are you aware?

I'm Feeling: disengaged
Background Noise: True by Ryan Cabrera

Ever have one of those days where no matter what you're doing - you just kinda feel like you'd rather be doing something else? Something a little more comfortable or relaxing or interesting... I have a little of that feeling today. Just itchy to be somewhere else, doing something a little different. Maybe it's because of the chilly-nesss and the rain - those days always make me want to be home with a blanket and a book. (Not that I don't want that almost every day...)

Today is Penguin Awareness Day - how much do you know about our snow-loving comrades?

stranded at the drive in...

I'm Feeling: like I should be wearing a prom dress
Background Noise: Awaken by PWGopal

Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day!

Today has been a rather uneventful day at work - MSU has no classes today, in honor of the national holiday - but unfortunately, its employees are not relinquished from the daily grind. I had appointments scheduled for today, but apparently the students were eaten by coyotes or got stuck between 2 refrigerators or can't find their shoes - because only one person has actually showed up!! I feel like I've been massively stood up - but my exasperation is mediated by the bountiful sunshine pouring in my south-facing windows. It's so nice to have to squint to read my computer screen again! :)

would you rather...

I'm Feeling: pondersome
Background Noise: Noah: Right by Bill Cosby (so funny!)

Confession: I am addicted to books. I've never been clinically diagnosed, because (a) I'm not sure there is such a thing as a literary therapist and (b) I don't want to be cured!! (Subcategory to confession: I'm also addicted to bookstores - they smell like paper and ink and usually have cushy armchairs and coffee and I can wander for EVER inside them)

Yesterday, I ordered a couple of things off Amazon.com - one of them was a book called Zobmondo, which is a book full of strange, sometimes inappropriate "would you rather..." style questions. Fun conversation starters, and a great game to play, to be sure. Amazon also has this nifty thing where you can look at the front cover, back cover, and an excerpt of certain books before buying them (which is a nice substitute for actually physically being IN a bookstore). The back cover of the book posed this eternal, pervasive question:

Would you rather spend an entire day with a dead mouse in your butt or a dead frog in your mouth?

Although both options are disturbing (and dead critters = icky), I'd have to say... totally the mouse. It wouldn't be necessary that anyone else be aware of the situation, it wouldn't impede eating or talking for 24 hours (although it would get in the way of bathroom-time). Plus, I'm pretty sure live frogs don't taste that great, so dead ones are probably mildly less appetizing. Just a guess.

Give me more good "Would you rather..." questions!!

twilight zone

I'm Feeling: as though I've slipped into a time warp
Background Noise: Tower by ISH

Today is Clean Off Your Desk Day - luckily my desk looks nothing like the one in the picture - although there are a few things that have piled up in the past few days. Normally, I'm a little hyperactive about staying on top of things like that, but the controlled insanity of the past week has weakened my organizational superpowers. The first week of Spring Semester is my kryptonite.

Seriously - sometimes busy weeks fly right by - which is a lovely bonus - side - effect to being ridiculously consumed by the mundane emergencies of work... but this week, my busy-ness has had the opposite effect. Tuesday morning I was thinking about all the things I'd done and the students I'd seen, and thought that it could not possibly have all happened on Monday. And time has been dragging by ever since. Don't get me wrong, I've had a lot of fun this week - I hesitate to say it and jinx myself, but sometimes I like crisis-mode... you feel effective and purposeful, and it's nice to be able to help people out when they're stressed.

However, last night I was so wiped out that my husband said "you're SO tired that you're not even yourself at all." I know what that means... and yes, I probably was grumpy and minorly uncooperative... but I literally couldn't make myself have an opinion or feel strongly about anything. I slept well. Thanks to all who have been putting up with me! This too shall pass...  

addition!

I'm Feeling: anticipatory
Background Noise: You and Me by Lifehouse

I found out yesterday afternoon that our department just received funds that are to be allocated for another full-time adviser! I'm excited to have another body to work with our students, but there is so much to wonder about... Who will it be? Will we get along well, or just be your average coworkers? What kind of advising style will he/she have? You never know if you're gonna get a dud or a superstar - and not knowing things makes me nervous sometimes. Oh well - there will be a little bit of time before this person could start anyway, so I should try to relax!

On a completely unrelated, but very encouraging note - the sky is currently a color that vaguely resembles blue, AND there's some sun to be seen, AND it's supposed to be 42 degrees today! I can handle this kind of winter!

happy 238th birthday to the circus!

I'm Feeling: ready for the week, but also ready for a nap
Background Noise: If I Stand by Rich Mullins

The first circus was on January 9, 1768 - in London. While that's totally cool, and also humorous to imagine people dressed up all in top hats and corsets and whatnot, I still think... BRRR!! What in the world? Were they SOO excited to have a circus that they couldn't wait for spring? Seriously - no furnace, not even a roof (I'm not kidding, read the article... they only added a roof two years later). That's dedication, folks.

Today is the first day of Spring (haha!) semester at MSU, and things are appropriately busy. It's fun to have students back, but I know that the next few months will breeze by in a flurry of graduation applications, checksheets and enrollment appointments (and all the students who don't get an appointment will send frantic emails and IMs). I love being busy, and I like my job - I'm just nervous this year that there isn't enough of me to go around. The department has grown (almost 800 students total now) since last year, and there is still only one adviser - moi. Hopefully I can hack it.

I had a good weekend though - Natalee and Courtney spent the night on Friday (they're my friends from Mason Middle School - both in 7th grade) and we ate cookie dough and gummy bears and watched The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants and in the morning we had chocolate chip pancakes. Saturday night, Laura and I went to the MSU hockey game (Go State!), and yesterday Mark and I went to a bible study on Romans that's being put on by the Couples' ministry at Riverview. Pretty sweet couple of days!!

republicans v. wizards

I'm Feeling: a little worn out
Background Noise: Mrs. Robinson by Simon & Garfunkel

Lots of people live in Mason and work at MSU - when you drive the same route to work and back for a year and a half, you start to recognize cars, or realize you've been following the same person for 10 miles and wonder if they think you're a stalker. Yesterday as I was leaving campus, a gal in a gold sedan cut me off (which is part of the reason why I noticed her and her vehicle immediately). The bumper of her car proudly bore a "Republicans for Voldemort" sticker - maybe I spent the past year or so with blinders on, but I haven't seen this one before. I had a lot of time to ponder the intent of the sticker because I followed her from the Natural Resources Building (on campus) to the intersection of College and Columbia (a mile from my house).

