A belated Happy New Year to you all (however few of you there are that actually still read my ramblings)!!!
**I've said this before, but it still holds true this year. I'm generally not a fan of resolutions. That's pretty much due to the fact that I'm not very good about keeping them. My heart's in the right place, but either due to laziness...or forgetfulness (or maybe a little of both) those things just don't get done. So for the sake of saving time (for me anyway) I'm going to stick with my "resolutions" from last year (check out that link to read the brilliantly worded post). Now, don't scoff! I actually did make progress with most of those things, but there's always room for improvement, right?!
Now on to better (or at least more fun) things...
**With a new year comes new experiences. The first new experience of the year was Six Flags. We took the kids (along with our friend, Ashley, and her son, Ashton) to Six Flags for the first time yesterday! We got season passes as part of Christmas this year. Now, it's definitely not going to be something that we do every year (it would take the excitement, newness, and "specialness" out of it). But nonetheless, we went. And it was AWESOME! Although I've gotten older, I still love the rides. I took some preemptive Tylenol to keep the headaches to a minimum, and I was ready to rock and roll! I was amazed and quite proud of how brave Hannah and Mason were. When I was their age, I was not nearly as adventurous...and neither was Kevin. They must get it from their Aunt Jaime and their Uncles Brad and Josh...and their Grandpa.
Anyway, they were incredible. They went on every ride they were allowed to go on (which was almost all of them), and even some that they weren't quite tall enough for (that was all Kevin, by the way). Hannah was all about it. There was no stopping her. She wasn't even scared...just excited! Mason got a little scared before and during some of the rides, but he was all smiles after (maybe he was happy to be alive, but he also screamed about how awesome it was). Check out this link for a super-sweet video! Some of the coolest rides were closed, but it was still fantastic! Everything was decorated for Holiday in the Park, we got free refills on our hot chocolate and there were fire pits all around the park (both of which were very needed, because it was super cold), and there was even a snow (ice) hill for the kids to sled down!! The kids had a wonderful time, and so did we. It is sure to be a fun-filled year. We told the kids that their tickets are good all year...for as many times as...we want to take them. :)
Even without Six Flags, I can't wait to see what this year holds for us...and the rest of you! And as Nina Simone, Michael Buble, and Muse (depending on which version you prefer) have all said, "It's a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life" and a new year "for me....and I'm feeling good".
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Traditions...
So, in class this week we were talking about Christmas traditions from around the world. They simply defined a tradition as something that you do every year: birthdays, holidays, vacations, etc. And while that's true, it seems that me slacking off on my blog has become a weekly tradition. Sorry.
Nonetheless, now that my vacation has started, I'm here. (On a side note, you may have noticed my love for commas. I am a bit comma-happy, and I tend to overuse them. I just figure that anyplace I would pause in conversation deserves a comma...if only for dramatic effect. Oh, and I realize I overuse ellipses too...but whatever.)
As the countdown to Christmas is nearing an end, I thought what better time to talk about Christmas traditions (not around the world, but among our friends and families).
When I was young, Christmas always started the weekend after Thanksgiving. That's when we would buy our tree and decorate the house. It was also usually when Advent would start. We would spend the next 4 weeks getting things ready for the big day. We would buy and wrap presents, bake cookies, and write letters (or in my case, terrible poems) to Santa. But we would also light the candle on the Advent wreath, read Bible stories, help out and church, and celebrate the true meaning of the season.
Sometimes we would go to South Dakota to be with our extended family, but I don't remember much about those. What I do remember are the ones we spent at home. We always went to the children's mass on Christmas Eve (they do a short little reenactment at that mass). We would eat supper, and after we got the kitchen cleaned up we would open presents. We all had our own spots around the living room (Brad at the table in the corner, Mom on the love seat, Jaime on the bricks between the fireplace and the TV, Dad and Josh on the couch, and me on the floor next to the piano). We would get the gifts from under the tree and pass them out to each of our designated spots. We would then try on any clothes we got, play with the toys we got, set out cookies and milk for Santa, and go to bed. When we woke up, we would go down stairs to find our stockings full, a gift for each of us under the tree, and that the cookies had been eaten!
When I met Kevin, it was just another sign that we were meant to be together when I found out that his Christmas traditions would fit like a puzzle piece with mine. They always opened all of their presents on Christmas morning, which left him available to spend Christmas Eve with my family, and I was available to spend Christmas morning with his.
