Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Silver Dollar City

Robert and I went to Silver Dollar City yesterday as a fun start to the summer.  My parents have season tickets so we got to use their free "bring a guest" tickets.  Woohoo!  It was a lot of fun.  We had thought since it was Memorial Day it might be crazy, but it wasn't packed at all.  Here are some pictures from the day:
Stuck in traffic at the SDC exit

Robert's first time to ride the SDC train

The little act during the train ride

The beautiful flowers Robert and I planted in March

Sunday, May 29, 2011

The end of Summer

Bet you didn't know it's the end of summer.  It's time to buy new notebooks, make sure the old backpack will make it through another year, grab so pencils, and put on your thinking cap.  Well, it's time for me to do those things at least.  After seven short days of summer break it's time to start thinking about school again.  I start at Drury in just six days.  It doesn't feel real.  I just graduated from college where I felt totally safe - lots of friends, professors knew me, I knew where are the classrooms were, the hours of the library, how to get around time.  Now it's time for this next step - a place where I don't even know the name of the street it's on (Drury Lane, seriously?), where the library is, I don't have an ID card (been in three times.  I'm not in "the system."), I'll be a part of a cohort of nine other students who just so happen to be Drury alums who will know everything about Drury and will definitely be in "the system."  What do I wear on the first day - do I go for the typical first day of school look (jeans, nice top, dressy sandals), the "I go to grad school" look (khakis and a dress shirt with dress shoes), or the "It's summertime, baby" look (shorts and a t-shirt)?  Do I take my laptop?  Is the professor going to present everything at lightning speed?  Is my first day of class seriously going to last the whole time (9:00am-6:00pm)?  I could easily list a dozen more hypothetical questions right now.
When people ask what I'm doing next and I tell them I'm going to grad school at Drury they've all seem totally taken aback.  Apparently it's crazy to start a graduate degree two weeks after you finish your undergrad (maybe so).  Or perhaps it's the fact that I'm too young (yeah, I'm only 20).  Or that the program is packed into a year (but it's still four terms.  It's not like I'm fitting two years' worth of stuff into two semesters).  Plus, I figure it'll be easier since I'm already in full-time school mode.  It won't be weird to be in class and study each day.  I think it would be more difficult to graduate SBU, take a few years off, get used to working 8:00-5:00, get used to having a steady income, and then go back to full-time school, only make money from a part-time job, and be lectured all day.
At this point I just need the first day to get here already.  At this time next week I'll know the answers to all these questions.  Until then...

Friday, May 27, 2011

Sick

Being sick is no fun.  Shocking.  It started Wednesday evening and has carried on to the present.  I'll spare you the details, but the throw up tally is at 12 currently.  I think the worst of it is over.  Now I'm tired and achy all over.  I took a four hour nap yesterday and slept for 12 hours last night which helped.  I've lost 4.4 pounds so far.  Crazy!

I've been thinking about my first summer job lately since it's summer break now.  For two summers in a row I worked 40 hours a week in the SBU physical plant office.  The second summer I got to work with my dear friend Leigha.  Here are a few photos to reminisce:
So mature

Doing the dishes

Watering the bushes

Hopping on the trash with a blown up trash bag under my shirt of course

With our dads :)

Monday, May 23, 2011

Graduation

On Saturday I couldn't help by feeling like Elle Woods in Legally Blonde when she said, "We did it!"  Well, I did it!  I graduated in three years...with honors.  I'm proud of myself. :)  It wasn't easy.  Some have had the audacity over the past years to claim that the area of communication is a breeze, a joke of a major.  To that I say, "Then why do we have so many mis-communications?"  I graduated with a BA in communication with an emphasis in public relations and a minor in English.  And what do I plan to do next?  Go to school some more!  I'll start masters work at Drury University on Saturday, June 4 to pursue an MA in communication.  Exciting stuff!  A few pics from the day:
Looking all smart with my lovely suitemate, Laura

With two of my biggest fans

Friday, May 20, 2011

Learning outside the classroom

Another document I found while looking through old assignments:



“You've done it before and you can do it now. See the positive possibilities. Redirect the substantial energy of your frustration and turn it into positive, effective, unstoppable determination.”