Depending on how you look at it - the sticker can be ripping on almost anyone. Republicans could be ripping on Bush, saying they'd rather have Voldemort representing their interests. Democrats could be ripping on Republicans, saying that Voldemort and Bush are on the same level of desirability. Or (and by far, the most troubling) people could be making fun of Harry Potter!! Impossible and unprecedented, I know...

triviality-ness-ence-ation

I'm Feeling: a little dizzy
Background Noise: The Innocent's Corner by Caedmon's Call

Today is Trivia Day - the word trivia derives from the Latin trivialis and means "unimportant matters." In the spirit of the "holiday" - here are my thoughts relating to some spectacularly unimportant matters:
* I like wearing socks that match my outfit, even when no one can see them.
* I think it's gross to blow your nose directly into your hands in the shower.
* I usually think "trendy" things are really dorky looking for about a year, then I come around right about the same time they go out of style.
* Rain is better than snow (note: not if you're a kid and there is a possibility of a snow day) although thunderstorms in January are weird.
* As you know, I don't like the number 5... I also don't care much for the number 8. No good reason.

Happy Wednesday!!

ring in the new year

I'm Feeling: TIRED! (and cold!)
Background Noise: disgruntled carpet installers milling in our hallway

Happy New Year 2006! Here is a glimpse into my dorky-ness: I'm excited about 2006 because I don't like the number 5 very much (I think it's a hard number to write in a way that looks nice) and now I don't have to write it every time I write the date. Scary that my brain takes the time to think about things like that...

As always - it's back to work and "regular" life - my office was cold this morning, my plants look neglected, students are calling with questions, my email inbox is full, and the floor in our hallway is completely torn up in anticipation of new carpeting. Should be interesting trying to work the next few days with carpet noises outside my door (actually, I'm just being negative... I have no idea how loud they'll be).

I got a bunch of new books to read over break - so far, I'm really enjoying Freakonomics - it's along the same kind of lines as The Tipping Point and The Know-It-All (if that means anything to any of you). So far, highly recommended!

vacation update!

I'm Feeling: mildly sleep-deprived, but in the most excellent way
Background Noise: my laptop is humming

This may be a first for me - I usually blog from my ofice - today, I've parked my rear end on the couch in my living room, and am blogging from home. I like it!

Our week in review - Saturday was Big Club with our Wyldlife friends - very much fun (and we got to hang out with Kelsey, which is always a blessing!!) Sunday, we left for North Carolina - and after 10 hours on the road, we ended up in one of my new favorite places on the planet - the Inn at Glen Alpine - bed and breakfast AND home to our good friend, Bonnie (who we met Sunday night upon our arrival). We hiked (on a trail covered with ice - it was fun - I slid around on my butt half the time to avoid wiping out completely), read books, ate a LOT of food, went to bed early, and talked to some fabulous new people. It was just what we needed - a very low-key, comfortable vacation. Got back Wednesday night - and yesterday morning, Mike, Kristen, Timmy and Joshua came to visit! Wednesday night, Heather, Ashley and Maggie joined us, and we had a regular crowd at the old Burley house. God really blesses us through those relationships - good, true friends who like to laugh. Everybody has gone their separate ways now, but it was great to have them with us. Hopefully it won't be too long until we see them again.

Now, we just have a few short hours before the busy-ness of Christmas kicks in - family visits and more food and some presents to give and get... Travel safe and have a blessed holiday, everyone!!

Happy Holidays!

I'm Feeling: excited that it's FINALLY Friday!
Background Noise: Good Friend to Me by Jessica Andrews

Today is my last day in the office for the semester - I'm really excited to have some time off - not just to go on vacation, but to see family and friends and enjoy the holidays with people I love! I probably won't blog nearly as often over break (my apologies to my one or two faithful readers), but I'll be sure to update if anything fantastically interesting happens!

In the trend of posting "lessons" (okay, so it's only a trend on Mark's blog, but what the heck...), here are my lessons that I've learned from life with my husband:

*Protect your sense of humor – it will serve you well.
*“If what I said can be interpreted 2 ways, and one way will make you mad, I meant the other way.”
*Nobody likes you any less – learn to laugh at yourself.
*Always try your hardest.
*Sometimes, it’s not about you.
*You need to spend elbow-to-elbow time with people you love.
*Sarcasm is a weapon best wielded with extreme care.
*Check pockets when doing laundry - whether you find money or a pen, you'll be glad you looked.
*There is joy to be found in small, everyday things.
*It really is more fun to give than to receive.
*No one likes a grump.
*You can change your habits, personality, and way of thinking more than you ever thought possible.
*Be sensitive toward others but grow a thick skin when it comes to yourself.
*There are a lot of things worth working for.
*This too shall pass.

Travel safely and have a blessed holiday!

a note for myself

I'm Feeling: inspired to think (like that's uncommon...)
Background Noise: Get Rhythm by Joaquin Phoenix

For a long time, I've been thinking about things to keep in mind when I have kids someday. I've collected some thoughts from my own experiences, and a lot from conversations with other people. Some have grown-up kids, some have little kids, some have no kids - but they all have input (a study of human nature, I'd say...) This morning I was inspired by a really fantastic entry on my husband's blog to share some of my "Advice to My Future Self."

*No matter how old they are, no one likes being called a "kid."
*You don't deserve respect until you give it (this one goes both ways).
*Remember that you used to hide green beans in a napkin under your plate too.
*For the most part, we mimic what we see around us. We are watched more than we know by those younger than us.
*Cheer for your kids - it means the world to know people believe in you.
*Let people make mistakes and learn from them - and be there to love them the whole time.
*Being a teenager is confusing and hard - but turbulent attitudes and standoffish behavior can mask a generous heart and energetic spirit. Try to meet the person living inside.
*Don't take it personally.
*Really - people of all ages aren't that hard to figure out - spend time with them, listen to them, and show them love.
*Don't ask for anything in return. Be genuinely grateful if it happens on its own.
*I want my kids to say "my mama is my biggest fan."
*Don't underestimate anyone's heart - the lessons you learn from your 12 year old friends are powerful.
*The point of making cookies is to make a mess and then eat the dough.
*20 years later, kids still remember the dorky songs you made up on long car rides - so put on your dunce cap and make some memories!

