Well, my ambitious intentions to blog my heart out this year have--yet again--epically failed. This semester has been possibly more insane than the others combined. I'm enjoying it much more, for the most part... much less homework, but much more work work... plus a wonderful family to keep me somewhat sane. Now I just feel like an underpaid employee of a research lab, rather than a grasping-for-air first year. One step up, I suppose.
Things at home are still going well -- trying to cook and enjoy Co's company when I can, but our schedules are disappointingly opposite. He's out of the house earlier than me, and I don't get home until late.. and he goes to bed early. Weekends have been dominated by the football gods, so not too much quality time there, either. Even when I take time off to spend mindless hours eating unhealthy tailgating food and staring at men tackling each other alongside my husband, Sunday becomes a frantic time of catch-up, often resulting in zero sleep and a rough start to the week.
I'm in the middle of one of those Sundays right now, actually.
I'm craving a balanced life, but it's hard right now. Harder than it was last year, probably because my heart is tied to another. I'm not complaining about the tied hearts -- I love being married to Cory. It's just hard balancing work and a stable home life... even though I love my time spent both places.
It's pretty common in our program to run ragged.. get to the point where the seemingly impossible has to happen.. and last week was definitely one of those weeks. I tried to relax this weekend, but I never got time to "mourn" over the lost time and sanity that seems to have happened over the last few weeks. Even though I feel a little more balanced and went to bed around 10 Friday and Saturday nights, I am constantly on the verge of tears.
I keep thinking back to my college counseling class -- our bodies go into depression when we're overwhelmed.. it's a healthy way to "take ourselves out of the game" and recoup. I know I'm depressed right now. Not in the clinically-significant realm, but in the practical way. My body is protesting the late hours and lack of normal social stimulation. I also constantly feel guilty for not spending more time with family... even though my parents totally understand and support me. I knew grad school would be hard. I just need to get back in a balanced groove emotionally. I need to figure out how to take myself out of the game before my body does it for me. I'll get there.
Although it is overwhelming at times, work has been so stimulating and fun this year -- lots of big, exciting projects and opportunities. I'm working on two papers right now and a big grant proposal, as well as two or three conference presentations for the spring. On Friday, we successfully piloted an attention paradigm I've been frantically working on.. I almost cried when the sweet baby's face bobbled successfully from side to side, watching the balloons disappear.
We leave tomorrow morning for a 36 hour trip to San Francisco .. where we will be hauling a suitcase of standardized toys, two laptops, an LCD screen, physio equipment, and a home-made attention "tent" (thank you, ladder golf, felt, and patient husband) ... to see a sweet baby with fragile X. These assessments provide precious data, but the travel and "high stakes" scripting can be overwhelming - everything has to be flawless.
Although the assessment will be a neat experience, I'm nervous about losing two days of class work and week prep... we have three more assessments when we get back, plus 8 hours of practicum, work, and classes/homework. Cory's parents are coming in town next weekend, too.. then the next week my midterm assignments start to be due.
Yes, the balance becomes a challenge. I just need to figure out how to find peace in the moments between the projects and papers and deadlines. Last week I found myself sitting in my car between classes, closing my eyes, and just listening to one song.. just to give myself a break from the numbers and madness. Even those three minutes of peace refreshed my heart a bit.
Taking time out to watch life evolve has helped, too. We celebrated a beautiful baby shower yesterday with two of our close friends who are expecting twin girls.. and just soaking in the joy and the excitement was incredibly refreshing. Our friends have overcome so much to bring the sweet babies into this world.. it's such a good reminder to me of how far love, patience, and hope can go.
Little breaks for inspiration and peace. That will be my goal for the week.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
back to school
Tomorrow... it begins again.
First day, second year. Granted, this year is supposed to be easier than the last -- and we survived that one -- but there's still something daunting surrounding it. I mapped out my lab schedule today and kissed 20 solid hours (plus writing) -- in the lab alone -- goodbye. Add to that a 16 hour class schedule and one full day of practicum each week..
.. oh, and homework?..
yikes. Part of the dauntingness is that I know I have a family at home waiting for me now. Working late isn't just productive -- it also takes away from things I can't take back. It's not a balance I'm particularly used to discerning. ...not that I'm complaining :) I love coming home to Co and Moo.
I'm excited about the opportunities this year, though. The department is adding an extra concentration for students pursuing extra stats classes.. I'm figuring out masters thesis info.. discerning expanding my research interests a bit.. it's all fun and exciting. Let the discernment continue.
So for all of you going back to school - best wishes for a year of inspiration and growth. Here are a few yummy recipes from our last summer dinner to help get you started.