And now that we're married, not much has changed...theirs just a little more travel involved. We still buy our tree and decorate our house the weekend after Thanksgiving. We still celebrate Advent as a way of preparing ourselves and our kids for the celebration of the birth of Jesus. We still buy and wrap presents. Then in the days right before Christmas, we drive home to Abilene so we can enjoy the time with our families. We still do Christmas Eve with my family (including the Children's mass...only now it's my kids who participate in the reenactment). We still have our spots in the living room...only now we have spouses and children to fill out those spots. And after the gifts have been opened, clothes have been tried on, toys have been played with, and cookies have been set out for Santa, we put our kids to bed. The grown ups get to stay up late watching movies and/or playing games, eating Santa's cookies, and filling stockings. In the morning, we get to watch our kids wake up and be amazed by the fact that Santa ate his cookies and left more presents. Then we go to Kevin's side of the family and open presents with them. But more importantly we play games with, talk with, laugh with, and spend the day with them. And when we get back home, we get to see that Santa remembered to visit our house, too!
Kevin and I are so blessed to have both of our families in the same town. It truly makes holidays so easy. We get to share the joy of gift-giving with everyone, while not missing out on quality time with anyone. This year is sure to be one of the best Christmases ever! All of my siblings will be together with spouses and kids in tow. But this year we will also be joined by a newcomer to our family...my baby brother's fiance. I'm so excited to be able to spend so my time with my family (both sides), get to know my future sister-in-law a little better, watch Hannah and Mason spend time with their cousins (all 11 of them), and celebrate the birth of our Savior with everyone I love most.
So Merry Christmas! What are some of your traditions?!
Nonetheless, now that my vacation has started, I'm here. (On a side note, you may have noticed my love for commas. I am a bit comma-happy, and I tend to overuse them. I just figure that anyplace I would pause in conversation deserves a comma...if only for dramatic effect. Oh, and I realize I overuse ellipses too...but whatever.)
As the countdown to Christmas is nearing an end, I thought what better time to talk about Christmas traditions (not around the world, but among our friends and families).
When I was young, Christmas always started the weekend after Thanksgiving. That's when we would buy our tree and decorate the house. It was also usually when Advent would start. We would spend the next 4 weeks getting things ready for the big day. We would buy and wrap presents, bake cookies, and write letters (or in my case, terrible poems) to Santa. But we would also light the candle on the Advent wreath, read Bible stories, help out and church, and celebrate the true meaning of the season.
Sometimes we would go to South Dakota to be with our extended family, but I don't remember much about those. What I do remember are the ones we spent at home. We always went to the children's mass on Christmas Eve (they do a short little reenactment at that mass). We would eat supper, and after we got the kitchen cleaned up we would open presents. We all had our own spots around the living room (Brad at the table in the corner, Mom on the love seat, Jaime on the bricks between the fireplace and the TV, Dad and Josh on the couch, and me on the floor next to the piano). We would get the gifts from under the tree and pass them out to each of our designated spots. We would then try on any clothes we got, play with the toys we got, set out cookies and milk for Santa, and go to bed. When we woke up, we would go down stairs to find our stockings full, a gift for each of us under the tree, and that the cookies had been eaten!
When I met Kevin, it was just another sign that we were meant to be together when I found out that his Christmas traditions would fit like a puzzle piece with mine. They always opened all of their presents on Christmas morning, which left him available to spend Christmas Eve with my family, and I was available to spend Christmas morning with his.
And now that we're married, not much has changed...theirs just a little more travel involved. We still buy our tree and decorate our house the weekend after Thanksgiving. We still celebrate Advent as a way of preparing ourselves and our kids for the celebration of the birth of Jesus. We still buy and wrap presents. Then in the days right before Christmas, we drive home to Abilene so we can enjoy the time with our families. We still do Christmas Eve with my family (including the Children's mass...only now it's my kids who participate in the reenactment). We still have our spots in the living room...only now we have spouses and children to fill out those spots. And after the gifts have been opened, clothes have been tried on, toys have been played with, and cookies have been set out for Santa, we put our kids to bed. The grown ups get to stay up late watching movies and/or playing games, eating Santa's cookies, and filling stockings. In the morning, we get to watch our kids wake up and be amazed by the fact that Santa ate his cookies and left more presents. Then we go to Kevin's side of the family and open presents with them. But more importantly we play games with, talk with, laugh with, and spend the day with them. And when we get back home, we get to see that Santa remembered to visit our house, too!