My Dear Child,
You may not know [and understand everything about] me, but I know everything about you (Psalm 139:1). I know when you sit down and when you rise up (Psalm 139:2). Even the very hairs on your head are numbered (Matt 10:29-31). For you were made in MY IMAGE (Genesis 1:27). In me you live and move and have your being (Acts 17:28). For you are my offspring (Acts 17:28). I knew you even before you were conceived (Jeremiah 1:4-5). I chose you when I planned creation (Ephesians 1:11-12). You were not a mistake for all your days are written in my book (Psalm 139:15-16). I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live (Acts 17:26). You are FEARFULLY and WONDERFULLY made (Psalm 139:14). I knit you together in your mother's womb (Psalm 139:13). And brought you forth on the day you were born (Psalm 71:6). I have been misrepresented by those who don't know me (1 John 4:16). And it is my desire to LAVISH my love on you.(1 John 3:1). Simply because you are my child and I am your Father (1 John 3:1). I offer you more than an earthly father ever could (Matt 7:11). For I am the PERFECT Father (Matt 5:48). Every good gift that you receive come from my hand (James 1:17). For I am your provider and I meet all your needs (Matthew 6:31-33). My plan for your future has always been filled with Hope (Jeremiah 29:11). Because I LOVE YOU with and everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3). My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore (Psalm 139:17-18). And I rejoice over you with singing!!! (Zephaniah 3:17). I will NEVER stop doing good to you (Jeremiah 32:40). For you are my treasure possesion(Exodus 19:5). I desire to esablish you with all my heart and all my soul (Jeremiah 32:41). And I want to show you great and marvelous things (Jeremiah 33:3). If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me (Deuteronomy 4:29). Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4). For it is I who gave those desires (Philliipians 3:13). I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine (Ephesians 3:20). For I am your greatest encourager (2 Thess 2:16-17). I am also the Father who comforts you with all your troubles (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). When you are brokenhearted, I AM CLOSE TO YOU (Psalm 34:18). As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart (Isaiah 40:11). One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes (Revelations 21:3-4) And I'll take away all pain you have suffered on this earth (Revelation 21:3-4). I am your Father and I love you, even as I love my son, Jesus (John 17:23). For in Jesus my love for you is revealed (John 17:26). He is the exact representation of my being (Hebrews 1:3). He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you (Romans 8:31). And to tell you that I am not countint your sins (2 Cor 5:18-19). His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you (1 John 4:10). I GAVE UP EVERYTHING I LOVE THAT I MIGHT HAVE YOUR LOVE (Romans 8-31-32). If you receive the gift of my son Jesus, you receive me (1 John 2:23). And nothing will ever separate you from my love again (Romans 8:38-39). Come home and I will throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen (Luke 15:7). I have always been Father, and will always be Father (Ephesians 3:14-15). My question is... will you be my child (John 1:12-13)? I am waiting for you (Luke 15:11-32).
Love,
Your Dad the Almighty God.

Knowledge

I used to have these quotes hanging up in my dorm room:

I sin when I don’t love God.

God took care of yesterday.  He’ll continue to do the same.

God has my life planned out.

Without God, I’m capable of nothing.

When there is no vision, we perish.

We get when we give; we find when we lose.

God’s plan rarely conforms to human expectations.

Love is uncontaminated by self-interest.

Grace gives us what we don’t deserve; mercy keeps us from getting what we do deserve.

Love is always costly.  Love demands time, resources, energy.  It requires a lifetime of giving.

When are we going to realize that people are more important than rules, that redemption supersedes propriety, and that healing takes time?

Jesus died on the cross to show how much he loves me.

The Son of Man is glorified when I keep on loving the one who is forsaking me.

I’m convinced being generous is a better way to live.  I’m convinced forgiving people and not carrying around bitterness is a better way to live.  I’m convinced having compassion is a better way to live.  I’m convinced pursuing peace in every situation is a better way to live.  I’m convinced listening to the wisdom of others is a better way to live.  I’m convinced being honest with others is a better way to live.
I won’t be pushed past my limit.

God desires a radical life-change from me.

God gives me a new heart and restores my spirit.

God created me because he loves me.

God settled on me as the focus of His love.

Grace always triumphs over judgment.

Let us work in partnerships between rich and poor to improve the opportunities of all human beings to build better lives.

We, who have so much, must do more to help those in need. And most of all, we must live simply, so that others may simply live.

Almost half the world — over three billion people — live on less than $2.50 a day.

Water problems affect half of humanity.

