Me, lately

1. What is your favorite flavor of ice cream?
Cookie dough. Especially from Cold Stone if you mix the cake batter with the cookie dough. It's like a combination of Fergie and Jesus.

2. What was the last thing you ate?
Top Ramen, for lunch. I know, big surprise.

3. What CD is in your CD player right now?
I don't listen to CD's anymore, but what I'm currently listening to on my iPod is Bon Iver. "For Emma, Forever Ago" has been my anthem the last few months.

4. How many keys are on your key ring?
Nine. And it's ridiculous considering I only use three.

5. How much money do you have in your wallet?
$11.12, Canadian from when I went to Vancouver back in March.

6. List two bad habits that you have. Now tell me which one you would be
willing to give up first.
I procrastinate. I'm glad that I only have three months of College left because I can't imagine having to be up the night before a paper is due, frantically trying to get it done.
I have horrible road rage. It's almost like I turn into a different person when I get behind a wheel. I curse horrible obscenities and make unladylike gestures... Something I'd never do otherwise.
It's hard to say which I'd give up first. I'd like to give them both up. But probably procrastination first, since I don't have much more time left to really procrastinate.


7. What spice or seasoning is your favorite? Which one can you add to
anything and make it taste better?
Crushed red peppers. I hope this counts as a spice, because I add it to just about everything and it makes everything taste so much better.

8. What's your birthstone? Would you change it?
Aquamarine. I would rather have pink or something, but I've never really gotten "into" the whole birthstone thing so I guess I really don't care.

9. If you had one day to live, what would you do?
Go to Italy.
Take pictures.
Meet Rob Pattinson.

10. Do you know what your name means?
It means "Princess of the Stars" and I know that because my mom made up my name and it's meaning. And you thought YOUR parents were creative.

11. What color is your room?
White.

12. Do you give your pets birthday and Christmas presents?
Occasionally Christmas presents, but other than that, no.

13. What color polish do you most often wear?
Black. I love black fingernail polish.

14. Hamburger Helper, Chicken
Helper, or Tuna Helper. Which flavor is your favorite?
Hamburger Helper, with the macaroni and cheese in it.

15. Leno or Letterman?
Neither.... Handler.

16. Do you kiss on the first date?
No.

17. When your plate has different foods on it do you usually mix all the foods
together, keep them all seperate, or do you combine only certain foods?
I only combine certain things. If I'm eating mexican, it usually all just goes together. If I'm eating things that are very specific, like salad and pasta, I won't mix it together.

18. When you have food cravings, is it usually for something sweet, salty,
greasy, or creamy?
The only food I really ever crave is Flamin' Hot Cheetos. If it weren't for those damn Cheetos, I could be the healthiest person.

19. Describe your morning ritual
Brush my teeth, do my makeup, do my hair, get dressed, then go to work (aka: teaching)

20. You run in to a friend while out shopping. Where are you?
Forever 21. It's my favorite store and pretty much the only place I shop these days.

21. What is your favorite breakfast cereal?
Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Cinnamon Life, and Captain Crunch.

22. Who do you dislike most? People who are disrespectful, people who don't
recognize your talent, or people who are better looking than you?
People who belittle or make others feel inferior to themselves.

23. Would you rather change your past or know your future?
Neither. I'd rather revel in the present moment.

24. What celebrity do you lust over?
Robert Pattinson.

(I only answered this question again so I had an excuse to add a picture.)

25. What five things that you have done in life are you most proud of?
1. Going to College.
2. Following my dreams, no matter how crazy or outlandish they may seem to others.
3. Paying off my car.
4. My ability to stay optimistic, even in the worst situations.
5. My ability to love.

Labels: Me

Chronicles of a teacher, 2.

When reading a book about the American Red Cross's blood donations, the following conversation took place:

Girl Student: How does your body get blood?
Me: Your body is constantly making new blood.
Girl Student: How do babies get blood before they're born?
Me: Their bodies make it just like yours. During their development before their born, that's one of the things their bodies are making.
Boy Student: Aren't babies made from spurs?
Me: Huh?
Boy Student: You know, spurs. Aren't babies made from something called spurs?
Me: ... (In my head: What the eff do I say?!)
Girl Student: No, spurs are the things on the back of boots.
Me: Let's move on....

Labels: Teaching Chronicles

A little bit goes a long way

The last couple months in my 5th grade class we've been learning about the Earth's surface in Science. We've learned a lot about the Earth's plates, the movements of these plates, and the causes of them. Our two main topics when learning about the surface of the Earth has been volcanoes and earthquakes.

We've talked a lot about recent volcanic eruptions, where hot spots are, where most volcanoes & earthquakes take place & why, earthquakes that have happened in recent times and the ones that cause the most damage.