Jalapeno Grilled Corn
courtesy of Rachel Ray
1 stick of butter (don't worry, you wont eat it all)
1 jalapeno, halved and seeds removed
2 t paprika
juice of one lime
1/2 lime zested
corn (butter is enough to make a bunch!)
Place all ingredients (except corn) in a food processor and pulse. If the butter has trouble mixing in, microwave for a few seconds. Put scrape the butter mixture onto wax paper and fold to make a block. Put in fridge for 5-10 minutes. Grill the corn, then serve by rubbing with jalapeno butter. Sprinkle with salt and enjoy!!
Yummy Turkey Burgers
1 lb ground turkey
1 egg white
1/3 vidalia onion, diced
1/4 green bell pepper, diced
2 T bread crumbs
1 t kosher salt
1 t pepper
Mix ingredients in bowl, form into patties, and grill! Serve on 100 cal wheat sandwich rounds (or plain with a side of BBQ!).
Butter Pecan Zoku Pops
3/4 c almond milk
1/2 t vanilla extract
1 T brown sugar
3/4 c pecans
1 1/2 T sugar free caramel
Combine ingredients in magic bullet, pour into molds, wait 7 minutes, and enjoy!
First day, second year. Granted, this year is supposed to be easier than the last -- and we survived that one -- but there's still something daunting surrounding it. I mapped out my lab schedule today and kissed 20 solid hours (plus writing) -- in the lab alone -- goodbye. Add to that a 16 hour class schedule and one full day of practicum each week..
.. oh, and homework?..
yikes. Part of the dauntingness is that I know I have a family at home waiting for me now. Working late isn't just productive -- it also takes away from things I can't take back. It's not a balance I'm particularly used to discerning. ...not that I'm complaining :) I love coming home to Co and Moo.
I'm excited about the opportunities this year, though. The department is adding an extra concentration for students pursuing extra stats classes.. I'm figuring out masters thesis info.. discerning expanding my research interests a bit.. it's all fun and exciting. Let the discernment continue.
So for all of you going back to school - best wishes for a year of inspiration and growth. Here are a few yummy recipes from our last summer dinner to help get you started.
Jalapeno Grilled Corn
courtesy of Rachel Ray
1 stick of butter (don't worry, you wont eat it all)
1 jalapeno, halved and seeds removed
2 t paprika
juice of one lime
1/2 lime zested
corn (butter is enough to make a bunch!)
Place all ingredients (except corn) in a food processor and pulse. If the butter has trouble mixing in, microwave for a few seconds. Put scrape the butter mixture onto wax paper and fold to make a block. Put in fridge for 5-10 minutes. Grill the corn, then serve by rubbing with jalapeno butter. Sprinkle with salt and enjoy!!
Yummy Turkey Burgers
1 lb ground turkey
1 egg white
1/3 vidalia onion, diced
1/4 green bell pepper, diced
2 T bread crumbs
1 t kosher salt
1 t pepper
Mix ingredients in bowl, form into patties, and grill! Serve on 100 cal wheat sandwich rounds (or plain with a side of BBQ!).
Butter Pecan Zoku Pops
3/4 c almond milk
1/2 t vanilla extract
1 T brown sugar
3/4 c pecans
1 1/2 T sugar free caramel
Combine ingredients in magic bullet, pour into molds, wait 7 minutes, and enjoy!
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Date Night Dinner
Cory and I cooked this next yummy meal on a fun date night in :) Enjoyed with peach mojitos -- although I won't post that recipe until it's PERFECT. Pairs nicely with a terrible "comedy", I might add..
Pork Loin Braised with Beer and Cabbage
modified from Cooking Light: Way to Cook
4 t paprika
2 t thyme
1.5 t kosher salt
1.5 t pepper
1 t sage
2 lbs boneless pork loin, trimmed
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 head of green cabbage thinly sliced
2 medium onions, thinly sliced
3 thinly sliced carrots
1 small can tomato paste
1 bottle beer
1. Preheat oven to 350
2. Combine 2 t paprika, 1 t thyme, 1 t salt, 1 t pepper, and sage - rub over pork.
3. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium high heat, coat with PAM and brown pork on all sides (about 5 mins total). Remove pork from pan.
4. Add bacon to pan, cook until crospy. Add onion, cook for a few minutes, then add carrots. Cook until onion is caramelized, then add tomato paste. Add rest of spices and beer, stir to combine, then add cabbage.
