go, so getting back into the lane that I was in, was to say the least an adventure in it’s own.
This whole time Karen is still telling me what to do, and by now I’m yelling using explicit language, then telling her to take me off speaker so the little girls don’t hear me, as she is bribing them with cookies to be quite cause Aunt Katie is lost in the city. Oh what an adventure. To say the least I successfully got to the in-laws without hitting or getting hit by a car or pedestrian.
Now that I was done driving I knew that I needed to get some homework done, so my goal was to go to a coffee shop and sit, and be a ‘good student’. Well that didn’t happen either.
I realized that I had forgotten my strapless bra, which was imperative for the outfit that I had decided was worthy of a wedding. Well Seattle here I come. I went to Pikes Place, and just dinked around in the shops not buying but just looking and absorbing the smells, colors and sounds. I found the Gum Wall which is amazing and disgusting all at the same time. I listened to musicians on the street, and watched some guy get his travel purse snatched right in front of a cop so a chased ensued. Finally I went to the Rack to try and find my Bra. I was surprised at the slim selection and didn’t find any that would do the job, so I decided on a new dress! I know, seems silly but hey I’m on Vacation, kinda.
Well I now have a new outfit, which I am excited to wear. I'm also excited to see my friend get married, and maybe see some of my classmates. I will write tomorrow about the wedding, and who knows, maybe put up pictures!!
Monday, April 11, 2011
Seat Covers
Well, Today has been very busy. I worked, went to the health club, did erronds, went to the library, and then put on new seat covers in Ranger (my Car.) I have felt that Ranger needed some extra love since the Hit and Run from the other day so I decided to finally buy seat covers. ( I have been wanting to get some for months, but have just been too lazy.)
I take them out of the box, and am so excited for something new and exciting. And I read the instructions, that say that it is so easy anybody can do it. It had 4 steps to follow. You think that it would be easy!After 15 mintues of inventive language and trying to figure out how the stupid strings are sapost to come together, with the 's' hooks I finally went back inside to get my compurter, and watch on youtube 'how to put on seat covers.'
I know that seems silly, but I couldn't figure it out. And it was much harder then it said that it was sapost to be. After some more inventive language, and but a better understanding I finally got my new covers on. I have to admit, it looks pretty good. I am eagerly awaiting to go out and drive in Ranger tomorrow, who knows He may even get to go to the car wash!
I take them out of the box, and am so excited for something new and exciting. And I read the instructions, that say that it is so easy anybody can do it. It had 4 steps to follow. You think that it would be easy!After 15 mintues of inventive language and trying to figure out how the stupid strings are sapost to come together, with the 's' hooks I finally went back inside to get my compurter, and watch on youtube 'how to put on seat covers.'
I know that seems silly, but I couldn't figure it out. And it was much harder then it said that it was sapost to be. After some more inventive language, and but a better understanding I finally got my new covers on. I have to admit, it looks pretty good. I am eagerly awaiting to go out and drive in Ranger tomorrow, who knows He may even get to go to the car wash!
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Behind
It never fails. Around the last 4 weeks of the semester I realize that I have so much to do and if I get behind I can't catch up. That is Where I am now. I am still trying to turn in assignments from a few days ago and hoping that I can get some more done ahead of time. It doesn't seem like there is enough time in the day for me to get done what needs to be done.
Maybe that just means going to bed later and getting up earlier. Who knows. What I do know is that I have 4 weeks, and those 4 weeks are going to be super busy.
Maybe that just means going to bed later and getting up earlier. Who knows. What I do know is that I have 4 weeks, and those 4 weeks are going to be super busy.
Hit and Run
So, I had to wait a few days to write this because I was so mad. The other day it was so Beautiful and Sunny. I opened at work and knew that if it stayed like this I would be able to enjoy the sun for a few hours. Because of the sun everybody was out and in a good mood, and time flew by. I went home and read outside in my new back yard area by my car, and got a sunburn!!! That is amazing, im so happy about that.
Well anyways, after an hour or so I went inside and then came back out and noticed a huge dent in the back of Ranger ( my cars name, Which is a Subaru Forester). Somebody just backed into the car, and left. There were scratches and paint missing, and the rear fender is compleated dented. Who the heck is that mean?
I use alot of colorful language when I found out. Ranger is alread beat up. Some kid decided that he needed to be keyed, and the paint is falling off the hood, but he is my Ranger. It is the fact that some Ass decided to just leave and not say anything. Plus I was at work. It just shows that people are rude and are cheap.
So, To the ASS who hit Ranger and left, you will get what is coming to you one way or another.
Well anyways, after an hour or so I went inside and then came back out and noticed a huge dent in the back of Ranger ( my cars name, Which is a Subaru Forester). Somebody just backed into the car, and left. There were scratches and paint missing, and the rear fender is compleated dented. Who the heck is that mean?
I use alot of colorful language when I found out. Ranger is alread beat up. Some kid decided that he needed to be keyed, and the paint is falling off the hood, but he is my Ranger. It is the fact that some Ass decided to just leave and not say anything. Plus I was at work. It just shows that people are rude and are cheap.
So, To the ASS who hit Ranger and left, you will get what is coming to you one way or another.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
My Room
Well, I have successfully moved and now just need to finish unpacking. I am currently on my bed, looking over my floor at the mound of boxes that are half full with random things that either need to go in the trash or need to be given away.
It is amazing to me howmuch stuff we collect. I have a whole box full of papers that I thought that I would use, or that I must save because I will eventually use them. I found papers from 2008 that I have never used, and are just collecting dust. I am planning a bon fire over Easter my goal is to have everything on the pile that I don't use. We will see if that goal gets accomplished!
It is amazing to me howmuch stuff we collect. I have a whole box full of papers that I thought that I would use, or that I must save because I will eventually use them. I found papers from 2008 that I have never used, and are just collecting dust. I am planning a bon fire over Easter my goal is to have everything on the pile that I don't use. We will see if that goal gets accomplished!
Thursday, March 31, 2011
New Place!!!
Finally, I am officially finished moving. Well at least I have all of my stuff in one place:)
II look over my bedroom floor and see boxes apon boses piled up, I have made just enough room to get to the door. I am so tired. I hate moving. It takes so much energy to pack everything up and then clean everything. It is always amazing how much stuff I have. even thought it seems that I am always taking things to St. Vinnies. It just doesn't make sense. I am very thankful that I am now established in a house and not an apartment.
I am looking forward to unpacking and getting rid of more things, hopefully there will be some things that I can throw on the bonfire that we are going to have for Easter!!!
II look over my bedroom floor and see boxes apon boses piled up, I have made just enough room to get to the door. I am so tired. I hate moving. It takes so much energy to pack everything up and then clean everything. It is always amazing how much stuff I have. even thought it seems that I am always taking things to St. Vinnies. It just doesn't make sense. I am very thankful that I am now established in a house and not an apartment.
I am looking forward to unpacking and getting rid of more things, hopefully there will be some things that I can throw on the bonfire that we are going to have for Easter!!!
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Virusus and Moving
Well, today is the first day since saturday since I have been able to look at my comppurter screen. For some reason while doing assignments, my compurter decided to get multiple virsusus and freeze which caused me to take it to a compurter doctor that had to wipe my hard drive clean. Let me tell you this was not fun, but I learned a valuable lesson. ALWASYS put all your information on an external hard drive! I had most of mine on an external so it wasn't so bad, but I did loose some assignments, and pictures, plus all of my music. Very lame. I am now trying to get caught up but it seems like it is the never ending hole, that I can't get out of. Plus to top it off I am in the process of moving.
I have to be out of my place by tomorrow by 5 or else I pay all of Aprils rent. I have about half of the aprtment cleaned, with boxes litered all over with odds and ends here and there. My roommeate left in January, and I never looked in his room to see if it was truely cleaned. Well this morning I leanred an other lesson. Don't trust a room mate that leaves in the middle of a lease, what a slob.
Out of all this I am trying to take away all the things that could be positives. I could still be computerless. I could not have a place to stay and be sleeping in my car (which was my plan! it sounds like an adventure! ) I could be working today and tomorrow, which thankfully I'm not so I am able to do what needs to be done. And the list goes on and on.
I pray that everybody else is doing well in their studies and what ever life has in store. Just think, only 5 more weeks left!!!!! Then summer, well kinda...
I have to be out of my place by tomorrow by 5 or else I pay all of Aprils rent. I have about half of the aprtment cleaned, with boxes litered all over with odds and ends here and there. My roommeate left in January, and I never looked in his room to see if it was truely cleaned. Well this morning I leanred an other lesson. Don't trust a room mate that leaves in the middle of a lease, what a slob.
Out of all this I am trying to take away all the things that could be positives. I could still be computerless. I could not have a place to stay and be sleeping in my car (which was my plan! it sounds like an adventure! ) I could be working today and tomorrow, which thankfully I'm not so I am able to do what needs to be done. And the list goes on and on.
I pray that everybody else is doing well in their studies and what ever life has in store. Just think, only 5 more weeks left!!!!! Then summer, well kinda...
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Group Projects
Well some of you know and have experienced the adventures of doing group projects online. For those of you that don't let me tell you that it is one of the most asinine things ever. Doing group projects in a regular classroom setting is bad enough because you always have the students that won't do their share, and the students that are overachievers, and then there are the middle ground guys, (that's me) that will do their work on time but doesn't want to do the extra work from the slackers while mentally hitting them in the knee cap.
Now, take that and put it to a class of online students who are also burnt out, and working full time. Pretty picture huh! We are making a test, that is also a worthless test, in a group, on line. For some of the students (overachievers) it seems that they are just sitting there in front of their computer all day with nothing else to do. Others, (middle guys) make the due dates and respond but only to what is truly needed. Then last but not least is the students that haven't contributed anything but will affect everybody's overall grade. (I'm hitting them in the kneecap). I have done my part for the day and am now here.
This assignment is not a good assignment, maybe if it was a real classroom, but not for this program. I am so frustrated that I have to vent and I apologize. I know that I am being a whinny butt but that is all I can think about so that is what you get to read. Hopefully I will be able to write about something better tomorrow.
