Married with 2 Dogs

Baby, It's Been 20 Weeks!

2010-10-07T17:45:00.007-05:00

Here goes - the whirlwind update before we head to the great outdoors for some well-deserved rest:
1) The house is on the market! Remember, when three short years ago, it was so exciting to be here? Well, now, it's really exciting to have the possibility of leaving! These links don't last forever (only until the house sells) but if you want to check out our Tiny House's listing, here it is!

2) The baby is growing! I can't believe that only 2 months ago, all we saw were armbuds..and now...

These were all taken 2.5 weeks ago when I was 18 weeks along. The ultrasound tech knew this little one's gender immediately, but since I want to be surprised, Eric is graciously allowing us to keep it a secret! Although, if we ever want to know, all we need to do is call... but I think we can hold out!

3) Starting to finally think about baby preparations! After 2.5 months of horrible all-day sickness with this tyke, I can finally get excited about preparing for its life with us! :) Started registering for a few items, but the list is not nearly finished!

4) And one more baby update: it's moving! And kicking and stretching and jazzercizing (I can only guess) and trying to find just a little more space than it currently has at its disposal! Eric is a little disappointed that he can't feel yet, but I'm doing plenty of feeling for both of us!

That's it for now - off to camping!

Life As We Know It...

2010-08-19T18:40:00.000-05:00

There's going to be some changes the Casa de la Sorensen. Actually, they've already begun:

1) My energy is gone. Depleted. Non-existent. I've been sleeping 8 hours a night and napping for 2 hours every day after work. This doesn't leave much time for the rest of life to happen!

2) Food has lost its appeal. I get hungry occassionally and have been eating, but sometimes the food doesn't like to stay down. Interesting...

3) I haven't been able to work out, run, lift weights or visit the gym in over a month.I heard it might be best to take it easy.

4) My visits to the doctor have increased from once a year to at least once a month.

All of these little changes are leading up to the biggest change of all: a brand new Sorensen has joined the team! And even though you won't meet him or her for another six months, I think it'll be well worth the wait!

Three Months of My Life

2010-04-06T22:02:00.004-05:00

Work. Work. Book. Work. Work. Work. Work. Book. Work. Work. Work. Work. Book.

Let's not focus on the work, but let's talk books!

#1: The Bible. I know, the book all "good" Christians will take with them to a desert island. However, this is the year that our church is trying to read through the whole thing in one year! Eric and I are a bit behind on the schedule, but are excited to see how far we've come already! (Have you ever really read Numbers? Wow.) To challenge us to think and not just read to be done, we bought a side-by-side Message/NIV Bible. Sometimes we read the NIV, sometimes the Message, and sometimes both. If you want a peek at the plan we're using, check it out here!

#2: Linchpin: Are You Indispensable? One of the most inspirational books to do your best and keep pushing. Hope you're up for a challenge!

#3: Less Clutter, Less Noise. You won't really love this one unless you're in church/non-profit communications, but if you are...? Look out! Great stuff.

#4: The Little Big Things: 163 Ways to Pursue Excellence. Only half-way through, but am finding great gems, like "Work Harder." Truly. It's in there. (This is a huge book, by the way. Don't let the "little" in the title fool you.)

So, if you're looking for something new to read, these are what I've been using to keep my mind occupied while off the clock.

2010-02-27T15:19:00.000-06:00

Blogging has been tough lately - no, not because I'm trying to update with my Blackberry (although I am today) - because I'm think this being done with school and getting my bearings has been tougher than I expected. I'm very lucky to have had my part-time job turn into my full-time job as soon as I graduated, but the reality of the working life has hit me. And made me question a lot of things. So, any advice from those who've "been there, done that" would be great! (Since I'm using my phone for this, it's REALLY hard to steer clear of text-speak!)

On another note, 2010 has been dubbed "The Year of Health and Wealth" in our house. Eric and I joined a gym, got personal trainers, and are kicking it 5 times a week! Also, now that we're not paying tuition anymore, the money situation has greatly improved! Now, Eric has a great job and we were so blessed to not have any debt coming out of the education years. However, school is expensive! And now that we're not writing multiple-thousand-dollar checks to The University of Nebraska, the accounts are procreating quite nicely. House projects are coming! So, sitting good health wise (or getting there), money wise and job wise. But trying to figure out: is this it? No more adventures? Is boring the price we pay for financial and job security?

Final thought:
Beg, borrow or steal (or buy) the book "Linchpin" by Seth Godin. Amazing. Lifechanging. Motivational. (Would link to it, but don't know how from my phone. I got my copy from Amazon)

So, I'm back! (Aren't you glad?)

One Word

2010-01-27T16:11:00.000-06:00

iPad

So, what's new...

2010-01-15T13:45:00.004-06:00

1. Finished school. Can't believe I have a degree, but there you go.

2. Spent Christmas in the mountains. Had an amazing time and trying to figure out how to get away again, as soon as possible!

3. Did some planning. Realized that our life goals were a little unrealistic, but are shooting for them anyway!

4. Had a tough conversation. Remember that mean person? Yep, that's the one. I came out on top!

5. Was promoted! Well, technically, not really promoted. I had already worked myself into a new position and am now paid for it. This comes complete with benefits! Yay!

6. Have been working out. This time, for real. A personal trainer, a gym membership and everything. Can I just say, ouch!

7. 9th Anniversary and 29th Birthday. Yes, five days apart. (Whose idea was that anyway? Oh yeah..) Seems surreal and anticlimactic. Let's see what happens for the 10th and 30th!

8. Snow, snow, snow, snow and snow. This poor area has received THIRTY SIX inches in less than a month. My back hurts just thinking about it!

9. Taking a breath. Realized how little I had been breathing in: oxygen, relationships, relaxation, etc... Ready to get to a place of real living again.

Christmas in the Mountains

2009-12-24T15:44:00.004-06:00

Merry Christmas everyone!

We hope you're staying warm and safe this holiday season.

After the whirlwind semester, we packed up the beasts and headed west. Skiing and spa-ing was great yesterday, but it was too overcast for good pictures. However, here's the condo area complete with a background of mountains and lots of snow...

We'll post some good slope pictures tomorrow!

Graduation

2009-12-24T15:33:00.004-06:00

After 10 years, two majors, tens of thousands of dollars, no debt and not much sleep, we finally made it!

A Bachelor of Science in Communication, Journalism/Public Relations & Advertising Major and a Music Minor is MINE!

But I am sharing it with Eric...couldn't have done it without him!

The Day Has Arrived

2009-12-18T00:15:00.002-06:00

Mark your calendars folks.

I have just completed my final final, of my final class, of my final semester of my final year of college! Today (it is12:15am) I will graduate with a B.S. in Communication - Journalism Major with PR/Advertising emphasis and a Music Minor.

I have my cap, my tassle, my gown and my honors medallion!

I need to sleep, or prepare for our vacation to the mountains in 2 days, or do something resembling folding laundry....

