Michaella's Mumblings

two weeks in review

2007-10-23T17:50:00.000-07:00

Life has been pretty good lately! This is the last couple of weeks in review:

Sat Oct. 13- randomly decided to drive home. I saw my brother on the way to my dad's and we got to hang out for more than an hour. Good times! I ate dinner at my dad's with my grandparents and then me, my dad, debbie, and debbie's son played pool and drank drinks all night :)
Sun. Oct 14- CHIEFS GAME!!! And we beat the Bengals. Doubly awesome! I went to my mom's for dinner...mmmmmm good!
Mon Oct 15- Drive back to TX in the rain. But I made it back for Jen's seminar. All good times!
Tues-Friday: normal lab stuff... boring, but it was good to be back in the lab after my hiatus due to my seminar
Friday night- went out with some totally awsome people :) Ended up staying up till 4 am, which I haven't done in a looooooong time. And I wasn't drunk, so I was going to drive home. When I got back to Jen's apartment (where I left my car) it wasn't there. It had been towed. Even at 4am, it was absolutely hilarious.
Sat- Went to pick up my car at the break of dawn becaus that was when I could get a ride. Did yard in the afternoon. Then I went to a Junior College football game with a friend. It was a REALLY good time. And then there was Outback for dinner... again, mmmmmmmmm :)
Sunday- Church with my new church buddy (don't worry Jenny, he's not as great as you are! And for anyone who thinks that he's a prospecitve boyfriend, forget it. I've sworn off men in the department, and he's in the dept.) Then I headed to Houston. I got to see Elizabeth and hang out!!!
Monday-Tuesday- Conference in Houston. I stayed with Liz, which was a lot of fun! (Thanks again, Liz!)
Tuesday night (when I'm writing this...) very tired, but very happy!

To everyone who's going to Alumni: I'm incredibly jealous. Have a great time and be safe!

Thank you

2007-07-23T21:19:00.002-07:00

for all of your concerns about my depressing blogs. Life is better-ish now. Its a long story... someday you'll hear it if you haven't already. Again, thanks!!

So for some interesting news, I taught my boss how to make "special" brownies today :). And then we talked about Desperate Housewives and other TV shows we like... I truly have an awsome boss. Research is going OK... slow, but that's its pace.

anyway, I hope you all have a great week!!

Just cause I haven't complained in the last couple of days

2007-07-17T07:36:00.000-07:00

I'd like to get off this emotional roller coaster ride now. This ride is not fun. I miss Truman and going over to JLH's and sitting around the living room and having someone to talk to. Or someone listen to me. I know you are only a phone call away, but talking on the phone isn't the same. And there are no hugs at the end. (I know, I want a hug. I must be going crazy) I miss you all and want these next 2 weeks to be over. Then I can be depressed or happy, but not both at the same time. I love you all!!

airport update

2007-07-03T16:25:00.000-07:00

Just been delayed again. that's the 5th delay, 1 hour 40 min.

And I forgot to mention, there's a really cute pic of me and casey on facebook.... click on the pics of Mic link... :-D

Stuck in the airport

2007-07-03T16:09:00.000-07:00

so I thought I'd update. I'm currently sitting in Easterwood Airport (College Station's airport). My flight has been delayed 4 times now, but only by an hour and 20 min. My flight into KC from Dallas has also been delayed and I won't get in until midnight... 1am before I'm in Pleasant Hill. Anyway, I have a little time to kill, so I thought I'd update!

Life is good. I'm pretty dang happy. Research is going slow, but that's its pace. I have an undergrad for the summer and the stuff I'm helping her with is working better than mine, so I've been focusing on that. Hopefully the stuff I did today will work out....I'll see when I get back. I work only like 10ish hours a day, which is quite short compared to the school year. That gives me time to go out to eat or hang out with the boy or go to the bars. And its usually one or a combination of two or three of those each night. I don't necessarily want the school year to start. I don't have to teach or take classes but its not going to be as relaxed as it is now. I must say though, I have a really nice boss. He's great to work for. I'm sure he'll get jaded by academia at some point, but right now he's still new.

I'm headed home for 5 days. It'll be the longest stretch of time that I'll have been home since Christmas. And it'll be the one time that isn't consumed with birthdays, graduations or funerals. Instead, the last part of the vacation is consumed with a wedding. This trip home makes the 4th since the end of April. And the float trip is in August (trip 5) and my boss wants me to Stanford for a week in September (trip 6). Right now, I don't think I'll be able to come home for that :( I also wanted to go to the beach this summer... and I'm running out of summer and weekends. My grandma is going to be in Pensacola in late July (and that's one of my favorite beaches).... trip 7. AHHHHHH! too many decision and not enough money or time.

Anyway, there's not too much exciting going on. I've been to the movies a ton lately. Like more in the last 5 weeks than ever in the past. I've seeb Spidey 3, Shrek 3, Pirates 3, Oceans 13, Knocked Up, and Live Free or Die Hard (not necessarily in that order). The last one was really good if you're into action flicks. Knocked UP was hilarious if you can overlook the nasty part near the end. At one point, there were only 4 movies in the theaters that I hadn't seen.... kinda sad. But movies are only $4 for students, so it's pretty cheap. Cheaper than a beer in some places.

I'm rambling on... trying to kill time. I hope everyone has a safe and happy Fourth of July!

2007-06-11T15:02:00.001-07:00

Its gotten to the point where I hate listening to TV and/or radio commericals. And not simply because they're interrupting my show or music. It seems like advertisers are promoting America's obesity and laziness.

For example, Taco Bell's "fourth meal" campaign. Do we really need to promote eating unhealthy, greasy, fast food late in the night right before you go to bed? And there was an ad on the radio this morning that went something like this "The great gaming shortage of 2007 is coming to an end. Come in out of the heat into X game store and spend your summers becoming a better gamer" or something along those lines. I pretty much heard "Kids, don't play outside this summer!! Sit in front of your TV playing video games that are no good for you!!" There are tons more out there, one more that I can't remember right now, but I remember thinking I was disturbed by it.

And people wonder why Americans are lazy and fat. Hmmmm, could be that we're targeted to be lazy and fat. Grrr. I find it so frustrating. Maybe its just me. But I'm going to get off my soapbox now. I hope you all have a great day!

New computers all around!

2007-05-20T17:28:00.000-07:00

I just got my new computer! Its really cute and what's even better is that it works!! My other computer is more like a chunk of plastic right now. Hmmmm, sad. So what's been going on:

1. My grandpa died and I had to go home. It was a crappy weekend. I mean it was good to see everyone, but I cried more in that weekend than I have ever, I think. I'm still a little emotional, but its getting better. Certain things set me off (and I'm not always aware of them beforehand)
2. The semseter ended!! I finished my grading/teaching. My boss told me that I don't have to teach in the future because he can pay for me. That is very exciting. I'll get to focus on research and not grading and freshmen. I had a final project in one class and a cumulative exam in the other. I rocked both and the semester ended up really well, grade-wise.
3. I came home for my little brother's graduation this weekend. It has been a lot of fun so far. First, Cariss came in to see me...YAY!!! Friday night, Cariss, Marj, Monica, my Aunt Clare, Mom, Grandma, Rita and I went out to dinner at one of our favorite places and we were very loud and obnoxious. I'm glad we had a waiter who was fun. Saturday, I went to one of my favorite stores and bought spices and coffee, decorated and had my brother's party, and then went out to my dad's girlfriend's son's college graduation party. I ate so much on Satuday that I thought I may explode or that my pants might not fit today. Today, Sunday, I went to Church, breakfast, graduation, more eating, more eating, more eating, Sunday night TV. Its been a lot of fun! I'm sad that its so short, but I"m coming home again in 6ish weeks for the 4th of July and my dad's wedding.
4. It looks like I'm going to have a couple of roommates in the fall. One is will be starting her first year and the other is going to a community college near my house. I've not met either of them but I've been emailing one of them almost daily and she seems really nice. More to come on that when I know more about that.
5. I'm going to try to drive up for the float trip in August and try to convince Casey to come with me. A lot will depend on the gas price in August though. At over $3 a gallon, its going to be pretty expensive. And then there's the driving for 2 days for 2 nights and one day of drinking/floating. I'm sure I'll have it figured out by the deadline for money. I really want to come back though. Future trips home after July are tenatively- float trip in August, Steph's wedding (assuming I'm invited) in October, Christmas. Thats all I've gotten figured out so far. Although if any one is feeling generous and wants to buy me a plane ticket, I'll come visit anywhere any time ;)

I'm pretty happy with life right now. Research is going OK, but a bit slow. I'm hoping I have stuff to do when I get back. I've been going out a lot and eating out a lot..... its getting expensive, not to mention coming home. It always feels so expensive to come home. Have a great Memorial day all and be safe! I miss you all!

One year down, 4ish to go!

2007-05-08T08:04:00.000-07:00

I just took my last final! I'm done with my first year of graduate school! I'm definitely looking forward to the summer of research and hanging out... much less stress :-D!

My computer is broken and I don't get my new one until after I go home for Matt's (my lil bro's) graduation. I'll definitely update then. A lot has happened since the last time I updated. Some good, some not so.... Have a good end of the semester if you're in school and if not, enjoy the weather and have a great spring!!!