Now, take that and put it to a class of online students who are also burnt out, and working full time. Pretty picture huh! We are making a test, that is also a worthless test, in a group, on line. For some of the students (overachievers) it seems that they are just sitting there in front of their computer all day with nothing else to do. Others, (middle guys) make the due dates and respond but only to what is truly needed. Then last but not least is the students that haven't contributed anything but will affect everybody's overall grade. (I'm hitting them in the kneecap). I have done my part for the day and am now here.
This assignment is not a good assignment, maybe if it was a real classroom, but not for this program. I am so frustrated that I have to vent and I apologize. I know that I am being a whinny butt but that is all I can think about so that is what you get to read. Hopefully I will be able to write about something better tomorrow.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Spring Break is Over
Well friends, Spring Break is officially over in 5 hours. I didn't feel like I accomplished anything that I wanted to. I was always going from one place to the next. Completing assignments, and going to work. I am so looking forward to the end of the school year when I have at least 2 weeks off from School. That is going to be my real spring break!!!
I wish everybody good luck.
I wish everybody good luck.
Friday, March 18, 2011
St. Patricks Day
What a day. My best friend, Ana just left and now I am going to try and be a good student and get some work done.
She came up from Moscow to help celebrate St. Patricks Day in style. It was like a vacation, I haven't laughed so much in a long time. I ended up cooking dinner at my place and then we went out to a small pub, Kelly's. It was so great. Small, non-smoking, and live music. It was just what was needed. We had a great time conversing with other patrons and telling stories like we have been going there for ever. The night ended with us looking at youtube videos and crying because we were laughing so hard.
This morning we went to the Breakfast Nook, which serves huge meals at ridiculously low prices. Drove around in the sun and then ended having a 45 minute skype session with my little brother who is in Kuwait. This also lead to more tears, due to laughter.
If anything, this was the spring break that everybody should have. Even though it lasted for less then 24 hours it was exactly what I needed to get going again.
She came up from Moscow to help celebrate St. Patricks Day in style. It was like a vacation, I haven't laughed so much in a long time. I ended up cooking dinner at my place and then we went out to a small pub, Kelly's. It was so great. Small, non-smoking, and live music. It was just what was needed. We had a great time conversing with other patrons and telling stories like we have been going there for ever. The night ended with us looking at youtube videos and crying because we were laughing so hard.
This morning we went to the Breakfast Nook, which serves huge meals at ridiculously low prices. Drove around in the sun and then ended having a 45 minute skype session with my little brother who is in Kuwait. This also lead to more tears, due to laughter.
If anything, this was the spring break that everybody should have. Even though it lasted for less then 24 hours it was exactly what I needed to get going again.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Topics!
I was inspired the other day by a fellow classmates post, just set the timer and write about objects in front of you so that is what I am going to do.
I am sitting in my living room at my parents house staring into the fire. I love this fire place. It stands in the middle of the room and divides the dining room and living room. It is made out of slate that we collects when we were building the house. On the dining room side there is a bench that you can sit on and get warm from the heat that goes through the slate. I love this. Especially in the winter when it is cold outside. Also the beloved spot in front of the fireplace doors is a sacred spot to take naps. During the holidays when everybody is home, it is common to find bodies spread out on the rug in front of the fire snoring. One of the many things I love about my family.
I look to my right and stare over the slew and have a beautiful view of Schweitzer. It is a clear day with the sun shining on what looks like from here groomed runs. there is a dead cotton wood tree that is huge across the slew and we always make comments that dad should go and cut it down, but then there wouldn't be a place for the hawks and bald eagles to perch.
The slew is home to many wildlife creatures. Moose, Deer, Bald Eagles, Hawks, Blue Herons, Beaver, and some times coyotes. As kids my siblings and I would swim in the slew and pretend that we were pirates on this raft that we built out of old barrels and some sort of red carpeted board. That was such a great summer.
There are childrens' books sitting on the rocking chair. My nieces were out visiting Grandpa Fred and they love to show him how their reading is improving and what they know. Dr. Seuss, Golden Books, and Shel Silverstein are among the few that are out.
I just love being home. The memories that I have and the memories that I still am making are so precious. Nothing like it.
I am sitting in my living room at my parents house staring into the fire. I love this fire place. It stands in the middle of the room and divides the dining room and living room. It is made out of slate that we collects when we were building the house. On the dining room side there is a bench that you can sit on and get warm from the heat that goes through the slate. I love this. Especially in the winter when it is cold outside. Also the beloved spot in front of the fireplace doors is a sacred spot to take naps. During the holidays when everybody is home, it is common to find bodies spread out on the rug in front of the fire snoring. One of the many things I love about my family.
I look to my right and stare over the slew and have a beautiful view of Schweitzer. It is a clear day with the sun shining on what looks like from here groomed runs. there is a dead cotton wood tree that is huge across the slew and we always make comments that dad should go and cut it down, but then there wouldn't be a place for the hawks and bald eagles to perch.
The slew is home to many wildlife creatures. Moose, Deer, Bald Eagles, Hawks, Blue Herons, Beaver, and some times coyotes. As kids my siblings and I would swim in the slew and pretend that we were pirates on this raft that we built out of old barrels and some sort of red carpeted board. That was such a great summer.
There are childrens' books sitting on the rocking chair. My nieces were out visiting Grandpa Fred and they love to show him how their reading is improving and what they know. Dr. Seuss, Golden Books, and Shel Silverstein are among the few that are out.
I just love being home. The memories that I have and the memories that I still am making are so precious. Nothing like it.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Sunday
Well today I did absoloutly nothing regarding school, till now!
It was soooooooooo amazing. I went to church, did some chores and then went to a bridal shower for a dear friend who is getting married on the 19th. I hope that spring break will bring everybody a sense of relief and renewed energy. I know that I could.
It was soooooooooo amazing. I went to church, did some chores and then went to a bridal shower for a dear friend who is getting married on the 19th. I hope that spring break will bring everybody a sense of relief and renewed energy. I know that I could.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Sadie Rose
Every semester I have used my nieces to to help me with my homework, but this semester Sadie Rose has been my ultimate guinea pig. She just turned 5 in February and is the perfect age for all of these assignments that I need to complete for Emergent Lit. I have so much fun, and I think that she does too, well I know that she likes getting a cookie or a hot chocolate out of it!
Yesterday was different, and our time together lasted longer then usual. I pick her up after school and then I get to have her till 3. So two hours of just us. I love it. Well yesterday was Ash Wednesday, so lent had officially started so there is no cookies or hot cocoa and Sadie was fine. We went to a different place to do our work, the Panhandle State Bank. This is a huge building in Sandpoint, built a few years ago and when you walk in there is a very nice fountain, and Sadie loved it. We had a blast reading books by the water, she also loved going in and out of the moving doors. (the ones that go in circles) We accomplished our reading then moved on to our next stop. Home, well my home Grandma and Grampas. We made a fire, she got to bunch up paper and use the long match to light the paper and it started right away! Then we cuddled up stairs and watched a movie. It was so much fun.
When it was time to go to mass for Ash Wednesday, Sadie let me hold her for most of the mass! I just love it. She is such a little snuggle Bunnie, well all of the girls are but Sadie does it so well. And I know that I won't be able to hold her much longer for she is getting so big. I treasure the hours that I get to spend with each of the girls for I know when I was growing up spending time with an Aunt or Uncle by yourself was really special. I just lover her to death and am so thankful that I have her to help me with my homework or else I would be sunk.
Yesterday was different, and our time together lasted longer then usual. I pick her up after school and then I get to have her till 3. So two hours of just us. I love it. Well yesterday was Ash Wednesday, so lent had officially started so there is no cookies or hot cocoa and Sadie was fine. We went to a different place to do our work, the Panhandle State Bank. This is a huge building in Sandpoint, built a few years ago and when you walk in there is a very nice fountain, and Sadie loved it. We had a blast reading books by the water, she also loved going in and out of the moving doors. (the ones that go in circles) We accomplished our reading then moved on to our next stop. Home, well my home Grandma and Grampas. We made a fire, she got to bunch up paper and use the long match to light the paper and it started right away! Then we cuddled up stairs and watched a movie. It was so much fun.
When it was time to go to mass for Ash Wednesday, Sadie let me hold her for most of the mass! I just love it. She is such a little snuggle Bunnie, well all of the girls are but Sadie does it so well. And I know that I won't be able to hold her much longer for she is getting so big. I treasure the hours that I get to spend with each of the girls for I know when I was growing up spending time with an Aunt or Uncle by yourself was really special. I just lover her to death and am so thankful that I have her to help me with my homework or else I would be sunk.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
The Library
Today was a good day. I was off of work by 11, went to the health club, back home to pick up all my messes and then onward to the library for I knew that I would get distracted at home. I had a plan of what I wanted to get accomplished while I was here today and am a little dissapointed. The internet wasn't working so
I couldn't log on for over half an hour on my own computer. Now I don't know about you guys but when I get into my LCSC accounts it opens up 4 new windows and takes for ever. Now just imaninge doing that on a public computer with slow internet........................yep it was super.
I was able to download one of my assignments onto a flash drive and then work with it in window. I almost had it completed but they are now giving me the 'last call' for the library is closing so I decided to do my post instead.
Like I said Today was a good day. Oh and I voted!
Looking forward to tomorrow where I will be in a middle school :)
I couldn't log on for over half an hour on my own computer. Now I don't know about you guys but when I get into my LCSC accounts it opens up 4 new windows and takes for ever. Now just imaninge doing that on a public computer with slow internet........................yep it was super.
I was able to download one of my assignments onto a flash drive and then work with it in window. I almost had it completed but they are now giving me the 'last call' for the library is closing so I decided to do my post instead.
Like I said Today was a good day. Oh and I voted!
Looking forward to tomorrow where I will be in a middle school :)
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Sunshine!!!!