Kevin and I are so blessed to have both of our families in the same town. It truly makes holidays so easy. We get to share the joy of gift-giving with everyone, while not missing out on quality time with anyone. This year is sure to be one of the best Christmases ever! All of my siblings will be together with spouses and kids in tow. But this year we will also be joined by a newcomer to our family...my baby brother's fiance. I'm so excited to be able to spend so my time with my family (both sides), get to know my future sister-in-law a little better, watch Hannah and Mason spend time with their cousins (all 11 of them), and celebrate the birth of our Savior with everyone I love most.
So Merry Christmas! What are some of your traditions?!
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Albums...
So, the Grammy nominations came out Wednesday night. And I think that I'm pretty pleased overall. Eminem got a stellar 10 nominations. Lady Antebellum, Bruno Mars, and my boy Jay-Z got several as well. I could definitely pass on Lady Gaga, but I think it should be a good show!
In honor of the music, I thought I would do a blog that I never really thought I would do before. I've always heard people who talk about "albums that changed their lives". And I would always think, "Really? It changed your life?!" I mean I am a music lover to the core, but I never really got that statement. But now, I think I was being a little too broad, or a little to literal...or something. A life changing moment, or album for that matter, doesn't necessarily have to be something huge or noticeable to others. So keeping that in mind and keeping in the spirit of the facebook thing (that I somehow missed), this post is going to be about: Albums That Changed My Life!
Here's the criteria: any number of albums that either literally changed your life somehow (even in a small way) or the way you look at life (or looked at life at the time). They sucked you in and took you over. These are the albums that you use to identify time, people, places, memories, and emotions.
In an attempted order by date (of my appreciation, not necessarily it's release):
1) Ropin the Wind by Garth Brooks = This is the first album that I remember loving (I'm thinking around 5th and 6th grade). I can remember individual songs that I thought were awesome long before this, but we're talking albums here. I remember listening to this tape (yes, cassette tape) over and over. It was then that I made my life goal to see Garth Brooks live in concert. It's still a goal that I have, by the way...just in case you ever get an extra ticket. :)
2) the Forrest Gump Soundtrack = So we're flashing forward a few years to around 8th grade. I went to see this movie with my dad and my sister. I enjoyed the movie, but I didn't fall in love with it until high school (when it became one of my all-time favorites). But I was able to instantly fully appreciate the music. The music spanned the 50's, 60's, and 70's without being corny or cliche.
3) the 1996 Grammy Nominees compilation = I didn't actually get the CD until the summer before 10th grade, but the music was a showcase from my Freshman year. I can't even give this album a review that will do it justice, so check out this one on Amazon. That was a great year for music!
4) Big Ones by Aerosmith = So a lot of Aerosmith was before my time. I remember getting this CD for my cousin, Jeremy. Then a year or two after that I finally got my own, and I was in rock heaven. I would do some serious jamming out in my bedroom. But more importantly, this album got me interested in finding and listening to their earlier stuff. And it inspired me to make another life goal to see Aerosmith in concert. (So, ideally Garth Brooks and Aerosmith need to put on a show together...that sounds likely doesn't it?)
5) Crash by Dave Matthews Band = Ah, this is Junior year. I was 16, and I was sure that all the guys who had asked me out since middle school (who I had always turned down, because I wasn't old enough to date) would be ready to try again. I was sadly mistaken. They all had girlfriends, and so did the guys I actually liked...and so did just about everyone (or so it seemed). I spent many a night shut away in my room feeling sorry for myself and seeking solace in the unique music of DMB.
6) Conspiracy No. 5 by Third Day = This was still my Junior year. When I wasn't busy being depressed about my lack of dates, I was very involved in and loving my Life Teen youth group at church. It was the year that solidified my strong faith and the year of my confirmation. We went to a Third Day concert in Abilene, and it was the best thing I had ever been to. I bought the CD and never looked back. It is still one of my favorites: singing praise and rocking out at the same time...pretty awesome.
7) A Place in the Sun by Tim McGraw = Skip ahead a little to the summer after I graduated. This album was pretty much the soundtrack of my first year with Kevin. Virtually any time Kevin and I drove anywhere, this CD was playing. I vividly remember him singing the songs as he walked throughout the Pizza Hut while we were working. I would just rest my head on his shoulder and listen to him sing. Of course, I would also pretend to be Faith Hill and sing an awesome duet, but whatever. This one still makes me smile.