But I graduate today!

YAY!

My Cowboy Cousin

2009-11-24T12:10:00.005-06:00

Strange thing, death. But, we have hope...

"Spencer John Miller, 24, was born on September 21, 1985 in Colorado Springs, Colorado to William L. Miller and Maureen Petersen Miller. Spencer passed away on November 15, 2009 as the result of an automobile accident in Pueblo.

Spencer graduated from Calhan High School in 2004 where he was extremely active. He was the 2004 Class President and the Football Team Captain. After high school, he attended and graduated with a degree in finance from Colorado State University in Forth Collins. He was a cowboy first in his professional life and a well-respected banker in the community.
Spencer was an outgoing and personable man with a love for God, his family and friends. He would light up a room just by walking through the door. He enjoyed getting together with people for events of all types. His life was a testimony to his Christian faith. He has expressed his love and devotion for Jesus since his baptism at age 14 by Rick Cofer at the Living Word Church in Calhan.

Being a professional rodeo contestant was paramount in Spencer's life. He made impeccable choices in the friends he kept. His roping partners are incredible mature men that mentored and counseled Spencer in many walks of life. In his younger years, he was a member of the Little Britches Rodeo, moving to the Colorado High School Rodeo Association and ultimately a member of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.

Spencer is survived by his mother, Maureen Miller; father, William L. Miller; brother, Stuart Miller; grandmothers, Regina Miller and Jeanne Petersen as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. He knew and had a personal relationship with each one of these important individuals.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 19, 2009 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Swan Law Funeral Directors. A funeral service will be held on Friday, November 20, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at the Mountain Springs Church, 7345 East Woodmen Road, Colorado Springs. Private interment will take place. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Spencer's name to the Fellowship of Christian Cowboys. P.O. Box 3010, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80934."

- Obituary from the Colorado Springs Gazette

Dear Mean Person,

2009-11-06T12:47:00.004-06:00

This has been a long time in coming, but I think we're both ready now. I came to a revelation today. And because it was all because of you, I feel you should be the first to know:

I.Don't.Like.You.

What? I can imagine you saying.

You heard me! I don't like you!

I don't get to choose everyone I come in contact with. Some people,I choose to be around, some people I get to be around and some people I have to be around. I have a lot of relationships that fall into the "choose to" and "get to" categories. But you, mean person, are in the third.

I don't like being around you because you don't treat me well. You're borderline rude, outright snarky and often just plain old mean. I've excused you for months now with inane comments like: "You're just having a bad day (which turned into bad week, which turned into bad month...)" "You don't know me well enough yet. I can still win you over!" "You're just stressed right now."

However, the excuses are over and done with. I've observed enough and heard enough to realize it's not me, it's you! I will respect you and be polite, but beyond that - nothing. I'm giving myself the freedom to stop trying to like you - you make it too hard! The dread before our encounters is not worth it. The stress headaches after our encounters are not worth it either!

I'm still going to give other people a chance. I'm still going to cultivate meaningful relationships. I'm still going to keep putting myself out there. But just to show you this isn't all about me, I wanted to let you in on a little secret. Ready?

You don't have to like me either.

Most Sincerely,
Kate

Nine Short Weeks

2009-10-11T23:13:00.002-05:00

In nine short weeks...

...I will be walking across the stage towards a very special piece of paper.

...I will be done writing checks with phrases like "Tuition" or "Books" or "Parking Pass" in the memo line.

...I will be working. Just working.

...I will be going to bed at 9:30, or 8:30 if I want to!

...I will be missing the smell of new textbooks.

...I will be slowly forgetting how taking tests feels.

...I will be writing. For fun. And myself.

...I will be relieved. At peace. And done.

Who I Am

2009-09-28T22:09:00.003-05:00

Competitive
- sometimes to a fault.

Talented
- and now not afraid to say it.

Responsible
- to the point of exhaustion.

Needing Encouragement
- never realized this one, until five months went by without it.

Strong
- I will stand up for others and now - finally - myself.

Adaptable
- until I realize I no longer should be in certain circumstances.

Valuable
- to those who can see past the ends of their own noses.

Accomplisher
- as I cross off item, after item, after item, after item...

Perfectionist
- dust must go and laundry must not pile...unless homework incapacitates me.

Trainer
- of myself, others, dogs...

Tough
- I will not let others treat me like I wouldn't treat them.

Just
- I give people a chance...sometimes too much of one...

Creative
- I need time to mull over an idea, but when I do - Amazing!

Particular / Anal
- what an asset! Unless the paper is due right now.

Loyal
- until you prove yourself unworthy of that loyalty.

Loved
- by God, my husband, my families and my friends. (Oh - and two dogs!)

Is this Ok?

2009-09-15T19:01:00.002-05:00

Can I write an entire blog post using only questions? Not a single answer? Will you get sick and click that "x" or keep reading?

How do we spend more time with those we've chosen to have in our lives? How do we get beyond the "should'ves and gottas" to spend quality moments - and lots of them - with the people we claim to care about?

How do the responsibilities grow so large that they block the sun, the light, any hope for a peaceful future?

How do I just STOP it all and take a peaceful moment? And find the time for healthy choices, healthy activities and healthy relationships?

How do we move beyond the stress of work and find the joy?

Does it ever get easier?

(Aren't you glad you encouraged me to get back on the blogging wagon?)

The Sound of Silence

2009-09-14T19:54:00.004-05:00

I've been pretty quiet lately...and was chastised for it last night! So, to keep my extensive readership happy and knowledgeable, here's what I haven't blogged about over the last couple/many weeks:

1. I did not lose my job! However, a guy in my dept. did. This leads to me taking over all of his responsibilities after his final day on Sept. 27 and making my crazy life just that much more insane.

2. I nearly lost the tip of my finger to a my dogs teeth: While breaking up a fight between Sadie and another dog, my right-hand index finger got in Sadie's mouth (don't even ask - it happened too fast. All I DO know is I remember the moment when her teeth cut through my flesh. Not a fun memory.) I got five stitches from edge to edge. Ouch, ouch, ouch, ouch and ouch. I've since discovered the great sensitivity of finger tips.

3. My final semester of school has begun. I feel like there should be an exclamation point behind that sentence, but I'm waiting for the elation to set it - it hasn't yet...

4. I'm still pondering the diet thing - we'll see.

5. I would love to post some great pictures of our amazingly redone kitchen. However, I'm NEVER home during the day for good light. So, try to be patient. Maybe this weekend?

6. I had a great weekend with my newly-turned-11-year-old sister! We did a spa day, went to see UP (a great movie! I cried. Twice.), went shopping and had some good chats. Happy (belated) birthday Janna girl!

And that's what's happened while I've been inaudible here. More audibility to come. Promise.

Perfect Timing

2009-08-21T08:25:00.004-05:00

I made the decision about which job I was going to keep. (Job #1)

I had my farewell lunch with co-workers from my former job yesterday.

After that lunch, I went to my new job for the afternoon.