It's so easy for us to forget what it's like to be young - as experience and wisdom (ha - I'll pretend that I have some) accumulate, we gain perspective on our actions and choices. But which lessons stick out most clearly in your mind? The one where someone told you "Don't lie" and so you didn't... or the time where you were caught lying to someone you care about? The truth is... (in my opinion, at least... is it possible to have "truth in your own opinion? a question for another time, I guess) the truth is that yes, adults have wisdom borne of experience. But since I've experienced 5, and 12 and 15 and 19 - I have no excuse to respond with anything less than patience, love, kindness and gentleness.

Remember silliness and pigging out on junk food and jumping on the bed and ALL the things you did that you thought your parents never knew about. It's not necessary to condone everything, but at least remember it.

I'm sure I'll forget someday - which is why I want to write myself a book now, and as I go along... sometimes the perspective of the young adds value to the wisdom of the not-so-young.

break it down...

I'm Feeling: relaxed
Background Noise: Hands of the Potter by Caedmon's Call

Here are the first 20 songs that came up when I put my iTunes on "shuffle" this morning:
1. Respect by Aretha Franklin
2. Santa Fe from the soundtrack to RENT
3. How Do I Get There by Deana Carter
4. Your Song from the soundtrack to Moulin Rouge
5. The World's Greatest by R. Kelly
6. Wither, I'm a Flower by Whiskeytown
7. Turn Me On by Norah Jones
8. Signed, Sealed, Delivered by Stevie Wonder
9. Make Me Smile by Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel
10. Addicted to Love by Robert Palmer
11. Light My Candle from the soundtrack to RENT
12. Letter in the Mail by James Taylor
13. Argue by Matchbox 20
14. Sloop John B by The Beach Boys
15. God Only Knows by The Beach Boys
16. After All by PW Gopal
17. My Life by Billy Joel
18. American Pie by Don McLean
19. Trust in the Lord by Scott & Heather Rider
20. Day by Day by Point of Grace

A little random, but not a bad cross-section of what's on my computer. Plus, I think iTunes is selective, and tends to shuffle back toward the songs it likes... our technology really is getting too advanced.

The "Word of the Day" on my calendar today is "exiguous" which apparently means "excessively scanty." Is it just me, or is that kinda like "jumbo shrimp"?? Maybe I'm just feeling picky this morning.

My favorite part of this past weekend was Sunday evening - I met with Christy, Natalee, Courtney and Ellen (all 7th graders at Mason Middle School, who come to WyldLife) for small group bible study for the first time. I was SO encouraged by them - awesome, funny, caring gals who really want to get to know Jesus better. Loved it.

What was your favorite thing this weekend?

iWant

I'm Feeling: a wee bit hungry (I forgot to bring breakfast to work this morning... sad!)
Background Noise: Ring of Fire by Joaquin Phoenix (from Walk the Line)

Yesterday, Mark and I spent part of our Christmas money on quite possibly the least needed, most frivolous, trendy little technological trinket out there right now... the iPod. One for each of us, as if we actually need some impossibly small gadget that can hold 7500 songs to carry around with us in our pockets. But I'm excited, because it means we can take ALL of our favorite music with us to North Carolina in 9 days, in a very small package. And since we are DRIVING there (about 11 hours, I'm told) - that will be a very helpful addition to our journey. Nearly as helpful as the seat-warmers in Mark's Yukon. You might not be able to get me out of the car...

Yeah, that's right! On Sunday the 18th, Mark and I are jumping in the car and driving to Glen Alpine, North Carolina to stay at the Inn at Glen Alpine (not nearly as misleading as it sounds...), which is a lovely bed and breakfast in a little town near the mountains. We're gonna relax, hike, eat ice cream, and sleep in - and then head back to Michigan for the holidays. I'm really excited - I like that we are able to take trips like this, and I really enjoy going someplace a little warmer before Christmas (we've been to Florida and Myrtle Beach in December before - always fun!)

Last night, the skies opened up and dumped something like 7 inches of snow on us - but luckily, the roads were clear by the time I was heading into work, and I didn't manufacture any gray hairs because of the stress of driving in the snow (one of the things I detest most in this world). So for 2 days in a row now, my drive to work has been beautiful - frosted trees whose limbs and branches look a delicate, yet ferocious stretch of frigid lace... and the sun was even out this morning, which makes little tiny diamonds dance across the fields! Sooo pretty - as long as the snow stays off the road, I'm happy.

It's Friday! Enjoy your weekend - notice the time you have with people you love, and the everyday blessings we take for granted. If you raise your voice, may be only in praise, and if you make a demand, may it be only of yourself!

And to quote one of my favorite philosophers, "take note of the moment, for this is your life."

joy!

I'm Feeling: verbose
Background Noise: Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas by Martina McBride

I step out of the front door and onto the porch, snow crunching under my feet. Deep, velvety black canvasses the sky; silence reigns in the night. Up and down the street, the lampposts effuse warm, golden light that sends sparkles dancing around the neighborhood. Houses slumber under a blanket of snow and stillness, and the skies are filled with snowflakes. The chill of the air is overpowered by the quiet beauty surrounding me... I do love this time of year!!

Saturday night, Mark and I went across the street to watch The Fellowship of the Ring with James and Laura - projected onto their basement wall and accompanied by a more-than-adequate sound system. It was snowing (very pretty) when we left our house, but shortly after midnight, as we headed home, the scene was just lovely.

good surprises

I'm Feeling: ready for a weekend!
Background Noise: the Forrest Gump Suite by Alan Silvestri

I walked into my house last night and received a FABULOUS greeting - my husband was broiling steaks drenched in a barbecuey-steakhouse marinade. We ate like kings - steak, rolls, caesar salad. Dinners at the Burley house (when we're both actually home and eating at the same time, which is rare) usually consist of blue-box mac & cheese or the delicious frozen dinners in a bag. What a treat to have "real" dinner food.