2007-04-11T18:12:00.000-07:00

So, I started to update this weekend and I realized that nothing exciting has happened since I last updated. Nothing un-exciting has happened either. Pretty much, every day is the same. Sad, huh?

I did go to a big concert with Casey and two other guys from the department. It ended with me being RIDICULOUSLY drunk and incredibly sunburnt. Fortunately, the guys were drunk too so I wasn't such an ass. And my sister came down to see me over Easter. It was really nice. We got along (which is rare for us) and it was really good to see her. We shopped in Houston (Rice Village, Elizabeth) and ate with one of her friends. She got to meet some of my friends down here. Pretty good weekend overall.

I'm really depressed about not coming to Sarah and Matty H's wedding. Everyone will be there and I'll be here... :( I'm being encouraged to take a road trip.... Sadly, I don't think there's time for that right now. And definitely not money. I do get to come home in May for my lil bro's high school graduation. I'm really excited about that already and there's more than a month before the day!! I'll only be in town for ~2 days so I'll be super busy, but I'm still looking forward to it.

I guess that's all from down here! I'm alive and happy. Grad school is exhausting and stressful and a pain, but there are worse things. Like having a real job. So for now, I'm here! I hope to hear from you all! And yay for updating!

2007-01-27T17:15:00.000-08:00

I am incredibly happy right now. More to come later on why. :)

catching up

2007-01-15T14:45:00.000-08:00

Well, I know its been a while since I posted last, but I've been very busy. I went home for break and it was great. I got to see a lot of my family and I had a great Christmas. My mom also threw a birthday party for me since she wasn't going to see me on my birthday....fun. I honestly think that she got me too many Christmas presents and couldn't give them all to me, but that's my opinion. I went to St.Louis on New Years. It was fun, although I'm wondering if I'll do it again. I knew fewer people at the party and it was a long drive. I am very thankful that Stephanie came with me. I think that the drive home would have been a lot worse had I not had Steph there. And I enjoyed talking to my Twin and leaving a drunk message on Creed's voicemail. Bread Co. was very good too. All in all, it was a good trip back to MO. Although I've decided that its too long of a drive to make again...so I'll be flying from here on out.
My sister made the trip back with me and we had a really good time. We bought paint and curtains and decorated my room. It only took us one night to paint, but I'm pretty sure we got high on the fumes. We were laughing quite a bit. And then we got into a paint fight in the middle of my bedroom. We didn't make too big of a mess and it was a ton of fun. We watched the Chiefs lose horribly in the playoffs and ate out and read books and watched a ton of TV. She brought her second season of Grey's Anatomy and we watched a lot of that. It was the best week!
After finals and since I've been back here, I've gone out a lot of times, gone bowling twice, hung out at friends houses, etc. Not having classes or teaching has been wonderful. I've gotten to know a few people down here a lot better and we're having a lot of fun. No one is looking forward to the semester starting tomorrow.
Actually, we're hoping to have a snow day. It has been raining and its below freezing and its supposed to get colder tonight. Texans freak out in cold weather. The cancel or close everything in the event that there MIGHT be bad weather. I think its pretty funny.
I hope you all are doing well and that your new year has started off well. I miss you all!

updating while in a good mood

2006-12-07T12:35:00.000-08:00

So this week has been really good! Classes ended (yay for ending the first semester practically)!! It doesn't look like I"m going to fail out, yay again! I got to talk to my rookie and Courtney last night via AIM and they did a lot of complaining. Made me feel better about my senior year at Truman and some of the drama there. People are now just realizing what goes into being in a leadership role and the stuff you have to put up with. And it was really great talking to those two. They're great gals.

I've done a bit of researching this week and its fun and the guy I work with is really nice. We have a lot of down time and we chit chat. No girls, there's nothing going on. he's from Taiwan and he has a girl there. It is nice having a lab partner of sorts.

I only have 2 finals this semester and I'm not all that concerned about one. It's only over 6 lectures and he said taht it will be more of a quiz. Lucky us! And the other one is being given by my research professor and I've done well in his class so far. Freshmen lab is done so that's something I won't have to worry about until late January! Good week all in all.

I hope all of you have a great week too!!

me = grumpy

2006-11-26T22:23:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was good. Now I'm back. see title to see my mood.

this week I have a 10 page paper due on Tuesday. And a test (that I thought the prof was going to cancel) on Thursday. a problem set due. a review session for my students. finals to give and grade. work to make up. and a dying grandpa. go me

funny fact

2006-11-10T19:31:00.000-08:00

The boss of my lab and the other guy I work with are real gentlemen. They rush ahead of me to open doors. We'll be walking down the sidewalk toward the building and both of them make it a point to get ahead of me to open doors. Or they open the lab doors for me. Or any other door that me or the other girl that I work with come across.

This is just my observation of the day. I'm not offended by it or anything. I find it kind of cute. Too bad no one of our generation does that. I hope all of you have someone that opens the doors for you!

2006-11-08T20:41:00.000-08:00

I decided yesterday that I'm going home for Thanksgiving.
Positives: Holidays with the family, free food!, CHIEFS GAME!!
Negatives: 12 hour drive both ways, the circumstances which made me decide to come home.

Around here, I've been studying for a biochem test all week. Let me tell you, I'm sick of the stuff. And I'm ready for break.

I started researching, aka sitting in my office since I'm not actually doing anything in the lab right now. Although I did get to plate my first crystals today. Should be interesting!! It was fun to be in the lab again. I like chemistry! I share an office with another grad student and I have my own desk (soon to be decorated with pictures). We have 3 labs right now and we're getting a 4th soon. And I will be getting keys shortly and a stock room card (free office supplies). I already have access to all of the building after hours. It's like they trust me!

I have to register my car on Friday. Good bye Missouri plates. Kinda sad.
That's all from here. Nothing exciting is really happening. Its the same thing week after week. I hope life is more exciting for you!

I joined a group

2006-10-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

A research group that is. I am now officially part of a bioinorganic group. Scary, huh? The prof only took one first year (yep, me). So now there are two grad students in his lab. This is rather small but hopefully it will get larger soon. I haven't started any work....I have to pick a project. I have a temporary desk until we get our other office and then I get to move there. Soon I will be getting keys and cards and lots of other things. Yay for me!

I had a wonderful time at alumni! And I got to score a try! The entire weekend was amazing. Sunday was the most wonderful day I've had in a LOOOONG time. I went to the Chiefs game with my dad and Marj and we won....in a nailbiter at the end! And then we had dinner at my mom's and all of my siblings were there. I am very blessed with the best 3 siblings any one could have ever asked for. And my grandparents were there and we had a good time drinking wine and eating lasagna. I got to hang out with my mom a little and we got to talk lots on the drive to the airport (with a detour to a favorite donut and coffee place).

All in all, it was an amazing weekend and I can't wait to come home for Christmas! Although I did get more sick from playing rugby in the cold rain, spending Sat night in the cold and then standing in the cold for 4 hours at the Chiefs game. It was all worth it though. I'd do it again. Without question.

My Alumni plans

2006-10-15T13:28:00.000-07:00

are up in the air. I'll definitely be in MO. But I may have to go home for family. I hope I still get to come to Kville. I'll know more later in the week. The weekend may be busier than I thought. Needless to say, I miss you all.

2006-10-06T09:39:00.000-07:00

Revelation:

I don't miss Kville or most of the people that live there still. I was reading blogs. Man am I glad to be away from that time in my life! I do miss a lot of the people that I met up there. I think about how fortunate I was to have met so many people and to become so close to a handful of them.

I was thinking today about when my mom was going to drop me off at the airport in a few weeks on my way back. And I almost started to cry. Its going to be an emotional departing. I think going back to MO will make me realize how much I miss my family.

But I'm super psyched about going back! Less than 2 weeks!

My profs have rescheduled tests and I have one for sure the day I leave (but I'm taking it early) and I have a feeling that one may get moved to that day as well. Like traveling isn't stressful enough, lets throw 2 tests on top of that and a whole ton of grading for labs. Oh well.

I GET TO COME HOME!!! And I can't wait!

Life as a TA

2006-09-28T08:13:00.000-07:00

I've been a TA for four weeks now. I've counted. And there are definitely aspects that I like, and definitely ones that I don't. I love to teach the kids, and I really like it when they've learned something...like yesterday. I really hate all of the grading. I've decided that I need an assistant of sorts to grade for/with me. Then I wouldn't be spending 12 hours this weekend doing it. But that's not possible, so I should stop complaining...I've got at least another semester of it. I do like my students though. I like a couple of classes better than others. But all in all, they're not bad.

When I ask them questions, most of them answer and attach a ma'am on to it. It totally shocked me the first time someone did it. Actually, I laughed at him. There are quite a few corp kids in my classes so they're used to calling everyone ma'am or sir but most all of the other students are from the south and there's that southern thing where every authority figure/elder is called ma'am or sir. I still kind of giggle inside but I"m getting more used to it. And some of my students call me Miss Levy (of course said like the tax levy, not the way my last name is supposed to be said) and I remind them to call me Michaella. I'm not that formal! Heck, I have a fifth year senior in one of my classes. I"m practically a peer. Except I control their grade.