Where I found out that next Thursday, 9 or 10 people from the new place will be laid off.

Do you see the irony here?

Trip Down Energy Lane

2009-08-07T08:50:00.005-05:00

(I promise to get back to the three words - and please don't think scantily-clad women! Chemicals, people, chemicals!)

I'm thinking about embarking on a quest. This is a lingering idea that always formulates in the back of my head when I get particularly run-down, stressed and lose all energy and time for exercise. A few years ago (ok, it's been more than a few - closer to five!), I was "diagnosed" with chronic fatigue syndrome. I say "diagnosed" because, after finding a low level of the mononucleosis virus in my system, assuming it has always been there - and will always be there - and having no other good ideas, the doctor said I probably had chronic fatigue.

Since then, I found some things that mask this "thorn in my side": Coffee (a lot, first thing in the morning), running (which I hate and don't think I could be paid enough to start up again), and 10 hours of sleep a night, plus a 1-hour nap in the afternoon (this is a completely unrealistic option - no one has this kind of time).

So, after rotating through these options, and doing some research, I've come across two other remedies that dovetail nicely and could bring about a measure of relief. Both involve food. Duh, duh duuuuuuh. (ominous strings).

I'm not a little girl, all petite and cute and I'm not obese, but like most Americans, I could stand to lose a few. The main reason: I am a carb-oholic. I love bread, pastries, milk, casseroles, pasta, rice, etc... The problem with these very delicious foods is that they wreck havoc on my body. (Or so I'm coming to think...) I just finished reading the book "The Metabolism Miracle" and watching the documentary "The Future of Food" on Hulu (most amazing site ever). While devoted to two completely different subjects, both got me thinking. Maybe this horrible lack of energy and bleariness all day long is due to something I'm eating! (A novel idea, no?)

When you hear that 75 percent of the things we eat are made from corn products (a very simple carb) and are processed to the Nth degree, it makes you think. When you read about the way some people's bodies react to carbs (insulin spiking then falling dramactially / crashing, causing huge energy swings), it makes you wonder. Then when you realize you have been eating processed food and loving them for most of your life, you wonder why you aren't more exhausted and have even bigger problems!

So, I'm thinking about beginning a journey. Perhaps slowly, at first, but as I look towards the future, I can see the possibilities of a life-long change. I've decided there are a few things that could make a huge difference:

- Cut out sugars - completely
- Move away from milk (have you ever looked at the carb count for a serving of milk? HUGE!)
- Get rid of the breads (tearing up a little on this one)
- Really get on the bandwagon for veggies at every meal (even breakfast - yikes!)

So, this plan would involve recipe research - almost every recipe I own contains carbs; very intentional grocery shopping; willpower in the store to resist the "good-tasting-but bad-for-you" stuff and a little extra time in the kitchen (one of our special words for this week!).

There's my quest idea. When I tried to make a drastic diet change a few weeks ago, this happened. And while I don't relish another such episode, maybe I need to buck up and get serious about this stuff. My body may revolt, but like a child (or naughty dog), I need to train it for its own sake.

Three Words

2009-08-05T22:00:00.002-05:00

Stripper. Kitchen. Decision.

If that won't bring you back here tomorrow, I don't know what will!

Small Stuff

2009-07-28T13:29:00.002-05:00

How interested are you in hearing about my day? I mean, really. It's been tough today. I woke up at 5:15 (per usual), fell asleep while picking out clothes (honestly: sat down on my bed for two seconds and OUT), ate a tiny cereal bar for breakfast (good, but tiny) on my way to work. I've had two mugs of coffee with French Vanilla creamer, finished up a couple of projects at work, and am waiting for the free food to be available after a meeting. My stomach is growling and I'm a little down.

I have a huge decision to make. For most, this situation/decision wouldn't be hard. I have two jobs on my schedule at the moment. Because it's summer, I'm working both. But, in less than a month, classes begin. Then, one job must be chucked. Job #1, I make more per hour, but feel completely unstimulated. Job #2 has two amazing coworkers with whom I've made a great connection, but is very "political" - a game I don't like to play. Job #1 is at a place to which I am and will continue to be very connected. Job #1 is further from home, but a comfortable environment. Both Jobs are unreliable in that I don't know if/when they would develop into full-time after I graduate and it's starting to wear at me.

So, there's my day. And my decision.

Tension-Free and Me

2009-07-27T10:39:00.007-05:00

I live in a very "high" state of being: stressed, motivated, competative. I rarely relax - even after sleeping I wake up with a stiff neck or jaw from what I can only assume are tense dreams? This wrecks havoc on my sleeping schedule, my health and I have discovered, my dogs. (I'm assuming also my husband, but that's a post for another day!) My brain was still foggy at 5:30 this morning and I sat down with my granola (YUM!) and my laptop for some internet browsing. After landing on hulu.com, I watched one of the FREE (yay for free!) episodes of The Dog Whisperer. It was a great reminder for me that dogs are perceptive to their humans' emotions, body language and tone. (Sidenote: If dogs are this perceptive, what about the people we're in contact with every day?) I was inspired to hit the pavement. Before I tell you what happened this morning, let me relate the normal dog-walking routine:

1. Eric or I say in an excited tone: "Do you want to go for a WALK?" Of course, the W-A-L-K word is well-known around our house and once spoken, produces frenzies, jumping, play fights, etc.

2. We try to corral Sadie (the older and supposedly calmer one) and make her hold still long enough to lasso the harness around her neck and buckle at lightning speed. Nala will sit, lift the correct paw that goes through the harness and then lean to one side for buckling. She's amazing. I trained her.

3. Sadie picks up the middle of her leash with her teeth and swings her head violently from side to side. Yes, she whips herself in the face. Nala usually stands (semi) quietly while weound up the house key and doggie poo bags.

4. They tear out the door and down the stairs with us in tow. We then tramp back upstairs to shut the door that we were unable to shut in the mad dash for outside.

5. The walk itself consists of leaps after rabbits, straining against harnesses, lunging toward other dogs (that are across the street and three houses down) and a general shoulder stiffness (in my shoulder) when we return home.

We know we need to walk these beasts and usually have limited time to do it in. So, we've let ourselves be bullied into submission by 60-pound, four-legged creatures with less intelligence than a kindergartner.

However, this morning I had the energy to try the calm, assertive demeanor that my dogs really do need. After releasing my tension and stress, I calmly walked to the leash basket. Although both dogs saw me, they continued to sit. (I must admit, I was VERY surprised.) I then lifted out Sadie's leash. Remember, this is the one that won't sit long enough to buckle and whips herself. I only employed the trademark "sstt" once and she stayed! I slipped on the harness, buckled it and she didn't even touch the lease itself! Nala's "harness dressing" went as normal.

One of Cesar's BIG rules is: always cross the threshhold of your door BEFORE the dog(s). This establishes dominance before you even leave the house and encourages obedience from the start. A little tough to accomplish trying to hold two leashes and pull the door shut at the same time. However, I did it! And they were calm! (This is still a little surreal to think about - our dogs: calm!)