When the news broke about the devastating earthquake that hit Haiti , it was something that my 5th graders could connect to what we had been learning about in Science. Every day when they come to class, one of the first things they want to know is what is the latest news about Haiti. We've looked at seismographs, pictures, and news articles. We even did an exercise in class where all the kids stood up and had to be silent for 34 seconds (which was the duration of the quake) so they could think about an earthquake of that magnitude shaking the earth violently for that period of time.

Today the other 5th grade teachers on my team and I were talking about how some of the students have expressed interest in wanting to help. The other teachers and I thought it might be a good idea to try and get our students involved. We've decided to see if the kids would be willing to try and raise money, even if it's only within our grade level, to donate to the Haiti relief efforts. Even if it's not a lot, we know that every little bit helps. It's so encouraging to see children show their concern and willingness to help in a time of need.

Needless to say, I'm a proud teacher.

If they can do it, so can you. Click here to find out how you can help.

Labels: Life

Chronicles of a teacher, part one.

During an assembly by the Utah Food Bank today when asked what volunteer meant, one of the 2nd graders at the school I work at replied:

Volunteering is like, when you own a restaurant, and you don't want to pay people to work at your restaurant, you can get people to volunteer.

Labels: Teaching Chronicles

Reflecting on a year past

For some reason, I really enjoy doing these end-of-the-year surveys, mostly because it helps me think and reflect on what I did and didn't like about the past year and what I'm going to do to make this next one better. I found this particular survey on my very good friend Danielle's blog and the always-awesome, Frema's blog. Since they both used it, it can't be too shabby, eh?
So, here it goes.

1. What did you do in 2009 that you’d never done before?

Became a teacher. After all these years of schooling, I finally am a teacher and am in love with it. My 5th graders are amazing!
I left the country for the first time. Yes, it was just to Canada, but it was still amazing.

2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?

I'm kind of one of those people that doesn't like to make a New Year's Resolution, for the fact that I think it sets you up for disappointment. There's this horrible stigma that comes along with the Resolution that is almost synonymous for FAILURE.

But I think I may re-think the whole Resolution thing this year. My kids' had to write about a New Year's Resolution they would like to make and not only that, but the steps to how they'd like to achieve it. I think after reading their responses I may have to follow in their footsteps. It's something I will have to think about and come back to.

At this point, the only real Resolution that I can honestly say I want and will strive for, is happiness.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?



My friends Chris and Katie had a beautiful baby girl a few months ago. Congrats guys! She's beautiful. :)

4. Did anyone close to you die?

I'm very thankful to say no. I'm counting my blessings.

5. What countries did you visit?



Canada!!! Vancouver was awesome. I was a little cynical about it at first, but honestly, I loved it. I really want to go back and visit again... SOON!

6. What would you like to have in 2010 that you lacked in 2009?

Courage, self-appreciation, self- worth, insight, and wisdom.

7. What dates from 2009 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?

March 14/15 - My very first trip to Forks, Washington! One of the most memorable and amazing things that I've ever done.

March 16 - My first out-of-country experience.

August 31 - My first day as a teacher.

November 19/20 - The Twilight Saga: New Moon

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?

Starting to teach.

9. What was your biggest failure?

Something I didn't really have control over; yet I still feel I failed.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?

Luckily no. Again, I count my blessings.

11. What was the best thing you bought?

My tickets to the New Moon Experience and to all the times I've seen New Moon so far.*

12. Whose behavior merited celebration?

My mom's, for always being my support system. For always being there for me no matter what. For loving me and standing behind me unconditionally. For being just the best, time and time again. For being my best friend.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?

There were a few.

14. Where did most of your money go?

Bills, bills, bills, and bills.

15. What did you get really excited about?

Going to Forks! And seeing New Moon after a year of waiting.

16. What song will always remind you of 2009?

"Heartless" - The Fray

"Hero" - Regina Spektor

"Possibility" - Lykke Li

"Roslyn" - Bon Iver

"Cold Desert" - Kings of Leon

17. Compared to this time last year, are you:


– happier or sadder? Happier & sadder, for different reasons.
– thinner or fatter? I think thinner. I did gain about ten pounds about nine months ago because of the significant amount of stress I was under, but I think it's worked in reverse as the last half of this year has been much more stressful, not to mention not having time nor money to eat a lot, and finding some time (ANY time) to work out again has made me lose the extra weight, and then some. My clothes from last year are baggy. I hope I continue with this trend. 

– richer or poorer? Poorer for sure. Having to go to school full-time and teach full-time (and not get paid for it) doesn't leave much time left over to work. I can't wait to know what it feels like to get a big, fat paycheck.

18. What do you wish you’d done more of?

Gone out and enjoy the little things in life.

Found ways to better myself.

Help others.

Try something new.

19. What do you wish you’d done less of?



Homework.

20. How did you spend Christmas?

I spent it with my little family that consists of my mom, my brother, and myself. We did our yearly traditions that still got me giddy like I was 5-years-old. Then on Christmas day I went to my Grandma's house to have Christmas dinner and see my dad.