5. Toss cabbage with other ingredients, cook until cabbage is wilted (stir every few minutes). Add pork to pan.
6. Cover and bake at 350 for 1.5 hours, or until pork is tender (original recipe says 2 hours, but ours cooked much more quickly!) - use meat thermometer. Slice the meat and let juices seep through. Serve and enjoy!
Pork Loin Braised with Beer and Cabbage
modified from Cooking Light: Way to Cook
4 t paprika
2 t thyme
1.5 t kosher salt
1.5 t pepper
1 t sage
2 lbs boneless pork loin, trimmed
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 head of green cabbage thinly sliced
2 medium onions, thinly sliced
3 thinly sliced carrots
1 small can tomato paste
1 bottle beer
1. Preheat oven to 350
2. Combine 2 t paprika, 1 t thyme, 1 t salt, 1 t pepper, and sage - rub over pork.
3. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium high heat, coat with PAM and brown pork on all sides (about 5 mins total). Remove pork from pan.
4. Add bacon to pan, cook until crospy. Add onion, cook for a few minutes, then add carrots. Cook until onion is caramelized, then add tomato paste. Add rest of spices and beer, stir to combine, then add cabbage.
5. Toss cabbage with other ingredients, cook until cabbage is wilted (stir every few minutes). Add pork to pan.
6. Cover and bake at 350 for 1.5 hours, or until pork is tender (original recipe says 2 hours, but ours cooked much more quickly!) - use meat thermometer. Slice the meat and let juices seep through. Serve and enjoy!
Summer Lunch Recipes
Nothing says summer like chicken pesto sandwiches, fruit salad, bbq onion rings, and delicious fruit popsicles (with wonderful friends, of course!). We made these dishes when Amy and Liz dropped by for a yummy summer lunch to catch up before Amy moves to Boston. SO DELICIOUS!
Caprice Cherry Tomatos
modified from Cooking Light Magazine
1 pint cherry tomatos, halfed
fresh mozarella cheese, cut into 1/8" strips, then sliced to width of tomato
fresh basil, tough part of leaves removed, cut into 1/8" by 1.5" strips
kosher salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
toothpicks
Lightly salt and pepper mozarella slices. Assemble on toothpick in following order, to make a "sandwich" out of the cherry tomato: (1) bottom half of tomato, (2) basil, folded over, (3) mozarella, (4) top half of tomato. Serve immediately.
Homemade Walnut Pesto
modified from Cooking Light cookbook
4 T chopped walnuts
2 T minced garlic
3 T EVOO
4 C fresh basil leaves, stems removed
1/4 C parmesean cheese (grated)
1/4 t kosher salt
Drop nuts and garlic through food processor chute with machine turned on. Add oil and pulse. Add remaining ingredients, scraping bowl as needed.
Pesto Pecan Chicken Salad
recipe makes enough for 5 or 6 sandwiches
1/3 c prepared pesto
1/3 c plain lowfat yogurt
1/3 c light mayo
1 c toasted pecans, finely chopped
1.5 T lemon juice
4 c cubed BLSL chicken breast (added S&P and baked at 350 for 35 minutes)
1/3 c roasted red bell peppers, drained and sliced(a few slices per person)
whole wheat 100 calorie sandwich bread rounds
Combine pesto, yogurt, mayo, pecans, lemon juice, and chicken; refrigerate until ready to serve. Lightly toast bread, add chicken salad, and top with several slices roasted red peppers.
Baked BBQ Onion Rings
modified from Cooking Light cookbook
3 T flour
1 T sugar
1 t chili powder
1 t cumin
1/2 t salt
1/2 t paprika
2 large eggs, beaten
2 medium onions, sliced to 1/4" thickness, and separated into rings
1.5 c breadcrumbs.
1. Preheat oven to 450. Place two cookie sheets in oven to preheat.
2. Combine first seven ingredients in bowl, whisk thoroughly.
3. Place 3/4 c breadcrumbs in gallon ziplock bag. Dunk a third of the rings in the flour mixture, then add to bag. Toss to coat. Repeat with remaining rings and breadcrumbs.
4. Place in single layer on 2 preheated baking sheets coated with PAM. Add rings in single layer, and bake for 5 minutes on each side. Serve immediately.
Zoku Cantaloupe Popsicles
Ingredients:
1/2 cantaloupe, cubed
2 T fat free vanilla coffee creamer
1 T brown sugar
Blend ingredients in Magic Bullet, pour into molds. Makes 5 popsicles. Enjoy!