My long lost friend has come out to play. Mr. Sunshine!!! It was so great to wake up to him streaming through my windows, I know that I wanted to be out in it today. So I called up one of my friends and we went out to coffee, Then sat on the Library deck for three hours talking and soaking up the rays of vitiman D.
It was so awesome. So beautiful. So right. I am now back in my apartment, going to get a start on the never ending pile of homework. I wish that the sun would stay, but I know that it is going to go and hide again. Till then I have to be content with what I get.
It was so awesome. So beautiful. So right. I am now back in my apartment, going to get a start on the never ending pile of homework. I wish that the sun would stay, but I know that it is going to go and hide again. Till then I have to be content with what I get.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Skype
Well today I woke up early and had this great plan of compleating the homeowrk that I am still behind in when I notice that my family is on skype. So exciting. I don't get to talk to them very often because of the 9 hour time difference. Kelly just got home from school it is (5pm in Italy) and is starting to get things out for dinner when John ( My brother who is deployed gets on skpye!) This is great we can have a conference call with the three of us for free when we are all on different continents. John is two hours a head of Italy so it is 7 pm there. So here we have a three way conversation, at three different times, at three different continents. It is great.
Mom and Steve soon get home ( in Italy) so now there are 5 Omodts talking.
Oh how I miss the business and chaos of a big family. I love having four different conversations at the dinner table and being able to follow each one. This was almost like it, but I was sipping my morning coffee instead of eating dinner. We talked for over an hour! It is amazing how much you can say to each other.
So I want to Thank the person who came up with Skype. For I would never be able to afford a call overseas for a minute let alone for an hour. So thank you for connecting me to my family.
Mom and Steve soon get home ( in Italy) so now there are 5 Omodts talking.
Oh how I miss the business and chaos of a big family. I love having four different conversations at the dinner table and being able to follow each one. This was almost like it, but I was sipping my morning coffee instead of eating dinner. We talked for over an hour! It is amazing how much you can say to each other.
So I want to Thank the person who came up with Skype. For I would never be able to afford a call overseas for a minute let alone for an hour. So thank you for connecting me to my family.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Blah
I'm sitting here at the library trying to do my homework that was due yesterday. Once again I have no motivation. I have recently just gotten over being sick for over two weeks and was so excited to be well again. when Bam, now I have something else. I feel like a little kid that wants their mommy to give them 7-up and Popsicle.
If only time could stand still. Then I could accomplish so much. I could get better, get caught up, and maybe even ahead!
Well with winter still here full board, I am just going to take it one step at a time, and wait for the sunshine.
If only time could stand still. Then I could accomplish so much. I could get better, get caught up, and maybe even ahead!
Well with winter still here full board, I am just going to take it one step at a time, and wait for the sunshine.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Scholarships!
Holy smokes! Who would have thought that writing a 250 word essay would be so difficult? Not me. But when money is at stake, it is good to make sure to do it right.
I had picked up the scholarship packet in January, thinking that I have tons of time to fill out the 4 page application. Well last night, I found it on my table under a pile of books that I want to read and of course the deadline is March 1st!
Well I start to fill it out and think that this is easy, when I read about the essay. 250 is not a lot, and trying to really get the point across is difficult. So who do I call but my Dad to help me. He is a genius when it comes to editing, but I couldn't get a hold of him. So I went to the next best thing. My sister and brother-in-law. Having two of them may have not been the best idea, but after a few hours we finally figured out what sounded good. So now I am off to drop off my packet to see if I am awarded scholarships!!! lets hope so for loans suck.
I had picked up the scholarship packet in January, thinking that I have tons of time to fill out the 4 page application. Well last night, I found it on my table under a pile of books that I want to read and of course the deadline is March 1st!
Well I start to fill it out and think that this is easy, when I read about the essay. 250 is not a lot, and trying to really get the point across is difficult. So who do I call but my Dad to help me. He is a genius when it comes to editing, but I couldn't get a hold of him. So I went to the next best thing. My sister and brother-in-law. Having two of them may have not been the best idea, but after a few hours we finally figured out what sounded good. So now I am off to drop off my packet to see if I am awarded scholarships!!! lets hope so for loans suck.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Up and Running!
I am finally feeling like a normal human again, two weeks later. Yesterday was the first day I went back to the health club and boy was it sad. I completed a half an hour on the elliptical and sounded like I had been smoking a pack of cigarettes a day, But I completed it!
I was exhausted but looking forward to getting back into my routine.
I also felt like today was extremely productive. Woke up early, went to Mass, grocery shopping, errands, and even cleaned my room which has been in drier need for quit some time.
I am looking forward to being able to do a whole days work and not feel like I just ran a marathon.
All I say now is, Bring it on.
I was exhausted but looking forward to getting back into my routine.
I also felt like today was extremely productive. Woke up early, went to Mass, grocery shopping, errands, and even cleaned my room which has been in drier need for quit some time.
I am looking forward to being able to do a whole days work and not feel like I just ran a marathon.
All I say now is, Bring it on.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Quarantined
Well, it has been a while. Today I woke up late and looked out my window to a winter wonderland. I was surprised. I knew that there had been a snow warning for the last 48 hours but I have been quarantined to by bed with a cold that is so miserable that I have taken to gurgling salt water because, well, nothing else has worked. Oh let me back track a little bit so you know what is going on.
I have been going to the Sandpoint Middle School special ed room, for one of my classes. It has been very rewarding and eye opening. The teacher is wonderful, and so are the kids, except at least half of them are sick. Oh yes recycled air in a middle school in winter! Anyways, I started to get a sore throat on Wednesday, and sounded like a man on Thursday. Went to work on Friday, which if any of you came by you in the AM then you might of heard me, not pretty. I had called my sister, and one of her daughters answered the phone "mommy there is a man on the phone for you." was what they heard, they didn't even know that it was there Aunt!! Saturday was even better and I didn't talk to people because it hurt too much. Sunday I was so tired I slept through my two alarm clocks, and was only up for 5 hours then went back to bed, so I could open Monday and Tuesday.
Now for this being just a cold it is kicking me my butt. I am so tired, and just moving from one place to the other is exhausting. Wednesday I stayed in bed all day and now today I am finally doing homework and trying to find somebody to work for me tomorrow. I don't know what his is but I am going to be really happy once it is done because you never get the same things twice, right!
Well I want to end on a positive note, and that is I am only sick, not dead or in the hospital. It could always be worse...
I have been going to the Sandpoint Middle School special ed room, for one of my classes. It has been very rewarding and eye opening. The teacher is wonderful, and so are the kids, except at least half of them are sick. Oh yes recycled air in a middle school in winter! Anyways, I started to get a sore throat on Wednesday, and sounded like a man on Thursday. Went to work on Friday, which if any of you came by you in the AM then you might of heard me, not pretty. I had called my sister, and one of her daughters answered the phone "mommy there is a man on the phone for you." was what they heard, they didn't even know that it was there Aunt!! Saturday was even better and I didn't talk to people because it hurt too much. Sunday I was so tired I slept through my two alarm clocks, and was only up for 5 hours then went back to bed, so I could open Monday and Tuesday.
Now for this being just a cold it is kicking me my butt. I am so tired, and just moving from one place to the other is exhausting. Wednesday I stayed in bed all day and now today I am finally doing homework and trying to find somebody to work for me tomorrow. I don't know what his is but I am going to be really happy once it is done because you never get the same things twice, right!
Well I want to end on a positive note, and that is I am only sick, not dead or in the hospital. It could always be worse...
Saturday, February 19, 2011
The Wall
Well I have decided that I have hit my wall.I would love a vacation. A vacation from everything. No homework. No school. No work. No paperwork. No bad knees. No phones. Just me in some foreign place where I know nobody. ahhh. But that is not to be.
I am a PACE student. A student that doesn't know what a summer vacation is. A student that doesn't get the luxury of a three day holiday weekend. That must work full time time to pay bills and school. An individual that spends their days off in a middle school so that she can graduate on time.
I know that there are others out there who are like me who are just tired. Who would love to go somewhere and not look at a computer screen for a month! It is also those who keep on trucking and see the light at the end of the tunnel. That keep encouraging one an other and make our vacation that could be as simple as going out to dinner with friends.
Knowing that there are others out there, also in misery makes me stronger. ( I know that is morbid, but it is true.) These ladies give me strength, friendship, and encouragement. They in a sense are part of my foundation. So knowing that I have hit my wall, I also know that it will soon crumble for I have the foundation that will stand through anything.
I am a PACE student. A student that doesn't know what a summer vacation is. A student that doesn't get the luxury of a three day holiday weekend. That must work full time time to pay bills and school. An individual that spends their days off in a middle school so that she can graduate on time.
I know that there are others out there who are like me who are just tired. Who would love to go somewhere and not look at a computer screen for a month! It is also those who keep on trucking and see the light at the end of the tunnel. That keep encouraging one an other and make our vacation that could be as simple as going out to dinner with friends.
Knowing that there are others out there, also in misery makes me stronger. ( I know that is morbid, but it is true.) These ladies give me strength, friendship, and encouragement. They in a sense are part of my foundation. So knowing that I have hit my wall, I also know that it will soon crumble for I have the foundation that will stand through anything.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Running... not a good idea
So I had said that I was going to try running after not being a active runner for many years. Well today I realized that I had been making the right choice all along. I got on the treadmill, (dreadful things) and stated off at a nice stroll slowly building up speed. I was going along at a fine pace, moving my arms, breathing and all the good stuff thinking that this isn't so bad, when all the sudden it feels like my IT band is a rubber band. I immediately got off the treadmill and stretched and walked around. It has been a few hours and still I feel miserable. Of course I had to try out my new adventure on a Friday night and a three day weekend! Classic. Oh well lesson learned. No more running for me!
Running
Well today I'm going to try something new. I am going to go running. I haven't ran since I played soccer and that stopped in 8th grade. I have done other activities, but running is not one of them. I have always claimed "bad knees" and now that I have "bad knees" I'm actually going to try it. I know it makes no sense, but that is why I love it.