THEN - we braved the ice-covered streets and ventured out to Cedar Street Elementary School to watch Jay (our 8-year-old neighbor) in his commanding performance of 1st narrator for "Bear Stays Up For Christmas." Honestly - he was the only kid up there that I could understand when they spoke into the microphone - he had his lines memorized and didn't seem nervous at all. It was great fun - lots of our friends showed up to watch Jay's public theatrical debut (he's performed often at home) and we all hung out and ate treats afterward.

I had a good Thursday night. Did you?

pie

I'm Feeling: hungry
Background Noise: Mona Lisa by Nat King Cole

It's Pie Day today. That sounds really good - I like apple and blueberry and mixed berry and pumpkin and oreo and strawberry rhubarb and cherry and peach... probably some others that I forgot... Maybe I'll pick up a pie at Meijer tonight.

BusiER day today than yesterday (not necessarily saying much, but hey - it's something). I got to walk in the snow, talk to my friend Jillian, see a picture of my sister's new haircut, and give 6 students invaluable, life-changing advice. Put a gold star next to my name for today! :)

My deep, philosophical thought for today: my back hurts. (I'll try to come up with something better for tomorrow...)

visiting France

I'm Feeling: motivated to get some things done
Background Noise: Hitchin' A Ride by Vanity Fare

Yesterday morning, the familiar envelope appeared in the corner of my computer screen, indicating that I had a new email. When things are slow in the office (like they were yesterday), I pounce on any new information or request that may take up even 30 seconds of my time. I was pleasantly surprised to find an email informing me that I had been chosen to receive the Academic Advisor Study Abroad Site Visit Grant for which I had applied about a month ago. This means that in May, I get to spend a week, all expenses paid, in southern France, with one of MSU's study abroad programs while it is in session. How stinking cool is that?? I'm pumped - I've only been to Paris for a day (never ventured anywhere else in France), and now I get to go for a week, and someone else will plan my trip and pay for it! Plus, the program is called The Ecology, Culture and Politics of Food - we get to study vineyards and farms and markets. How cool - not only do these students get to go to one of the most beautiful parts of France, but they get to study food while they're there. I'm going to have to start learning to speak some French!

Already got a little Christmas shopping done yesterday, which rocks. I got my sister-in-law Melissa's present taken care of - she's fun to shop for because she likes clothes and jewelry and girly things, and she usually likes what I pick out for her. It's always more fun to shop for people who like the things you buy them.

How is your Christmas shopping coming along?

internal heat

I'm Feeling: shivery
Background Noise: Dream by Roy Orbison

As I sit in my office, trying to regain feeling in my fingertips, I must draw the conclusion that I have a problem with my internal heating system. I'm freezing! And it's not that cold in here (or outside, for that matter). The picture only half-accurately depicts how I feel right now, because the ice cube is melting, which would indicate that things are getting warmer. Not the case here.

Another slow day in South Kedzie Hall. Don't know what all my students are up to these days, but hopefully, it's not a bad thing that they're not coming in to see me as much right now.

Good thing: Mark and I get to chaperone the 8th grade dance this Friday night at Mason Middle School.
Bad thing: We have to miss a pretty big chunk of YL leadership to be there on time. Bummer.

Started making a list of Christmas ideas for my friends/family last night - I like getting/making gifts for people - but it feels like the list gets bigger every year. There are so many people to whom I'd like to give a Christmas present... hopefully I can get everything done in good time!

Happy Tuesday, All!

i love long weekends!

I'm Feeling: chilly
Background Noise: humming radiator (no music on right now)

Today is Buy Nothing Day... as appealing as that sounds, I think I'll have to cave in, since I didn't bring a lunch to work, and I generally like to eat my meals. Although I suppose I could try to steal lunch today... probably not a great idea to commit a crime just for the sake of following the random calendar I got off the internet.

Had a really good weekend - we went to Chicago to see my family, ate lots of delicious food, played Trivial Pursuit. Came home, and got to take part in Mason's tree-lighting parade - the snow was falling lightly - it was a perfect Christmas-season kick-off. (I'm a Christmas junkie - I just love this time of year, fireplaces, candles, pretty lights... it's the only part of winter when I can handle the snow). Visited Mark's family, watched The Polar Express, and yesterday I laid around the house because I was debilitated by a nasty headache. But at least I had the ability to lay around when I needed to. Our house is mostly decorated for Christmas already (we don't have a whole lot to put up) - we still need to do the outside lights, but that can wait.

I think every other weekend should be 4 or 5 days long - it just does wonders for your energy and your spirit to have some time to recuperate. I feel like a new woman today!

How was your holiday weekend?

when it rains...

I'm Feeling: scratchy-throated from talking
Background Noise: laughing & chatter from the main office

Lately, my appointments haven't been filling up like they usually would - fall is a slower time for advising, but it normally picks up closer to the end of the semester. Apparently, they all decided to come in today. I saw nine students today (more than I've seen in one day for all of November), and it was fun. Very busy, a little hectic, but my day has just flown right by and I feel like I got things done.

Last night I got to help my friend Alison with her math homework (she's in 9th grade) - and I was reminded of how much I like math. I really need to take a class again. I know it's twisted and nerdy, but it's really fun for me to figure out those problems. It makes me feel like I'm using my brain again (my current job doesn't tend to stretch my intellectual capabilities too often).

Gonna go home and work out tonight - I've been lazy lately, and I'm starting to see/feel the effects... and with my favorite meal of the year coming up in 2 days, I want to be able to indulge, guilt-free! Plus, it's just a good idea to take care of the body God blessed me with - I want it to last a long time!!

world hello day

I'm Feeling: thirsty
Background Noise: loud humming radiator, and snip-its of Strawberry Wine by Deana Carter

Today is World Hello Day - not really sure what that means, but here is a site that can tell you how to say "hello" in over 800 different languages/dialects. Wild.