Caprice Cherry Tomatos
modified from Cooking Light Magazine
1 pint cherry tomatos, halfed
fresh mozarella cheese, cut into 1/8" strips, then sliced to width of tomato
fresh basil, tough part of leaves removed, cut into 1/8" by 1.5" strips
kosher salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
toothpicks
Lightly salt and pepper mozarella slices. Assemble on toothpick in following order, to make a "sandwich" out of the cherry tomato: (1) bottom half of tomato, (2) basil, folded over, (3) mozarella, (4) top half of tomato. Serve immediately.
Homemade Walnut Pesto
modified from Cooking Light cookbook
4 T chopped walnuts
2 T minced garlic
3 T EVOO
4 C fresh basil leaves, stems removed
1/4 C parmesean cheese (grated)
1/4 t kosher salt
Drop nuts and garlic through food processor chute with machine turned on. Add oil and pulse. Add remaining ingredients, scraping bowl as needed.
Pesto Pecan Chicken Salad
recipe makes enough for 5 or 6 sandwiches
1/3 c prepared pesto
1/3 c plain lowfat yogurt
1/3 c light mayo
1 c toasted pecans, finely chopped
1.5 T lemon juice
4 c cubed BLSL chicken breast (added S&P and baked at 350 for 35 minutes)
1/3 c roasted red bell peppers, drained and sliced(a few slices per person)
whole wheat 100 calorie sandwich bread rounds
Combine pesto, yogurt, mayo, pecans, lemon juice, and chicken; refrigerate until ready to serve. Lightly toast bread, add chicken salad, and top with several slices roasted red peppers.
Baked BBQ Onion Rings
modified from Cooking Light cookbook
3 T flour
1 T sugar
1 t chili powder
1 t cumin
1/2 t salt
1/2 t paprika
2 large eggs, beaten
2 medium onions, sliced to 1/4" thickness, and separated into rings
1.5 c breadcrumbs.
1. Preheat oven to 450. Place two cookie sheets in oven to preheat.
2. Combine first seven ingredients in bowl, whisk thoroughly.
3. Place 3/4 c breadcrumbs in gallon ziplock bag. Dunk a third of the rings in the flour mixture, then add to bag. Toss to coat. Repeat with remaining rings and breadcrumbs.
4. Place in single layer on 2 preheated baking sheets coated with PAM. Add rings in single layer, and bake for 5 minutes on each side. Serve immediately.
Zoku Cantaloupe Popsicles
Ingredients:
1/2 cantaloupe, cubed
2 T fat free vanilla coffee creamer
1 T brown sugar
Blend ingredients in Magic Bullet, pour into molds. Makes 5 popsicles. Enjoy!
back a married woman :)
It's finally time to return to the blog -- married, happy, and so excited for these last few lazy summer weeks.
This summer has flown by -- but we've absolutely loved every second. I think we're getting far enough removed from the wedding that I'm wishing we could go back and do it all over, but lately I've been enjoying the lack of guest lists to write, bows to sew, favors to make...
... particularly when I have this wonderful husband to spend my time with.
We've really been enjoying married life (despite what we'll probably tell you if you ask how "married life is treating us" -- our answers are getting more creative each time we hear that question). We're slowly getting into our routine around the homestead, and as work picks up for both of us, we'll adjust to that routine, too. Molly and Cory are getting creepily used to each other (they're napping together as I write this -- peas in a pod), to the point that I'm generally considered a third wheel around here. Who would have thought a good ole' country boy and a "boston terrier" would make such a good pair?
I'm enjoying the post-wedding return to work, too. With fewer impending details swirling through my mind, I feel like I have my sanity back! I've been so much more productive, and I feel like I've learned a lot. I'm teaching myself some fun stat techniques (yeah, I said it - FUN) that merge hierarchal linear growth curve modeling with typical regression. Basically, we can see how individual trajectories of behaviors (such as social responses) predict later emergence of autism symptoms, versus just looking at cross sectional samples or strict repeated measures designs.
I'm starting to fall in love with data analysis -- to the extent that I've been debating trying to cram more stat classes into our already insane school psych schedules. It's just so liberating to have a research question and be able to actually answer it. In one work day, I can learn something remarkable about precursors to autism. It's an empowering, beautiful feeling. Combined with my perfectionistic personality (I'm owning it these days), I have trouble handing my questions over to someone else to analyze. So much gets lost in translation. So hey -- learn it yourself, right?
So work is wonderful, home is wonderful.. life in general is pretty great. Co and I are so similar to how we were before, but it's so different at the same time. We've been growing towards each other for so long, but now we're growing in the same direction -- together. We laugh more than we ever have before -- and even on grumpy days, I have more fun with him than I would alone. It's so right.