I'm just go to see how far I can go before I fall over and wand to die because I'm not getting enough air in my lungs. Oh the things that we do to entertain ourselves...
I'm just go to see how far I can go before I fall over and wand to die because I'm not getting enough air in my lungs. Oh the things that we do to entertain ourselves...
Monday, February 14, 2011
Exam 1.
I just finished taking a 12 page exam for one of my classes online. I was not very impressed. Considering that I am learning how to make a valid exam I know that the exam was not valid in any way. Anyways I had to spew. I just love the classes that are so beneficial to my education!
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Sunday!!!
Well I now have Sundays off which is amazing. I really wanted to go back to bed after church and watch old movies, and sleep. Well that was not to be.
I decided to be a good student and do multiple quizzes, assignments, journals, and a book review. I was extremely disappointed. I didn't want to spend my day looking at my computer screen, racking my brains till it hurts. But now I can "be ahead" for a few days.
After I complete my studies for the day I will be going to the health club and attemp to get back in shape in the pool. Hopefully I don't drown! haha
I decided to be a good student and do multiple quizzes, assignments, journals, and a book review. I was extremely disappointed. I didn't want to spend my day looking at my computer screen, racking my brains till it hurts. But now I can "be ahead" for a few days.
After I complete my studies for the day I will be going to the health club and attemp to get back in shape in the pool. Hopefully I don't drown! haha
Saturday, February 12, 2011
SMS
For one of my classes I need to have so many hours in a special ed room. I have chosen to do this part of my class in Sandpoint, at the middle school. I have known the teacher since I have been in elementary school and I know that she will use me in the class, not just have me sit and watch. Very exciting.
Well this last Thursday I was in Sandpoint and went for the first half of the day. This is when she has the 8th graders. Now I haven't met the students yet, but my older brother has. My older brother Luke, (who is Iraq right now) did his student teaching with Mrs. Ireland last year. These kids were 7th graders then. Luke would tell me stories about his experiences and I was so jealous because he was so close to being done. Granted he is 8 years older than me, but still. Mrs. Ireland introduces me as Miss Omodt, Luke's little sister. I wish I had a camera to capture the different reactions that were on the students faces, it was so comical.
Well about half way through the class, one of the girls asks, " So your Luke's wife?"
The classroom goes quiet.
"No, I'm his little sister."
From a boy near the front of the class.
"But you look so much older then him, and he's old!"
This made me smile, and Mrs. Ireland told the kids to get back to work.
Shortly after the bell rang and Math class next. This was awesome because I was able to work with a girl for over an hour ( there schedules are strange) individually. It was so great. I'm really looking forward to next week to see if she can remember anything that I told her.
Also I'm hoping that the kids remember that I'm Luke's sister and not his wife!
Well this last Thursday I was in Sandpoint and went for the first half of the day. This is when she has the 8th graders. Now I haven't met the students yet, but my older brother has. My older brother Luke, (who is Iraq right now) did his student teaching with Mrs. Ireland last year. These kids were 7th graders then. Luke would tell me stories about his experiences and I was so jealous because he was so close to being done. Granted he is 8 years older than me, but still. Mrs. Ireland introduces me as Miss Omodt, Luke's little sister. I wish I had a camera to capture the different reactions that were on the students faces, it was so comical.
Well about half way through the class, one of the girls asks, " So your Luke's wife?"
The classroom goes quiet.
"No, I'm his little sister."
From a boy near the front of the class.
"But you look so much older then him, and he's old!"
This made me smile, and Mrs. Ireland told the kids to get back to work.
Shortly after the bell rang and Math class next. This was awesome because I was able to work with a girl for over an hour ( there schedules are strange) individually. It was so great. I'm really looking forward to next week to see if she can remember anything that I told her.
Also I'm hoping that the kids remember that I'm Luke's sister and not his wife!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
One Down, One to Go
Oh what a happy day! God knew what he was doing. He decided to give me (and my family) a gift. Even though it is my Dads birthday, God decided to send my results of the PRAXIS.
For the last week I have been checking my account to see if I have gotten any scores, and each day I would be defeated in my quest for the one word PASS or FAIL. Each day I would talk to my Dad and he would ask if I have gotten the results in, and another 'no' came from my lips. But today was different!!!
I had gotten off of work and was ready to do some homework, go to the gym, and do more homework. Called Dad and wished him Happy Birthday, and then started the process of getting into my LC accounts (which take forever), whenn i decided to check for the results.
I had no expectations, more out of habit really, so when I saw "see your results" My heart froze. I clicked away, scrolled down and tried to understand what all the extra stuff was saying, then I saw it. PASSED.
Heck Yes!!!!
I was so excited. I called Dad back and he answered on the first ring. As I told him his response was with a smile, "Oh good, now we just have to wait for the other one! " I love it.
As I called my other siblings to make sure that they wished Dad a Happy Birthday each one asked about results. My family is awesome.
I told each person, and the response was similar to Dad's which made me smile.
So now I have 3-4 more weeks to wait till I get the results of my other test.
One down, One to go.....
For the last week I have been checking my account to see if I have gotten any scores, and each day I would be defeated in my quest for the one word PASS or FAIL. Each day I would talk to my Dad and he would ask if I have gotten the results in, and another 'no' came from my lips. But today was different!!!
I had gotten off of work and was ready to do some homework, go to the gym, and do more homework. Called Dad and wished him Happy Birthday, and then started the process of getting into my LC accounts (which take forever), whenn i decided to check for the results.
I had no expectations, more out of habit really, so when I saw "see your results" My heart froze. I clicked away, scrolled down and tried to understand what all the extra stuff was saying, then I saw it. PASSED.
Heck Yes!!!!
I was so excited. I called Dad back and he answered on the first ring. As I told him his response was with a smile, "Oh good, now we just have to wait for the other one! " I love it.
As I called my other siblings to make sure that they wished Dad a Happy Birthday each one asked about results. My family is awesome.
I told each person, and the response was similar to Dad's which made me smile.
So now I have 3-4 more weeks to wait till I get the results of my other test.
One down, One to go.....
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Special Olympics
Today I was able to have the honor of volunteering at the Special Olympics in Kellogg Id. I was so looking forward to helping at the snowshoeing event. I was going to be outside. In the snow. In the Sun. With Snowshoes. I was ready. With long underwear, polypro, smart wool socks and awesome winter boots Bring on the cold.
We got to Kellogg and found out that we were going to be inside in a gym instead :( I was going to keep score of floor hockey! Awesome. One of the ladies came over and told me what to look for, and who was a U, (unimpaired player I think that is what it meat.) and how to keep score. It was going to be the best of 2 out of 3. The teams were Coeur d' Alene and Lewiston.
I was so excited! Just watching these players play is so insperational. If one player falls, or trips from the other team, the opposing team member closet goes over to help him up with a smile on his face. The cheer for each other while they are playing the game. They never complain when they are subbed out. And the cheer when the other scores!!!
It was great.
The first game was 8-1 with CDA loosing. They played hard, and you could see that they were a little down. the coaches were reeving them up in the 10 minute break between games and you could just see the energy flow back into them.
The second game was phonominal.The CDA team came out strong and fierce and got the first goal. But then Lewiston came back and it was tied. The game continued this way and was tied until the last 10 seconds.I lost my voice cheering for both teams, it was so exciting. I was hoping the CDA would win and they would have to play one more game but Lewiston came and chuck the puck in right as the Buzzer sounded. You would have thought that you were at a Gonzaga basketball game with how loud the cheers were. But it was from both teams!
CDA was so happy that they had such a good game, it was as if they won. And Lewiston was really excited because last year they had lost. When it came time for the 'good game' the team lined up and gave each other their high 5's and all were ready for lunch.
After picking up the court, and putting thing away I walked in the lunch room and the two teams were eating together, smiling, and laughing. It was so great to see. At least a dozen or so players came up to me and shook my hand, said 'Thank You', and asked me to eat lunch. I couldn't stay but watching the interaction between the two teams, and just made my day.
The Special Olympics are such a great event. The people that participate are so friendly, They don't have any meanness in them. Every time I am at an event like this it makes me realize how lucky I am. Not just the fact that I don't have any serious disabilities in my life, but that these individuals remind me of what kindness looks like in it's purest form.
So I thank you.
The Olympians,of Coeur d' Alene and Kellogg for sharing your gift with me.
We got to Kellogg and found out that we were going to be inside in a gym instead :( I was going to keep score of floor hockey! Awesome. One of the ladies came over and told me what to look for, and who was a U, (unimpaired player I think that is what it meat.) and how to keep score. It was going to be the best of 2 out of 3. The teams were Coeur d' Alene and Lewiston.
I was so excited! Just watching these players play is so insperational. If one player falls, or trips from the other team, the opposing team member closet goes over to help him up with a smile on his face. The cheer for each other while they are playing the game. They never complain when they are subbed out. And the cheer when the other scores!!!
It was great.
The first game was 8-1 with CDA loosing. They played hard, and you could see that they were a little down. the coaches were reeving them up in the 10 minute break between games and you could just see the energy flow back into them.
The second game was phonominal.The CDA team came out strong and fierce and got the first goal. But then Lewiston came back and it was tied. The game continued this way and was tied until the last 10 seconds.I lost my voice cheering for both teams, it was so exciting. I was hoping the CDA would win and they would have to play one more game but Lewiston came and chuck the puck in right as the Buzzer sounded. You would have thought that you were at a Gonzaga basketball game with how loud the cheers were. But it was from both teams!
CDA was so happy that they had such a good game, it was as if they won. And Lewiston was really excited because last year they had lost. When it came time for the 'good game' the team lined up and gave each other their high 5's and all were ready for lunch.
After picking up the court, and putting thing away I walked in the lunch room and the two teams were eating together, smiling, and laughing. It was so great to see. At least a dozen or so players came up to me and shook my hand, said 'Thank You', and asked me to eat lunch. I couldn't stay but watching the interaction between the two teams, and just made my day.