1.6 billion people — a quarter of humanity — live without electricity.

Every year 15 million children die of hunger

One out of every eight children under the age of twelve in the U.S. goes to bed hungry every night.

Every 3.6 seconds someone dies of hunger.

The poor are poor because the rich are rich.


My thoughts from June 7, 2009

I need to learn to appreciate the time I have with people. Relationships really are one of the most important things. It is worth my time to invest in others' lives. It is never a waste of time.

I don't like confrontation.

I over-analyze most situations.

I miss my small group girls. God blessed me more than I realized when He gave me that amazing group of friends. I was able to voice my opinion and thoughts without being made fun of. Reading the Bible and learning new things from God was cool and exciting. It's important to have girl time...make some spaghetti, eat cookies, stay up late, watch Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, talk about boys, ask questions. Thank you for investing in my life, girls!

I absolutely love work! It is the most dependable thing in my life right now. I need stability.

This is my life, and I need to enjoy it.

Even when I think I'm too tired, that sleeping is a better use of time, that I could be doing homework, or laundry - Spending time in God's word, listening to Him, telling Him my thoughts - It's always worth it. I'm never disappointed I took some time out of my busy schedule to adore my Creator.

People will always complain about rules even if the rules aren't that annoying. Sure, I have to go upstairs each night to check in. If I could choose between sitting in my room or walking up the stairs I would choose sitting in my room checking facebook. But it takes 30 seconds. No big deal. I can handle it.

I don't like being vulnerable. I made the best friends in the world in high school and then they all left me. I don't want to replace them. It takes too much of an effort to go out there and make new, quality relationships. I don't want to have to say goodbye again. It's easier just to do my own thing. This isn't what God wants, though. He wants me to enjoy life and be about relationships.

KLife is one of the best things I have ever been a part of. I wish I would have started going years ago. I've been invested in, and now I'm able to invest in middle schoolers' lives. It's an amazing feeling.

I require lots of sleep.

There never seems to be enough time to do laundry.

I enjoy naps.

I like walking outside and enjoying God's creation.

I need to tell and show people that I love and appreciate them.

Some of my favorite quotes and verses:

I'm convinced being generous is a better way to live
I'm convinced forgiving people and not carrying around bitterness is a better way
to live
I'm convinced having compassion is a better way to live
I'm convinced pursuing peace in every situation is a better way to live
I'm convinced listening to wisdom of others is a better way to live
I'm convinced being honest with people is a better way to live
~Rob Bell~

Everybody thinks their opinion is the right one. If they didn't, they'd get a new one. ~Anne Lamott~

I want a humility that understands that I am not God. And there is more to know. ~Rob Bell~

You belong among the wildflowers
You belong in a boat out at sea
You belong with your love on your arm
You belong somewhere you feel free
~Tom Petty~

Questions bring freedom. ~Rob Bell~

Then the time came when the risk it took to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. ~Anais Nin~

With God being so massive and awe-inspiring and full of truth, why is the Bible capable of so much confusion? ~Rob Bell~

When I carry my cross, burdens become blessings. ~Rodney Reeves~

Because God has spoken, and everything else is commentary. ~Rob Bell~

If death is the biggest thing I could fear and it takes me to God, what shall I fear? ~Rodney Reeves~

It's only awkward if you make it awkward. ~Leigha Hill~

This is scary: You can tame a tiger, but you can't tame a tongue—it's never been done. The tongue runs wild, a wanton killer. With our tongues we bless God our Father; with the same tongues we curse the very men and women he made in his image. Curses and blessings out of the same mouth! My friends, this can't go on. A spring doesn't gush fresh water one day and brackish the next, does it? Apple trees don't bear strawberries, do they? Raspberry bushes don't bear apples, do they? You're not going to dip into a polluted mud hole and get a cup of clear, cool water, are you? James 3:7-12

We go through exactly what Christ goes through. If we go through the hard times with him, then we're certainly going to go through the good times with him! Romans 8:17

There's more to come: We continue to shout our praise even when we're hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next. In alert expectancy such as this, we're never left feeling shortchanged. Quite the contrary—we can't round up enough containers to hold everything God generously pours into our lives through the Holy Spirit! Romans 5:3-4

So if you find life difficult because you're doing what God said, take it in stride. Trust him. He knows what he's doing, and he'll keep on doing it. 1 Peter 4:19