Life right now is teaching, going to class, grading and on Tuesday nights softball. I like playing and it gives me a couple of hour break from chemistry. The people on the team are very random and a lot of fun to hang out with. Its definitely just a social thing, not serious which is good. Although they don't like to win. So we just make sure we have more points than the other team at all times. And we have a good time while doing it!

I had a great time with Elizabeth last weekend! I'm afraid I dominated most of the conversation, so Elizabeth, I"m sorry! But we stayed up waaaaaaay late talking and hanging out. I got tipsy on coke and rum and it was a lot of fun. It reminded me of the great times I had at Truman and how special all of you really are to me. Cariss thought it would be a great idea to call me very early on a Saturday morning and we talked for a bit. As alumni gets closer, our phone calls have gotten more frequent. For a while there, we'd talk every 2-3 days. Then it turned into more like every day. Now sometimes, it several times a day. I think we're both really anxious for Alumni. I know I'm really excited. Counting down actually. 21 days till I leave CS for the first time since I've been here!!

That's about all I have. got to get back to the grading....
Miss you all and can't wait to see you at Alumni!

drinking and grading

2006-09-15T21:04:00.000-07:00

Well, not so much grading. That's what I'm supposed to be doing, but I got distracted by the internet and House on TV. I did drink though. Grapefruit juice and gin. and I'm feeling it. I haven't drank in quite a while.

The grading part of this job takes forever. I've spent at least 6 hours already grading. And I still have 2 lab sections worth of labs to go. And they take forever. I thought the gin would help, but its a distraction.

That and House. I've gotten addicted to that show as well. But I will be unable to watch it because of slow pitch softball, which I will be playing on Tuesday nights. Whoever invented VCR's was a genious. I can tape House and Greys (which starts next week). Yay for me.

By the way, whoever put the CAPS button where it is wasn't thinking for drunk updates. I've hit it several times already. Annoying.

Other than labs, life has been the same. I have a homework set and a test next week. Don't see a lot of sleep happening. And I"m playing slow pitch softball where I"m pretty much the youngest person by 3-4 years. But most of the players are in their 30-40's and real people. Only 2 other grad students. Everyone is really nice though and I like playing with them. I played in a tournament last weekend and it was a lot of fun, but I was so sore afterwards.

I'm getting to know some girls better up here and I like them. They're fun to hang out with. But we only do something every 2 or 3 weeks. Sad. Liz is coming up next weekend! I'm so excited! I've started planning already. Although all plans are Liz's decision too. More to come later. I'm timed of typing and out of drink.

Have a great weekend/week all!!

school

2006-09-04T11:28:00.000-07:00

I've decided that I would have done a whole lot better my second year and part of my third year at Truman if I had just studied. I think I thought I didn't need to. What an idiot I was.

I've been studying some Pchem for a class I'm taking now and it's not that hard of stuff. You just have to work on it. I wish I'd been this smart about studying back then. Oh well. Can't change the past.

Went for a run yesterday. Legs are sore today but in a good way. I think I'll go again tonight. I need to anyway. Get in shape for alumni... :)

Have a great Labor Day all. Enjoy the day if you get it off. I don't.

Updating for my sister

2006-08-31T19:12:00.000-07:00

because she suggested that I update. Well Sister, I checked your blog and you haven't updated. I'm feeling a little cheated. You should update too...all of you!

Thank you to everyone who has sent me things since I've been here in Texas! Almost every day I get a card, little gift, or something from my friends or family. I'm truely blessed. Thank you all so much.

I've made a couple of friends here. 4 other first years and I know a couple of guys. There's this really cute guy in one of my classes and he's in one of the groups that I want to join (I wanted to join that group before I knew he was in it). so we'll have to see.

First week of classes went alright. I bought a book online and haven't recieved it yet. Kinda sad. And the other class is focusing on P-chem. I hated pchem. Hopefully it will get better. I haven't been that busy this week, but labs start next week and I should get really busy. I have to TA 3 3 hour lab sessions. And all of the grading that goes along with it. And anything else the profs may want of me. The peon work has begun

Other than that, I'm having a good time. I keep waiting for it to cool down a little and then I remember that I'm in Texas and its not going to cool down for another month. I think I'm going to miss fall most of all. Chiefs, cooler weather, and trees changing colors, all things I'm going to miss.

Miss all of you the more I'm down here making new friends. They're not the same. I miss you all. So, lots of visitors are good. And I hope to do a little traveling. We'll see how crazy it gets next week. Later all!!

Life in Texas

2006-08-22T09:07:00.000-07:00

So, the excitement of last week has worn off. I've met a few girls at school and we went out one night last week. We went to a dance hall...had a beer, danced, was home before midnight. It was fun. My life has become grown up and I don't like it.

Also, I go days without talking...to anyone. Sometimes my parents call. Sometimes I call my siblings. Sometimes they aren't there. So I just do things around the house and watch TV. I've watched so much TV in the last 10 days, I may NEVER want to watch TV again. And I"m bored. I know I should be glad for the down time because next week I get very busy. If that's the case, then I can't wait for next week.

And I've been sleeping like 10 hours a night. I have nothing better to do so I sleep. What a sad life.

That's it for today. Just complaining.

catching up

2006-08-13T20:16:00.000-07:00

Hey all! I've officially moved and I've spent my first day down here alone. The last 6 days I have been here and was not alone. Here's a somewhat brief description of the days...

My mom helped me move and her friend Rita came down too. We painted a wall in the living room, painted the dining room including some cute border stuff, stripped the wallpaper in the kitchen, fixed holes/seams, and painted that room, put the kitchen together..etc. We were very busy for a couple of days! We also shopped and got linens for the bathrooms and a new quilt for my bed and some curtains. And of course, unpacked what seemed like 10,000 boxes. They left on Thursday afternoon but I was already gone...

My dad and brother flew in on Thursday and I had to drive to Dallas to get them. Not a bad drive, but the one to Houston is better (more to come on that later). There was this horrible wreck on the highway, which was only 2 lanes and the lanes were closed down for over 12 hours. They had to reroute us onto the construction road, one lane at a time. Very slow. But all in all, it was not too bad. When we got back, we did more fixing stuff than shopping and making the place look good. First we had to mow....I'll have to get used to that again. And they wanted to buy me thing I would need, such as an air compressor....for what?!? I guess airing up my bike tires. They also thought the drill I had was not sufficient so we got one of those and lights and fans and set up the internet. We drove down to Houston on Saturday afternoon for the Chiefs game. It was a very sad game but I"m hoping that the season is better than the first preseason game. It was fun going to an away game. I don't think I'd like to make a habit of it but it was fun once. And Reliant Stadium is gorgeous. There is defintely a difference between their 5 year old stadium and our 36 year old staduim. Dad and Matt left EARLY this morning but I didn't have to drive them to the airport, the hotel that we stayed at in Houston did.

I came home and did stuff around the house and watched TV and tried to take a nap, but people called. Its tough being loved. I thought the dynamics from when my mom was here to when my dad was here were interesting. Definitely a psych study out there for that one. And I've spent the whole day at the house by myself and no breakdowns yet. I think it'll really hit me when there are family things in KC that I can't attend or if I want to see someone and I'm not going to be able to. We'll have to see. I've cried a couple of times and only once when my dad was here but nearing the end of his stay. I hope I have visitors and I"ll be looking for a roommate sometime. But all in all, I"m pretty happy!

I start on Tuesday and have 5 placement exams in 3 days. Yuck. Then we have an additional week of training, registering, payroll and insurance information...yada yada yada. But its only for about 4 hours a day so that's not so bad.

I guess that's all for now. Sorry for the length. Try to stay cool! Love always~

I'm an updating slacker

2006-07-06T06:41:00.000-07:00

hello all! I think I've talked to all of you at least once since I last updated, but I have some exciting news to share! But we'll get the boring stuff out of the way first.

I'm just babysitting this summer and its boring! I'm babysitting my dad's fiancee's kids, who are 10 and 14 and still need a babysitter. If that tells you anything about my days. They like video games, TV and computer games and HATE being outside. So, I make them go outside for at least 30 min. per day. They don't like it but it gives me a break from being inside. They're kind of whiny and definitely spoiled. But it pays OK and its tax free and its only 3 days a week. I've been spending the night at my grandparents when I'm out here and its a lot of fun. I haven't spent the night with the grandparents since I was about12, I think. If you ever spent the night at grandma and grandpa's and haven't in a while, I suggest it. Its fun. They take me out to ice cream every night after dinner even though I spend at least one night out here a week. Its like being 12 again. Kinda nice!

The fourth was really nice. Kinda sad because my aunt died last year on the fourth but fun otherwise. Cariss was in town and Steph and Nick came over. If only all of you could have been there too it would have been the best. We shot of fireworks and blew stuff up for hours and then ate waaaaaay too much food and then the boys (Nick, my brother and his friend) shot off the big stuff. I had a great time with Cariss and Steph. I always realize while talking to Steph how much I love talking to Steph. I'm going to miss her a lot when I go to Texas.

