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I'mFeeling: like lying in the grass all day, reading a book
Background Noise: If I Stand by Rich Mullins
This morning I stopped by the Post Office on my way to work in order to pick up my passport - I had to send it off to get the name changed (it still had my maiden name on it - whoops!). Now, most POs open around 7:00am so that people who go to work can stop by and conduct their postal business. However, good old Mason PO's hours are from 9:00am to 5:00pm - exactly when I'm supposed to be at work! I'll have to leave a little early today to pick it up, I guess. It made me chuckle - got to love small towns! :)
I've always kind of wanted to write a book - I've loved to write since elementary school, and I've been told I'm not too bad at it. My main problem is that I have no idea what to write about. So today, I ask you, all 3 of my faithful blog readers, to help me come up with an idea for a book. I am not partial to fiction or non-fiction... at this point, all options are being considered. What do you think??
I'm Feeling: antsy
Background Noise: Your Body is a Wonderland by John Mayer
In our living room, we have a stuffed frog named Buttrub (nothing sketchy - it means that his butt is nice to rub) and a stuffed sea turtle. I got the sea turtle in Vancouver, British Columbia 4 years ago, and I never was able to come up with a good name for him. It was a conundrum - I like to name things (definitely stuffed animals, sometimes plants and cars and other inanimate objects). Well, my little sister recently graduated from college and received the Compact (ha) Oxford English Dictionary as one of her gifts. It's huge, with really really tiny writing - you need a magnifying glass to read it. We came across the word spurtle in some of our literary wanderings, and I decided that it was a great name for our turtle. Mostly because it's fun to say, and because it rhymes.
It's cold outside today, and I'm really starting to wish for summer. Maybe Belgium will be warmer - we leave a week from today!! Everyone keeps asking if I'm excited, but mostly it just doesn't actually feel like we're going. Monday night, I'll be freaking out. Ask me then.
I'm Feeling: delightful
Background Noise: hang on, I haven't turned on iTunes yet... Testify to Love by Avalon
Last night, I journeyed back to 1982 via the television set in our living room. With the rental of a truly inspired VHS tape last night (kudos to Mammoth Video in Mason for carrying the best movies!), Dana, Dave, Mark and I revisited our youth (because that's sooo far past, right?) as we watched The Last Unicorn. It was wonderful (and wonderfully silly of course, as it always is to watch movies you adored as a child). An excellent way to end a pretty stinking fun Sunday, I'd say. One of my husband's favorite sayings is "Take note of the moment, for this is your life." That makes me chuckle when I think of last night. My life rocks!
At any rate, I had a really good weekend - two birthday parties on Saturday (yay for Jamie, who turned 30 last week, and for James, who turned 2!!) , good times with our middle school friends at our last official Wyldlife event for the 2004-05 year, lunch at Bennigan's with some truly funny people, quality time with Dana, and realizing that the 2 of us have some a-mazing gourmet cooking skills! And that even though we giggle ridiculously whenever we have a truly inspired idea, Dave and Mark are still caught off guard. (Or at least they pretend, really well - thanks, guys).
What did you do this weekend?
I'm Feeling: anxious
Background Noise: I Just Wanna Be Mad by Terri Clark
I like watching water - it's one of those really weird things in life that we don't think about too often, but when one actually sits down to ponder 'water,' amazement and awe must follow. One of my favorite things about water is the ripple effect, and not just because it's kinda pretty. I think it echoes our lives so strongly - the idea that little things make a big impact. Sometimes the little things are heart-warming and affectionate... other times the little things are thoughtless and hurtful. Whatever the case, one little pebble can make a noticeable disturbance in the surface of the water. Of course, the ripples gradually fade away, and the water returns to its placid facade. But the pebble is still there, under the surface. Kinda wild.
One of my other favorite things to do is to try to make ordinary, everyday things into deep, meaningful allegorical anecdotes. How'd I do today?