We've also been LOVING the chance to make dinner together (and put all these fun kitchen gadgets to use) or for whoever else happens to be around. People drive through Cola a lot -- which I LOVE -- so it's so much fun to entertain and catch up with old (and new!) friends. I've decided to document some of my favorite memories (and the recipes that go along with them) here so that others can enjoy them, too. Each week, we buy whatever meats and veggies are on special, then we seek out yummy recipes to put to use. Lots of successes so far - get excited!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
a little teaser
Our invitations are almost done!! Mom has been working soooo hard calligraphing everything, and they've turned out BEAUTIFULLY! The paper is a gorgeous ecru color with navy thermography, and our little bow emblem from the save the dates is printed on a "squircle" (the name my cohort came up with for the shape.. which I lamented about for a solid afternoon), which tops a sweet little aqua silk ribbon. Mom wrote everything for the printer, which makes it SO extra special!!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
it's time!
I'm back :)
I apologize for not blogging for, er, four months. Sadly, it's a sign that life has gotten to that terrible crazy point where I don't have enough time to reflect. I'm not sure if that's a bad thing or a good thing... maybe the optimistic perspective is that reflecting might make me just realize how crazy things truly are. Maybe just flying through four months of chaos without any self-reflection was some crazy coping mechanism that helped me survive.
I sound melodramatic, and I know it... but I haven't liked school much lately. I enjoy research, and I enjoy the math. I enjoy my new friends, my dog, my apartment... but the things that I REALLY enjoy (time, old friends, music, writing, sleep, Cory) haven't been enough of a part of this year for my liking. The stress is getting to me, too... every other day seems to be one of those 8am to 2am deals. Yuck.
The traveling has been insane, too. Tons of wedding festivities (for ourselves and others!), which is soooo exciting... but such a strange contrast to my double life studying the emergence of physiological neurodevelopmental symptoms... a few conferences, wedding meetings, gown fittings... and my adviser just got a grant that will go towards us flying around the country to assess children with fragile x. Literally -- with very little notice -- we will be hoping on planes with our bags of tricks, heading out to test how infants respond to us stressing them out, etc.
Needless to say, my car is a strange combination of bridesmaid dresses, dog toys, and assessment kits.
Oh, and I moved. My neighbor was harboring a fugitive or something, and the lady tried to get me to drive her somewhere... so we figured it was a good time to switch into our married nest. Cory doesn't live here yet, but we have enough space for us and the dog(s). ... and a second bedroom for when friends come to visit!!! Great for football season!
Luckily, next year will be more balanced. I'm working in the lab for free this year to get experience, but I got hired on for this summer and next year (meaning NO MORE GRADING OR TEACHING!!). We have one less class next year, and I'll start doing practicum in the school, which will be a refreshing break from current chaos. No more yucky intro classes, no more of certain professors... it's going to be glorious :) ..and no more traveling to see the love of my life!!
AND WE'LL BE MARRIED! I can't believe the wedding is less than 70 days away. Truly, the slow, beautiful realization that I get to be Cory's wife has kept me motivated this year. The thought that I get to come home to him next year -- instead of just to my crazy, carpet chewing, bobby-pin eating, ewok-looking dog -- makes my heart so happy. We're ready to be a family... as ready as we'll ever be, anyway :) I'm so lucky he'll be part of my every-second life :).
As excited as I am, all the wedding planning is getting a little crazy. We finally chose groomsmen attire, the invitations are ordered, favors are started, catering is set (look forward to a "slider bar" with the best mini-mango pork sammies and "shots" of mint-watermelon salad EVER!)... too many "to-do's" to count, but they're all exciting. Mom hand calligraphed our invitations (just like she did hers!), so I'm really looking forward to seeing them. Navy calligraphy, ecru cards, aqua silk ribbons, and teal envelopes!
I've learned that wedding planning is the ultimate perpetual opportunity for procrastination. Always something to do that truly should be done. Perfect recipe for anti-productivity, now?
Speaking of procrastination, I have a 30 page paper yuckily hanging over my head. If I can survive this week, I'll be in the clear -- lectured, presented a case, and took a quiz today -- 30 page paper, work portfolio, 3 report reviews, case presentation thursday -- quiz, travel research assessment, and homework due friday.... and have to grade 80 tests tomorrow.
Summer is SO CLOSE!!
I apologize for not blogging for, er, four months. Sadly, it's a sign that life has gotten to that terrible crazy point where I don't have enough time to reflect. I'm not sure if that's a bad thing or a good thing... maybe the optimistic perspective is that reflecting might make me just realize how crazy things truly are. Maybe just flying through four months of chaos without any self-reflection was some crazy coping mechanism that helped me survive.