The Special Olympics are such a great event. The people that participate are so friendly, They don't have any meanness in them. Every time I am at an event like this it makes me realize how lucky I am. Not just the fact that I don't have any serious disabilities in my life, but that these individuals remind me of what kindness looks like in it's purest form.
So I thank you.
The Olympians,of Coeur d' Alene and Kellogg for sharing your gift with me.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Taxes
It is tax season and I never look forward to it. I always await for the W-2 forms to come in the mail, and check to make sure that everything is right. In the past I have had wrong SSN listed, Wrong Names, all sorts of fun things. Makes me really love the gov't. Anyways. This year I got the W-2 and it was all correct!!! 2 points for big G.
So I usually use turbo tax online, because it is free and I am a poor college student. Plus I usually get a decent amount back cause the bux's always takes out too much. Anyways, I make a fire (I'm at my parents house in Sandpoint), sit on Griff, ( the Cow skin that is covering our couch), and get my papers ready to do battle with deductions, and benefits, and whatnot.
It seems to be going really smoothly, which surprises me. This could be because I am not fully reading the questions or I just don't understand them so I haven't come to any road blocks. It only takes me about an hour, which is rare. That never happens. I usually have to make several phone calls, look up information on the net, cal the IRS for the PIN number and wait for 20 minutes to get an answer. But not today!! I must have picked a really good time to do taxes.
Well I get through all the "signings" saying that I agree to let them put money in the bank, and that I am who I say I am. When it comes time to pay for the services. Now I use this because it says it is free, but now turbo tax charges $30 just to use the "free" option. I was mad. I was getting ripped off. Of all the nerve. Free does not mean $30. Well this lasted for about 20 seconds then I looked at my return and realized that I was getting more back that if I were to sit down and do it on paper. So all together it cost $60 bucks ( $30 for State) which isn't really that bad. But of course I had to complain. I eagerly await for my return, so it can go in the bank to pay for summer school!!!!!
Till Next Turbo Tax
So I usually use turbo tax online, because it is free and I am a poor college student. Plus I usually get a decent amount back cause the bux's always takes out too much. Anyways, I make a fire (I'm at my parents house in Sandpoint), sit on Griff, ( the Cow skin that is covering our couch), and get my papers ready to do battle with deductions, and benefits, and whatnot.
It seems to be going really smoothly, which surprises me. This could be because I am not fully reading the questions or I just don't understand them so I haven't come to any road blocks. It only takes me about an hour, which is rare. That never happens. I usually have to make several phone calls, look up information on the net, cal the IRS for the PIN number and wait for 20 minutes to get an answer. But not today!! I must have picked a really good time to do taxes.
Well I get through all the "signings" saying that I agree to let them put money in the bank, and that I am who I say I am. When it comes time to pay for the services. Now I use this because it says it is free, but now turbo tax charges $30 just to use the "free" option. I was mad. I was getting ripped off. Of all the nerve. Free does not mean $30. Well this lasted for about 20 seconds then I looked at my return and realized that I was getting more back that if I were to sit down and do it on paper. So all together it cost $60 bucks ( $30 for State) which isn't really that bad. But of course I had to complain. I eagerly await for my return, so it can go in the bank to pay for summer school!!!!!
Till Next Turbo Tax
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
J.P.
I wrote this earlier today, but felt that It would work so I copied and Paste. Thanks.
John. J.P. My little brother that is 6 inches taller than me is getting deployed. He is a Mechanic for the Air Force that fixes big rigs, but he can’t fix my car! How worthless! ( I say this with extreme sarcasm.) I have seen different brothers and a sister-in-law be deployed so it is nothing new, but John is somehow different. I am close to all of my siblings, all 7 of them, but John is still a little kid at heart. He is the only person who can wear lederhosen, (the funny short pants from Germany) and get away with it. J.P., John Patrick and I have a bond that the other kids don’t have. We were home-schooled together. We spent many countless hours of school time down in the creek looking for catfish to feed the dogs, canoeing and trying to get the culvert, hanging out at our neighbors who was known as ‘the pig lady’ because she sold all the 4-h pigs. So many memories. ( we did do school work also, I promise) We are both stuck at ages that we forget that we are the age that we are. We watch old movies together, and go on junk food binges like other adults drink beer. We both want to be teachers and joke that we will marry for money because we are going to be poor. (Well that is a joke amongst most of the Omodt’s because 6 out of 8 kids want/are teachers) John is special. Not just to me, but to everybody. It isn’t that I am worried about him coming back, or if he is going to change. I hope that he does. I know he will come back. I’m am just selfish and know that I can’t call him up and ask stupid questions, and have him make fun of me. (I can also say this with most of my other siblings) I am proud of him and all of my family for what they do. They may give the ultimate price, for me, for you, for everybody and they go with grace and style. That is the way of the Omodt’s. That is the way of J.P. Saying goodbye this morning with a high five and a huge smile.
Monday, January 31, 2011
World Map!
I'm sitting in my living room looking at my newest purchase. A World Map!
Where most people would deem the "prize spot" to put their television, I have put up a 50x30 map, set in antique style finish. I love to travel and now looking at this on my living room wall it stirs up restlessness to see more of the world. Also with so many family members scattered over the world, I figure I better know where they are!
Wouldn't it be fun to say that you have been to all the continents! (Well maybe not Antarctica, It's too cold. Sorry Elissa :) )But to go to all of the other ones!
North America (check)
South America.
Africa.
Australia (check)
Asia
Europe (check)
That only leaves three. Right. Let me get on that. With being a student and asperations of teaching 2nd graders my pocket book will hold...
But for now I have my map, and all I have to do is look and think.
Who knows, Maybe I'll marry rich! J/K
Where most people would deem the "prize spot" to put their television, I have put up a 50x30 map, set in antique style finish. I love to travel and now looking at this on my living room wall it stirs up restlessness to see more of the world. Also with so many family members scattered over the world, I figure I better know where they are!
Wouldn't it be fun to say that you have been to all the continents! (Well maybe not Antarctica, It's too cold. Sorry Elissa :) )But to go to all of the other ones!
North America (check)
South America.
Africa.
Australia (check)
Asia
Europe (check)
That only leaves three. Right. Let me get on that. With being a student and asperations of teaching 2nd graders my pocket book will hold...
But for now I have my map, and all I have to do is look and think.
Who knows, Maybe I'll marry rich! J/K
Sunday, January 30, 2011
New Schedule!!!
I am so excited! Starting tomorrow I am getting a new schedule. I will have three days off a week, and one of them being Sundays. Totally unheard of. With this new schedule I will be:
Opening Monday and Tuesday getting off by 2.
Having Wednesday and Thursday off, one day I will be in Sandpoint at SMS in the Resource room then hanging out with my Dad!!!
Friday is open to anything.
Saturday is off by 5pm
Sunday Off.
For four years I have never had set days off, or anything remotely this cool. So Thank you to Allison my Manager who made it possible!!!
I just had to share the good news.
Opening Monday and Tuesday getting off by 2.
Having Wednesday and Thursday off, one day I will be in Sandpoint at SMS in the Resource room then hanging out with my Dad!!!
Friday is open to anything.
Saturday is off by 5pm
Sunday Off.
For four years I have never had set days off, or anything remotely this cool. So Thank you to Allison my Manager who made it possible!!!
I just had to share the good news.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Dawdle
As I sit staring at the empty screen, thinking of what I should write I look up and see my dictionary. Ah Ha! Insperation. I will open to a random page, close my eyes, and point to a word to write about. The word to day is...
Dawdle. vb. Dawdling, daw-dled To spend time wastefully or idly.
This seems funny to me because I don't remember when the last time I Dawdled. Being a student, working full time, and needing to get hours in a classroom, I just don't have that luxury. I may have that in December, when I will finally receive my diploma, but till then it looks like I am going to have to keep Dawdling on my back burner.
Dawdle. vb. Dawdling, daw-dled To spend time wastefully or idly.
This seems funny to me because I don't remember when the last time I Dawdled. Being a student, working full time, and needing to get hours in a classroom, I just don't have that luxury. I may have that in December, when I will finally receive my diploma, but till then it looks like I am going to have to keep Dawdling on my back burner.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
QASA.
Yesterday.
Work.
Oh Man.
Well It wasn't a bad day, it was just an eventful day. I got to work at 1, which around that time it is the changing of the guards. With in 30 minutes the whole floor is different people. I was put on bar, which is my favorite and doing my thing. When I look up and watch this lady try to pull a roller suitcase over the curb. It was really amusing to watch her and I was smiling because of it. I continued to make my drinks like the expert that I am and forgot her in 2 seconds.
Well, 10 seconds later she asks for the manager and I notice that neatly on her breast pocked is stitched QASA. Oh CRAP!!!! Instant Karma. That is what I get. She is here to make sure that we are following all of the health codes. Great. 10 minutes into my shift. For four years I have never been there for a QASA audit, well that reign of happiness was about to end.
Everything went out of my head. It took me a full 10 seconds to answer. I couldn't even remember my managers name! Well eventually I was able to get my thoughts all in one place and giver her an answer and tell her to just go in the back. As soon as she turned around I was a machine. Changing the milk carafes, even thought it was just done. Changing the buckets. Wiping down inside the fridges, the counters. Making drinks. All sorts of things.
Now I want you to know that I truly believe that we (Riverstone) are a very clean store, but some of the things that they want from you is really ridiculous. ex. We have bar towels in containers under the machines. One for the steaming wand and one for the counter. They want us to have an inch of water in the container with the rags, so each time we use them, (which for the steam wand is after each drink,) water gets everywhere. It is just a mess. That is only one thing, and I'll leave it at that.
So for the next 90 minutes I felt like I was on a chopping block. She was walking around, looking at things. Watching. Always watching. Making notes on her Blackberry. Asking questions. Making notes. That had to be bad, right? Now in her defense I will say that she was very nice. She even smiled! Well finally it was time for her to go and she had given her report to Assistant Manager who was there. We all huddled around, looking like kids waiting to see if they would graduate.