Busy weekend - what with "Game Night 1985" at Riverview and Big Club for Wyldlife at Mason Middle School and Harry Potter last night... one thing is sure - I know how to keep the days full and flying by. Tonight we have DIG for Wyldlife (our weekly meeting) and I'm excited about that. Despite popular opinion - I think it's really fun to hang out with middle schoolers - they're funny and honest and open. And funny - did I mention that? :)

This is a short work-week though - thank goodness for Thanksgiving!! Mark and I will be heading to Chicago on Wednesday for Turkey Day itself, and back to MI on Friday (hopefully avoiding traffic on the way home). What are your Thanksgiving plans?

game night 1985

I'm Feeling: kinda wiped out
Background Noise: Walkin on Sunshine by Katrina & the Waves

Tonight at our church, Riverview, the couples' ministry is hosting Game Night 1985. I'm on the planning committee, so I'll be there all evening, with bells on (translation - pink sneakers, legwarmers, off-the-shoulder shirt and blue eyeshadow). I've complied almost four and a half hours of classic 80s music - we'll be playing games like tag, dodgeball, Atari/Nintendo, Trivial Pursuit and Clue. Should be a really good time - if you're part of a dating, engaged or married couple... come on over!

Bummer News: the cold Mark has been battling for over a week (although he has been away from home 6 of the past 8 days) has settled upon me as its next victim. I feel fuzzy today... and I have a really busy weekend - it's just an inconvient time to feel crummy (don't know when it's a particularly good time to feel crummy, but hey).

Still no critter-evidence, which makes it a lot more fun to enter my office in the morning. I don't get that creepy-crawly feeling all over when I open my desk drawers anymore.

time on my hands

I'm Feeling: a little bored
Background Noise: Let's Hear It for the Boy by Deniece Williams

I went to see Shopgirl this weekend (to the movies, by myself - a first for Katie, and I must say I kind of enjoyed it). It was funny - I hadn't heard anything about it really, which is unusual for me, and I had a good time in the squishy stadium seats, eating my popcorn.

I have some time on my hands tonight as well, and my friend Katie and I are going to head out to Eaton Rapids (armed with Starbucks, hopefully) to watch the Mason HS girls play some basketball. Should be fun. Mark is in MN today, then from there he heads to WV, and then back home finally on Sunday. He's a busy guy - I think the traveling is getting to him a little - keep him in your prayers for his health (he's battling a head cold) and that his conferences would run really smoothly!

I hate to disappoint, but at this time I am unable to post a picture of my potentially-mullet-ish haircut (not because I'm afraid you'll laugh at the business in front, party in the back hairdo, but because I simply don't have a picture of myself available). I'll work on it though - never fear.

Still no sign of rodents in my office. Katie - 1, Mice - 0.

tuesday means pilates...

I'm Feeling: like playing hooky
Background Noise: Kiss by Prince

A few weeks ago, I signed up for a free pilates class through MSU (once a week, during lunch hour) - I thought that sounded like fun. I've learned that I either don't like pilates, or I don't like the lady who's teaching us (probably a little of both, but mostly the latter). I don't want to go today - but I know it's good for me.

Updates!
1. No sign of mice for a few weeks (although that could be due to the recently balmy weather - we'll see what happens in the upcoming chilly nights). Hopefully I've rid myself of my critter-visitors for awhile.
2. I went to Michael's this weekend and got some crafty stuff - haven't really touched it yet, but hopefully it's a step in the right direction!
3. My hair is growing out (I chopped it off severely in August) and I'm excited about it getting longer, but I'm feeling a little like I'm sporting a mullet... hopefully it's not as bad as I think it is! :)

pickle day

I'm Feeling: accomplished
Background Noise: Mister Cellophane from the Chicago Soundtrack

Today is Pickle Day - which I find pretty darn exciting, in honor of my blog's recently changed name. AND - next Sunday is the day of the long-awaited Annual PickleFest in Rosendale, NY. Here are some of my thoughts on pickles:
1. Pickle is a funny word to say.
2. I like pickles (both dill and sweet, but not bread&butter)
3. Pickles are rich in vitamin C - which helps fight scurvy.

The last month or two, our house has been teetering on the edge of a full-blown tornado zone. The table in between our kitchen and living room was piled high with unopened mail and books of assorted sizes and uses. The floor in our bedroom was lost under about 2 feet of laundry (a mix of both clean and unclean). The pile of games and VHS tapes by our TV was threatening to overtake the loveseat. My car was overflowing with junk mail, shoes, bottles of water, blankets, and various other items. Now... stuff like this always drives me crazy, but my motivation to do anything about it comes and goes like the ocean waves. Let's just say, the tide has been LOOOOWW for a long time now. This weekend, it came in with a fury.

This weekend, I:
- bought and set up a new bookcase, eliminating part of the game/VHS problem in our living room
- washed & waxed and vacuumed my car
- put away all my laundry, some of Mark's, and washed basically everything that needed it
- organized the plastic containers in one of our cupboards (if you've seen it, you know what I'm talking about)
- re-potted 3 houseplants
- went to see ShopGirl by myself (not nearly as un-fun as it sounds)
- vacuumed the house
- bought and set up a new phone/answering machine
- got my butt downstairs and made use of the elliptical machine I bought 10 months ago
- cheered for MSU's hockey team while we got rocked by UNO on Friday night

I can't describe how much better I feel to have some of that stuff taken care of. Although I spent most of the weekend by myself, I had a great time getting things done - it was nice to have so much energy and motivation - and, 300 mph winds aside, it was a gorgeous weekend!

friday is sundae-day!

I'm Feeling: ready for the weekend!
Background Noise: Come What May by Ewan McGregor & Nicole Kidman

I'm on my own again this weekend, and I'm trying to work out some things to keep me busy (I have a huuuuge list, it's just a matter of narrowing it down at this point). I have an MSU hockey game tonight, which will be fun, as usual. But I pretty much have all day Saturday and Sunday wide open. Here are some of the things on my list:

Go to the movies
Sleep in!
Go to JoAnn or Michael's & stock up for Christmas presents
Put away the laundry
Clean the house
Re-pot some houseplants
Clean up the living room (the walls are creeping in on us!)
Start putting together Mark's quilt
Make an ice cream sundae (in honor of Sundae Day today)
Go out for coffee and some quiet time

I'm sure there's more... maybe I'll be able to check everything off! (Not likely, but I can dream!) The greater Lansing YoungLife crew is off to Timber Wolf Lake again this weekend - Mark will be going to help out with Mason HS's guys. It's cool to know that he's about to go have an awesome weekend, and that there are over 200 kids from our area heading up to hear the gospel - some for the first time! I pray that their hearts will be open, and that each one will have power together with all the saints, to grasp how high and wide and deep and long is the love of Christ!

lookalike?