I sound melodramatic, and I know it... but I haven't liked school much lately. I enjoy research, and I enjoy the math. I enjoy my new friends, my dog, my apartment... but the things that I REALLY enjoy (time, old friends, music, writing, sleep, Cory) haven't been enough of a part of this year for my liking. The stress is getting to me, too... every other day seems to be one of those 8am to 2am deals. Yuck.
The traveling has been insane, too. Tons of wedding festivities (for ourselves and others!), which is soooo exciting... but such a strange contrast to my double life studying the emergence of physiological neurodevelopmental symptoms... a few conferences, wedding meetings, gown fittings... and my adviser just got a grant that will go towards us flying around the country to assess children with fragile x. Literally -- with very little notice -- we will be hoping on planes with our bags of tricks, heading out to test how infants respond to us stressing them out, etc.
Needless to say, my car is a strange combination of bridesmaid dresses, dog toys, and assessment kits.
Oh, and I moved. My neighbor was harboring a fugitive or something, and the lady tried to get me to drive her somewhere... so we figured it was a good time to switch into our married nest. Cory doesn't live here yet, but we have enough space for us and the dog(s). ... and a second bedroom for when friends come to visit!!! Great for football season!
Luckily, next year will be more balanced. I'm working in the lab for free this year to get experience, but I got hired on for this summer and next year (meaning NO MORE GRADING OR TEACHING!!). We have one less class next year, and I'll start doing practicum in the school, which will be a refreshing break from current chaos. No more yucky intro classes, no more of certain professors... it's going to be glorious :) ..and no more traveling to see the love of my life!!
AND WE'LL BE MARRIED! I can't believe the wedding is less than 70 days away. Truly, the slow, beautiful realization that I get to be Cory's wife has kept me motivated this year. The thought that I get to come home to him next year -- instead of just to my crazy, carpet chewing, bobby-pin eating, ewok-looking dog -- makes my heart so happy. We're ready to be a family... as ready as we'll ever be, anyway :) I'm so lucky he'll be part of my every-second life :).
As excited as I am, all the wedding planning is getting a little crazy. We finally chose groomsmen attire, the invitations are ordered, favors are started, catering is set (look forward to a "slider bar" with the best mini-mango pork sammies and "shots" of mint-watermelon salad EVER!)... too many "to-do's" to count, but they're all exciting. Mom hand calligraphed our invitations (just like she did hers!), so I'm really looking forward to seeing them. Navy calligraphy, ecru cards, aqua silk ribbons, and teal envelopes!
I've learned that wedding planning is the ultimate perpetual opportunity for procrastination. Always something to do that truly should be done. Perfect recipe for anti-productivity, now?
Speaking of procrastination, I have a 30 page paper yuckily hanging over my head. If I can survive this week, I'll be in the clear -- lectured, presented a case, and took a quiz today -- 30 page paper, work portfolio, 3 report reviews, case presentation thursday -- quiz, travel research assessment, and homework due friday.... and have to grade 80 tests tomorrow.
Summer is SO CLOSE!!
Saturday, January 23, 2010
science
I'm in my bed, cuddling with Molly Moo. Returned from a really fun night with some of the cohort crew.. sitting, talking, getting to know each other (more). We're at that fun stage where we're piecing together pieces about each other. We're learning things, and it's nice.
We're becoming friends :)
This week was back to craziness. Meetings, classes, homework, readings... all madness, for sure. I'm adjusting much more quickly now, though. Part of it (I think) is knowing a little more about what to expect. Another part (I think) is having the confidence that -- if I survived one -- I'll survive another.
I went out for happy hour drinks with one of my friends tonight -- and our conversation made me realize how much we've all really grown. We're starting to develop our own interests and passions, praises and faults, passions and disdains. We're becoming scientists. And as dorky as it sounds, becoming a scientist is making me a better person.
Here are some of the things I've been learning:
1) Critically evaluate everything. Including yourself. It's the best way to expose fatal flaws in a design.
2) Human behavior varies with extraordinary individual differences. We spend a lot of our lives trying to predict things (and people) that vary. Maybe (sometimes) we shouldn't.
3) Before we draw the conclusions we wish from the things we observe, we should observe them more than once.
4) Never automatically believe (or cite) third party sources. Go back to the original. Quote them instead.
5) Be wary of those who wish to spread their ideas without being criticized for them first. Be peer reviewed.
It's dorky, but it's true. As this mess-of-a-field becomes my profession, I'm owning the fact that -- eventually -- its rules and rhythm will probably dominate my life a bit. Attending to the parts of it that speak beyond academia helps amplify the merits of spending far too much time in the lab.