I'm Feeling: I dunno
Background Noise: Independence Day by Martina McBride
What a week. I finally went to the doctor - turns out my malady is viral bronchitis - which basically means a nasty throat infection that they can't do anything about - it just has to run its course. On the upside, I got my tetanus shot updated today, so my left shoulder is achy. But if I step on a rusty nail tonight, I'll be totally safe.
This week's just been weird for me - I'm no good at being sick - lying still, getting rest, doing nothing. I get antsy and start cleaning the house and doing laundry and wanting to go out - makes it harder to get well quickly. I've been in and out of the office - canceling appointments (which I HATE to do) and catching up on email and voicemail as often as I can. We all whine about work sometimes, but I've really missed being here this week. Just goes to show.
I think the wise words of Kermit the Frog shed much needed hope and solace on my emotionally stressful week: Someday we'll find it - the Rainbow Connection. The lovers, the dreamers, and me....
I'm Feeling: quiet
Background Noise: Paper Wings by Gillian Welch
I'm trying to build up a library of sorts in my office - resources for the students and for myself. I've officially finished my first full academic year as an advisor, and (in my own grand fashion) now have about 8000 ideas of what I can do differently/additionally to improve my performance. One area our department is sorely lacking is in its literary resources. Books about careers, academic majors, law school, grad school and beyond - all stuff that is pressing impatiently on the minds of the students I advise. Having tangible, visible teaching aids has proven helpful - so I'm trying to build up my collection. Slow but sure. (It'll probably never look like that picture - that's the Long Room at Trinity College in Dublin where the Book of Kells is housed).
Most of my appointments cancelled for today, so I'm getting to start putting into practice some of the crazy brainstorms I've had in the last few weeks. I have to sift through the inspiration to nail down the ideas that are plausible (meaning, I can accomplish them and still maintain a modicum of sanity). Wish me luck.
Thought for the day: Nutmeg is extremely poisonous if injected intravenously. Not a common warning, but for those of you who love pumpkin pie soo much you'd like to have an IV permanently attached - take note.
I'm Feeling: moderately healthier than this weekend
Background Noise: Hungry by Heather Rider
So I apologize for my absence - I was in a conference on Thursday, then I got the nastiest sore throat/fever combo I've had in awhile late late Thursday night and have been down for the count this weekend. It stinks.
But I DID get to see my little sister Megan graduate from college - which was really awesome!! She's going to start a Master's program in the fall, and I'm totally proud of her. Meg rocks!! I just can't get over how quickly time is moving us onward. There are times I feel positively propelled through my life. It's cool, but a little unnerving - I have to remember to take note of the moments, lest they pass by unobserved.
Thought for the day: Would you rather have time drag or speed by? Why?
I'm Feeling: antsy
Background Noise: Beautiful, Scandalous Night by Bebo Norman et al.
It's supposed to thunderstorm today - and I heart summer storms. I know it's kinda weird - most people love sunshine and puffy, white clouds - not big scary noises and jagged bolts of electricity shooting down from desprate, ominous skies... but I love them both!! I've always liked to watch storms - there is such raw power. I stand in awe of our earth once again. The only downside - it makes my hair freak out (I am exceptionally susceptible to humidity). And I think one of the windows in our bedroom is a tiny bit open. Darn.
Thought for the day: A housefly hums in the middle octave, key of F. I wonder who bothered to take note of that.
I'm Feeling: lighter (I cut off about 7 inches of hair today!)
Background Noise: Baby Boom Baby by James Taylor
I adore this time of year for lots of reasons, but today the reason is flowering trees. I was walking on campus this morning, and was engulfed by the beautiful fragrance of these trees - not only do they smell like heaven, but there are fantastically vibrant flowers everywhere too. Seriously - what could be better? I was really struck by the artistry of God - white and pink and red flowers in trees with vibrantly green leaves, all pasted against the brilliant blue of morning sky in spring. It was delightful.