Trust God from the bottom of your heart;
don't try to figure out everything on your own.
Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go;
he's the one who will keep you on track.
Don't assume that you know it all.
Run to God! Run from evil! Proverbs 3:5-7

For my part, I am going to boast about nothing but the Cross of our Master, Jesus Christ. Because of that Cross, I have been crucified in relation to the world, set free from the stifling atmosphere of pleasing others and fitting into the little patterns that they dictate. Can't you see the central issue in all this? It is not what you and I do—submit to circumcision, reject circumcision. It is what God is doing, and he is creating something totally new, a free life! All who walk by this standard are the true Israel of God—his chosen people. Peace and mercy on them! Galatians 6:14-16

God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! Ephesians 3:20

You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule. You're blessed when you feel you've lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you. You're blessed when you're content with just who you are—no more, no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought. Matthew 5:3-5

God has sent me on a mission.
I have some great news for you.
God has sent me to restore and release something.
And that something is you.
I am here to give you back your heart and set you free.
I am furious at the Enemy who did this to you, and I will fight against him.
Let me comfort you.
For, dear one, I will bestow beauty upon you
where you have known only devastation.
Joy, in the places of your deep sorrow.
And I will robe your heart in thankful praise
in exchange for your resignation and despair.
Isaiah 61:1-3

To do for yourself the best that you have it in you to do-to grit your teeth and clench your fists in order to survive the world at its harshest and worst-is, by that very act, to be unable to let something be done for you and in you that is more wonderful still. The trouble with steeling yourself against the harshness of reality is that the same steel that secures your life against being destroyed secures your life also against being opened up and transformed.
~The Sacred Journey~

Some of you think you're God's gift to the world. Well, I've got news for you...you're not. ~Anonymous high school choir teacher~

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Robert Clark Varner

When Robert and I first met I liked to write down info every time I learned something new about him.  Here it is:


Robert and I randomly sat by each other at a campus wide RA meeting the first Friday of the semester.  Then later that day in choir we got put next to each other.  We enjoyed making side comments to each other periodically throughout practice.  On Monday in choir he kept on turning around to talk to me.  At the end of class he introduced himself to me.   Clearly, he didn’t remember that we met when we were in high school and visited SBU.  Right after class he added me on  facebook and started writing on my wall.
On Sunday he invited me to the Landen Super Bowl party.  On Tuesday he invited me to his intramural basketball game.  They’re the Flying V’s.  They wear v-neck t-shirts with wings coming out of the v.  I didn’t say hi to him at all though.  Then on Wednesday we were facebook chatting, and he said he wanted to get to know me better.  Chat stopped working, and so he sent me a message with his number.  We preceded to text each other that evening.  The next day I went to another one of his intramural games.  Afterwards we gave each other a side hug.
The next Tuesday we went to James’ concert in the Union together.  On Thursday we went to the SBU basketball game together.  On Friday we had dinner at Taco Bell together.  Then that night we went to  Aaron Hameister’s house to watch Saw VI.  He touched my hand a bit. Hehe  Then on Saturday he and I went to Patrick Matia and Derek Creighton’s room for visitation.  We played Settlers, Monopoly Deal, and watched The Emperor’s New Groove.
On Tuesday we went to the SBU basketball game together again.  On Thursday Tarah, James, Robert, and I went to Tarah’s house to make dinner and play a game.  I took Robert back to Landen, and as we were sitting in my car Derek came up and said that he’d just follow me out to Tiffani’s house.  Talk about bad timing.  After sitting in my car in silence for what felt like an eternity Robert said,  “I just want to come on out a say this, and it might make you feel uncomfortable, but I really like you a lot.  I enjoy spending time with you, and I want to keep on getting to know you better.  I’m not looking for anything serious right away.  We can take things slowly, but I just wanted you to know what my intentions are.”  I responded with, “I appreciate your saying that.  The feelings are definitely mutual, and I want to spend more time with you too.”  Then we shared an awkward car hug.
Friday he came to Elise’s house to play Scene It and watch Baby Mama.  We sat on the love seat together, and he touched my hand again.  Then we hugged outside.  On Saturday I watched Princess Bride and played  Monopoly Deal with him in the office while he worked.  We hugged again.  Then that night we went to Maupin to watched Enchanted with Patrick.  He definitely held my hand (just a few fingers) and put his arm around  my bent knee on the couch.  We hugged in the car, and I acknowledged the awkwardness that is a car hug.