94.5%!!!!!!!!!!!!!
HECK YES! We cheered so loud that she was outside and looked back inside with a smile. Pretty funny. The customers that were in the lobby just looked at us like we were freaks, but nobody cared. We passed.
It is hard to get such a high score, and Starbucks has high expectations which is good. Needless to say that was over. Thank You Lord. The rest of the shift went by so fast that I was almost sad to go home, almost...
Work.
Oh Man.
Well It wasn't a bad day, it was just an eventful day. I got to work at 1, which around that time it is the changing of the guards. With in 30 minutes the whole floor is different people. I was put on bar, which is my favorite and doing my thing. When I look up and watch this lady try to pull a roller suitcase over the curb. It was really amusing to watch her and I was smiling because of it. I continued to make my drinks like the expert that I am and forgot her in 2 seconds.
Well, 10 seconds later she asks for the manager and I notice that neatly on her breast pocked is stitched QASA. Oh CRAP!!!! Instant Karma. That is what I get. She is here to make sure that we are following all of the health codes. Great. 10 minutes into my shift. For four years I have never been there for a QASA audit, well that reign of happiness was about to end.
Everything went out of my head. It took me a full 10 seconds to answer. I couldn't even remember my managers name! Well eventually I was able to get my thoughts all in one place and giver her an answer and tell her to just go in the back. As soon as she turned around I was a machine. Changing the milk carafes, even thought it was just done. Changing the buckets. Wiping down inside the fridges, the counters. Making drinks. All sorts of things.
Now I want you to know that I truly believe that we (Riverstone) are a very clean store, but some of the things that they want from you is really ridiculous. ex. We have bar towels in containers under the machines. One for the steaming wand and one for the counter. They want us to have an inch of water in the container with the rags, so each time we use them, (which for the steam wand is after each drink,) water gets everywhere. It is just a mess. That is only one thing, and I'll leave it at that.
So for the next 90 minutes I felt like I was on a chopping block. She was walking around, looking at things. Watching. Always watching. Making notes on her Blackberry. Asking questions. Making notes. That had to be bad, right? Now in her defense I will say that she was very nice. She even smiled! Well finally it was time for her to go and she had given her report to Assistant Manager who was there. We all huddled around, looking like kids waiting to see if they would graduate.
94.5%!!!!!!!!!!!!!
HECK YES! We cheered so loud that she was outside and looked back inside with a smile. Pretty funny. The customers that were in the lobby just looked at us like we were freaks, but nobody cared. We passed.
It is hard to get such a high score, and Starbucks has high expectations which is good. Needless to say that was over. Thank You Lord. The rest of the shift went by so fast that I was almost sad to go home, almost...
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
PRAXIS Nightmares
For many of you, you have or will be taken the PRAXIS soon. Well I took mine in January, and was soooooooo happy to do them both in one day. It was a long day, but doable. They tell you that it takes roughly 4 weeks to get results, so that way if you need to take them over you just slip under the registration deadline for the ones in March.
Well the last couple of nights I have had PRAXIS nightmares. I sit down to take the test and then all these crazy things happen. There are clowns, Professor McGonagall from Harry Potter, My kindergarten teacher Mrs. Clark. Melinda Butler. My Grandmother. There are so many more it is crazy how they all fit in this room. Now, not all of these are scary, but the fact that they were in the room together when I was trying to take my exam was. I'm not a test taker. Never was and never will be, and the first one I took was the multiple choice. 120 questions in 2 hours. Great...
Well all the extra people in the room, it wasn't a 'normal' testing experience so I wasn't expecting great things. The rest of the tests are a blur, but time flies and I can now get my results. I missed both test by 1 point. Then out of no where everybody that was there in the testing room is in my living room looking at the computer screen with me and numerous things are said. I won't repeat them, but for a dream it wasn't very nice. But for a nightmare typical.
Anyways I woke up with this horrid feeling that I'm going to fail by a point, and have to retake these miserable tests that measure 'how smart I am.' I am just so thankful that NONE of these people were in the room with me, and will not be able to be in the room if that is the case.
Well the last couple of nights I have had PRAXIS nightmares. I sit down to take the test and then all these crazy things happen. There are clowns, Professor McGonagall from Harry Potter, My kindergarten teacher Mrs. Clark. Melinda Butler. My Grandmother. There are so many more it is crazy how they all fit in this room. Now, not all of these are scary, but the fact that they were in the room together when I was trying to take my exam was. I'm not a test taker. Never was and never will be, and the first one I took was the multiple choice. 120 questions in 2 hours. Great...
Well all the extra people in the room, it wasn't a 'normal' testing experience so I wasn't expecting great things. The rest of the tests are a blur, but time flies and I can now get my results. I missed both test by 1 point. Then out of no where everybody that was there in the testing room is in my living room looking at the computer screen with me and numerous things are said. I won't repeat them, but for a dream it wasn't very nice. But for a nightmare typical.
Anyways I woke up with this horrid feeling that I'm going to fail by a point, and have to retake these miserable tests that measure 'how smart I am.' I am just so thankful that NONE of these people were in the room with me, and will not be able to be in the room if that is the case.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Cell Phone Company's
AHHHHHHHHH.
Sometimes I just want to take the phone and throw it across the room. The people that you finally get to talk to after ten minutes of pressing numbers for what options you would like rarely ever know anything. the answer to my question. Call back it two weeks. I'm jumping ahead let me catch you up.
Close to November I was eligible for my two year upgrade. I went into the store and looked at all the phones, played with them to see how I liked it. Pushed numbers. Looked at settings. All that stuff. I went home and happily bought my new phone online so I wouldn't have to wait for hours to do so in the store. I received my phone in the FedEx box a few days later and was so excited. I even turned my rebate in the mail on time!!Now I'm not very phone savvy, all I want is being able to call people, them to call me, and texting. Even that can be annoying but everybody does it and I don't want to get charged a ridiculous amount per text so i got a package. I don't need internet. Or twitter, or MySpace. None of that. I'm already looking at a computer for hours a day so why would i want a phone the size of a lighter to read emails? (that was a bird walk, sorry)
So I get my phone, bring it in to get it activated and am so happy. Then a few days later I'm on the phone with my Dad, when he tells me there is a second or two delay and he echos. Well we waited to see if anybody else was having this problem, and there was. So I go back in to the store and they tell me that it is a glitch. They upload something to the phone, ( I didn't know that you needed to check for updates) and tell me it should be fine. Once again a few days later the echo, and the whole process repeats. Except this time they give me a whole new phone!! The same phone but a new one because the first one didn't work and it was the company's fault. Sweet right? No.
Once again the phone was having problems bur worse then before. I don't have alot of free time so having to go back three times to to get the phone fixed when it was brand new was not going over very well. I didn't want this phone anymore I wanted a new one. A different one. I picked out the one I wanted, and was doing all the paper work when the tell me there is a $35 re stalking fee. WHAT! I have to pay money for you to re stalk something that is still in the 30 day warranty and broken. I have returned 3 times and had two phones. Not a happy customer.
I leave with my new phone, not happy with the old. And am waiting for my rebate card in the mail. Well Io just got a postcard saying that I don't qualify. No reason or explanation. I don't qualify. If you have questions please call this number. Which I do, and the answer I get. " call back in 15 days so we can look at your file." That's it. Nothing else.
So I am now waiting to see if the phone company will screw me over $50 more dollars, and if so I might be switching carriers. For somebody who has been with them for 10 years and never had any problems. Now this. I don't get it. Well I had to fume. Thanks.
Sometimes I just want to take the phone and throw it across the room. The people that you finally get to talk to after ten minutes of pressing numbers for what options you would like rarely ever know anything. the answer to my question. Call back it two weeks. I'm jumping ahead let me catch you up.
Close to November I was eligible for my two year upgrade. I went into the store and looked at all the phones, played with them to see how I liked it. Pushed numbers. Looked at settings. All that stuff. I went home and happily bought my new phone online so I wouldn't have to wait for hours to do so in the store. I received my phone in the FedEx box a few days later and was so excited. I even turned my rebate in the mail on time!!Now I'm not very phone savvy, all I want is being able to call people, them to call me, and texting. Even that can be annoying but everybody does it and I don't want to get charged a ridiculous amount per text so i got a package. I don't need internet. Or twitter, or MySpace. None of that. I'm already looking at a computer for hours a day so why would i want a phone the size of a lighter to read emails? (that was a bird walk, sorry)
So I get my phone, bring it in to get it activated and am so happy. Then a few days later I'm on the phone with my Dad, when he tells me there is a second or two delay and he echos. Well we waited to see if anybody else was having this problem, and there was. So I go back in to the store and they tell me that it is a glitch. They upload something to the phone, ( I didn't know that you needed to check for updates) and tell me it should be fine. Once again a few days later the echo, and the whole process repeats. Except this time they give me a whole new phone!! The same phone but a new one because the first one didn't work and it was the company's fault. Sweet right? No.
Once again the phone was having problems bur worse then before. I don't have alot of free time so having to go back three times to to get the phone fixed when it was brand new was not going over very well. I didn't want this phone anymore I wanted a new one. A different one. I picked out the one I wanted, and was doing all the paper work when the tell me there is a $35 re stalking fee. WHAT! I have to pay money for you to re stalk something that is still in the 30 day warranty and broken. I have returned 3 times and had two phones. Not a happy customer.
I leave with my new phone, not happy with the old. And am waiting for my rebate card in the mail. Well Io just got a postcard saying that I don't qualify. No reason or explanation. I don't qualify. If you have questions please call this number. Which I do, and the answer I get. " call back in 15 days so we can look at your file." That's it. Nothing else.
So I am now waiting to see if the phone company will screw me over $50 more dollars, and if so I might be switching carriers. For somebody who has been with them for 10 years and never had any problems. Now this. I don't get it. Well I had to fume. Thanks.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Road Rage
Well, I had a beautiful weekend at home. Three days off. In a row. I have no idea how that happened but it did and I loved it. I woke up today to it snowing and it was really pretty. I needed to head into town to take my niece to the eye Dr. to pick out new glasses!!! That was really fun to just sit and watch her. Stella is 9 almost 10. And has so much energy that sometimes it makes me sick. Well she picked out her glasses and then it was off to school.