Speaking of Texas, I was there last weekend. On Saturday, Cariss, me, my dad and his fiancee looked at 17 houses in 8.5 hours. LOOOOOOONNNNNNGGGGG day! But I found a house and we put an offer on it and came to an agreement with the other party and I'm well on my way to purchasing my first house. The closing date isn't until Aug. 1 (don't fret, I don't have to be in TX and can still come to the float trip) and I'm planning on moving in around the 7th. I'm not techincally buying it...I don't have enough credit. My dad is putting his and my names on it, but I'm paying for it. I'm going to have to get a roommate sometime after I get there, but I figure I can float the first couple of months by myself. And boy am I excited about living alone!! I owe Cariss a thousand times for coming with me. My dad and Debbie would have driven me crazy if I hadn't had someone there! Anyway, I EXPECT lots of visitors. There'll be a spare bedroom for anyone coming down. And of course, BBQ-ing (even in December, its warm in TX!!), drinking and hanging out.

I haven't spent a weekend in Kansas City/Pleasant Hill this summer. I'm supposed to go to Kville this weekend, but I"m pretty sure I'm backing out of that. That means 2 whole days!!! And then after this weekend, I'm back to being gone on the weekends until I leave. But I'll be getting to see Jenny and Lindsay one weekend (hopefully!! I'll call) and also the float trip when I'll see you all and then I'm going away!!

I hope all of you are enjoying your summers and I hope to see you all at the float trip!! I miss all of you lots and lots! Can't wait!

And undergrad is done!

2006-05-12T11:23:00.000-07:00

So, as the title says, I'm done here! All I have to do is walk across that stage (hopefully out at Stokes Stadium). I'm so excited to get out of here. I'll miss the few people that I like that are staying, but to the rest of them, GOOD BYE!!! Until I come back for Alumni to kick their asses, of course.

I'm very excited to move on. Some of the dramatics this semester have put me over the top. The most notably being Kris having a fit over Di being stolen. She claims that Di was the only person there for her when her mom died..... DI IS A CHUNK OF PLASTIC!! This what I wanted to scream at her. Pranks were funny when she was pulling them but one gets done against her and it's no longer funny. OK, now that that's off of my chest...

My parents, grandparents, sisters, brother, aunts, uncles, etc are coming up this weekend. I'm kind of excited about that. We're doing a BBQ tonight at Steph's house with Kim, Laurie and me and our parents. I'm really looking forward to it. And I'm packing up my room and taking my stuff out of the house this weekend. And going back to PH. Not especially looking forward to that, but it'll be free and relaxing for the most part.

Planning a trip to College Station in a couple of weeks to apartment search, then Jamie's wedding, Cariss' dad's wedding, Hawaii, and camp all in a row. It'll be a busy but good 3 weeks. I can't wait to see you all sometime this summer! Until then, ciao!!!!

Rugby=over

2006-04-30T20:51:00.000-07:00

Well, we had our final games this weekend. We played KU and won and it was very exciting. Then we played the Dragons, and ended up losing by 2 kicks. We each scored 3 trys but they made two of their kicks. Such is life. It was a lot of fun and I"m glad we went out on a good note. I got to wing one half of the Dragons game and scored a try...yay for me!

We had formal last night, after the games. I have to say, rather disappointing. I didn't even stay for senior gifts and willing and I have to say that I didn't really miss it. I'm pretty sure I'm not going to regret it. I am sorry that I couldn't see Kim and Steph will stuff and that sort of thing, but I got in a really bad mood. So I thought I should leave.

Went to a chem friend's party afterwards. That party was fun. Lots of drunk chem majors....always funny since I usually see them being so studious. There was lots of dancing and jungle juice and leis and saran wrap or duct tape outfits (it was supposed to be ABC) and good times! I didn't even drink that much last night....a total of 3 drinks. Still had a great time. Came home really late, well, 3am.

Elections were this morning and I have to say that it was the saddest showing ever. I think there were about 12 people there to vote (seriously, not being sarcastic) . It was a very weak showing for the team. I think the people elected will do OK in their positions, but there are 6 new people on exec, including the president. Interesting.

Anyway, that's the weekend in a nutshell. I have one week of classes which consists of 1 presentation, 4 tests and a lab practical. And then only one final next week. Coming up: Rugby Bar Crawl on Friday night, chem recognition things on Sat, wedding showers on Sat, shopping in Columbia :), AXE bar crawl, graduation, moving out of Kville, maybe a trip to TX to find an apartment, etc. Happy Spring!

Sorry its been so long :)

2006-04-14T07:23:00.000-07:00

Its been a while but not a lot of exciting things have happened. The last 3 weekends, we've spent on the road to tournaments. Let me just say that I'm SUPER EXCITED to have a weekend off. Of the tournament weekends, I played 9 of 9 games, scored a couple of trys, and for the most part had a good time. We did take 2-9 hour trips...and let me tell you, those make for a long weekend. Western's was interesting but if you want to read the details, go to the team website. Natalie updates regularly.

In the realm of school work, well, I haven't had much. I'm glad I decided to take all freshman level classes this semester. There's not too much work or studying involved. Its great. I've ordered announcements for graduation, and filled out all of the necessary forms. I have to find my cap and gown...I think its shoved in my closet somewhere. Only like 12 class days left! I can't wait to graduate.

Summer plans include a trip to Hawaii with my family (and Cariss), camp, possibly CO and the Grand Canyon with my mom (with a detour to see my sister and twin...crosses fingers), working, and being a bum. I start orientation in Texas on Aug 15, so I"ll have to move down a couple of days early to set up my apartment.

That's all thats happening here! I hope you all have a great spring and rest of you semester if it applies!

2006-03-20T21:08:00.000-08:00

So the long one did post. If you're really procrastinating, you can read both, but the short one is about as good. Cheers! And its snowing cats and dogs here!

so this one time...

2006-03-20T21:00:00.000-08:00

I wrote a long blog describing my spring break. But it wouldn't post. So, the abridged version--

Spring break was great!!!! I had a great time in Texas and its a definite possiblity for grad school. But no decision has been made yet. Thank you to my Sister and Twin for putting me up and putting up with me! I had such a good time hanging out and skiing. I cannot wait for my date to the Canyon Grill next time I'm in the area :) I had a great time with Halleh too...you're such a crazy girl! And I think that was my favorite St. Pattys day! And I got to see my Aunt who is working in Denver, which was nice since I only get to see her once a year anyway. Lucky me! I get to see her twice this year!! I was totally exhausted by the time I got back to KC, but it was all worth it! The time I spent in KC was a lot of fun and I got to see all of my granparents and hang out with my mom, dad, and big sister. And I got to shop somewhere besides Wal-Mart. All-in-all, great spring break!

I'm definitely not in the mood to study. The week off has thrown me off and I don't want to get back into it. But alas, I must study. Thank you again to all of you who made my spring break amazing! I love you all!

thank you to all

2006-03-20T05:49:00.000-08:00

who made my spring break amazing! I had such a good time....I'm very tired, but it was well worth it!

Starting break a day early, I went to Texas for my college visit. I really liked the school and it was nice that it was so warm. I haven't decided anything yet, but its a definite possibility. The flights to Houston and College station were possibly the worst 2 flights I've been on in my life. But at least they got better as the week progressed. I learned how to pack more efficiently! I only took a carry-on. The planes were too small and it wouldn't fit in the overhead bin, so I gate checked them and I've decided that I like that better anyway. The return flight was uneventful...thankfully!

I spent Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday at home. I saw all of my grandparents, went to lunch with my big sister (which I ended up paying for because she didn't have any cash), ate with my parents, shopped, etc.

Wednesday morning, my aunt drove me to the airport and I landed in Colorado at 11:30ish. A different aunt picked me up and we went to see Red Rock Ampitheater and the Sister Cabrini chapel. They were both beautiful! Then we headed to FoCo and ate lunch at this little Italian joint, which was very tasty. We had a good time talking and hanging out! I wish I could see her more often. She dropped me off at my sister's and twin's place and I got to hang out with Jenny for a bit! Linds, Jenny and I went to a pub place and ate appetizers and drank beer. Thursday, I ran errands with Linds, and then we went to New Belguim! and I found Sponge Bob first (thanks linds!!) and we tasted beer. We even got the new beer which isn't out yet...yay for being girls :) Then we went for a little drive...through the foot hills in buck horn. We found lots of cool houses up in the hills and places that it seemed dangerous to get to the house. We also found a place where we're going to eat when I come back, named the Canyon Grill. Jenny, LInds, and I drove to Denver to pick Halleh up from the airport and then went out. Friday morning started very early!! We left the apartment so early!! But it was definitely worth it! Keystone was so much fun and the weather was beautiful when we got there. And the cheap lift tickets were very nice (thanks, Bill) I only fell once, although there were many more close calls. When we got back to FoCo, we went out for St. Patty's day and I drank lots of Killians! I had a great time!!! Yay for a holiday that encourages drinking! Saturday morning was very early again because I had to fly out of Denver. All-in-all, a very busy, full 3.5 days and a great time. Thanks Twin and Sister for taking me out and hanging out!!!!