Things are slower in the office now - which is fun and different. I like the summer pace - everyone seems happier. (It's probably because of those lovely trees outside!) Oh, and "happy last day of officially having college-student work to do" to my little sister Megan... you're so big!! :)
Thought for the day: Does short hair make Katie look older or younger? (so far, the score is tied, 1:1)
I'm Feeling: really really good
Background Noise: It Is Well by By The Tree (with elevator-replacement noises mixed in)
Obviously, yesterday was Mother's Day - and hopefully we were able to take a minute and reflect on what our moms have meant to us. Today is my mom's birthday - she gets a back-to-back double whammy week here! My mom has given a lot to her family - she has always striven to be fair and encouraged us to strive for success. I'd say (if I may), that she and my dad did an excellent job - my brother and sister are awesome people - creative, funny and smart. Our family has its quirks, as all families do - but we have a rich, silly, emotional and profound history together - and I think that's really cool. So happy birthday, Mom! I love you!
Thought for the day: Saw Kingdom of Heaven last night with Dana and Dave. Save your money. (although I'd like to thank Dave for pointing out that there were times when a redeeming theme/idea presented itself in the movie) What was the last wretched movie you've seen?
I'm Feeling: just dandy, thanks for asking
Background Noise: Free Fallin' by Tom Petty
Yesterday on my lunch hour I went to Barnes and Noble... I could seriously spend hours upon hours there (and I have before). I am amazed by two things when I'm in bookstores:
1. How many cool books there are to read - I have a long way to go!
2. How many lame-o books there are out there - how do they get published?
I've always loved to read... at least, as long as I can remember. We'd go to the library almost every week in the summertime when I was a kid - and I'd check out up to 10 books each time! I know this makes me sound like a real dorky kid, but hey. We're all dorks in some way, right? My biggest problem now is finding the time to read all the things I want to read. On the other hand, what fun would life be if you had all the time to do everything you ever wanted, and then you had nothing to look forward to? (I know, I'm stretching it there, but we have to make ourselves feel better somehow, right? :))
It's beautiful outside today - I want to leave the office and take my book to some benches near the Student Services building on campus - it's kinda tucked away, and there's a fountain, lots of trees and flowers. Sunshine, warm air and a good book - sounds like a superb afternoon!
Thought for the day: A "jiffy" is an actual unit of time for 1/100th of a second. I don't think I'll ever purport to be back "in a jiffy" again... pretty sure doing much of anything that fast is impossible.
I'm Feeling: tired
Background Noise: Angel by Sarah McLachlan
A year ago, I finished my master's degree in Student Affairs Administration. I had no job lined up - no idea where I'd be. I've been the academic advisor for the Department of Political Science for almost 9 months now, and I'm really enjoying it. A year ago, Mike and Kristen still lived in town - although now, they've been in New York for almost a year (yikes!). A year ago, our living room and kitchen were not painted - today, they are pumpkin orange (I know that sounds funny, but I really do love it). A year ago, I'd never heard of YoungLife - today, we're so connected that I've no idea what the last year would have looked like without it. A year ago, our front and backyards were pure dirt. Today, they are pure weeds (although the ChemLawn guy is working on that for us).
In tribute to everyone's nostalgia at this time of year - I thought I'd reflect on some of the changes in my life. Many of them have hurt, some have been exciting, quite a few were uncomfortable and foreign - but all have woven together to give me a varied and beautiful life. I've met so many amazing souls - people with generous hearts, wide smiles, and passionate spirits. I've cried a lot, but laughed much more. I've been challenged and risen to that challenge -- I've also been challenged and failed. I've loved a lot of people - hopefully, the very best I could. There are people I'd love to see/talk to more often, and I have a long list of dreams and ambitions. Life sure is funny sometimes - hard, confusing, painful, exhilirating, peaceful, passionate and unique. I wouldn't have it any other way.