I'm Feeling: like there are other things I could be doing right now
Background Noise: to-do list running through my head

There's a professor in my department (he's about 26 or so) who has told me 2 or 3 times now that I look "just like" the girl on NBC's The Office which apparently was on TV last night. So I looked her up, and this is what I found. I don't know... I just don't see it. What do you think?

around and around

I'm Feeling: compelled to do something
Background Noise: A Whole New World from the Aladdin soundtrack

When I was a kid, I used to really like the merry-go-round... I'd always try to find the horse/dragon/mythical beast that would rise highest in the air (didn't understand that they were all really basically the same) and was also the prettiest. I liked that it felt as though you were moving somewhere, but you were completely safe the entire time. Granted, I did start to lose interest in seeing the same view 10 times as we completed round after round... do you ever get the feeling that as time passes, your life gravitates back to that merry-go-round?

I'm not trying to be cynical or "Would you like some cheese with that whine?" but I've been feeling a little like that lately. Seems like I'm going places, but hey - I recognize that tree... If we're not careful, days can just slip by. Got to take the time for the things that are important - not just the things we are obligated to do(school, work, etc...). I want to love the people around me in a compelling and genuine way. I want to keep in touch with people I love that are far away right now. I want to use the gifts God gave me, so that when I come to the end of my life, He will say "Well done, good and faithful servant."

I know it's okay to be frustrated with situations and even people in my life - but it's not okay to let that interfere with the way I treat others. I'm going to try that today - if you run into me any time soon, let me know how I'm doing.

uuuuhhhhhhhhh....

I'm Feeling: antsy (like I've been staring at a brick wall all day)
Background Noise: Wonderful Tonight by Eric Clapton

Today has been a Very Boring Day at work. I've seen three students so far, and am expecting one more. That's it. Jane isn't in today, so there's no one across the hall to talk to, and it's Friday, which generally means a lower-key atmosphere anyway. This is okay, since there is bountiful sunshine pouring in my window (which is open) and I got to take a nice long walk at lunch today and buy funny cards to send to people I love. Yahoo!

I'm a single gal this weekend - Mark will be up at Timber Wolf Lake with a bunch of YoungLifers... so I'm going to an MSU hockey game, a cider mill, the mall, out to eat - and probably doing laundry and going grocery shopping to boot. WonderWoman - look out! It should be really fun - I just want to laugh and relax and feel like I had a weekend (so often we're so busy that I'm more tired on Sunday night than I was on Friday night... not the way it should be).

I've decided I need to make time to get back into my crafty-ness... one of the guest rooms in our house is basically filled with fabric, yarn, paint, paintbrushes, and all kinds of other notions you find at JoAnn's or Michael's. I haven't touched most of them in over a year. Very sad - that needs to be rectified. I'm still working on how to do that, but at least I've moved forward and now can say with confidence that "I am working on it." Ha. I'll let you know how it goes!

Have a lovely weekend!!

songwriter

It's been a long time since I posted any of my original poems/songs...
Here is a new one, inspired by a conversation I had with some friends on Sunday night.

My Favorite Things
(to be sung/hummed to the tune of My Favorite Things, from The Sound of Music)

Dry roasted peanuts and hot apple cider,
Marshmallows cooked o'er a raging campfire,
Soft lullabies that the ocean waves bring,
These are a few of my favorite things.

Red leaves on the trees as we move into autumn,
The Yukon's seat warmers that heat up my bottom,
Great big loud thunderstorms and fierce lightning,
These are a few of my favorite things.

When the traffic jams, when the alarm rings,
When I'm feeling stressed...
I simply remember my favorite things,
And they help me feel my best.

Mashed potatoes and gravy piled high like a boulder,
Resting my head on a comforting shoulder,
The first glistening snowfall that each winter brings,
These are a few of my favorite things.

Deviled Egg Day

I'm Feeling: chilly
Background Noise: To Make You Feel My Love by Garth Brooks

Deviled Egg Day is, in my opinion, one of the yuckier "days" on my Fun Holiday calendar. I like deviled eggs as much as the next person (not sure that is saying much...), but I'm not sure they deserve an entire day. Forgive me if I pass on eating a pile of them in celebration...

I've been mouse-proofing my office the past couple days... everything that I think a mouse might want to try snacking on has been safely sealed away in plastic containers. So unless my NIMH rodents grow opposable thumbs in the next few months, they should lose interest in my office fairly quickly. I hope I hope. This morning... there was no mouse evidence at all! That's the first time in a few weeks.

who's an adult?

I'm Feeling: a little headache-y, actually
Background Noise: inane office sounds

Well, I celebrated my 25th birthday by dressing up like Barney. (That's not me in the picture, although I'm certain the costume was that good - thanks to Katie MC's mom!). Who says I have to be an adult?

I had my first little "eek" moment yesterday - I was filling out some form, and the age category that I had to check was 25-34... dun dun DUN. I've finally been bumped up out of the early-twenties/college age group. I have to say, it was a little weird, but I kinda liked it, too. Now Mark and I are in the same age group, and (for me at least) it gets a little wearisome to always have people commenting on how young you are. This past week, news spread around work that my b-day was coming... and I had SO many people telling me what a "baby" I was, or how 25 is "still a child." Why do people say things like that?? I certainly don't pretend to be full of experience and wisdom, and I don't need anyone telling me what a grown-up I am... I just wonder if those are things that just fall out of people's mouths and then they think "why the heck did I just say that??"

happy halloween!!

I'm Feeling: very comfortable
Background Noise: You May Be Right by Billy Joel
(I'm on a Billy-kick lately... sing us a song, Piano Man!!)

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Depressingly enough, I'm the only one (so far) in our office who has dressed up today. I'm wearing some scrubs (thanks, HOSA) and a white lab coat, and best of all - tennis shoes!! Now I just look silly walking around in my "costume" but I don't really care, because I'm way more relaxed than anyone else here today. Gotta have some fun at work!

Did some traveling this weekend - got to see the fam, which was nice. My big brother grilled the most delicious filets you've ever eaten, and I basically pigged out the rest of Saturday on chocolate cake a'la Mom, peanuts & candy corn, and pizza. It was good. Sometimes I wish we lived a little closer so that we could see them more often (and sometimes I think not...) It was a nice visit - I love Mom & Dad & Adam & Melissa & Meg a lot.