:)
On a less dorky note, Molly FREAKED OUT last night. She never barks -- EVER -- and I woke up to her barking insanely and running into the living room. I was groggy, so I couldn't tell if she was knocking things or if someone was trying to come in, but it was TERRIFYING. I went out and turned on the lights, and everything seemed fine. I eventually went back to sleep and dreamed I didn't live in Columbia :)
The bad part is, she's still a little worked up today. We were walking this morning, and she barked at a dog who tried to sniff her inappropriately. She usually loves big dogs -- even if they're not treating her like a lady -- but she freaked out.
My dog may be a bit of a drama queen.
Soo back to Saturday. I need to get something done this weekend, and this afternoon should probably be my time to do it. Cory's coming down for a 24 hour visit, which will be really fun. I like seeing him -- even if its only for a few hours. AND he's bringing me supplies for a few crafts I'm working on for Stephanie and Kevin's showers (I received some very fun cookie cutters in the mail today..). Yay, love.
Happy Saturday!
We're becoming friends :)
This week was back to craziness. Meetings, classes, homework, readings... all madness, for sure. I'm adjusting much more quickly now, though. Part of it (I think) is knowing a little more about what to expect. Another part (I think) is having the confidence that -- if I survived one -- I'll survive another.
I went out for happy hour drinks with one of my friends tonight -- and our conversation made me realize how much we've all really grown. We're starting to develop our own interests and passions, praises and faults, passions and disdains. We're becoming scientists. And as dorky as it sounds, becoming a scientist is making me a better person.
Here are some of the things I've been learning:
1) Critically evaluate everything. Including yourself. It's the best way to expose fatal flaws in a design.
2) Human behavior varies with extraordinary individual differences. We spend a lot of our lives trying to predict things (and people) that vary. Maybe (sometimes) we shouldn't.
3) Before we draw the conclusions we wish from the things we observe, we should observe them more than once.
4) Never automatically believe (or cite) third party sources. Go back to the original. Quote them instead.
5) Be wary of those who wish to spread their ideas without being criticized for them first. Be peer reviewed.
It's dorky, but it's true. As this mess-of-a-field becomes my profession, I'm owning the fact that -- eventually -- its rules and rhythm will probably dominate my life a bit. Attending to the parts of it that speak beyond academia helps amplify the merits of spending far too much time in the lab.
:)
On a less dorky note, Molly FREAKED OUT last night. She never barks -- EVER -- and I woke up to her barking insanely and running into the living room. I was groggy, so I couldn't tell if she was knocking things or if someone was trying to come in, but it was TERRIFYING. I went out and turned on the lights, and everything seemed fine. I eventually went back to sleep and dreamed I didn't live in Columbia :)
The bad part is, she's still a little worked up today. We were walking this morning, and she barked at a dog who tried to sniff her inappropriately. She usually loves big dogs -- even if they're not treating her like a lady -- but she freaked out.
My dog may be a bit of a drama queen.
Soo back to Saturday. I need to get something done this weekend, and this afternoon should probably be my time to do it. Cory's coming down for a 24 hour visit, which will be really fun. I like seeing him -- even if its only for a few hours. AND he's bringing me supplies for a few crafts I'm working on for Stephanie and Kevin's showers (I received some very fun cookie cutters in the mail today..). Yay, love.
Happy Saturday!
Thursday, January 21, 2010
my girl :)
She's up to a healthy weight.. and was very concerned that I was holding Penguin hostage to get her attention.
:) I like the snaggle face. Very intimidating.
Friday, January 15, 2010
come away with me . norah jones
Come away with me in the night
Come away with me
And I will write you a song
Come away with me on a bus
Come away where they can't tempt us
With their lies
I want to walk with you
On a cloudy day
In fields where the yellow grass grows knee-high
So won't you try to come
Come away with me and we'll kiss
On a mountaintop
Come away with me
And I'll never stop loving you
And I want to wake up with the rain
Falling on a tin roof
While I'm safe there in your arms
So all I ask is for you
To come away with me in the night
Come away with me
Come away with me
And I will write you a song
Come away with me on a bus
Come away where they can't tempt us
With their lies
I want to walk with you
On a cloudy day
In fields where the yellow grass grows knee-high
So won't you try to come
Come away with me and we'll kiss
On a mountaintop
Come away with me
And I'll never stop loving you
And I want to wake up with the rain
Falling on a tin roof
While I'm safe there in your arms
So all I ask is for you
To come away with me in the night
Come away with me
Thursday, January 14, 2010
school days, school days...