I'm Feeling: giddy
Background Noise: Share the Well by Caedmon's Call
Super thing #1: We just booked our Europe trip!! I feel like a little kid - I told my sister I wanted to make squeaky noises and bounce up and down. Granted, it's a little freaky to go ahead and say, "Sure, I'll pay for a great big fat trip for 4 to Europe," but I'm sooo excited for Mark, David, Meg and I to go - it's gonna rock!!
Super thing #2: I get to have lunch with Kelsey today - and that always makes my day fun!!
Super thing #3: Dave, Dana, Mark and I get to go see Gavin DeGraw tonight at CMU - a fun little road trip, great concert, and terrific company!!
Super thing #4: It's actually getting warmer outside - maybe spring really will come after all!!
Super thing #5: Last night was awesome: we had some of the parents of our middle school friends over for dinner to thank them for all their support: they give us food, let us use their homes, and provide lots of prayer and emotional support for our team. It was so great to be able to return the favor, even just for a night, and let them know we love and appreciate them and their families. Plus Cranium is always a good time!!
Thought for the day: The muzzle of a lion is like a fingerprint: no two lions have the same pattern of whiskers. We really are all unique creatures - created to be our individual, incredible selves!!
I'm Feeling: cold and sleepy
Background Noise: Only Hope by Switchfoot
I know it's May, but here in East Lansing, we're supposed to maybe break 50 degrees today, and yesterday was even chillier. When we showed up to work yesterday, the heat wasn't working. They told us they can't fix it until next week (when, by the way, it's supposed to be 75 degrees). So our offices are pretty stinking chilly right now - I'm snuggling with my mug of chai for warmth. The ventilation system in our delightful old academic building is such that it's always blowing air - ideally, you get to decide whether the air is hot or cold. Not this week. So I've piled some big books on top of the vents, hoping to muffle the cold air blasting out, forming icicles on my nose. (okay, you're right, I'm being dramatic).
I seriously could have stayed in bed for multiple more hours this morning - my poor body is wearing right out! Hopefully I'll be able to hit the sack early tonight and catch up on my beauty sleep (inner beauty, that is, and I truly believe sleep plays a crucial role in that!)
To all my dear MSU students/friends out there: one day of finals down, four (or less, depending on who you are!) to go!! Hang in there!
Thought for the day: If you toss a penny 10,000 times, it will not be heads 5000 times, but more like 4950. The heads side of the coin weighs more, so it tends to end up on the bottom. That pretty much throws off all the math I've learned since 6th grade. Great. At least now I know what to call during a coin toss.
I'm Feeling: pretty durn good, I'd guess Background Noise: Seasons of Love from the RENT soundtrack Dana, Kelsey, Beth, Dave, Mark and I went line dancing this weekend -that's us in the picture! :) Haha, right... well, we were nearly that good. We went to the Cactus Juice Saloon in downtown Lansing - and I can't remember the last time I had sooo much fun!! Seriously, it was such a riot to get dressed up in my cowboy hat (yes, both my husband and I own our own hats - we're dorks) and step from downtown Lansing into Texas on Saturday night. I've found my new favorite past-time. Although I desperately need lessons - some of those dances are crazy fast!! So if you're ever looking for me on a Thursday night, I'll probably be at the Juice, taking line dance lessons. Dana and I are planning to choreograph our very own dance, so at least once, we can be the ones who know what we are doing, and everyone else on the floor can try to follow us.
I still feel a little funk-y, but I'm snapping out of it. Sometimes it's really easy for me to get stressed out, and convince myself that things are harder than they are. I think that's because most of the time, I try to stay really low-key and laid-back (which can take effort on my part at times; I can be a little high-strung). I'm trying to find that balance that you need between growing/evolving and denying your actual personality. Don't get me wrong, I'm not advocating changing yourself to try to be more like other people - but I have a strong drive to continually grow and become more the woman I was created to be. Maybe I took a small step this weekend.
Thought for the day: (it's time to brag a little bit) What part of your personality do you like the most?