8) Monster Ballads by various awesome 80's rockers = So even though I grew up in the 80's, I was a little young to appreciate the sheer awesomeness of the rock from that decade. But it was at this point when my love and devotion to this music started. I remember playing Here We Go Again by Whitesnake over and over on the juke box at Pizza Hut. There's nothing like a good power ballad to help you really belt it out!
9) Country Grammar by Nelly = This was the summer after my Freshman year of college. I already had a general appreciation for rap and hip-hop from people like Snoop Dogg and Tupac. But this album, with it's sweet beats, smooth rhymes, and entertaining lyrics spoke to me. This was the beginning of my love affair with hip-hop. I don't do gangsta rap, but this album paved the way (for me) for: Jay-Z, Kanye West, Eminem (not slim shady), BOB, and others.
Now that I'm thinking about it, it seems rather strange that I don't have one for the last 10 years. Maybe I'll do some more thinking and save that for another day. But anyway, how about you? Do you have any albums that changed your life?
In honor of the music, I thought I would do a blog that I never really thought I would do before. I've always heard people who talk about "albums that changed their lives". And I would always think, "Really? It changed your life?!" I mean I am a music lover to the core, but I never really got that statement. But now, I think I was being a little too broad, or a little to literal...or something. A life changing moment, or album for that matter, doesn't necessarily have to be something huge or noticeable to others. So keeping that in mind and keeping in the spirit of the facebook thing (that I somehow missed), this post is going to be about: Albums That Changed My Life!
Here's the criteria: any number of albums that either literally changed your life somehow (even in a small way) or the way you look at life (or looked at life at the time). They sucked you in and took you over. These are the albums that you use to identify time, people, places, memories, and emotions.
In an attempted order by date (of my appreciation, not necessarily it's release):
1) Ropin the Wind by Garth Brooks = This is the first album that I remember loving (I'm thinking around 5th and 6th grade). I can remember individual songs that I thought were awesome long before this, but we're talking albums here. I remember listening to this tape (yes, cassette tape) over and over. It was then that I made my life goal to see Garth Brooks live in concert. It's still a goal that I have, by the way...just in case you ever get an extra ticket. :)
2) the Forrest Gump Soundtrack = So we're flashing forward a few years to around 8th grade. I went to see this movie with my dad and my sister. I enjoyed the movie, but I didn't fall in love with it until high school (when it became one of my all-time favorites). But I was able to instantly fully appreciate the music. The music spanned the 50's, 60's, and 70's without being corny or cliche.
3) the 1996 Grammy Nominees compilation = I didn't actually get the CD until the summer before 10th grade, but the music was a showcase from my Freshman year. I can't even give this album a review that will do it justice, so check out this one on Amazon. That was a great year for music!
4) Big Ones by Aerosmith = So a lot of Aerosmith was before my time. I remember getting this CD for my cousin, Jeremy. Then a year or two after that I finally got my own, and I was in rock heaven. I would do some serious jamming out in my bedroom. But more importantly, this album got me interested in finding and listening to their earlier stuff. And it inspired me to make another life goal to see Aerosmith in concert. (So, ideally Garth Brooks and Aerosmith need to put on a show together...that sounds likely doesn't it?)
5) Crash by Dave Matthews Band = Ah, this is Junior year. I was 16, and I was sure that all the guys who had asked me out since middle school (who I had always turned down, because I wasn't old enough to date) would be ready to try again. I was sadly mistaken. They all had girlfriends, and so did the guys I actually liked...and so did just about everyone (or so it seemed). I spent many a night shut away in my room feeling sorry for myself and seeking solace in the unique music of DMB.
6) Conspiracy No. 5 by Third Day = This was still my Junior year. When I wasn't busy being depressed about my lack of dates, I was very involved in and loving my Life Teen youth group at church. It was the year that solidified my strong faith and the year of my confirmation. We went to a Third Day concert in Abilene, and it was the best thing I had ever been to. I bought the CD and never looked back. It is still one of my favorites: singing praise and rocking out at the same time...pretty awesome.