The rest of Sat, I took a nap and did laundry. On Sunday, I headed out early and ate lunch with my lil sister, bro, dad and Debbie in Columbia and then headed back to the ville. I think its wrong that the Highway Patrol sets up speed traps on days they know Truman students will be returning in flocks. I didn't get stopped, but I"m sure a lot of people did. Its good to be back but I have so much to do that it's ridiculus. So, instead of working on it, I'm updating. But its probably time to start my crazy week! Have a great week all and thanks for the amazing spring break! Love lots to all!

4 days and I'm out of here!

2006-03-05T12:15:00.000-08:00

My spring break starts in 4 days! And I'm already thinking about what I want to take to Texas and Colorado! It's supposed to be pretty warm in College Station and I don't know what I want to wear. I guess I'll have to decide on something soon. I have a lot to do before I leave though. A presentation and a test and an outline for a big paper and lots of research.... I guess I'll get it done but I don't really want to.

Last night was our "alumni" party and it was a good time in my opinion! Teddy came up and it was really good to see her. And of course, there was a lot of beer and I think I passed out before midnight. The guys had a party too but I didn't stay long. Their parties aren't as fun as they used to be. But I think the rookies had a good time. We also had a rugby game yesterday. It was OK, we lost (I think). It was kind of cold. I got kneed in the quad in the first tackle of the game and now my leg hurts lots. I almost took myself out of the game it hurt so bad when it happened. But I didn't. And I continued to play. And now I have a pretty good bruise. That pretty much sums up the game for me yesterday. We had 2 new rookie props and they weren't too bad. I hope they stick around because we're kinda short on props.

Anyway, I better get to all of the homework I have to do today. And watch the Oscar's :) Too bad there's no Grey's Anatomy. Have a good week all and I can't wait to see most of you in a week or so!

my final spring break

2006-02-23T10:23:00.000-08:00

Over my spring break, I'll be experiencing 2 or 3 different temperature zones (depending on what MO does over that time). (1) I'll be spending 3 days in central-ish Texas visiting grad school; (2) I'll be home for 2.5 days busily seeing all of my family; (3) Flying out to Denver to spend an afternoon with my Aunt and 3 days with my twin, sister, and hopefully Halleh!

I'm really excited! I'm hoping there are some slopes in those plans and maybe a brewery or two, but whatever we do, I'm totally psyched to be going to see you girls! Have a great week all....I know mine is going to be great now!

2006-02-20T19:41:00.000-08:00

My little sister took me to see Rascal Flatts last night...I have to say one of the best concerts EVER!! It was awsome. We went with a couple of her friends and they were all a lot of fun. And of course, I had a great time with my sister. I ended up staying in Columbia last night and got back to Kirksville about 40 minutes before classes. I was pretty tired all day, but it was definitely worth it.

During the concert, I got emotional. I remember most of the girls who graduated last year getting emotional at one point. And then Rascal Flatts played "I'm moving on" and it made me sad. I could potentially be moving far away and away from all that is familiar. My sister thought that I was crazy. So, even though I thought you all were a little off emotionally last year, I totally understand now. But I'm all better now and looking forward to the future.

Moral of the story- go to a Rascal Flatts concert whenever possible. They're awsome! Have a great week all!

Torino and Texas

2006-02-14T10:20:00.000-08:00

I've been watching the olympics a lot lately. I really like the olympics. The summer Olympics are my favorite, but I like the winter games as well. As I've been spending a lot of time on the couch, I haven't been doing a lot of good studying. Therefore, I'm behind in my school work. I have a pretty big presentation on Thurs and an exam on Friday. I'm working on both, but this weekend would have been a good opportunity to catch up. Oh well, it'll just be a couple of busy days. We don't have class tomorrow, its University Planning Day, but surprisingly I'm very busy. I guess its better than spending the day in class. I'm going to help with a tie-dye for AXE with 19 second graders. It should be interesting, and I"m looking forward to it!

Tonight, we're having an Olympic party. Everyone has to have an event. I"m bobsledding with Deb, Kristin Harkins and Kim. We'll be using the couch as the sled....it should be entertaining. There'll be curling in the kitchen and figure skating. I'm kind of excited about it! I also have a party to go to with some chem people. Its a vodka party, so I'm not sure if I"m going to drink over there. But it should be fun none-the-less. Thanks Truman State for giving us a day off and a legitimate reason to drink during the week!

Also in happy news, I got into Texas A&M Grad School. I go down to Texas in March to see the school and the chem dept. I'm still not sure if I'm going to go to grad school, but if anything, it'll be a good trip to Texas! And maybe I'll get to see Liz! The weekend is the first weekend of spring break and I'm about 95% sure I"m going to come out to CO on Wed of my spring break until Sat or so. I'm excited about the way break is shaping up!

Rugby games start in 2 weekends! Yay for the beginning of games! We play in St. Louis the first weekend. It'll be good not to have to travel very far.

I guess this is all I have for right now. Have a great week all!

sometimes I ramble

2006-02-05T20:43:00.000-08:00

Well, I've been pretty busy since my last post. I tried to update, but there was something wrong with the website, therefore, I could not post. Sad day for me!
Anyway, I went to St.Louis for the weekend and saw my twin and all of the St.Louis kids and had an awsome time! I always forget how much I miss them until I see them again. It's even worse when I have to leave! But I had a wonderful weekend with my twin, Steph, Kim, Cariss, Sarah and Matt, Halleh and everyone else!
Last weekend was beer-a-thon and in true BAT tradition, I was pretty drunk! It was a really good time. My bro came up and hung out and we went to a chem friends house later that evening where we proceeded to get drunk. It was a very fun weekend! And I had a really good time hanging out with my bro! He is definitely my favorite brother! :) I made him breakfast at noon and it included bacon...shock!! I, of course, did not eat any of it but he appreciated the gesture. And then he left and I did homework...exciting I know.
This weekend, I went home for my Mom's birthday and it was quite possibly some of the fullest 40 hours of the semester! Me and my lil sister went to dinner with Mom and her friend when we got into town. Then Sat, we had breakfast with my mom, ran errands, late breakfast with my dad's parents and my dad, ran more errands and then had my mom's birthday party that night! We catered the event, which was a first for my family and it was good food and it was nice not to have to do dishes all night. We watched the forty best superbowl commericals and had a great time. I had 2.5 beers with my grandpa and I was very relaxed the rest of the evening. We (as in my siblings and I) gave my mom a charcoal grill (which she has already used, less than 24 hours later) and a shirt that she can wear to work. She was very pleased and I think she had a really good time! My family is crazy, but I think that is one of the reasons I love them so much!
I spent a lot of today driving and watching TV. When I got back, I went grocery shopping and made some soup and then took a nap and by the time that I woke up, it was time for the superbowl! I have to say that I was pleased with the outcome and I enjoyed the commericals! Some of them were very creative and funny. I was rooting for the Steelers. I also tried to study some, but I didn't get too far. Psychology is so boring to me! But I'll eventually study :)
I watched Grey's Anatomy after the game. I really enjoy that show! But now there's dilhema...what's going to happen next week?!? They can't kill off Meredith....it wouldn't be Grey's Anatomy any more! This is a very stressful situation! I wait in anticipation for the outcome next week!
Until then, I have a test and a 20-30 minute presentation and I haven't even started the presentation. Maybe I'll ask for an extension. The test is in gen. psych and I've been reading the book but I don't know how much I'm going to exert myself on this one. I may take it pass/fail anyway. The presentation is what is going to kick my butt later in the week. And i have a pretty big bio assignment due on Tues morning. So, I had better stop procratinating and get to studying! I hope everyone has a great week!

traditions

2006-01-19T18:10:00.000-08:00

To all of my friends who have moved on to bigger and better things:
Its the first Thursday night of the semester and I'm going to...DRINKIN' W/LINCOLN! In memory of all of the good times we had last semester! I miss all of you and hope you're having fun!

PS. Halleh, I went to pint night last night too with the chem people. We had a blast, and I thought of you! :)

Winter break

2006-01-05T08:50:00.000-08:00

I had a successful end of the semester. My little sister came up the last Friday of finals and we hung out and did a whole lot of nothing. It was great. The roomies cracked us up. Very fun end of the semester. I got sick the minute I got home and spent most of the rest of the week on the couch. I did get my Christmas shopping done and had a pretty good time doing it.

Christmas eve we had Christmas at for my mom's side of the family. It was very nice excepy my grandpa couldn't come because he was sick. But other than that it was fun. We did Santa in the morning with my mom and then went and did Santa with my dad on Christmas morning. My dad went a little crazy with gifts this year. I almost felt guilty because he got us so much. We then went to his side of the family's party. That was a little difficult because my aunt always put the spread on and she passed away last July. So it was a little emotional. But it was nice and we had a lot of food and lots of good times.

The rest of the week between Christmas and New Year's was spent being lazy. I watched a lot of TV, read a couple of books, shopped, etc. We did do a Chanukkah dinner with my Grandma and grandpa. It was a good night.