Sunday we went to a gas station to get coffee and then drank it while swinging in the lawn and garden section of Wal-Mart.  Then he totally touched my hair.

On Monday we went to the Java Station.  He paid!  He told me he wouldn’t date me if he knew he couldn’t marry me.  Then we texted later, and I learned he’s kissed girls before.

It’s so amazing to know that he thinks I’m beautiful, smart, and funny.  I just want to see him every day!

His schedule:
Sunday: Get to church at 8:00 ish, first service at 9:00, second service at 10:30, practice at 2:00, RA meeting at 9:00
Monday: Work in the afternoon
Tuesday: Bible study at 9:00
Wednesday: Youth from 7:00-8:30

Part of his finger got cut off when his sister slammed the door on it.
He likes yogurt and V8 Fusion.  Doesn’t like Pop-Tarts.
He has a high school friend named Bryce who is coming to SBU next year
He likes the movie Angels in the Outfield
He has a fear of paper cuts
He likes Jon Foreman, can’t stand country, likes acoustic, Leeland, Yellow Card
He likes the show Ax (not X) Men, Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, Indiana Jones, NCIS, Scrubs, Community, Law and Order SVU
He was born in Fort Worth.  Moved to New Orleans when he was four.  Moved to Olathe in September of 2005 after his house was hit by hurricane Katrina.
He and Luke were suitemates last fall.
He met Josh in welcome week.  Now they’re roommates.
Jeffie is also his suitemate.  He’s an awkward freshman who saves dead fish and birds.
He and Brandt met in high school, and now they’re roommates.
He had an awesome youth pastor at Lenexa Baptist, and that’s why he wants to be a youth minister.
He plays the electric and acoustic guitar but likes acoustic best.
His mom (Serina) is a manager for the USDA.  She’s from Kansas.  His Dad (Ray) makes software for the USDA.  His sister (Bethany) is 21 and goes to Fort Hays.
The classes he is in are: mission and ministry, sight singing and ear training, hymnic and wisdom literature, methods of biblical interpretation, choir, music theory
He drives a 1999 orange Ford Ranger stick shift named Rusty
He drinks his coffee black
He and his sister would both like to live in Seattle
He’s staying at his aunt’s beach house in Alabama for spring break.
They have a time share Florida so he’s been to Disney World 11 times.
Loves shrimp gumbo, salmon, steak, dark chocolate.  
Hates fruit except melons, grapes, apples, and bananas because the texture is gross.  
Doesn’t like barbecue chips.
He used to work at Applebee’s and be a janitor at his church.
Josh got him into rock climbing indoors and outdoors.
His dad didn’t grow up in church.  His mom grew up in a Nazarene church.  He became a Christian when he was 8.
He has a sensitive stomach.  He can’t drink 2% milk or coffee in  the morning.
He likes skim milk.
He likes The Wonder Years.
His full name is Robert Clark Varner.

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

1000 gifts

I've been reading One Thousand Gifts over the past few weeks.  I first discovered the book after seeing a link for a youtube video on Kim Scowden's facebook profile.  Here's the link.  I attempted to write down the words she was saying:

She isn’t 24 hours old yet.  Still that heaven scent upon her skin.
When I pull her close and whisper right into her, whisper into her the meaning of life, the one thing she needs to know before she’s as old as I am and messed up as much as I have:
Moments, I tell her this
Moments, this is all we have
Microscopic, fleeting moments
Her eyelashes flutter in dreams, and I wonder how many moments of my life my eyes been open but I’ve been rushing, racing, sleeping right through.
How many of the popsicle days and run and twirl and spin days, how many of the moments of melting ice cream and crazy laughter, dangling bare feet and the setting sun igniting the wonder of now.
Someone wake me up to the beating of wings and splashing of water, the setting of fog at twilight, the way the leaves and the childhood slip away in the woods torched away with the summer.
I want to tell her this: you have got to figure out a way to stay fully awake.
Time’s blurring by, and everyone’s slipping past, and how do we wake to the moments?  How do we stop living like life is an emergency, something to be sped through?  Life is not an emergency.
How do we start believing that life can be carried only in the hands of the unhurried, a bubble held in awe.  How do we stop wolfing life down because life is our only dessert, too brief, too sweet, and too delectable to hurry?
To live like a boy I once knew who paused between bites to wiggle his loose tooth and say, “Mommy, I love you.”
And all this, all these moments, all these are for you.  Isn’t that the voice we have to learn to hear, the voice that is telling you that the earth under you and the rain over you and all the stars spinning  around you, this is for you.
Your true love’s smile, a nap, and a patch of light, the whirl of bike spokes, and the wild rose on the sill, and that one great puff of the flickering candles.  These are all for you.  What if we really figured it out?  That gratitude for the seemingly small and insignificant, this is the seed that plants the giant miracle in the midst of it all.
So count the ways he loves, 1000 more, never stop so that when you wake in the morning you can’t help but to unfold your hands to the heavens, and though you grieve, and though you wonder, though the world is ugly it is beautiful, and though time moves on its moments are holy, and though the planet spins a blur you can slow, and you can wake, and you can trust, and you can pay attention to the moments with this offering of thanks because this is how you live this life well, receiving each moment for what it really is: holy, ordinary, amazing grace, a gift.