I wound one leash around each hand so that we would all be walking together and set off. On a normal day, this is what happens (note the outstreached arms and yelling):

(And no, I don't wear a skirt to walk the dogs, but stick-figure girls always have skirts, right?)

Today, miracle of miracles, this happened (Aerial view. Eric, check out Sadie's side! For everyone else, we make Sadie carry her own waste, of which there is a copious amount every walk.) :

It worked! By being calm and relaxed, I had the most enjoyable walkI've had in a long time! We passed rabbits, cats and other dogs. No lunging, pulling or crazed jumping. If a little calm can make this big of a difference in walking my dogs, just think what else could be impacted! And now, because I know you enjoyed this rare glimpse into my freehand artwork, one more for the road:

...with unhealthiness and taxes for all.

2009-07-17T18:41:00.004-05:00

I watched a little bit of Super Size Me while I woofed down my drive-through burger (not McDonalds, but still...) and was as thoroughly grossed out as I remembered being the first time I watched.

Now, I'm cooking my VERY healthy spinach and mushroom lasagna (as a result of SuperSize Me), and am watching hearings from the House Ways & Means Committee on passing the America's Affordable Health Choices Act of 2009.

Both my burger and these hearings are making my blood pressure rise.
Burger: bad for my body by increasing fat and salt. Hearing: bad for our country by increasing taxes, limiting freedom and replacing a competitive industry with a government program.

Is there a solution? Yes! Stop eating burgers and replace with nutritious food that may take just a little longer to prepare, but will ensure a longer life. And, yes! Take a step back and make sure we're doing the right thing that Americans NEED (not want as a result of overhyped "crisis" reporting! I want a burger, but I need a salad!).

Even those who oppose many portions of the Act are going to pass because "the country needs this now!" Really? Really?!

About as much as I need another burger...

So, we went camping

2009-07-13T18:21:00.005-05:00

To celebrate my husband's TWENTY-NINTH birthday (he's so old!), we took a trip to a family friend's farm pond for the weekend. When you think farm pond, do you think of cows in a dirty ditch in the middle of a corn field? Me too! I had vague grandiose memories of this particular farm pond, but things are always cooler at the age of eight. I wasn't sure if this pond would live up to my childhood expectations, but it delivered!

Look at all the trees! And not a single cow was seen the entire trip! (Although we did hear a few off in the distance - it was a farm pond after all.)

It was quaint, quiet and just what we needed this weekend! Especially Eric - he has been working way too many hours every week and was in dire need of a getaway! We fished (Eric caught four delicious bass, I caught three - pictured below!), napped, ate (lots of s'mores!) boated, and swam. It was the perfect way to spend a summer weekend.

The Way I Start a Meeting...

2009-06-24T16:50:00.003-05:00

It's always better to begin with a cartoon!

Work Out, Smooth Out, Cook Out

2009-06-20T09:16:00.002-05:00

Today, I'll be doing one of my favorite workout videos with one of my not-so-favorite titles.

While I'm still "glowing" from that workout, I'll then head to the kitchen. After attaching the Shop-Vac to the orbital sander (Love the orbital!), I'll smooth out the walls I spackled on Thursday, throw on a second coat of mud, and then SHOWER!

After cleansing my skin, I'll hop in the car and head to the homestead for a Father's Day Celebration, complete with BBQ chicken, salads and strawberry shortcake - I'm bringing the shortcake!

Off to do my working, smoothing and cooking!

And...That's All I Have to Say About That

2009-06-19T17:35:00.003-05:00

Not eating sugar, wheat, caffeine and dairy - all at once - does not agree with me. After three days of being sick in three different ways, I decided this elimination is not for me. While the theory of eliminating potentially bad things from my diet is sound, the actual execution proved a little less than ideal for me.

---------------------------

My Tuesday interview was flawless! I had a great connection with the interviewer and was informally offered the job. I should be getting the formal offer at the beginning of next week!

--------------------------

I'm working in the kitchen (well, not at this moment...). I will skim-coat the walls (twice), sand them smooth (twice), paint (two coats), scuff sand the trim, paint and we'll see what happens after that! I'd love to upgrade the hardware, but what's there is original and will be difficult to replace. We'll see...

That's my week in a nutshell. What three things made your week unforgettable?

Vegetables Make Me Sick

2009-06-16T05:55:00.000-05:00

I started my elimination diet at midnight. This meant, no milk, no grains, no caffeine and no meats except for deep-water fish and fresh game. I had a great breakfast for fruit: pineapple, banana, grapes, cherries, strawberries and peaches. YUM! I threw in a few almonds for good measure (and for protein). About two hours after eating my lovely fruit, my stomach was actually growling - I think fruit is fast-tracked through - and I opened up my giant plastic bowl of veggies. That means plain veggies - no dip, no dressing, no nothing. I munched my way through that bowl, had a few pistachios and continued on with my day.
About two hours later, a strange feeling hit me. I chalked it up to having been without coffee (which causes those lovely deprivation headaches) and continued working. After a few more hours, the feeling was not to be ignored. I packed up my stuff, drove the 7.5 minutes home and rolled right into bed. (Don't judge - keep reading!)
I woke up an hour later feeling ok...until I stood up. My mouth started watering extensively and the room was spinning. I lay back down quickly and when Eric got home an hour later, I though I'd be ok (HA!). I got up to prove my victory over the feeling and...

...didn't make it to the porcelain bowl in time. Never in my life have I wretched like this! Never! I'll spare you the specifics, but, Eric and I spent a good 20 minutes wiping down the bathroom after the deed was over.

Herein lies my dilemma:
Because I had eaten nothing but veggies yesterday, guess what revisited my senses during that tumultuous event? Now the very thought of anything green and good-for-me turns my stomach just a little. I don't want to prove a failure after one day of eliminating, but what's a girl to do?

-----------------------------

I have an interview today. I like my job, I really do, but another opportunity has presented itself and I'd be silly not to give it a shot. I don't have enough specifics yet to make an educated decision, but am praying the right choice will be obvious once the interviews are over. Wish me luck!

Post 200

2009-05-27T06:37:00.000-05:00

I think I'm finally an adult.

For the past month or so, I've been waking up between 5 and 530 am and staying up. I honestly am not at all interested in falling back asleep. I make the bed, make my coffee and maybe even do a load of laundry - all before 6 am.

At first, I thought this strange anti-sleeping pattern was due to my upcoming trip. Which has been and is gone. The last two days (minus my first day home where I slept until *gasp* 730) my body has decided that the wee small hours of the morning are awesome and not to be ignored. This may have something to do that if I were still on the other side of the Atlantic, it would be 11 am, but I'm not entirely sure.

My list is long today - and exciting. Ready? Here goes:

1. Fill out application and call for interview. Oh yes - interesting things are a-brewing!

2. Go to the library and Photoshop, Photoshop, Photoshop. I love my MacBook, but for picture editing, I need the biggest screen possible. Two screens? Even better!