Cariss came to PH the Friday before New Year's. We hung out, played a lot of cards and had a good time. On new year's eve, I was pretty low key. We drank beer with my grandpa at dinner (he likes someone to drink with and my grandma doesn't drink beer...my grandpa was very happy) and we went to the plaza to see the lights and then we came back to my house, watched the ball drop and played cards. It was fun. Sunday we went to the Chiefs game and tailgated. It was awsome! And the game was too! It was Dick Vermeil's last game and we didn't get into the play offs because Pittsburg won, but it was an awsome game! The weather was so nice. I only wore a long sleeeved t-shirt and a t-shirt and I was warm most of the game. Not typical for a Jan. 1 game. Very nice though, and we won...we actually smashed the Bengals. It was a good farewell to Dick and a nice way to end the season.

I came back to Kville for a couple of days so I could apply to grad school. I could do it at home, but there are so many distractions. So I came back up here and I've been pretty lazy up here too. But it'll get done and I have to be back in PH for the weekend. So, I'd better get going on that stuff. Have a nice break to those of you that have breaks and travel safely. I miss you all but I hope you had a nice holiday!

MARJORIE'S HERE!!

2005-12-16T16:24:00.000-08:00

My sister came to visit, and I'm showing her how these things work! Have a great holiday season all!

I'M DONE!!!

2005-12-15T21:20:00.000-08:00

I'm done for the semester! It feels soo good! I'm so happy! And my GPA is going to be OK this semester! If you can't tell, I'm happy!

I have so many plans for the break. Make my scrapbook from Europe, spend a couple of days in St. Louis, a couple in Chicago, shop, eat, and relax. I also have to finish applying to graduate school. They're due by the first of Feb. So, I have some time to finish them. I'lll get them done in the next week or so, but the letters of recommedation may be the time consuming thing. Profs are sometimes "busy".

Today, I've been drinking already with chem people. But I'm sober now so I thought I'd update. Tomorrow, I'm planning on packing, cleaning, and my sister is coming up to see me! I'm excited about that! I think that's about all, I'll talk to you all later! I hope to see you all over break! Love lots!

What's been happening the last two weeks

2005-12-04T22:42:00.000-08:00

So, I should start by mentioning that I check all of your blogs regularly, but do not find the time to update mine. I think your lives are much more interesting anyway...all I ever do is study.

Anyway, a quick update. I finished my biochem paper and haven't gotten it back yet. I hope I did well, I'll be dissaspointed if I didn't. I didn't fail my last biochem test...I remembered to do the last 2 pages. I acutally did well. I was excited. I haven't had a whole heck of a lot to do for that class before finals. Inorganic chemistry is as ridiculus as ever. We got a take home test on Wed and I haven't started it and I'm not that motivated to do so. The class really frustrates me. It has to be done before Friday, so the goal is Thursday. We'll see how motivated I get.

Thanksgiving was great. I went home for 5.5 days and I got to hang out with my family. I ate two turkey dinners. All of my cousins came to my mom's Thanksgiving and I bought a pinata for the kids. It was really cute. I took pictures as eveyone took swings and I saw so many genuine smiles. And of course, the candy and party poppers were a big hit. I went shopping with my mom for my Christmas present and although we didn't buy anything, we got a good idea of what to buy. I've asked for an MP3 player and I'll be excited if I actually get one! Other than that, it was a good opportunity to catch up on sleep and relax. I can't wait for Winter break...I get to put my scrapbook together from Paris and London, shop, be a bum, and read a fun book!

To make all of you proud, I've had a drink the past 6 nights. I got tipsy a couple of those nights, drunk on a couple and shitfaced on Friday night. It was banquet and it was fun. I was voted best forward and my friend Stephanie was voted best back. It was exciting and unexpected for the both of us. Then I went to hangout with some chem people and continued to get really drunk. Fun but expensive.

This past week has been very carefree. This next week though will be more stressful. Today, I decided to ignore homework and went to the Chiefs game instead. It was an awsome game...we beat Denver and the weather was not too bad. I sat with a friend and we were 6 rows up from the field. At times, the view was awsome. At others, I couldn't see because I'm short. I decided that I like my dad's seats better. I went to see him at the game and he was very excited and shocked. I didn't tell him that I was going to come to the game. It was fun. But that means that I've done ABSOLUTELY NO homework today. I did watch Sunday night TV when I got home (I heart Grey's Anatomy) and I did a little GRE studying but I just don't care at this point. Speaking of the GRE, I'm taking it tomorrow and I hope I don't fail it horribly. That sucker was expensive! I'd like to get into graduate school...so hopefully its not too bad.

So, now I'm going to go to bed and hopefully get a lot done this week. Final week, I have one final on Friday, one on Tuesday (biochemistry) and one on Thursday (inorganic), plus a big paper for lab due on Wed. And then I'm practically done! Next semester is going to be a breeze hopefully and I'll get to have some fun! Good luck everyone on finals if you have to take them, and if you're working, have a good December and happy holidays all! I hope to hear from you (or I'll just call you) as the holidays approach. If you're traveling any distance over 30 miles, drive safely!

separated shoulders and biochem papers

2005-11-17T15:01:00.000-08:00

Last weekend was our last weekend of rugby for the season. We played the Jazz and then MU came up for a pick up game since they didn't go to Arkansas. We played well against the Jazz in my opinion...the score wasn't that bad. I don't remember what it was but you can check the website if you really want to know. The Jazz came up the night before the game and they went to the Coyote Bar here in town. They got a good taste of townie flavor, but I think most of them liked it, sadly. After we played, we went over to Krista's to eat and hang out. It was raining so we were trying to stay dry and warm. So we ate and were merry and the MU rookies put on a skit so there was entertainment. It was a pretty good time! And then as most of the Jazz went to leave, Chris Franz kissed Krista on the cheek...it was quite possibly the funnies thing I've witnessed in a long time. And Krista was totally scarred, I feel bad for her. but it was funny none the less. That night, KJ and Duff, two Jazz players, came over to the party and taught us a new drinking game. It was a lot of fun and it doesn't involve cards. I"ll show you all next time I see you! Its a little difficult to describe.

In the Jazz game, Angie Cranmore tackled me and my shoulder hurt afterwards. But I didn't think that much of it, I continued to play. And I played about half of the first half of the MU game before taking myself out and then I played the whole second half as a wing...because how much contact to you come into as a weak side wing? :) Anyway, it's hurt at varying levels since Saturday afternoon. So I went to the doctor today and I separated it. and I got 5 pictures taken of it! We'll have to see what they tell me when the DR sees them. So pretty much all they told me was that its going to hurt for 3-4 weeks and then it should be OK, but it may heal so my left shoulder is higher than my right shoulder. So, Twin, we may have similar left shoulder abnormalities....lucky us! Anyway, its bothering me right now because the Dr pushed and pulled on it to determine that it was separated. That's sadly the most exciting thing happening right now. Atleast it happened as the season was ending. I have 2.5 months to let it heal and not be tempted to play even though I know I'm not supposed to.

I got an A on my biochem paper...the really long, frustrating paper that I worked on for 2 weeks stratight. But the second part is due before break and I haven't exactly started it. So, my plan is to work on it and have a rough draft tonight and to have it done by Tuesday so I can go home! I'm such a nerd, I can't wait to see my family. I"m really proud of my biochem paper though. I know some people in my class didn't do as well as I didn and they're very good students. The professor is a tough grader and holds us to high expectations. So it was exciting.

I gave blood today and of course, they bruised me pretty good....dang nurses not listening to what I tell them. I've been there for every other time I've given and the same thing always happens with my right arm. But no, every nurse is better than the last one and they won't have a problem. Then they stick me, and what do you know, I was right!! Its crazy! And this time they were showing crappy movies. So my giving blood experience was below par today, but 3 people get blood transfusions now, so I shouldn't complain because I'm able to give blood and I don't need the transfusion. but still, they should try to make it a more pleasant experience...its charity!

OK, I think this is enough rambling. I dont' have any really exciting news. No new men, I'm not going to the brars very often, but I do manage to make it there on weekends, and I live in Magruder or the library. I'm just trying to get through to Christmas Break and next semester. this weekend we are doing hour of power, which should be exciting! I'll think of you all once while getting drunk! Have great Fridays and a great weekend!

I know, its been a long time coming

2005-10-31T22:36:00.000-08:00

So, I guess I should start by saying that I'm sorry that its been a week and a half since I've posted.
My week has been less than rainbows and cherry-topped sundaes. I had that dang biochem paper due, and I turned it in today. Thank heavens it's done. Now all I have to do is wait for the score....ahhhh! I also had an inorganic take home test, although I didn't know it was take home until Wednesday. I stil haven't started it, but its not due for a couple more days. I'll get on it soon.
It seems like I wasn't supposed to sleep last week. I was so tired going into this weekend! But I didn't let that stop me from having a good time! I went to the CAKE concert on Friday on campus and then drove home. It was a long drive and I didn't get home until almost 2am. And I did a load of laundry before bed. I was exhausted! And then I got up in the middle of the night to change the laundry out and then got up a couple of hours later to drive to Lawrence for rugby. I had to take advantage of the free laundry situation :) Rugby was good, it was tough though. Those Jazz girls are good. I had a good time although I'm still sore today. After the game, I went to Jimmy John's with my dad and then I got a new cell phone! (same number, different phone) I was going to take a nap, but I had to see my dad's dogs, shower, finish laundry, and make myself presentable so I could go to dinner with my grandparents. Dinner was really nice but then I had to drive back up to Kville. I'm glad I did though. The rugby and lacrosse girls had a party adn I saw everyone wasted and dressed up. It was a lot of fun! And then I went out with some AXE friends...fun yet again! And then I played sober driver because I got into town way too late to drink. All-in-all it was a good couple of days. Sunday, after I woke up from 12 hours of sleep, was spent in the library working on my paper.