Freshman Year

I was looking through old documents on my computer this afternoon.  My freshman year of college I kept a journal of sorts in a Word document.  Since I'm in a rather reflective state, having just finished my last undergrad final, I decided I should post it here:


September 29, 2008
Recap of college thus far:
I was in the bathroom naked about to get in the shower. Suitemate randomly walked in.
Went next door to say hi to friend.  She was lying in bed with her boyfriend.  I asked how her day was and then left the room awkwardly.
My roommate makes her bed each night an hour before she goes to sleep.  Why?
It’s my job to sweep and clean the mirror in the bedroom and bathroom.  It’s my roommate's job to vacuum our rug.  She’s only done it once in the 5 and a half weeks we’ve been here.  Her hairballs are all over the floor.  A few have gotten stuck to my pants when I’ve sat down.  One of my suitemates cleans the toilet and sink fairly often.  However, I think the other suitemate has only cleaned the shower once.  It’s gross.
My Welcome Week group was a bit of a dud.  Most everyone is either a music major or a science major.  I’m the only undeclared.  I really like one of my leaders though, Kaylan.
I got my tragus pierced on Friday, September 12.  Tiffani went with me.  It really hurt.  It bled quite a bit.  Two weeks later it felt fine.  I’m excited to take it out for the first time.  I wonder how big the hole will really be. 
I’ve gone to body sculpting, killer abs, pilates, and box step.  I hope to continue doing that.  It’s a really good workout.
Jim left for Ireland.  I’m going with Mom and Dad December 19-January 1 to visit him.  I’m really excited.  We’re going to Ireland and England.
Lindsay’s shoes smell really bad.
I went to Arkansas with Kelsey and Jen to see Keegan, Elise, and Leigha.  It was very good.
I made it through my first round of tests just fine.
I think I want to get a BA in English.  I’m not sure though.  I hope I’m not choosing that as an easy way out.
I got to walk with Casey today.  I love talking to her.  She’s an excellent listener.
I miss my KLife small group.
It’s been really hard to make any genuine friends.  I don’t feel like it’s worth the effort.  I just want my real friends back.  Why did they leave me?
Janna got hired as the official secretary.  I think I like working with her.
Heather hates me.  It makes it really awkward to be her lab partner.
I got in trouble for spreading rumors and gossiping about staph infection.  It was dumb.
I’m helping with FBC middle school Connect on Wednesday nights.  
I’m also helping with middle school KLife on Thursday nights.  I go to the leaders’ meetings on Sunday nights.  It’s been good for me.  We’re reading through the gospels.
It’s really loud in the dorm at night until midnight.  I need to be getting more sleep than I am.
I’ve joined a Bible study on Wednesday nights.  3 junior girls and I meet at the Evans’ house with Ron, Suzie, and Rachel.  I’m starting to feel more comfortable.
I really want to go to Pennsylvania and see everybody.  I’ve been missing them a lot today.  I absolutely love the atmosphere there; the weather, the people, and the food.
I might get to go to El Salvador for three weeks in January.  I’m totally ecstatic.  I’ll be heartbroken if it doesn’t work out.
I wish I lived at home.