3. Finish the final bits of my unpacking like putting the big suitcase back under the stairs, finding homes for the bits and pieces I brought back with me and folding the laundry I have washed and dried from the trip.

4. Walk my dogs and hopefully lose the last of their summer coats on the way. Could have made a fur coat with the fluff I got off Sadie yesterday. If I get really bored, I may just have to wash, dry and brush the beasts again.

5. Really should do some exercising of some sort. Although I did lose 6 lbs while in the UK - all that running to catch the tube!

6. Post some of my great pictures with stories and anecdotes that I didn't have time to post while traveling.

My real life is back and busier than ever. Although I had a great time, it (of course) is fabulous to be back in my own bed (even though I'm to stuffed up in the head to enjoy it), with my free computer (well, at least not 1 BPS for 20 minutes), and with only myself to take care of (I was a little bit of a parent to the kids on the trip).

This is Post 200 of Married with 2 Dogs! Promise of Post 201 coming soon!

The Places I Went, The People I Saw

2009-05-21T10:52:00.000-05:00

I thought if anyone was really bored, they'd like to check out the places I've visited for academic reasons here. Some of the places gave us great presentations, tours and information. Others were either at the wrong time of day or just slightly boring (they produced lots of yawns). However, I tried really hard to act interested and find some aspect of their business to ask questions about. Sometimes a little tough, but I learned a lot throughout the whole experience!

1. Advertising Standards Authority - saw examples of ads that were complained about in UK
2. Press Complaints Commission - a little dry, but great contrast to freedom of the press in the US
3. Reuters - a lot of walking
4. Schawk - amazing!!!
5. The Islam Channel - had a hard time with, for many reasons. But they did provide a great lunch and were mostly gracious
6. The Telegraph - only publisher with direct info for the top UK story!
7. Weber-Shandwick - fun and interactive PR presentation.
8. McCann - Erickson - look into the advertising world!

Enjoy! I certainly did!

Parts V-VIII: Many Visits

2009-05-20T11:04:00.000-05:00

More Paris information and photos to come. This is quick catch-up of the past few days. After arriving back in London around midnight on Sunday, we started bright and early Monday morning heading to the Press Complaints Commission. A regulatory body quite different from anything seen in the U.S. The PCC deals with any legitimate complaints given against printed / online journalism. The Commission looks into each and every complaint and, if necessary, rules on the matter if a consensus cannot be reached by the paper and complainant. No pictures allowed.

Then off to the Advertising Standards Authority, another regulatory body for - you guessed it - advertising in the UK. The closest thing we have in the US is the FCC, which is highly reactive and not so proactive (think "wardrobe malfunction"). Again, no pictures allowed.

Best part of the day? Dinner with a good friend from high school. We went to a great organic cafe - my first green veggies of the trip! - and saw a few sights and areas of the city. I was also introduced to Cider and Black. YUM! It was so great to catch up and see a familiar face in an unfamiliar place! Thanks again for a great evening Dan!Tuesday was the day of Reuters and Schawk. Reuters was interesting, but Schawk? Such an incredible operation! The type of work they do is branding, which means, putting a certain, tailored idea about a company/product in the minds of consumers on sight. SO COOL! The entire process appealed to my sense of analness - and I loved the quality control measure they had in place. Amazing!

The London Eye, Houses of Parliament, and Westminister. Photos below. So fun!

Today we visited the Islam Channel - felt like discussing religion, not communication - and The Telegraph - largest newsroom in the world!

And now, off to tour London at night. Cheerio!

Part Va: Breezing Through Paris

2009-05-18T11:27:00.000-05:00

I feel repetitive, but, what a day Friday was! The day began with a 4:30am alarm, a 5:15am lobby-meeting, and a half hour wait for the Tube to open.

Then, passport control, boarding the Eurostar and zooming through England, under the Channel and through France. It was early and I was tired, but couldn't sleep - we were going to Paris! Then, a bus through the city (it was stinky and crowded - no pictures) and luggage into lockers. The rain seemed a good excuse to start our Paris adventure at the Louvre.

It goes without saying that the art was amazing. The size of the place was mind-boggling and after our VERY short tour, we were exhausted. We covered MAYBE about 10 percent of the building! We spent the majority of our time in the Egyptian antiquities (one of our group is also majoring in art and loves Egyptian art - a good thing b/c we would have wandered aimlessly otherwise!) and touched on a few other areas as well.

The glass pyramid in the foyer/courtyard of the building. Quite a juxtaposition to the classical architecture.

An Egyptian antiquity (all descriptions were in French - of course!)

The hall of paintings - this is from the middle looking one direction. It felt like a mile!

More antiquities of Egypt.

The actual, honest-to-goodness Mona Lisa.

A huge statue - my art friend is nowhere near to give me the name. Any guesses?

My contemplation of a rock with inscriptions. Again, all descriptions in French.

A quick nap in the hotel and back out to see the Tour Eiffel at night. A.M.A.Z.I.N.G. We got our first taste of the souvenir hawkers that night - I perfected my "non" and stern Parisian look after a few tries and wasn't approached again.

My french was/is of a classroom variety and two years rusty. However, I was the "expert" of the group and the spokesperson for ordering, buying, directions, etc. Fun to try and make myself understood, but a little stressful. You don't realize how difficult the simple act of eating is in a foreign country. Deciphering a menu when your stomach is protesting in hunger is hard! The nice thing is that most shop attendants and restaurant workers know enough English to get tourists through. That was a huge help!

It was surreal and exciting to see such famed landmarks, monuments and museums. Although, the city was dirty, crowded and - due to the language barrier - very tiring; the food was great, the cramming of sightseeing and having a great time with my classmates was worth it! Keep checking back! I have two more days of Paris to post about!

Mini Part IV - PARIS!!!

2009-05-16T03:44:00.001-05:00

It takes too long to blog with a French keyboard - but it is amazing here!

Pt III: Quick blog on French Computer

2009-05-15T13:37:00.000-05:00

Many keys are in weird places. Louvre was awesome! Many pictures to come! Used French in real setting for the very first time and did ok. Eiffel, Arc de Triumphe, Seine boat ride to come. Recap of Thursday highlights also coming. Having great time! Can't believe actually international traveler! And was told I looked European after answering with a convincing "oui" to question and then unable to continue conversation in French. Off to cafe for dinner! Vive la France!

Part II - Touristy Stuff

2009-05-14T11:29:00.000-05:00

We were loaded up yesterday and set off through the English countryside. Mostly driving - with a little bit of sight-seeing thrown in for good measure. Motoring through quaint, quiet villages on a giant lumbering coach/bus was slightly ironic, but comfy for the jet-lagged among us. (I'm doing surprisingly well - I do not envy myself the trip home, however!)