7) A Place in the Sun by Tim McGraw = Skip ahead a little to the summer after I graduated. This album was pretty much the soundtrack of my first year with Kevin. Virtually any time Kevin and I drove anywhere, this CD was playing. I vividly remember him singing the songs as he walked throughout the Pizza Hut while we were working. I would just rest my head on his shoulder and listen to him sing. Of course, I would also pretend to be Faith Hill and sing an awesome duet, but whatever. This one still makes me smile.
8) Monster Ballads by various awesome 80's rockers = So even though I grew up in the 80's, I was a little young to appreciate the sheer awesomeness of the rock from that decade. But it was at this point when my love and devotion to this music started. I remember playing Here We Go Again by Whitesnake over and over on the juke box at Pizza Hut. There's nothing like a good power ballad to help you really belt it out!
9) Country Grammar by Nelly = This was the summer after my Freshman year of college. I already had a general appreciation for rap and hip-hop from people like Snoop Dogg and Tupac. But this album, with it's sweet beats, smooth rhymes, and entertaining lyrics spoke to me. This was the beginning of my love affair with hip-hop. I don't do gangsta rap, but this album paved the way (for me) for: Jay-Z, Kanye West, Eminem (not slim shady), BOB, and others.
Now that I'm thinking about it, it seems rather strange that I don't have one for the last 10 years. Maybe I'll do some more thinking and save that for another day. But anyway, how about you? Do you have any albums that changed your life?
Monday, November 22, 2010
50 Favorite Things...
No, I'm not Oprah. And I don't have one of those fancy blogs that has sponsors who do give-aways. So, don't get your hopes up. There will be no things given away for free here. Sorry.
But I was inspired by a friend and parent of a former student of mine to come up with a list of 50 of my favorite things. It can include anything from the simple everyday things to the more rare or extravagant things. I think the purpose of this is to help give yourself a reminder of all of the good things you have in life that bring you joy. You should also have a goal to do at least one of those things each day (the more, the better).
So, here we go. In no particular order:
1) playing with my kids
2) reading
3) baking
4) watching movies at home
5) laughing (probably my #1 fav. and it goes hand-in-hand with many of the things on this list)
6) going to church
7) watching tv
8) visiting my family
9) playing board games (something I don't get to do very often anymore, but have loved since I was a kid)
10) staying in a hotel (I get relaxed just thinking about it)
11) date night
12) a good cry (you know, via a book or movie...or song or commercial...)
13) going on vacation
14) family pictures
15) hanging out with friends
16) singing
17) dancing
18) listening to music
19) doing anything or nothing in particular with Kevin
20) catching up with old friends (via facebook or get togethers)
21) blogging
22) doing small acts of kindness (just a little something to brighten someone's day)
23) brainstorming (I'm much better at coming up with ideas than I am acting on any of them)
24) word play
25) doing crafts with my kids
26) being pregnant (I never felt healthier than when I was pregnant)
27) short hot baths (so hot they hurt at first)
28) looking at old pictures
29) writing
30) listening (Ever since middle school, I've kind of been the one that people have come to with their problems or stories. I've always liked listening. I've felt honored to be the one they come to. I don't pass judgement, and I don't offer suggestions/solutions unless I'm asked. I think sometimes people just need to vent or get things off their chests and that sometimes that in-and-of-itself is more help than anything I could say anyway.)
31) taking a nap
32) passing on traditions/childhood favorites to my kids
33) holidays
34) pedicures (I've only had two in my whole life, but they were both wonderful.)
35) getting complimented
36) road trips
37) coloring (yes, in coloring books)
38) finding new clothes or shoes that actually fit
39) giving gifts
40) praying
41) sitting in silence
42) taking care of others (Even in high school, I was known as motherly.)
43) happy hour/girl's night
44) weekends away (whether with Kevin or with the girls)
45) watching movies at the theater
46) eating cereal at night
47) watching my kids sleep
48) cooking with Kevin for our friends and family
49) sleeping in a freshly made bed
50) watching football (I've watched the Cowboys since middle school. In high school, I was one of the few in the band that actually watched the games. I loved watching my little brother play when I could. As time consuming as it was, I was stoked to be able to start Mason down the football path this year as well.)
So, that's that. It took me much longer than I thought it would to make that list. I'm sure there are things that I left off. I'm sure that this list will change as time goes by. But for now (until I can think of anything better) this is it. So let's say that rather than being a list of my top 50 favorite things, it's really a list of 50 OF my favorite things. And at the very least, it has shown me just how much joy I take in doing the things that I do every day.