21. Did you fall in love in 2009?

...

22. What was your favorite TV program?

The Office, of course. It's the only show that I find time to watch.

I've also recently become a huge fan of MTV's Teen Mom. It's my guilty pleasure show.

23. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?

I am a person who truly tries to not ever hold grudges and I definitely try and avoid 'hate' at all costs. So, no.

24. What was the best book you read?

The Hunger Games trilogy. Such an amazing and suspenseful series. I can't wait for the third book!

25. What was your greatest musical discovery?


There's quite a few. I looooove finding new music. I really love Bon Iver and Martha Wainright.

26. What did you want and get?

To finish the hardest and last semester of actual school.

27. What did you want and not get?

Things that weren't in my control.

28. What was your favorite film of this year?

New Moon of course.

500 Days of Summer

Little Ashes

Peter and Vandy

29. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?

Went out to dinner with people that I love! I turned 23.

30. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?

Plenty.

31. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2009?

Womanly and more fashionably. I really feel like this was the year of change for my fashion. I really grew into a woman. Went from wearing frilly girly clothes and flair pants and stars all the time, to skinny jeans, sexy tops, and high heels. Much more sophisticated look, and I love it.

(But I still rock my chucks!)

32. What kept you sane?

My family and my friends. Thank the Good Lord above, because I don't know how I would have gotten through this year without you!

33. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?

Are you kidding?!!! Do you really even need to ask?!

D.U.H.

34. What political issue stirred you the most?



Health Care.

35. Who did you miss?


My friends. Especially the last few months before Finals.

36. Who was the best new person you met?



Awesome people in my Co-Hort.

37. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2009.

Do what makes you happy.

Never settle for less than you deserve.

Never let anyone else determine your worth.

38. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.

"All at once rushing from the sump-pump, Or so the story goes, Balance we won't know, We will see when it gets warm." - Bon Iver

* Just in case you were wondering.... the total so far is nine times.

Labels: Life, Me

New year, new decade, new me.

It's surreal to think that it's already the year 2010. I've been looking forward to this particular year for over 3 years. Every day it's been in my mind and I can't believe it's finally here.

This is the year I will graduate. In just four short months, I will be a college graduate.

I feel like there's been a lot of changes that have been occurring in my life, all that have been a long-time coming. I feel like there's no better time than now to embrace these changes.

I feel like I've grown so much in this last year. I feel as though I've gone from being in between a girl and a woman, to a woman. I feel like I'm ready to spread my wings and embrace what life has to offer me. I am very secure in who I am and what my beliefs are. I feel stronger and more confident in the person I have become. I am excited and anxious to see what lies ahead.

It's weird to think that it's been a whole ten years since we were going from 1999 to 2000. So much has happened in these ten years that have been mile stones in my life. I went from a kid to a woman, I graduated High School, I made amazing friends and memories. I am looking forward to what the next ten years hold in store for me; graduating college, traveling, marriage, and becoming a mom.

2010 is the year of change, and I cannot wait.

Labels: Life

Time for Change...

I wanted to change up the look of my blog and I'm really happy with it. I get bored with my layout pretty often, so hopefully this one will stick with me for a while. I really seem to like it.

I kind of wanted to wait until Spring because it has a upbeat, sunny feel about it, but with things that are going on in my life recently, change is sort of a reoccurring theme and this was no exception. It was definitely time for change.

Here's to the next step...

Labels: Blogging

And it feels oh-so good

I just literally submitted my very last assignment for Fall 2009, meaning I am officially done, done, done for the next two weeks! *Happy dance*

This time it's a new kind of liberating feeling. This time it's a little different. This time, I can say that when I start school in two weeks that it will be my very LAST semester.

Yes, the L.A.S.T. semester, meaning I graduate in a few short months.
(We're not going to think about when I start Grad school because seriously... buzz kill. And that won't be for a few years anyways.)

It's been great to see the light at the end of the tunnel for a while, but now I feel like I'm approaching that tunnel and can hear the crowd and see them waving. I'm almost there!

My advisor has informed my graduating class that the next few months we'll be preparing for graduation. When we come back she'll be gathering us together to discuss graduation.

(I can't stop saying "graduation".)

Oh, also? I will only have one class this semester. Just one! Because I'm teaching full time now (and paid my dues this last semester... Seriously, SO stressful!) they're letting us focus on our teaching and gathering our materials for when we're on our own. But honestly, I'm so in love with what I'm doing. I have the best kids and am so excited and eager to be the best teacher I can be. I've worked so hard for this, did it in almost record time, and finally... I'm about to begin the rest of my life.

I can't wait to see what else is in store...

Labels: School

How Twilight should have ended...

"Check out my bazillion ab muscles."

Labels: Random, Twilight

So adorable

I have so much homework to do this weekend, I don't even want to think about it. But I found this adorable video that I had to share. Something to make you smile.

Labels: Funny, Random