Last night I had dinner at Damon's with some friends - Katie, Katie, Chelsie, Aaron, Chris, Mark, Mark, Dana, Dave, James and Laura all came - it was loud and fun and full of laughing.

Tonight I get to dress up as Baby Bop and party down with a bunch of middle school and high school students - I think I'm overseeing the pumpking decorating table, which should be totally fun, and a great end to the day. My life is pretty good.

eek!

I'm Feeling: relaxed
Background Noise: cars zipping by on Farm Lane

Mildly disgusting work update: Our building, in the colder months, plays host to several field mice. They particularly like my office, and Jane's office (across the hall). Lately, when I arrive in the morning, I find mouse poop on/in my desk in some fashion. Last night, they were apparently tap dancing on my keyboard. While I'm thoroughly yucked-out at the thought of critters hanging out in my office at night, I did have to stop and wonder... if my computer had been on, what might have appeared on my screen last night, as the mice traipsed across the keyboard? Would it have spelled anything interesting? Maybe these mice are intelligent... somehow distantly related to the Secret of NIMH rodents...

I'm torn between setting traps (get rid of them!) and not wanting to come into my office in the morning and actually FIND one in the trap. Turns out I'm a little girlier than I thought about mice... it's just plain nasty. However, you'll all be glad to know that I clean my desk and wash my hands regularly, so I won't catch the bubonic plague or anything else.

On a far-less-yucky note - I had cake for breakfast today (one of the gals at work brought in a cake shaped like a witch, complete with spiders on her nose and green hair) and another gal brought in cinnamon bread - birthdays = treats! And I do like treats.

navy day

I'm Feeling: mellow
Background Noise: Uptown Girl by Billy Joel

My calendar says today is Navy Day. Not sure if that means navy the color, or Navy the Armed Forces... either way, my shirt is orange, so I guess I'm not really in the holiday spirit today.

Tonight Mark and I get to drive to Grosse Pointe to visit my friend Kelsey - there's some dessert function-y thing we got invited to. I'm excited to see her, but I always get a little bit intimidated to visit ritzy places like GP. Oh well - it should be fun.

I've been hearing a lot about the flu bug that's going around - a student called this morning to cancel his appointment because he "has been hurling all morning." While I don't necessarily appreciate the detail, I do hope that people heal quickly and get back on their feet soon!

am I an addict?

I'm Feeling: like sneaking out of the office early today
Background Noise: I Got You Babe by Sonny & Cher

The puzzle shown above is called SuDoku - thanks to my parents for introducing me to one of the most addicting puzzles ever! The grid is 9 x 9, and the numbers 1-9 can only appear once going up/down and across, and once in each 3 x 3 grid. Some puzzles are hard, some are super easy. I'm totally hooked!!

Today was fairly relaxing for me - only a couple of students came in, although my phone has been ringing nonstop and my IM advising has been busy... but I was able to get some mundane tasks completed, and I like being able to clear those off my list.

Happy Birthday to my brother-in-law, David - he turns 19 today!!

living the wyld life!

I'm Feeling: like it's a great day to curl up with a book in front of the fireplace
Background Noise: I'll Join the Rocks by FFH

Sunday night was Mason YoungLife/Wyldlife's annual dessert fundraiser event. The gym at Mason High School was transformed by well-decorated tables, posters, tables and tables of desserts - and, of course, a couple hundred really amazing people. I helped plan parts of the event, and was in charge of the guest list (a bigger task than I originally anticipated, but it seemed to go fairly well). It went famously - we had lots of kids show up, lots of their parents, our friend Joe shared with the group about his life and his walk with the Lord, and we ate good food and laughed a lot! Plus, we raised about $33,000!!

Last night we had DIG (Deeper in God) with our Wyldlife friends - and I just love those kids. I was tired yesterday, and a little on the edgy side. But they make me relax and laugh and enjoy myself - everything is silly and smiley and hilarious. They have such genuine hearts... I know we pretend to be teaching them every week, but I learn so much from hanging out with my middle school friends. And we got to eat a delicious dinner at the Tackaberry's house, as usual. Life is pretty stinking good.

poor bambi

I'm Feeling: soooo bad
Background Noise: No Day But Today from RENT soundtrack

This morning, on my way to work, I hit a deer! I've never hit a deer before (or anything really, I try soo hard to avoid squirrels and birds and possums and raccoons and bunnies and everything that scurries on the road when it shouldn't). But it was dark, and there is a cornfield not far outside our subdivision, and sure enough, two deer are hanging out at the side of the road. I slow down, then they run in front of my car, and I know there's not any way to NOT hit one, if not both. The first one made it across, but the second one stalled a second before running, and I hit his/her/its back legs. Don't think I killed it, but it'll probably not walk away at all (I think I was going 45 or 50 miles an hour). I'm okay, and my car is okay (a dent about the size of my hand in the hood, that's all), but I feel awful. I'm certainly relieved that I didn't him it square on (I've heard of some horrible accidents involving deer), but I have zero desire to hit a deer at all.

I didn't hit anything else on the way to work (thank the Lord!). This morning, I was super tired (we had a really big weekend - really fun, but basically exhausting) and I didn't want to come in to work this morning. I'm just glad I'm not NOT at work because a deer came through my windshield on the way to work today. Yikes!

grrr...

I'm Feeling: tough! (but I don't quite look like this gal yet... thank goodness!!)
Background Noise: You Created by Caedmon's Call

Our basement holds many things - air hockey table, ping pong table, foosball table, free weights, captain's chair, workout bench, an elliptical machine, and a couch. Along with numerous boxes filled with very important things that we haven't touched in over a year. Most of these things were bought with the intention of using them... and this morning, I did! (Not all of them, it's hard to play an interesting game of foosball on your own...) But I did drag my sorry butt out of bed and use the elliptical and the weights and the bench... I have such a hard time making myself do that, but I always feel fantastic when I do. You'd think that the classical conditioning thing would kick in, and I'd WANT to do something that makes me feel good... oh well. I just am glad I was able to have a little discipline today, and avoid going into hibernation mode as the days get colder.