Any thoughts? Do you have a list of your own? The ball is in your court!
But I was inspired by a friend and parent of a former student of mine to come up with a list of 50 of my favorite things. It can include anything from the simple everyday things to the more rare or extravagant things. I think the purpose of this is to help give yourself a reminder of all of the good things you have in life that bring you joy. You should also have a goal to do at least one of those things each day (the more, the better).
So, here we go. In no particular order:
1) playing with my kids
2) reading
3) baking
4) watching movies at home
5) laughing (probably my #1 fav. and it goes hand-in-hand with many of the things on this list)
6) going to church
7) watching tv
8) visiting my family
9) playing board games (something I don't get to do very often anymore, but have loved since I was a kid)
10) staying in a hotel (I get relaxed just thinking about it)
11) date night
12) a good cry (you know, via a book or movie...or song or commercial...)
13) going on vacation
14) family pictures
15) hanging out with friends
16) singing
17) dancing
18) listening to music
19) doing anything or nothing in particular with Kevin
20) catching up with old friends (via facebook or get togethers)
21) blogging
22) doing small acts of kindness (just a little something to brighten someone's day)
23) brainstorming (I'm much better at coming up with ideas than I am acting on any of them)
24) word play
25) doing crafts with my kids
26) being pregnant (I never felt healthier than when I was pregnant)
27) short hot baths (so hot they hurt at first)
28) looking at old pictures
29) writing
30) listening (Ever since middle school, I've kind of been the one that people have come to with their problems or stories. I've always liked listening. I've felt honored to be the one they come to. I don't pass judgement, and I don't offer suggestions/solutions unless I'm asked. I think sometimes people just need to vent or get things off their chests and that sometimes that in-and-of-itself is more help than anything I could say anyway.)
31) taking a nap
32) passing on traditions/childhood favorites to my kids
33) holidays
34) pedicures (I've only had two in my whole life, but they were both wonderful.)
35) getting complimented
36) road trips
37) coloring (yes, in coloring books)
38) finding new clothes or shoes that actually fit
39) giving gifts
40) praying
41) sitting in silence
42) taking care of others (Even in high school, I was known as motherly.)
43) happy hour/girl's night
44) weekends away (whether with Kevin or with the girls)
45) watching movies at the theater
46) eating cereal at night
47) watching my kids sleep
48) cooking with Kevin for our friends and family
49) sleeping in a freshly made bed
50) watching football (I've watched the Cowboys since middle school. In high school, I was one of the few in the band that actually watched the games. I loved watching my little brother play when I could. As time consuming as it was, I was stoked to be able to start Mason down the football path this year as well.)
So, that's that. It took me much longer than I thought it would to make that list. I'm sure there are things that I left off. I'm sure that this list will change as time goes by. But for now (until I can think of anything better) this is it. So let's say that rather than being a list of my top 50 favorite things, it's really a list of 50 OF my favorite things. And at the very least, it has shown me just how much joy I take in doing the things that I do every day.
Any thoughts? Do you have a list of your own? The ball is in your court!
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
When I Grow Up...
Now how cute is that?! Have I mentioned that I have baby fever? Anyway, I digress...
This is something that we've all thought about hundreds of time in our lives. When we're really little, it's usually the fantastical (super hero or princess). A little later, it's a little more practical (firefighter or ballerina). By the time middle school rolls around, we're starting to get a more realistic idea of what we want to be when we grow up that is actually based on our strengths and interests. Then comes High School and College. That's when we either solidify our previous aspirations, or completely change our minds.
For me, it went a little something like this:
Elementary School: (I can't seem to remember what I wanted to be before that) I always wanted to be a mom. I just idolized my mom (and still do). I wanted to have 4 kids like she did. I wanted to make Halloween costumes like she did. I wanted to sing and dance in the kitchen and make cookies like she did.
Middle School: Due to an assignment we had at school that required us to design, decorate, and make a scale model of a bedroom we'd love to have, I got it into my head that I would like to be an interior designer. Also due to that assignment and reflection on the kind of teacher that would give an assignment like that (and my other favorite teachers over the years: Mrs. Webb and Mr. Coffee), I figured I could also be a teacher. I didn't think the teacher/interior designer/mom was unrealistic at all.