October 21, 2008
Lindsay is moving to Leslie.  I’m glad, but kinda feel like I’m defective.
I dissected a pig.
I’m always tired.
I hate headaches.
I miss my homies.
Leigha, Tyler, and Keegan are coming home tomorrow night!!!!
I took my parents for granted.
I appreciate Memaw and Pepaw caring for me more now.
We aren’t taking a trip to El Salvador.
Every day feels the same.
I absolutely despise getting wet, but I love listening to thunderstorms.
I miss living at home.  Never thought I would.
I might as well live in Leslie because it already feels like there is a wall in the middle of my dorm room.
Will every semester feel like this?  I certainly hope not.
I have a B in biology.  

November 11, 2008
I’ve learned even more that I can’t love someone without God’s help.  
I wonder what next semester will bring.
I am absolutely sick of people seeing me and asking how Jim is.  It’s like my life is nonexistent.
My idea of a friend has to change and must continue to evolve.
I’m thankful for Leslie.  She’s definitely helped me through these past few months.
I’m starting to feel more and more like my girls don’t have time for me.
I’m not shaving or cutting my fingernails this month.
Only 8 more days of class until Thanksgiving break.  Praise Jesus!
I went to the first Friday art walk with Jen, Rachel Evans, and Kelsey on Friday.  Then we spent the night in Kelsey’s dorm room in Woods at MSU.
I’m getting kind of sick of work.  I must stick it out!
I think my body has adjusted to not getting as much sleep.  It’s hard for me to sleep for 10 hours now.

November 30, 2008
Remember that one time during Sunday School that Dad talked about my friends and I tracing ourselves with chalk on Highway D at midnight during Thanksgiving break and then Daniel came up and asked about my “drunken midnight activities”?  Yep.  That’s my life.
Thanksgiving break was really good other than the fact that a friend was being insanely obnoxious.  Let’s see he said I look like a boy, couldn’t believe my favorite new kind of art I’ve learned about in class is rococo, said SBU’s classes are a joke, got mad about girl time, and said I ruined our game of sardines.  Yeah, he sure knows how to make me feel good about myself.  Other than that, it really was good.  The girls spent the night over here, we went to Black Friday at Wal-Mart, Silver Dollar City, and lots of hanging out was done.  I miss that so much!  It’s hard not to do anything fun at college.  But I don’t want to replace my friends from Bolivar because that is impossible.  Nobody compares.  I hate hearing about everyone else’s new friends.
It’s snowing today!  I love it.  Although, snow has lost a bit of its magic since it no longer means that school gets cancelled.
I’m gonna try and stay strong for the last 15 days of the semester.  I can and I will do it!  Only 11 more days of class and then 4 days of finals.  It’s nice to have Ireland to look forward to.
I think I’ll find out tomorrow what my rooming situation will be for next semester.  It would be the biggest blessing to get a room to myself.  You have no idea.  I really think that would change everything.  I’m still I bit scared to not have Tiffani next semester.