We began with a trip to Oxford / Oxford University, where the college we were set to visit was closed. We instead walked in the misty, moisty weather for one, long hour looking at various gargoyles, plaques and doors. (Seriously, lots of doors!)

Then back to the coach for a trip to Stratford-Upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare. No pictures of his birthplace - not allowed. And not many others, due to the fact that something from my English breakfast didn't agree with me, and set me sick for the lunch hour. (I'll spare the gorey details.)

Then, pile in the coaches and drive to Warwick (pronounced War-ick) Castle. A mideval structure with Tudor and Victorian diplays. (Something I didn't quite understand...) (Also, note the crazy hair! A by-product of incredibly humid English weather!)Then, a 2.5 hour ride back to London - I napped. After which I headed with a classmate to The London Pub and had my first taste of cyder as well as authentic fish and chips. Quite tasty.

The evening ended badly when I thought my credit card had been put on hold due to international charges - however, it turned out that this was the fault of the London Underground System and not Visa's. Sleep came quickly and morning too soon. Stay tuned for Part III!

p.s. I also had a mostly full memory card through most of the day and was very stingy with my pictures. There are more exciting ones coming - I promise!

London Adventure - Part 1

2009-05-13T13:18:00.000-05:00

After a two-hour delay leaving Chicago, our group made it safe and sound to jolly old England. (Yes, the plane ride was long and my back is still slightly sore, but this is price you pay for international travel, right?)

Right away, we queued up for our coach and headed to Windsor, a royal residence that is still in use. After eating amazing ice cream made with Devonshire cream - YUM!

(This is not our coach, but is exactly like the one we took - the other half of our group was in this one!)
Then, after going to bed at what felt like 3 p.m. and finally sleeping like a baby at midnight London time, we left for a day of sightseeing - Part II comes tomorrow!

Filling My Hours

2009-05-11T07:15:00.000-05:00

After trying to start this post about 20 times, I've just decided to say:
I LEAVE FOR LONDON TODAY!

(And it rhymes - so that's something!)

Thursday...I mean Wednesday!

2009-05-06T07:08:00.000-05:00

Today, if all goes according to plan, I will:

work for 5 hours
meet to go over a design for a welcome brochure
go over a presentation with small group
present mock magazine to class - the culmination of a sememster of hard work
deliver Becca's invitations to her in the parking lot at work
walk my dogs if it stops thundering
do three loads of laundry
throw meatballs in the crockpot for dinner (I'd better get on that!)
drink much, much more coffee
find some time to eat lunch
greet my poor husband in passing
collapse into bed sometime around 10, 9 if I'm lucky (5 a.m. comes very early)

Hope your day goes according to plan - not mine, but yours!

The Day Approaches

2009-05-05T10:54:00.000-05:00

In less than one week, I will be 4300 miles away in jolly, old England! To say that I am excited is a gross understatement! I'm working this week on getting all the last little details like buying travel containers and a battery alarm clock, getting my hair done, readying all my clothes, packing and repacking every item, working copious hours to make up for my time off and readying my little family for my absence.

My plan is to post daily while I'm gone with pictures, anecdotes, etc. We'll see how that goes...

Check back on May 12 for Kate's Adventure in Europe - Part I!

Loving This Photography Thing

2009-04-26T15:00:00.000-05:00

Risen and Given

2009-04-12T12:41:00.000-05:00

He was taken from heaven,
He was blessed for ministry,
He was broken for sins,

And then, best of all...

He was given to us!

Wherein Cliches Abound

2009-04-09T13:12:00.000-05:00

I registered for classes today. I keep telling everyone that I will be "coasting" to the finish line of this thing called college. I'm taking ONE summer course this year (as opposed to five last year) and will be taking a grand total of 12 credit hours - three of those being an online course (yay for the Internet!).

I'll have a relatively easy go of it until December. Working my internship, volunteering at church and keeping my little family happy and healthy. However, after the curtain goes down on 2009, I may be in a bit of quandary. I've heard rumors straight from the horse's mouth (my wonderful boss) that the powers-that-be LOVE my work and would LOVE to keep me on after graduation - if the budget allows. I've also heard other rumors (straight from another horse's mouth) that people around church LOVE my work and that my volunteering may turn into something more - including something for which I would be paid.

These are purely rumors, but - being the type A that I am - I have begun thinking, planning and worrying already. Silly me - this is still nine months away! So, to take my mind off the future, and to add one more thing to my list, I decided to run a 5K on April 25. I am not a runner. But, for some reason, I decided this would be a good idea. Hmm...

Back to the subject at hand: two possible jobs waiting for me to receive my bachelor's degree. Keeping all involved happy and all options open is very difficult and I'm tired. But, then, I'm always tired...

Updates to follow...

A Rant

2009-04-08T16:42:00.000-05:00

I don't often complain/grumble/fuss across cyberspace but I need to vent about my current mood:

- I took both dogs in our tiny car an hour away to our old vet for hip shots that our new vet "doesn't do, but can do if we want them."
- Nala whined and paced the entire hour - yes, the entire hour. If you didn't think a dog could pace in a car, you're wrong.
- I found out from our old vet that the now-ex-current vet gave me information that could have led to poisoning our dog.
- I tried to walk both dogs after the vet visit - it was too windy, the dogs pulled too hard, and, to sum up, it was just bad.
- Homework is piling up - the end of the semester is approaching.
- I am tired, and I don't have time to sleep.
- I am picking up the slack on a group project - of course - as always.
- I am running. I hurt.
- My brain is tired of learning.
- I am *this* close to tears at different times throughout the day - a symptom of the lack of sleeping.
- Work is picking up speed and I feel a little overwhelmed - nothing I can't handle, but I need time to focus, which I don't have.

Sorry for all the negativity! I'll be happier soon!

Can You Keep a Secret?

2009-04-03T10:25:00.000-05:00

I have a dirty little secret.

Actually, it's my dogs' dirty little secret.

They pee.

Yes, yes, I know, all dogs pee. But, these two have a special knack for peeing. Not only in their brown yard (made that way by all the pee); not only on their walks (where every 20 feet is the "perfect" spot for a little pee); but also in any comfortable place they may happen to fall asleep.

I hear your protestations: "Dogs don't pee where they sleep!" Come spend a night at my house and you can test that theory for yourself!

This morning, during the wee hours, Nala jumped up on our bed (which we keep covered with a hair-catching sheet for just such jumping-occasions). She must have directly entered that deep sleep that provokes the bladder leakage. I moved my foot a fraction of an inch to the left and AAAAARRRRRGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHH!

She jumped down looking quite chagrined at her horrible mistake (as each dog always does - after the fact). I leaped from my warm bed with a "Bad dog!" and "Guess what Eric?" alternatively and repeatedly. During my leap, I landed on a dog cushion next to the bed that was - guess what? - soaking wet!

I immediately stripped the hair-catching sheet, quilt, blanket, top sheet, bottom sheet and mattress pad. Then I grabbed the two doggie security blankets, stripped the cushion covers and threw the whole mess down the basement stairs. Thankfully, each cushion is also encased in a water proof cover - you'd think this had happened before!