High School: The prospect of having to decorate people's houses with gaudy florals or other things that weren't my taste kind of turned me off of the whole interior designer thing. But with having 2 more of my favorite teachers of all time (my band director, Mr. Gibson and my AP European History teacher, Mr. Thomesen), I was pretty sure that a teacher is what I wanted to be. I was either going to teach 1st grade or high school. I figured that in 1st grade they're still cute and sweet, and in high school they'd be able to understand and appreciate some sarcasm.
College: By this time, I was certain that teaching was what I wanted to do. But I still wanted to be a mom more than anything...I always did. And that dream came true a little sooner than planned. Then I finally narrowed it down to Elementary school and after observing in Kinder and 1st and student teaching in 3rd and 5, I was hoping for a job in 2nd grade. That dream, too, came true...at the last minute.
Now: I am so, SO lucky. I am so blessed to be able to say that I have become what I wanted to be when I grew up. But at the same time, I find myself asking, "What do I want to be when I grow up?" I know I've blogged (and ranted) about this before, but there it is. And I'm pretty confident that I'm not alone in that. I think that a lot of people love a career that they've chosen, but still come to a point when they want something different, too. So I still don't know the answer to that question: baker, nurse, lottery winner...who knows?! But I have faith that the answer will come soon enough. :)
So how about you? What did you want to be when you were little? How did that change over time? Is there anything else that you want to be now?
This is something that we've all thought about hundreds of time in our lives. When we're really little, it's usually the fantastical (super hero or princess). A little later, it's a little more practical (firefighter or ballerina). By the time middle school rolls around, we're starting to get a more realistic idea of what we want to be when we grow up that is actually based on our strengths and interests. Then comes High School and College. That's when we either solidify our previous aspirations, or completely change our minds.
For me, it went a little something like this:
Elementary School: (I can't seem to remember what I wanted to be before that) I always wanted to be a mom. I just idolized my mom (and still do). I wanted to have 4 kids like she did. I wanted to make Halloween costumes like she did. I wanted to sing and dance in the kitchen and make cookies like she did.
Middle School: Due to an assignment we had at school that required us to design, decorate, and make a scale model of a bedroom we'd love to have, I got it into my head that I would like to be an interior designer. Also due to that assignment and reflection on the kind of teacher that would give an assignment like that (and my other favorite teachers over the years: Mrs. Webb and Mr. Coffee), I figured I could also be a teacher. I didn't think the teacher/interior designer/mom was unrealistic at all.
High School: The prospect of having to decorate people's houses with gaudy florals or other things that weren't my taste kind of turned me off of the whole interior designer thing. But with having 2 more of my favorite teachers of all time (my band director, Mr. Gibson and my AP European History teacher, Mr. Thomesen), I was pretty sure that a teacher is what I wanted to be. I was either going to teach 1st grade or high school. I figured that in 1st grade they're still cute and sweet, and in high school they'd be able to understand and appreciate some sarcasm.
College: By this time, I was certain that teaching was what I wanted to do. But I still wanted to be a mom more than anything...I always did. And that dream came true a little sooner than planned. Then I finally narrowed it down to Elementary school and after observing in Kinder and 1st and student teaching in 3rd and 5, I was hoping for a job in 2nd grade. That dream, too, came true...at the last minute.
Now: I am so, SO lucky. I am so blessed to be able to say that I have become what I wanted to be when I grew up. But at the same time, I find myself asking, "What do I want to be when I grow up?" I know I've blogged (and ranted) about this before, but there it is. And I'm pretty confident that I'm not alone in that. I think that a lot of people love a career that they've chosen, but still come to a point when they want something different, too. So I still don't know the answer to that question: baker, nurse, lottery winner...who knows?! But I have faith that the answer will come soon enough. :)
So how about you? What did you want to be when you were little? How did that change over time? Is there anything else that you want to be now?
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Absence...
Is it true? Does absence really make the heart grow fonder? If so, then you must REALLY love me now. Sorry, it's been so long since I've blogged. Things have just been...well...not great lately. Work has been overwhelming, extra-curriculars for the kids have been exhausting, and my health (although still stable on the leukemia front) has been iffy at best (upper respiratory infections, an ear infection, acute gastroenteritis, and just overall yuckiness). Suffice it to say, I haven't had blogging on the brain much. Not that I haven't tried. I've sat and stared at a blank screen on many occasions. I've even started numerous blogs that I just didn't think were blog-worthy after all.