I guess I didn't feel the need to update last week since I'd seen you all recently. I realized sometime that weekend of Alumni that I had been looking forward to Alumni since August. I guess I'll have to look forward to Chirstmas now. Anyway, I want you all to know that I had an amazing weekend and thank you all for coming back. It made my semester :) If all of you who are a long ways away are going to be in the MO/IA area over Christmas break, we should all do something. I'd even drive to StL since it seems most of the people will be near there. Just a thought. I guess this is all for now! Have a happy Halloween, and a good rest of the week!!

swamped

2005-10-19T19:01:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd let you all know I'm not forgetting to post but I have no time. I spent 14 hours on campus yesterday. I'll update better soon when I don't feel like I'm drowning in school. I can't wait to see you all...some in about 24 hours and some in 48...woo hoo! Till then, travel safely!

its been a rough few days

2005-10-11T18:16:00.000-07:00

So, in the last few days, my life has been a little rocky. First of all, I had a biochem test of Friday, so I spent most of last week studying for it. Not a lot of fun, but I felt very prepared for it. On Friday, I take the test and am feeling pretty good about it until we start talking about it. Aparently, I forgot to do a couple of pages. So, needless to say I didn't do that good on it. Actually, I failed it. I've never failed a test before but there's a first for everything. That whole test taking experience has been weighing on my mind a lot. I know I should just get over it, but right now its just not possible. The class was given the opportunity to make up some of the points so I'll get some of my points back, but I 'm still frustrated. Biochem was (and still is) my favorite class. Now I just have to work myself out of a giant hole. It's more like a crater or the Grand Canyon, but there's hope I guess.

Rugby was good this weekend. We won and we played well, in my opinion. This was the first weekend that we had 4 props come and I only got one half. Nothing out of the ordinary, but I've kind of gotten used to more playing time. Oh well, I should share. I'm not going this weekend and I feel kinda bad about it, but I'm going on a grad school visit.
I'm going to K-State with a whole bunch of chem majors from Kville and it should be a good time! Then on Sunday, I'm going to the Chiefs game with my dad and John and Ethan. It should be a good weekend. I don't think I want to go to K-State but it can never hurt to look. Plus, they'll probably pay for me to go there, so I shouldn't be too picky. I'm planning on applying to a few more schools too...although I don't know exactly where yet.

I don't have any classes on Thursday or Friday so tomorrow is my last day of classes this week. I have a paper to research on Thurs and Fri and we're leaving at noon on Fri for the "little apple". I'll be busy, but it won't be very stressful. Good times for me!

Ok, I've caught you up on what's going on with me...you all should leave me comments, I like to read them. I know this post is a little dry, but I was talking on the phone at the same time...kinda difficult. I"m not too good at thinking two different things at the same time.

Have a great weekend all and I can't wait to see you all in a week and some change.

I'm procrastinating

2005-10-02T14:16:00.000-07:00

I just don't want to do homework. I did so much studying last week and I know I have so much to do this week but I'm still not motivated. I am working on my logic homework while watching the Chiefs game but other than that, I'm not feeling especially studious.

My mom came up for family day and stayed the night and we did a lot of hanging out and talking. It was a good time. And I got to go grocery shopping...yay for that! And she went to church with me, which was nice. She got to see me play int he games on Sat too. The first game agains UNI A-side was like a track meet. They were so athletic. They were really good, but the definitely favored the running game and didn't like to be tackled. They weren't necessarily bigger than us but they sprinted the whole time. There were only a few instances where we got to play rugby and were not chasing them. I forgot to mention that they wanted to play 40's so I ran an 80 minute track meet. I was a little tired. I did get a half off when we played the B-side but I played the second half. That team was more of our speed and I think we could have won hands down if half of our team hadn't just finished the track meet. We played well still but we didn't win that one either. I'm so sore today too. My legs are really tired and for some reason my right hip hurts pretty good. Not like bruised, but like hurts to walk. I'll have to see how I feel tomorrow. That's pretty much all that went on this weekend. Kristin H had people over last night. I was only over there for about a half of an hour but it seemed like a good time. There were lots of rookies out which was nice.

On the subject of rookies, we had rookie breakfast on Wednesday. It was a lot of fun. I love rookie breakafst! I had fun making the rookies in my car think they were going to run from Thousand Hills and breakfast was a lot of fun. There was a large group of people that came. I'm glad we got to do it before our first home game. I'm pretty sure that my rookie is going to stay around...and she's a twin, so I'm keeping the twin tradition alive. My sister and I are not twins, but I think everyone else is. And I have a twin, just not biologically.

This week at school has been absolutely crazy. I had an inorganic test and I probably put 20 hours of studying for it. I don't think I did horrible, but I don't think I did awesome. I have a take home part that I haven't started but its not due for another 3 days. I"m hoping to start it tomorrow. I also had a biochem quiz which I think I kicked butt on. But I have my first biochem test on Friday and I'm kinda starting to stress about that. I also have a biochem paper to start on and its totally confusing. I have no time!! Oh well, next semester I'll have so much time and I'll have fun!!

I've decided to go to grad school and I"m going to start applying to some soon. I'd like to get my masters' in Analytical Chemistry with some emphasis in biochemistry. I also want to get out of the midwest but all of the best analytical grad schools are in the midwest, so it looks like I may be staying close to here. My profs have said that I should be able to get in, hopefully get some or all of it paid for and hopefully a stipend to live on. That makes me happy! And eventually I want to work in the pharmaceutical industry doing drug analysis. There are several drug companies in the KC area and that's where I want to end up eventually. And the there's always going to be a need for medication so hopefully there's a future in it. These are my thoughts right now. Who knows how far off I am but we'll see soon enough! I'm going to go to K-State for a grad visit in 2 weeks and I'm going to apply to SLU because they have a good master's program. I'm also looking at Iowa State and a couple of schools in Illinois. There are a couple of schools in TX that are a possiblity and one in NC so I may have the opportunity to get out of the midwest for a couple of years.

Ok, I think this is all from Kville for today! I really have to get back to my homework and my Chiefs and then SUNDAY NIGHT TV!! I hope you all are well and I can't wait for alumni!

yay for fun weekends!

2005-09-25T11:32:00.000-07:00

So, I realized when I woke up this morning that I've closed down the bars the last 3 nights. The bars are so much fun! I'm definitely not tired of being 21! Last night was a lot of fun too! We BBQ-ed at Steph and Nicks and drank. There were quite a few rugby girls there and we had a good time! Almost like old times, except there was no one dancing which I'm OK with!
The game went OK, we lost and we had to borrow 3 girls from Des Moines who were rookies I think. There were a couple of people playing new positions (like our 3 rookies). I played full-back!!!! SHOCK! It was interesting! I think that I like playing a position where I get in more, although I sure tried yesterday. But none the less, it was interesting and I can add that as another position that I've played. Ok, off to go get some food and my car from Steph and Nick's. Have a great day everyone, and don't forget that Sunday night TV resumes tonight!!! Yay!

TGIF

2005-09-23T19:11:00.000-07:00

HAPPY WEEKEND ALL!!!! BE SAFE AND HAVE FUN!!

ARRRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGG!!!!

2005-09-22T21:21:00.000-07:00

So, the last post I wasn't happy. Compared to the train-wreck of a night I've had, Tuesday seems all happy! My life here is still unhappy. I've actually talked to a chem friend who has a house and I'm thinking of making some kind of change. I'm about to go crazy!!!!

At practice it climaxed. I got stiff-armed in the neck by Mary (Tracey's HS player that now plays for us and everyone worships the ground she walks on). 1). I don't really like Mary. She thinks she's better than most of us because she's played longer than most of the team and she's kinda rude. 2). She won't adapt to our style of playing. She refuses to use the same binds as we do in scrums and lines and won't listen to why we do what we do. 3). She offers comments all the time, which is really just a pet-peeve of mine....under the breath but making sure everyone knows what you're saying isn't cool anymore. We're in COLLEGE...GROW UP!!! So anyway, I got stiff-armed...oh well, it happens. But there were people who seemed to think it's OK to stiff-arm your own teammates and not look where you're stiff arming. That's really where I lost it. I was walking toward where we put our shoes on to get some water...and just picked up my stuff and went to my car. Well, by this time, I was really upset and was hyperventilating....thank God for Stephanie. She reminded me to breath. So, practice is still going on, and I'm leaving. By the time I get onto LaHarpe, I'm crying. Rugby has never made me cry before, atleast not when it wasn't an injury. So it made me think, do I still want to be playing? I've never been this unhappy in college or with rugby. I tried to talk myself out of it last week, but obviously that didn't work. And I just bought new cleats today...I'm hoping I didn't waste my money. I'm also still going this weeekend although we may be playing people short. But we'll have to see after that. My mom is coming up next weekend for family day, but that may be it for me. I can't take much more of this. I thought my sophomore year was crazy with babies, dogs, and crappy houses....that was a breeze comparitively.