The rest of the day went in a blur. Getting coffee here, reading with the girls there. Going home and trying to find a dress for my little sister. Before I knew it I needed to get home, back to CDA. Well it h ad been snowing all day and had started to turn into a wet snow about an hour before so I know that the roads were going to be wet. Wet isn't that bad. I can do wet.
Well off I go heading back home and I get stuck behind a car, well a Jeep 4x4 going 30 MPH!!!! The roads did have slush on them, but where people were driving it was clear. I was unable to pass due to heavy oncoming traffic, plust in the middle of the road there was slush and I didn't want to risk it. Fine, I was fine with this I'll just wait till the passing lane a few miles ahead.
Oh the passing lanes. I was so excited. This women (yes it was a women) would speed up to 60 miles an hour, then slow down, then speed up again. I wanted to scream. So once again I was stuck behind her going 30 MPH.
Now, don't get me wrong, if the weather is horrible I have no problem going slow to be safe. But when somebody is just lallygagging with what looked like 50 cars behind her ( I was going to say 100 but knew that would be way too many), that is not safe.
For an other 15 minutes I was behind this women, asking God to please give me patience, and if she goes up to 60 in the passing lane again to see to it that I don't have turrets (which I don't). Well God was listening to me pray, because I was give patience and I was also able to pass her.
It took me over an hour and ten minutes to get from Sandpoint to CDA tonight, which is ridiculous. People that drive that slow are just as dangerous as people that drive over the speed limit. So if you are stuck behind somebody, just pray and hope that God will give you patience. Or else it is going to be a really long drive.
The rest of the day went in a blur. Getting coffee here, reading with the girls there. Going home and trying to find a dress for my little sister. Before I knew it I needed to get home, back to CDA. Well it h ad been snowing all day and had started to turn into a wet snow about an hour before so I know that the roads were going to be wet. Wet isn't that bad. I can do wet.
Well off I go heading back home and I get stuck behind a car, well a Jeep 4x4 going 30 MPH!!!! The roads did have slush on them, but where people were driving it was clear. I was unable to pass due to heavy oncoming traffic, plust in the middle of the road there was slush and I didn't want to risk it. Fine, I was fine with this I'll just wait till the passing lane a few miles ahead.
Oh the passing lanes. I was so excited. This women (yes it was a women) would speed up to 60 miles an hour, then slow down, then speed up again. I wanted to scream. So once again I was stuck behind her going 30 MPH.
Now, don't get me wrong, if the weather is horrible I have no problem going slow to be safe. But when somebody is just lallygagging with what looked like 50 cars behind her ( I was going to say 100 but knew that would be way too many), that is not safe.
For an other 15 minutes I was behind this women, asking God to please give me patience, and if she goes up to 60 in the passing lane again to see to it that I don't have turrets (which I don't). Well God was listening to me pray, because I was give patience and I was also able to pass her.
It took me over an hour and ten minutes to get from Sandpoint to CDA tonight, which is ridiculous. People that drive that slow are just as dangerous as people that drive over the speed limit. So if you are stuck behind somebody, just pray and hope that God will give you patience. Or else it is going to be a really long drive.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
38 years later
So, yesterday was the 38th anniversary of Roe v. Wade. The 38th anniversary of America's legalization of murder. This 'right' was a huge success for feminists in the 70's, and it gave men the go ahead to sleep with whomever they want and not have to deal with consequences of their actions. Well some say that the abortion is dealing with it. Others say that it is the womens choice, and rights. Well what about the baby's choice? The baby's rights?
Since 1987 people have been gathering on the anniversary of Roe V. Wade (January) and Respect Life Sunday (October) for Life Chains all over the United States. Letting people know that there are people who value human life in it's most innocent form and unable to speak up for its self. While they are in utero.
Since I was a child I have going to Life Chains with my family, and today I was able to participate in such an event once again. For one hour I held a sign, hoping that my message would get across to the motorist going to and from. It is a silent vigil, with prayers and songs on the back of the sign for you to read and hum. If people make gestures or comments we just smile and continue with our vigil. Usually there are many people that are unhappy with this for of public protesting, they make it known by calling out, gestures, and honking their horn. But Today was different. For one hour there were thumbs up. Short horn honks with smiles and nods. Even three big rigs honked and gave positive signs. This was one of the most positive life chains that I have ever been to and it just made my heart sing.
People were hearing us, whether it was for good of bad. It makes people think and ask questions. It makes them have to explain things to their kids. It shows that there are people out there that do care for human life and are willing to stand up and to let people know.
I am proud to be part of such a community that values one so dear. The Unborn. I am proud to say that I choose life and that abortion is wrong. I am proud to stand up for what I believe and that there are others like me who will also stand up. I will continue to fight for the innocent, for the unborn, for the human life that lives inside and cannot speak for it's self.
Since 1987 people have been gathering on the anniversary of Roe V. Wade (January) and Respect Life Sunday (October) for Life Chains all over the United States. Letting people know that there are people who value human life in it's most innocent form and unable to speak up for its self. While they are in utero.
Since I was a child I have going to Life Chains with my family, and today I was able to participate in such an event once again. For one hour I held a sign, hoping that my message would get across to the motorist going to and from. It is a silent vigil, with prayers and songs on the back of the sign for you to read and hum. If people make gestures or comments we just smile and continue with our vigil. Usually there are many people that are unhappy with this for of public protesting, they make it known by calling out, gestures, and honking their horn. But Today was different. For one hour there were thumbs up. Short horn honks with smiles and nods. Even three big rigs honked and gave positive signs. This was one of the most positive life chains that I have ever been to and it just made my heart sing.
People were hearing us, whether it was for good of bad. It makes people think and ask questions. It makes them have to explain things to their kids. It shows that there are people out there that do care for human life and are willing to stand up and to let people know.
I am proud to be part of such a community that values one so dear. The Unborn. I am proud to say that I choose life and that abortion is wrong. I am proud to stand up for what I believe and that there are others like me who will also stand up. I will continue to fight for the innocent, for the unborn, for the human life that lives inside and cannot speak for it's self.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Writing for Me
After doing one of the assignments for this class, or maybe a different Lit class it got me thinking about why and what people write about. Some write to release stress. Some for the enjoyment of others. Some just for the grade. And others write just to write. No matter what age, no matter what occupation, we have learned as a society have this fear. This fear that has morphed over into out individuality. The fear of being rejected. The fear of people not liking us.
I have never blogged before, but from what I understand it is a 'me' page. So I'll write what I want. People will either like it or they won't. Just as people will either like me or they won't. I have noticed that my writing reflects me, my personality. It is kinda jumpy, and goes one way or the other, and I like to think that it has satire. But when it is put all together it is me.
I know that there are people out there that don't like me, and that is o.k. because there are people out there that I don't like. As long as we treat each other with a common respect that we each deserve, or at least with civility life will go on. They are a pot hole in my road to somewhere, and yes pot holes can be disastrous but the don't completely stop you forever.
So as I write this, I conclude that I do my writing for me. If people enjoy it then that is good. If people don't that that is their opinion, and I have no problems with that. I hope that the people who do read this have a smile on their face, and hopefully do their writing for themselves instead of for the grade, or orthers, or whatever that may be.
Till tomorrow...
I have never blogged before, but from what I understand it is a 'me' page. So I'll write what I want. People will either like it or they won't. Just as people will either like me or they won't. I have noticed that my writing reflects me, my personality. It is kinda jumpy, and goes one way or the other, and I like to think that it has satire. But when it is put all together it is me.
I know that there are people out there that don't like me, and that is o.k. because there are people out there that I don't like. As long as we treat each other with a common respect that we each deserve, or at least with civility life will go on. They are a pot hole in my road to somewhere, and yes pot holes can be disastrous but the don't completely stop you forever.
So as I write this, I conclude that I do my writing for me. If people enjoy it then that is good. If people don't that that is their opinion, and I have no problems with that. I hope that the people who do read this have a smile on their face, and hopefully do their writing for themselves instead of for the grade, or orthers, or whatever that may be.
Till tomorrow...
Thursday, January 20, 2011
The Man in the Yellow Sweater
Today was a good day. I was at work early and then all of the sudden I looked out side and it looked like a snow globe. It was beautiful. It started off slow, but eventually we got our regular stream of customers wanting their morning pick me up. I love it when it is like this. The routine. The smile of people's faces when they take their first sip. The business of it. I know that sounds corny, but it's true. Time flys by and before you know it two hours have passed. Plus I was blessed to work with some awesome ladies who make the job that much more enjoyable. Sometimes when it is like this it makes me think that having fun at work should be illegal.
It was mid-morning when a gentleman came in wearing a yellow sweater, that looked like it was home made. I am horrible at the age game, but I would guess that he was in his late 70's or so. He came up to the counter and was so pleasant, I could have talked to him all day. He called me 'dear', not in that creepy old many, but in a way that I would think that a Grandfather would call his granddaughter. Now I don't even remember what we talked about, but just the fact that he left me with a smile on my face made me happy.
It was getting close to the end of my shift and I was out doing a lobby, picking up trash, wiping tables, and just pickup the lobby to make it look nice when I walked by his table and he grabbed my hand and said something along the lines about meeting his wife. He asked If with my 'young eyes' I could see a white car coming down the road because she was late. I could hear the concern in his voice and I hated to tell him that I couldn't, but if he needed to call her I'll go grab the phone and make the call. He didn't want the phone, but he asked me if I could just sit for a few minutes. My heart melted.
Because of a rush, I wasn't able to sit for more than that, and his wife still was not there.
It was time for me to go, and as I started to leave out the door a white car pulled up with an older lady behind the wheel. I went back in and asked the gentleman "if this was his wife that just pulled in?" I could see the hope and the relief in his face when it was indeed her. He turned and gave me this huge smile, and a peck on the check. ( I blushed as red as a lobster) As his wife came in, he thanked me, and went over and gave her a hug as I stood back and watched. It was so sweet. The love that was there was so strong it just made me smile.