Work is still overwhelming, I'm still not feeling great, but we're on a bit of a hiatus from the extra-curriculars for a while, so I thought I'd try to catch up a little bit.
Some thoughts on absence:
Absence can be a breath of fresh air: a break from your kids that you love, the rare day that the most difficult and annoying child in your class is absent (because those are always the kids that have the best attendance), the moment your pain (physical, mental, emotional) goes away
Absence can be a strain: having your spouse work an opposite schedule and not be around to help with the kids and chores (I don't know how single parents do it), taking a day off of work (even if it's truly needed, it's such a pain to prep for a sub), the absence of money
Absence can be annoying: absent-mindedness (especially your own...it's so frustrating when I can't seem to remember anything), the absence of manners
Absence can be heartbreaking: the absence of faith (I think that would just be a very sad and lonely way to be), the death of a loved one
So, is it true? Does absence make the heart grow fonder? I think it depends on the situation. What do you think?
Work is still overwhelming, I'm still not feeling great, but we're on a bit of a hiatus from the extra-curriculars for a while, so I thought I'd try to catch up a little bit.
Some thoughts on absence:
Absence can be a breath of fresh air: a break from your kids that you love, the rare day that the most difficult and annoying child in your class is absent (because those are always the kids that have the best attendance), the moment your pain (physical, mental, emotional) goes away
Absence can be a strain: having your spouse work an opposite schedule and not be around to help with the kids and chores (I don't know how single parents do it), taking a day off of work (even if it's truly needed, it's such a pain to prep for a sub), the absence of money
Absence can be annoying: absent-mindedness (especially your own...it's so frustrating when I can't seem to remember anything), the absence of manners
Absence can be heartbreaking: the absence of faith (I think that would just be a very sad and lonely way to be), the death of a loved one
So, is it true? Does absence make the heart grow fonder? I think it depends on the situation. What do you think?
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Movie Mash-Ups...
So a while ago, there was this episode of Cougar Town (one of my favorite shows) where they played this game called Movie Mash-Ups. Of course, they used it as a drinking game, but I still thought it was a pretty awesome idea. Basically, you pick 2 movies that have a shared word in the title. But one of the movies has to have the word at the end, while the other has to have it at the beginning. Then you briefly describe the plot of the new combined movie for people to guess. For example: A single woman tries to stop her friend's wedding from being disturbed by 2 uninvited guests. ....(My Best Friend's Wedding Crashers)
Here's a clip you can check out if you want.
So, I thought we could give it a shot. I'll try to come up with some for you to guess:
1) An arrogant and outrageous leading man on a San Diego news station covers the story of a disfigured recluse who befriends and mentors a young boy.
2) A group of middle-aged men create a college fraternity that leads a group of children to compete in a battle of the bands competition.
3) Three bachelor's are left with the task of caring for a new baby who is then adopted by a successful business woman who moves to the country and develops her own brand of baby applesauce.
4) A group of office workers hate their jobs and while facing layoffs, they decide to rebel against their mono-toned boss. But then they must rescue a princess from another planet before the villain sucks all the air out of her planet's atmosphere.
5) A aging patriarch of a mafia family passes control of his empire to his reluctant son whose plans for his daughter's wedding get out of hand with the help of a flamboyant wedding planner.
6) A depressed middle-aged father gets a crush on his daughter's beautiful friend who has been held in an enchanted castle and has fallen for her beastly captor.
Now you give it a shot. Post your answers and some movie mash-ups of your own!
1) An arrogant and outrageous leading man on a San Diego news station covers the story of a disfigured recluse who befriends and mentors a young boy.
2) A group of middle-aged men create a college fraternity that leads a group of children to compete in a battle of the bands competition.
3) Three bachelor's are left with the task of caring for a new baby who is then adopted by a successful business woman who moves to the country and develops her own brand of baby applesauce.
4) A group of office workers hate their jobs and while facing layoffs, they decide to rebel against their mono-toned boss. But then they must rescue a princess from another planet before the villain sucks all the air out of her planet's atmosphere.
5) A aging patriarch of a mafia family passes control of his empire to his reluctant son whose plans for his daughter's wedding get out of hand with the help of a flamboyant wedding planner.
6) A depressed middle-aged father gets a crush on his daughter's beautiful friend who has been held in an enchanted castle and has fallen for her beastly captor.
Now you give it a shot. Post your answers and some movie mash-ups of your own!
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