(Side note: why in the yards and yards of clean fabric do I always manage to hold the areas that are pee-soaked?)

I grabbed the fabric cleaner (and carpet cleaner, because dog cushions are obviously horribly leaky) and rags. After a spray on the affected areas, I headed downstairs to start my first of five loads of laundry. (And I didn't think I would have time for even one today! Amazing, eh?)A quick run upstairs to scrub, spray and scrub again.

So, now the secret is out. Now that I've come "clean," I need support and suggestions! Any ideas? Do I get up in the middle of the night to take them out? Do I take away all water after 8 p.m.? If they didn't hate kennels so much - and if the kennels weren't so HUGE - I'd consider this option.

By the way, after the scrubbing was over, I glanced at the clock: 6:38 a.m. Good morning to me!

What Could be Better...

2009-03-21T15:39:00.001-05:00

...than listening to Josh Groban serenade me in Spanish (which I thought was Italian until a few seconds ago) as I blog?

Having my dishes being washed for me, that's what!

At this very moment, the little white machine in the kitchen is churning happily away as I sit and relax with my little MacBook. About a week ago, the dishwasher fairy (ok, the dishwasher husband) installed a DishDrawer (DD) in our tiny kitchen. That little word "installed" sounds like an easy process - but nothing could be further from the truth! Because we live in a nearly 100-year-old house, the kitchens are slightly less deep than those in current / modern houses. Therefore, my incredibly handy husband performed the following feats for the "installation":

1) Removed the cupboard door next to the sink.

2) Removed and reinstalled the shelf in aforementioned cupboard at a lower height.

3) Cut out plaster and lathe in the back of the cupboard.

4) Notched out studs in wall behind plaster and lathe for flush mounting of DD.

5) Ran new water lines for DD.

6) Ran drain line for DD.

7) Installed new electrical for DD.

8) Inserted wonderful DD.

9) Allowed me to fill and run the first (and subsequent) load of dishes.

Portions of this project were performed as I attempted to fight off a nasty cold / sinus thing, and I may be forgetting a few steps. However, it takes a lot of work to install a DD and I am VERY thankful to my wonderful man for making my kitchen duties much less time consuming!

Isn't he a great guy?

The Follies of Laundry

2009-03-20T12:41:00.001-05:00

I like organizing. This is why the sorting-of-the-laundry provides such joy for me.
Place dark, normal wash items in sorter next to white items next to dark, gentle wash items. Towels in a basket and sheets straight in the washing machine.

However, this organizing gift seems to diasppear the moment the clothes are clean. I like the process of hanging clothes (two quick slides and - poof - done!) but the folding? Not so much.

This may stem from the fact that growing up there was no real time to fold all ten loads of clothes every day. And so, we would have to "FOLD" every week. And when I say fold, I mean three hours, of at least three people folding, sorting, matching, etc.

With two of us, this task is much less daunting, however, I think my psyche still recoils when the clean laundry appears in the dryer. You'd think that with the ease of modern machinery, I'd be able to push past my fears, fold the few items and put them away!

With this analysis now complete, guess what I'm off to do?

A Two-Day Work Week

2009-03-17T16:00:00.000-05:00

Folks, it is spring break! And guess where I am? At the library at school! Really, truly.

However, I am nearing the end of my working hours for this week. Because my boss is truly one of the nicest people in the world, she generously allowed me to cram all my hours into Monday and today. That means, tomorrow, I will be sleeping in, catching up on my for-fun reading, spending time at the park with Two Dogs, and hopefully finishing some of the lurking projects that have needed attention for the past three months.

I may actually post a little more than normal, but we'll see...

For now, enjoy this picture of Nala longing for the out-of-doors. And don't feel too bad for her - she'll be enjoying our gorgeous weather very soon! If you look closely, you can see the reflection of our street in her eyes.

How To: Give Yourself a Break

2009-03-16T09:51:00.000-05:00

Step #1: Be aware of the concept of time and how much of it you have each week.

Step #2: Plan a day every week to do nothing – no appointments and no projects! Do only activities that restore or rejuvenate you: a nap, walking dogs, exercising, reading, sitting and staring, or absolutely nothing.

Step #3: Keep that day sacred! Don’t allow things like cell phones, email or your to-do list come between you and the day.

Step #4: Enjoy being with your spouse, kids or pets.

Step #5: Wake up the following day with more energy and joy than you’ve had for a long time!

To-Do List: Friday, March 6, 2009

2009-03-06T12:53:00.000-06:00

Get 60-day evaluation with Nikki
Send a picture of me (yikes) along with my information for the OPC Scholarship
Walk dogs
Work out with DVD trainer
Help Eric on his Lincoln project
Get laundry downstairs (at least) and (hopefully) in sorting bins
Contact Eric's sister for dog-watching services
Wonder where my week went...

How To: Waste 20 Minutes in a Parking Lot

2009-03-03T13:29:00.000-06:00

This is the first in the series, "How To:... / How NOT To:... Education and prevention is my goal.

Preparation:
#1: Snowy ground is a must for this project. Also, if a slight warm-up leading to slight melting conditions has transpired, all the better.

#2: You must own a small, front-wheel drive car with four-year-old tires. This is not optional!

#3: Find a parking lot that conforms to the following conditions: a) is unplowed, b) has snow-packed ruts from previous parkers, and c) contains piles of five-inch deep of melting, squishy and all-around wet snow. (The need for this final element will come into play later in the activity.)

#4: Park the car from step #2 in a parking spot next to a curb. It's also best if you don't realize the curb actually exists.

#5: Leave your car in said spot for over two hours. At night. In freezing weather.

Here's where the project gets interesting:

#6: Return to your car. It must be dark for this part to work correctly. Being completely unprepared for winter weather is also acceptable at this stage. (i.e. Flats with cutouts instead of sturdy winter boots would be ideal.)

#7: Enter vehicle, remove shoes, shake out wet snow (remember, you have cutouts in the sides of your footwear) and start your engine. Remember, it must be night for best results.

#8: Back up two inches, then watch snow spray up from under the front of your car.

#9: Go forward 12 inches.

Repeat steps #8 and #9 a minimum of 15 times, knowing that the next time you repeat, you will successfully leave your spot.

#10: Realize that steps #8 and #9 do not work.

#11: Look around your car for a shoveling implement. Find old Starbucks cup, windshield scraper, an empty purse and cell phone charger.

#12: Decide on windshield scraper as best option.

#13: Step out of car, into snow drift (remember footwear from step #6).

#14: Remove snow from behind each tire. Wonder why the asphalt looks so shiny. Then dismiss thought.

Repeat steps #7, #8 and #9 about 30 times. Get increasingly frustrated.

#15: Switch radio over to soothing classical music station. Take seven deep breaths.

Repeat steps #13 and #14.