Today after work I get to go to a Mason Middle School basketball game, and then Mark and I embark upon date night (not sure what is planned - it's his week to orchestrate the activities). But it will be fun to hang out and laugh - I'm looking forward to a nice night!

i love my bed

I'm Feeling: like laying on my back in the leaves
Background Noise: cars zooming by outside (my windows are WIDE open)

This morning I wanted to stay in my bed so badly when the alarm went off... then when I was making the bed, it was teasing me, whispering "climb back in, I'm warm and soft and big..." At least Saturday isn't that far away - maybe I can sleep in a little bit then. Although for me, I never want to sleep in as much when I can... I always want to sleep in when I have to be somewhere.

Not much going on tonight (I think)... I hope it stays that way. I like spontaneity, but when I'm specifically looking forward to a low-key evening, I usually don't adapt quickly to changes in the plan. I'll probably go to Mason YoungLife's club tonight with Mark, but that only lasts an hour. Maybe I'll sit down and start putting together Mark's quilt (finally). Who knows?

The picture of the rose is the first thing that came up when I googled "turquoise." Pretty, isn't it?

and... spit!

I'm Feeling: relaxed and smiley
Background Noise: Real Good Thing by Newsboys

I had my semi-annual dentist visit this morning... I always get a little nervous when I go, because I HATE having work done on my teeth. Cleanings don't bother me, but I'm afraid they'll find some big honking cavity, and if I never get another novacaine shot for the rest of my life, it'll be too soon. But everything checked out just fine - my hygienist (Val) was super nice and I really like my dentist. We agreed that to make my next visit more interesting, I should give up brushing altogether. I chuckled along with him, but will probably wind up brushing again before the day is out.

Today I start (along with Jane and Jennifer - colleagues of mine) an 8-week Pilates class MSU is offering... and it's free! So we'll spend part of our lunch hour toning our powerhouses, or more accurately, getting our butts kicked. But I like that. A few appointments this afternoon, and a relatively relaxed evening - sounds perfect!

The tree outside my office window has leaves that turn a gorgeous golden color. The sky is bright blue with puffy little white clouds... praise God for creating beauty!!

lookit the kitty!

I'm Feeling: like going home (darn, it's only 3:30!)
Background Noise: Jukebox in my Mind by Alabama

That's me and Meg (my sister)'s cat, Bomber, when I visited her a couple weeks ago. He's a funny kitty!!

I had a great weekend - we had a WyldLife event on Saturday that rocked my socks off - we had about 40 kids, all the leaders - lots of food and fun and yelling and playing and the high school leaders did awesome! Then Katie & Aaron came back to our house and hung out til almost midnight - which was totally fun and a great quality-time for our team. Sunday was church and a soccer game and then a meeting for Together (the couple's ministry at our church). Meeting new people, making new friends - it's all good!

I applied for a grant today - MSU sends 2 advisers every year to a study abroad program for a week - to learn, to come back and help promote, etc. I'm trying to go to France next May for a week (or more!) to get some new experience and all that jazz - I'm pumped... I really want to go!

More WyldLife tonight - Mark is leading the music on his gee-tar, which is awesome. Gotta get back to the grind now - have a b-e-a-yootiful Monday!!

what to be for halloween?

I'm Feeling: busy!
Background Noise: Danny Boy by Eva Cassidy

Well, I'm turning into a lazy blogger... mostly because work has been so hectic this week! Lots of appointments, the class I am teaching ended yesterday, and it's degree certification time at MSU. Whoopee!

I'm trying to decide what to be for Halloween. We have a party for YoungLife and WyldLife... it has to be original (tasteful, of course)... and funny would be good too. Any ideas?

blur

I'm Feeling: like a post-lunch nap would be nice
Background Noise: gentle hum of my vents - which are thankfully, now blowing warm air

I had a lovely weekend (aside from the monstrous amounts of driving - which allowed me to catch up on a lot of phone calls). Friday, I drove to my parents' house in Bolingbrook and had lunch, hung out for a few hours. Then I drove down to Peoria to visit my little sister (she's 22 and working on her master's degree). We ate sushi (I ate salmon, tuna, eel, shrimp, crab - all dipped in sauces I can't pronounce and eaten with chopsticks I can barely maneuver). We also went to an apple orchard (with her cat Bomber, on a leash, which was super funny), ate cider donuts, went shopping at the outdoor mall, laughed a lot, ate a lot... it was really nice to hang out. And fun to see her living in her own space, too.

We have WyldLife tonight - last week we had record numbers - I'm leading this week, so I'm a little nervous. I just hope that things run smoothly and that the kids have fun. We're talking about God's promises tonight - I'm excited to teach about that.

Bonus - it's 56 degrees right now, which means it actually feels like fall!! I'm not crazy about winter being right around the corner, but I love sweaters and cider and red leaves and chilly breezes!

where is fall?

I'm Feeling: motivated
Background Noise: It's Your Love by Tim McGraw

First off - Happy Birthday Kelsey! I don't even know if you read this, but that's okay.

Second - what in the world is going on with the weather? Yesterday was 85 degrees - I wore a tank top and had the AC on. Weird. I'm not anxious for winter (AT ALL), but I really love fall and I'm looking forward to days when I'm not sweating when I walk around outside! :)

Third - I get to visit my sister this weekend! I'm totally pumped about that - she's funny and smart and makes me laugh... plus she's excited for me to visit, and it's always fun to visit people who really want you to be there.

SMILE!

I'm Feeling: tired & energetic (is that possible?)
Background Noise: Seasons of Love from the RENT soundtrack

This is me and Kelsey - smiling! Today is Smile Day, and I thought the picture was appropriate. I found some yucky pictures of rotten-tooth-smiles, but I could hardly look at those pictures myself without yacking, so I thought I'd spare you all.

Big weekend - breakfast at the Depot (yes, there is a lot of train memorabilia in there), lots of yardwork, we spent some time with Mark's family on Saturday, watched the football game (snif!), got groceries, worked in the nursery at church, had a WyldLife team meeting, went to a bonfire at church, made pumpkin muffins... it was fun to be able to be at home and do things - I'm tired, but I feel good about the weekend.

Busy at work today too, but I like that - got a lot to get organized and updated, and a few appointments thrown in as well. Gotta love the way life keeps on moving!