Finally got our newspaper announcements in (yeah.. a little late..).. and it was SO fun to look through all of the engagement pictures again! I found even more on Stephen's web site that I fell in love with. I don't usually get into smoochy pictures, but the one on the next post makes me smile every time I look at it.
... smiles are particularly helpful this week. School is crazy!
First week of classes, and my calendar is already FULL. Conferences, tastings, weddings, showers, teaching, maybe eye surgery?, gown fittings, exams... the list goes on and on! It's busy, but this term -- it's things I really love. I spent so much time last term getting settled... and this term, I'm getting settled in a different way. Love, family, and research. Good things for me to settle into.
I'm moving into the lab.. as evidenced by the installation of The Tea Kettle (roommates will appreciate the gravity of moving my electric kettle from home to work -- big stuff). One of my Furman mentors told me I would feel just as comfortable at USC by the end of this year as I felt at Furman by the end of senior year. I thought he was crazy.
As always, Brewer was right.
Sorry for the boring post, but I need to get back to work -- Co and I have marriage school this weekend, followed by a doctors appointment and a gown fitting -- so school work really needs to get done.. now.
.. although I would much rather sew runners for the wedding reception! OR anything other than bivariate regression, really...
... smiles are particularly helpful this week. School is crazy!
First week of classes, and my calendar is already FULL. Conferences, tastings, weddings, showers, teaching, maybe eye surgery?, gown fittings, exams... the list goes on and on! It's busy, but this term -- it's things I really love. I spent so much time last term getting settled... and this term, I'm getting settled in a different way. Love, family, and research. Good things for me to settle into.
I'm moving into the lab.. as evidenced by the installation of The Tea Kettle (roommates will appreciate the gravity of moving my electric kettle from home to work -- big stuff). One of my Furman mentors told me I would feel just as comfortable at USC by the end of this year as I felt at Furman by the end of senior year. I thought he was crazy.
As always, Brewer was right.
Sorry for the boring post, but I need to get back to work -- Co and I have marriage school this weekend, followed by a doctors appointment and a gown fitting -- so school work really needs to get done.. now.
.. although I would much rather sew runners for the wedding reception! OR anything other than bivariate regression, really...
Sunday, January 3, 2010
home, sweet home
I'm sipping a glass of shiraz, watching wedding shows on my 12-channel TV, and cuddling with Molly.
Yep, I'm home :)
Break has been wonderful, but it feels really nice to be back in my apartment. It's my nook -- my little place away from stress and work and craziness -- it's me.
Cory and I looked at apartments the other day -- we're thinking about staying in the same complex but getting something a little bigger and nicer (because let's be honest -- we couldn't fit in my 600-something square foot oasis). I'm excited to live with him and start our married life, but I'm glad I had this year to myself. One little year of independence before the next phase :)
I have one week before classes start, so I decided to come home and get to work -- I want to knock out a few presentations and "to-do's" before classes set in. The first few weeks of school are generally pretty low key (at least they were last term), but I know this term is going to be WILD with weddings, conferences, showers, bachelorette parties, etc. I haven't cleaned out my binders from last term (or filed any of my papers, etc..), my room is a wreck, and I want to get a few more wedding things done.
Then.. bring it on, 2010.
Last year was incredible -- during 2009, got engaged to the most wonderful man in the world, graduated college, had a wonderful summer at camp, started my phd, got my first puppy...
It's been an amazing year :)... but 2010 has even more to offer. Like.. MARRIAGE!!
Yep, I'm home :)
Break has been wonderful, but it feels really nice to be back in my apartment. It's my nook -- my little place away from stress and work and craziness -- it's me.
Cory and I looked at apartments the other day -- we're thinking about staying in the same complex but getting something a little bigger and nicer (because let's be honest -- we couldn't fit in my 600-something square foot oasis). I'm excited to live with him and start our married life, but I'm glad I had this year to myself. One little year of independence before the next phase :)
I have one week before classes start, so I decided to come home and get to work -- I want to knock out a few presentations and "to-do's" before classes set in. The first few weeks of school are generally pretty low key (at least they were last term), but I know this term is going to be WILD with weddings, conferences, showers, bachelorette parties, etc. I haven't cleaned out my binders from last term (or filed any of my papers, etc..), my room is a wreck, and I want to get a few more wedding things done.
Then.. bring it on, 2010.
Last year was incredible -- during 2009, got engaged to the most wonderful man in the world, graduated college, had a wonderful summer at camp, started my phd, got my first puppy...
It's been an amazing year :)... but 2010 has even more to offer. Like.. MARRIAGE!!
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