I never did get his name, but the Man in the Yellow Sweater will always be remembered.
It was mid-morning when a gentleman came in wearing a yellow sweater, that looked like it was home made. I am horrible at the age game, but I would guess that he was in his late 70's or so. He came up to the counter and was so pleasant, I could have talked to him all day. He called me 'dear', not in that creepy old many, but in a way that I would think that a Grandfather would call his granddaughter. Now I don't even remember what we talked about, but just the fact that he left me with a smile on my face made me happy.
It was getting close to the end of my shift and I was out doing a lobby, picking up trash, wiping tables, and just pickup the lobby to make it look nice when I walked by his table and he grabbed my hand and said something along the lines about meeting his wife. He asked If with my 'young eyes' I could see a white car coming down the road because she was late. I could hear the concern in his voice and I hated to tell him that I couldn't, but if he needed to call her I'll go grab the phone and make the call. He didn't want the phone, but he asked me if I could just sit for a few minutes. My heart melted.
Because of a rush, I wasn't able to sit for more than that, and his wife still was not there.
It was time for me to go, and as I started to leave out the door a white car pulled up with an older lady behind the wheel. I went back in and asked the gentleman "if this was his wife that just pulled in?" I could see the hope and the relief in his face when it was indeed her. He turned and gave me this huge smile, and a peck on the check. ( I blushed as red as a lobster) As his wife came in, he thanked me, and went over and gave her a hug as I stood back and watched. It was so sweet. The love that was there was so strong it just made me smile.
I never did get his name, but the Man in the Yellow Sweater will always be remembered.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
The Alarm Clock
It seems that I have a serious problem. I hit the snooze button for an unusually long time, not just once or twice but for an hour or so. I realize this so I always set my alarm early with extra time to "snooze", but it is so exhausting while I'm trying to sleep. My roommate thinks it is hilarious, which is better than having a roommate who would yell at you, so I'm blessed there. I will admit that if I have to open (which is 5 am so not too bad) Then I am up and ready to go with maybe one snooze, and I'll be there on time. This is always a shock to me. Maybe it is because I don't want to get fired for being late, but this is one of the rare times I don't 'snooze'.
I don't have a set working schedule, so I have no set schedule at all. Some days I open, others I close, and then the worst is when I'm there in the middle of the day and work with every single person that is going to be there that day. Those are the days that I never get anything done. Others I tend to stay up till early hours in the morning, doing school, or random things that I don't even remember. I did how-ever talk to my boss, and hopefully starting in February I may have regular days off!! This is like winning the lotto. Well maybe not 180 million, but it sure feels close to it.
Today I close, so I'll be there till almost 10. That means that any homework that is due today I need to almost finish or complete before I go. Today there is a small list of things to do, so it will seem fairly easy.
Well I'm looking forward to February, and the set day's off. Hopefully this will help my alarm clock not have to work so hard to awake me from my slumber.
I don't have a set working schedule, so I have no set schedule at all. Some days I open, others I close, and then the worst is when I'm there in the middle of the day and work with every single person that is going to be there that day. Those are the days that I never get anything done. Others I tend to stay up till early hours in the morning, doing school, or random things that I don't even remember. I did how-ever talk to my boss, and hopefully starting in February I may have regular days off!! This is like winning the lotto. Well maybe not 180 million, but it sure feels close to it.
Today I close, so I'll be there till almost 10. That means that any homework that is due today I need to almost finish or complete before I go. Today there is a small list of things to do, so it will seem fairly easy.
Well I'm looking forward to February, and the set day's off. Hopefully this will help my alarm clock not have to work so hard to awake me from my slumber.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
The CDA Library
So, today is a homework day and I feel like I haven't done anything. I have been at the Library for three hours catching op on reading, trying to do a test for my Assessment class :( gross. and realized that I didn't bring half of my books that I need. Oh how I love it.
Every table is full with people punching away at their computers, plugged in to some sort of music, or audio tape. Every few minutes somebody comes along looking for a place by the window! Ha I got here earlier enough so I have one of the Sacred places overlooking the park and the Resort. Kind funny. Anyways. I decided that since I am such a great student with remembering all of my books, I could at least accomplish this assignment.
Also I decided to get some books for my other literature classes, so I went downstairs into the Children s section, then went into "Teen Central". I felt sooooo cool. Don't misunderstand me I love reading young adult literature, it is one of my favorites but I'm not sure how I feel about the name. Looking forward to reading these books, but not sure when I'm going to find the time with everything else.
Oh!! My little brother just got here! Surprise for me. Well hope all is going well with the rest of you.
Every table is full with people punching away at their computers, plugged in to some sort of music, or audio tape. Every few minutes somebody comes along looking for a place by the window! Ha I got here earlier enough so I have one of the Sacred places overlooking the park and the Resort. Kind funny. Anyways. I decided that since I am such a great student with remembering all of my books, I could at least accomplish this assignment.
Also I decided to get some books for my other literature classes, so I went downstairs into the Children s section, then went into "Teen Central". I felt sooooo cool. Don't misunderstand me I love reading young adult literature, it is one of my favorites but I'm not sure how I feel about the name. Looking forward to reading these books, but not sure when I'm going to find the time with everything else.
Oh!! My little brother just got here! Surprise for me. Well hope all is going well with the rest of you.
Monday, January 17, 2011
MLK Day at the Buxs
It is now twenty to eleven, and I just finished my dinner. I had all these plans to get up early and do some homework before work, but that didn't happen. So here I am sitting on my floor in my
PJ's getting stuff done before the deadline.
Working at Starbucks is and has been great, but the Holiday season is always trying. People tend to always be in a hurry, are rude, and never tip. Well seldom tip. (That may seem petty to some, but when you get taxed on tips you want to make as much as they say you do.) Anyways. This occurs up till the week before Christmas, then everybody seems to be in the giving spirit, is nice, and they are willing to wait for their latte with-out side comments or jokes, sometimes they even say ' Thank You.' Then like a switch everybody goes back to being how they were before.
Being the third week in January, and having been through 4 Holiday seasons usually people are out of the funk that tends to descend on them, but not this year. It seems that people this year are loosing brain cells right and left, and that I am the reason for that. Today was just on other one of those days where I repeatedly had people tell me how much to charge them, how to make their drink, no that is not what I said, even when I just repeated verbatim. Oh and my all time favorite " I said I wanted this Iced." ( reread the the verbatim)
Well after eight hours I was ready to go to the health club and take out some of my aggression, which I did and I now feel great. This post wasn't meant to be a whinny one but it ended up as one. I understand that it is your cup of coffee, but it is just coffee. Also there is a person that is intelligent, and usually knows more about the company and what they are doing then the customer. So just please remember, please. Thank You. and if you want it iced, then order it iced.
PJ's getting stuff done before the deadline.
Working at Starbucks is and has been great, but the Holiday season is always trying. People tend to always be in a hurry, are rude, and never tip. Well seldom tip. (That may seem petty to some, but when you get taxed on tips you want to make as much as they say you do.) Anyways. This occurs up till the week before Christmas, then everybody seems to be in the giving spirit, is nice, and they are willing to wait for their latte with-out side comments or jokes, sometimes they even say ' Thank You.' Then like a switch everybody goes back to being how they were before.
Being the third week in January, and having been through 4 Holiday seasons usually people are out of the funk that tends to descend on them, but not this year. It seems that people this year are loosing brain cells right and left, and that I am the reason for that. Today was just on other one of those days where I repeatedly had people tell me how much to charge them, how to make their drink, no that is not what I said, even when I just repeated verbatim. Oh and my all time favorite " I said I wanted this Iced." ( reread the the verbatim)
Well after eight hours I was ready to go to the health club and take out some of my aggression, which I did and I now feel great. This post wasn't meant to be a whinny one but it ended up as one. I understand that it is your cup of coffee, but it is just coffee. Also there is a person that is intelligent, and usually knows more about the company and what they are doing then the customer. So just please remember, please. Thank You. and if you want it iced, then order it iced.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
The Day after PRAXIS
Well, Today is Sunday and I was really looking forward to just doing homework and staying in my PJ's all day, after going to church. But alas, that is not to be. I'm sitting on my couch, still in my church clothes finally getting to some of the homework that I should have done earlier in the week. I told myself that it was o.k. not to do it with the PRAXIS coming up, but now I already have late assignments, and am trying to play catch up before I go to work.
For those of you that have taken the PRAXIS you know what I am talking about. Yesterday was a very long day to sit in a classroom and take tests. Starting at 7 and not getting over till 2:30. I am not a test taker. I can know the material front and back but put it in test form and I go blank. I always need more time, and I seem to always seem to think of random things that don't have any relevance to what is in front of me. Perfect example: PRAXIS test #1 talking about English, verbs, nouns, and what not and all the sudden Lady Gaga is in my head.... Gross.
Anyways...
I have never done a Blog before and I am looking forward to it. My Mom is currently overseas working, and my younger sister and brother are there with her. Hopefully with this they will be able to be "a part" of my life. I'll have to double check on that with Holly.
Well good luck to all of you, and thanks for reading.
Kto
For those of you that have taken the PRAXIS you know what I am talking about. Yesterday was a very long day to sit in a classroom and take tests. Starting at 7 and not getting over till 2:30. I am not a test taker. I can know the material front and back but put it in test form and I go blank. I always need more time, and I seem to always seem to think of random things that don't have any relevance to what is in front of me. Perfect example: PRAXIS test #1 talking about English, verbs, nouns, and what not and all the sudden Lady Gaga is in my head.... Gross.
Anyways...
I have never done a Blog before and I am looking forward to it. My Mom is currently overseas working, and my younger sister and brother are there with her. Hopefully with this they will be able to be "a part" of my life. I'll have to double check on that with Holly.
Well good luck to all of you, and thanks for reading.
Kto
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