March 9, 2009
I sure haven’t written on here in a long time.
Fall semester ended ok.  I ended up with a B in biology and fine arts which was kinda frustrating.
I took intro to computing during Jan Term.  It was pretty boring but I’m glad I took it.
Spring semester has gotten off to a good start.  I got a new roommate.  Her name is Pearl Karamitros.  She doesn’t snore, doesn’t make her bed, takes showers, and studies.  It’s wonderful!
My suitemate, Michelle, doesn’t have a roommate this semester because Kat decided to move off campus at the last second.
Classes are pretty good.  I’m only taking 15 hours compared to last semester’s 16 hours.  However, I find myself studying more.  New Testament with Dr. Frost has been difficult so far.  I got 70% on my first test even though I studied for it for about five hours.  I really hope my other tests go better.  I have human diversity with Mrs. Gamble.  It’s a relatively easy class although I got a high C on the first test.  I think it’s a little more difficult than I make it out to be.  Critical Thinking with Mr. Bachman is really boring.  Thankfully, it will be over in 3 more class periods.  I’m looking forward to having 2 hours less class time and less homework.  The Victorian Period with Dr. Tappmeyer is definitely my least favorite class.  There are only ten people in it.  We read really boring, old literature and then have to write opinion papers over it that are source supported.  Interpersonal Communication with Dr. Derryberry is one of my favorite classes.  I don’t like giving speeches and I usually miss a few points on them but he builds my confidence.  I enjoy Advanced Composition with Dr. Tappmeyer for the most part.  I like getting to write and not having tests.
I switched to working in central receiving at the physical plant.  I get a good amount of homework done.  I just don’t know if Robert thinks I do a good job or not.
It’s difficult to wake up for my 8:00 class on Tuesday and Thursday.  I haven’t been getting as much sleep this semester.
Ashton Jones stayed in my room for Bearcat Days.  Savannah Stepp, Ethan Dixon, Daniel Norman, and she are thinking about coming to SBU next fall.  
I led 8th grade girls DNow with Leigha at FBC this weekend.  I was nervous at first.  We only had 3 students so I thought discussion might be lacking, but it was wonderful!  We stayed at Lou and Shelly Harris’ house.
I’m going to El Salvador in less than two weeks for spring break.  Tarah, Kelsey, Luke, Charli, Brett, Larry, Bing, and Sherrie Bayer are coming too.  We will be speaking at a college and then doing church stuff in Santa Elena and then San Salvador.  I was hoping to see Milton and Jose, but I don’t think it will be happening.
Kelsey and I went to MNU in Olathe, KS to visit Jen.  It was marvelous!
Kelsey and I also went to OBU in Arkadelphia, AR to visit Leigha.  We got to go over to the Sonheims’ house.
I’ve only stayed at home for one weekend so far.  I really need to break away from my parents.  I just don’t know how to.
I can’t believe this semester is almost half way over.  In a little over two months I will have finished my first year of college and will only have two more years left.
I applied to be an RA at Leslie or Woody.  I asked my RA, Lauren, to fill out a reference form for me.  She said she’ll have to skip some questions because she doesn’t think I’m mature or growing spiritually!!!
Elise is dating a boy named Andrew.  It’s weird.  
Luke still feels the need to point out the fact that he has more “friends” than I do.  Why?
I’m ready for warm weather to be here for good.  Too bad Dr. Frost won’t let me wear shorts on Monday, Wednesday, or Friday.
I hate eating at the cafeteria.
Jim will be home in about one month.  
I’m not entirely sure what I’m doing this summer.  Possibilities: Spend a month in PA by myself (Mom and Dad would be there for about one week of it), take Fitness and Wellness with Kelsey and Grant at SBU summer school, go on a road trip with friends to Georgia, work in Dad’s office, work in central receiving, sleep!


I think it's safe to say I've changed quite a bit over the past three years. :)


Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Finals Week

2 finals down.  2 to go.  Today at 1:00 I had the American public address final.  It's basically been the root of all evil this semester.  It has been the worst class I've had at SBU, hands down.  It should be labeled a history class, not a communication class.  History is fine, but there a reason I'm not a history major.  It's not my forte.  At 3:30 I took the medieval and renaissance literature final.  I think it went fairly well.  I did well on the other tests and assignments so there wasn't a ton of pressure for the final.
Tomorrow I'll take the advanced public speaking final at 10:30 and the communication theory final at 12:00.  Then I'll be finished!
Soapbox: I don't feel sorry for people who procrastinate the whole semester and then freak out about being sooooo busy during finals week.  If one were to analyze it closely, he or she would find that poor decisions were made repeatedly throughout the semester.  Usually these crazy assignments were introduced four months ago.  Or perhaps the student chose to A. Watch a movie. B. Sleep in. C. Go to Springfield. D. All of the above instead of studying and doing homework.  If I found the time to do the assignment in advance, you should be able to as well.  The end.
Robert and I went to Hays, KS this weekend to see his sister graduate from Fort Hays State University.  There were about 2500 grads with about 2000 walking.  It was crazy!  Just like SBU's graduation...except 5 times bigger.
We got to graduation two hours early.  Plenty of time for a good photo!
I'd never been to Hays before.  I'm sure Robert (and other Kansans) would appreciate it if I would say that not all of Kansas is flat and boring.  So, there ya go.  We went to the Sternberg museum of natural history, saw some buffalo, and went to the grocery store and bakery.  Got a nice sample of the glory that is Hays.

My dorm room is just about packed up, minus the stuff I'll need the next couple of days.  I tore down all my hall decorations too.  One of the girls said, "Amy, the hall is naked!"  It's true.  Isn't it funny how that's how guys' halls look all the time?

I'm going to get my nails done on Thursday.  It's the last component of my spa treatment from my mom.  Looking forward to it!

Graduation rehearsal is Thursday afternoon.  Crazy!  Question: can you iron a graduation gown or do you have to steam it?

Share

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...