So, this post is essentially me complaining more. I need to stop complaining, especially when my problems are small compared to those who are trying to prepare for Rita. I try not to dwell on it but it seems that I can only think of ways to break my contract here at home and how to make rugby fun again. If anyone has any suggestions, I'd be really open to them.

The only good thing going on right now is school (surprisingly) and AXE. Those people are so much fun, and they don't make me feel like crap all of the time! Wow, I forgot what that felt like!! Anyway, I was elected as the Alumni Secretary for AXE because the other girl got sick. I don't really have to do much, but its fun being involved. I'm also still a Student Ambassador, which I still love! I'm also working 9 hours a week in the Graduate Office which keeps me busy. Right now I'm still working scholarship, but in a few weeks, I'll graduate to Institutional pay...lucky me $5.15/ hr! Raking in the big bucks!

I'm also going to start applying to grad schools. I want to go in Analytical Chemistry. The only sad thing for me is that all of the really good ones are in the Midwest. I had wanted to get out for a couple of years, but it seeems that Texas or North Carolina are the only interesting places I may get to go. I'll probably end up at KState or KU or Uof Ill. We'll see where I get accepted and where I get money (if I get any).

Ok, this is enough for one night. I feel much better getting all of that out of my system. I'm sorry if it brings you down. Don't worry too much...I tend to make something out of nothing. and then overreact. I hope you all are well, and I REALLY do miss you!

30 days till Alumni! :)

Last blog: happy, this one: not so much

2005-09-20T23:39:00.000-07:00

Well, its only been a couple of days since my last post and I've been extremely frustrated since! On a happy note, my boys won on Sunday 26-20 and they played OK...not the best but its early in the season. Sunday night I did a lot of homework which I desperately needed to do. And Mondy I spent in class or making up time. Practice got cancelled because it was raining and lightening. Although about 4:45, it stopped raining and the sun came out. So, it was free time which I really enjoyed.
I got really P-Oed at practice today. This weekend we play in Des Moines and the Heart plays in Oklahoma, and BOTH of our coaches are going to the Heart games. In my opinion, when you agree to be coach, the first order of priority is our own team, not the Heart. If there had been no conflict, then there would have been no problem. But as it is, we're short backs and Steph may not be able to play....so that would put us short 2 backs and I don't know how many extra forwards we're going to have. We had a few injuries this last weekend (all minor but people may require more time off) so our numbers are down anyway. Helen is going as our coach for the weekend which may prove to be interesting although that doesn't really upset me. The fact that the coaches don't trust me or Steph really bothers me....we're only useful when it conveniences them or the team. I've never wanted to quit, honestly, before but twice in the last week I've considered it. What does that mean? I'd rather hang out with my AXE friends than the rugby team with the exception of a couple of people. And I am hanging out with my AXE friends more...they're fun and nerdy too. So I fit right in! On a side note, we're ordering hoodies for rugby again....and I already have 2. I really like the design, but I don't really think I need another hoodie. Dilhema, dilhema.
Ok, well, I'm just rambling now...and I should probably do some homework so I can go out tomorrow and Thursday night!
32 days till Alumni!

Yay for good weekends!

2005-09-18T15:23:00.000-07:00

So, this weekend was very full! I went home on Friday night and my mom fixed me, Kim, Kristin H., and Sarah Bernard dinner and we got to sit around and talk. We started watching The Cutting Edge and had a long and involved conversation about the movies we used to watch as kids. It was a great night.

Saturday morning, we went to the game and we won against Benedictine and it was nice to win the first game of the season. Then KU, being the b*tches they are, pulled the Jazz to play with them. But we held them from scoring for like the first 14 min and I think they only scored 3 times the whole game. That was exciting! Then my car started traversing the state. We started in Atchison, KS and ended up in St. Louis several hours later. Kim's mom made us enchiladas and we had chips and salsa and guacamole and it was super yummy! And we got showers too, so we didn't stink by the time we got to Matty H's. On the way to the party, we stopped to get some beer....and we were so goofy and giggly. I attribute this to the heat and dehydration of the day! And the giggly-ness didn't end there...we were goofy the whole night. It was so much fun! AND I GOT TO SEE SO MANY PEOPLE!!! I had such a good time catching up, that it made me totally anxious for Alumni! You all better come, for my sanity. We left early this morning to head back to the ville and stopped at Bread Co. Yum! Kirksville is so devoid of good places to eat. And now, I'm putting off the hours of homework I have to do to write to you! I also went cleat shopping....but I didn't wat to pay for adult cleats and the kids cleats didn't fit. I kinda blew-out the side of my right cleat in the game....I had to duck tape it to my foot for the second game! It was kinda funny :) So now, I'm cleatless and I need them for next weekend at latest. I"ll probably break down on Thursday or Friday and buy adult cleats. Well, I'd better go attempt that homework and get psyched for my Chiefs game tonight. Its the Sunday night game and we play Oakland...I hope that it goes well! Have wonderful weeks all and I still miss you, but only 34 days till the Alumni game!!!

This is a test

2005-09-15T13:51:00.000-07:00

I'm testing myself....wish me luck! :)

sorry its been so long!

2005-09-15T13:37:00.000-07:00

So, I created a new blog, because I messed the last one up somehow. Anyway, its been a while since I"ve posted, so I'll catch you all up.

Labor Day: Didn't do much. I went out and got rightfully drunk for an AXE friend's 21st on Sun. night. It was a lot of fun. I'm finding that the more I hang out with AXE people, the more I want to hang out with them! They're such a fun bunch! And they like to go out with me. And I can be a nerd (myself) around them and they're all nerds too!

Following week: Had recruitment....it went OK. There were a good number at the info meeting. A lot showed up that Thursday, not so many on the following Monday. But I think we've got 6-10 staying around. Which is good. That Wednesday at AXE, I got nominated as Alumni Sec because the girl that was doing it got sick.

Last weekend: I went to Columbia for a Mizzou game. Those are so much fun! It's a dry campus except when there's a home game. There was a lot of alcohol there! And I got to hang out with my little sister, which was fun! Then we went home and went to the Chiefs game on Sunday! GO CHIEFS! They had an AWESOME season opener. It was about a 1000 degrees, but it was fun anyway. Dad forgot the tickets until we were like 10 min from the stadium, so we had to go back to PH. Tailgating was a little rushed, but it was fun none the less. You'll never guess who sang at the game! Ok, we'll you're going to find out because I can't keep you in supsense too long via internet. Jessica Simpson and Nick sang "America the Beautiful" pre-game as a tribute to 9/11 (that was the date of the game). It was cool! And the Chiefs won, so it was an all around good weekend!

This week: Well, Monday, I wanted to break my lease and quit rugby, so I"ve definitely had better nights. I left for the library and started crying, so I went over to Kim's and hung out over there for a while. It was good for my mental attitude. That was the night my away message said "I miss the old girls". I needed some good friends that night, and I was having issues finding them. Kim and Steph were about my only options, and I didn't want to overload them with my BS. But Kim took it all in and gave me very good advise and I really appreciated her! Tuesday night, I wasn't in the mood to do homework, so I just hung out and went to bed early. Last night (Wednesday) I had AXE and passed up going out so I could do homework....so I can go out tonight!!

So today, I successfully gave blood (I failed the iron test on Tues) and was late to my class. We had a guest speaker, but she was very nice about me interrupting her. It's cold and rainy. So, I got home and was soaked and frozen. I've thawed out now and I'm going to go get ready for a wet and cold practice. Then we're having registration and a pizza party here at the house....yay, 20 wet muddy people in my house. I can't wait! I'll miss most of it though because I've got class tonight. Damn.

OK, time to sign off....sorry its taken me so long to write on of these things. Hope to hear from you all soon!!

Michaella's Mumblings

two weeks in review

Thank you

Just cause I haven't complained in the last couple of days

airport update

Stuck in the airport

Advertisements

New computers all around!

One year down, 4ish to go!

catching up

updating while in a good mood

me = grumpy

funny fact

I joined a group

My Alumni plans

Life as a TA

drinking and grading

school

Updating for my sister

Life in Texas

catching up

I'm an updating slacker

And undergrad is done!

Rugby=over

Sorry its been so long :)

so this one time...

thank you to all

4 days and I'm out of here!

my final spring break

Torino and Texas

sometimes I ramble

traditions

Winter break

MARJORIE'S HERE!!

I'M DONE!!!

What's been happening the last two weeks

separated shoulders and biochem papers

I know, its been a long time coming

swamped

its been a rough few days

I'm procrastinating

yay for fun weekends!

TGIF

ARRRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGG!!!!

Last blog: happy, this one: not so much

Yay for good weekends!

This is a test

sorry its been so long!