#16: Realize, on closer inspection, that "shiny asphalt" should have registered as ice in brain.

#17: Come close to tears.

#18: See a couple of freshmen (one girl and one boy) making out across the way.

#19: Interrupt passionate rendezvous with whiney pleas for help and effusive apologies for the interruption.

#20: Try not to laugh as scrawny (boy) freshman pushes and pushes and almost falls on his face after the tires hit pavement and car bolts backwards.

#21: Be as grateful as possible to your scrawny savior and wonder at freshmen's ability to pick right back up where they left off.

#22: Realize you almost backed into a giant red truck on exiting the parking spot.

#23: Drive away slowly, vowing to never again park in snow. (But, vow to continue wearing impractical shoes at every opportunity.)

Now you know how to spend a few extra minutes in a parking lot near you.

Glad to be of service!

And the winner is...

2009-02-27T15:49:00.000-06:00

Big dog!

For her ability to sit / lay still when I am on photography class deadline!

Congratulations Sadie!

(You'll probably never see another picture of Nala unless all her pads get ripped off again. Every picture I get is a blur of black fur with additional legs thrown in for good measure.)

Thanks again, Sadie!

Working, Schooling and Everything Else

2009-02-23T15:38:00.000-06:00

Working
Work is going great. I'm getting amazing hands-on marketing and design experience. My boss even wants to pull back from her marketing responsibilities, hand them to me, and work fewer hours a week! You know you're making a good impression when your boss gives you too much to do! :)

Schooling
I'm having a hard time engaging in my classes this semester. Everything seems to require less effort, less studying and less concentration. Either I'm getting smarter in my old age (HA!), or really becoming unmotivated the closer I get to graduation. We'll see if the grades expose my lack of effort!

Everything Else - I
Eric and I have been B-L-E-S-S-E-D lately in our finances. We finally took the plunge / made the decision / committed / to tithing on a regular basis. We used to be "casual" tithers by writing a check every so often to church and then deciding there were more "important" things to spend our money on, we wanted to eat out, etc. We were not very faithful.
On January 1, we made the commitment to "just do it!"

God says in Malachi 3: "Bring your full tithe [tenth] to the Temple treasury so there will be ample provisions in my Temple. Test me in this and see if I don't open up heaven itself to you and pour out blessings beyond your wildest dreams. For my part, I will defend you against marauders, protect your wheat fields and vegetable gardens against plunderers." That strikes me as pretty straightforward. He says, "Try me, and watch what I will do."

So we have been, and have been humbled and amazed by the ways that God is showing us His faithfulness.

Everything Else - II
The decision has been made. We will not be living in the middle of Omaha forever and have our goals in place to live somewhere we can hear the crickets at night and let our dogs run during the day. It's exciting, daunting and tiring all at the same time. The first step in this long-as-my-arm plan is to finish the laundry room remodel. The cabinets are ready to be installed and pictures will appear soon.

Everything Else - III
Recently, I have been working on being very open and honest with the people in my life. This has been very difficult for me as I like to keep an aura of mystery about my thoughts, life and emotions. So, be forewarned, the honesty may not be finely tuned yet, but I'm working the gentle truthful balance. I have felt more at peace in my relationships now then any other time I can remember. From actually voicing my opinion about where I'd like to eat lunch to telling someone very close to me something that I should have said four years ago (and yes, it's been eating me up for THAT long). The first few times were really tough, but I'm slowly getting more comfortable.

I'm ready to see what else is in store for me this week! I'll keep you posted!

Aesthetically Pleasing

2009-02-19T16:12:00.001-06:00

I'm not the greatest photographer in the world.

I love taking pictures, but draw the line at breaking out the camera at each and every function of which I am part (note: awesome use of grammar!).

I am currently taking a photography class and am learning A TON! Aperture, ISO / ASA, Shutter speed, etc. I've always been able to tell what looked good in a photo, but did not have the skills or education to duplicate the effect. Until now...

Feeling Uncommunicative

2009-02-17T11:00:00.000-06:00

I'm studying communication. Writing, pictures, design - it's just great. However, I'm getting tired of spilling my soul all the time.
Do you really want to know every thought that pulses through my scattered brain?
Do you really want to know about the green tea I had for breakfast?
Do you really want to know that I'm working on being emotionally healthy?
Do you really want to know that I'm sick of school?
Do you really want to know that I don't know what I want to do with the rest of my life?
Do you really want to know that I haven't balanced the checkbook in two weeks and it's haunting my every step?

Really?

So I'll spill a little about someone else. Here's a picture of my Grandma.
She's straight-forward, simple and one of the most generous people in the world. You can tell she cares for others and not herself. She never smiles in pictures, but is kind in a million other ways. Wisdom, kindness and care. Not a bad way to live your life.

Photo Tag: You're It!

2009-02-09T18:16:00.000-06:00

The fourth picture, in the fourth folder of my fourth photo year (my computer sorts them by year) is this very sad photo:

Last summer, on the Sunday before Labor Day, poor little Nala tore all the large pads off each of her four paws! She was unable to walk for 2 days, and then, woke up the third day as if nothing had ever happened. We left her pads unbandaged while she was in the house, but because the grass was dry and crispy at the end of a horrendously hot summer, we bandaged up her feet for bathroom breaks.

I learned that I can indeed carry 60-pound dog, then a 70-pound dog and a camera up and down four steps in 100-degree weather.

I photo-tag the following:

Andi
Courtney
Stephanie
and Renee.

A List for Saturday Afternoon

2009-01-31T16:33:00.000-06:00

Here's my day in list format:

1. Woke up at 9:13 a.m. - Bliss!

2. Tried to post my 25 Random Things on Facebook, pressed the back button, and lost the whole list. Too frustrated to start again.

3. Let Nala out to bask all morning long. I tried to get her to come back in, but she would have none of it!

4. Worked on a colon cancer story for a newsletter at work. Let me just say, YUCK!

5. Redesigned brochures and other materials for a hospice organization for work.

6. Created poster presentations - again, for work.

7. Made a wonderful scrambled egg concoction for "brunch."

8. Did dishes while Sadie laid on my feet.

9. Finished story about colon cancer - while watching the end of Blades of Glory on TV. A very strange combination.

10. Started laundry and picked up a few things around the house.

11. Organized the gross of toilet paper we bought last night. Ok, it was only 20 rolls, but feels like more when crammed into the Tiny House's bathroom closet.

12. Talked to Eric a few times while he worked at a side job. He works really hard to keep us in Financial Peace.

13. Checked my email every 20 minutes, hoping for a response to a necessary email - have yet to receive one!

14. Am posting while laundry washes and dogs lounge around.

15. Plan on renting a movie, cooking a wonderful shrimp pasta thing and hanging out with my man tonight.

Hope you had a great Saturday!

Do I Have to Take the Bad?

2009-01-30T14:07:00.001-06:00

Good: I am driving a sweet vehicle right now!
Bad: I slid into a curb and had to pay for a rental while mine sits in the shop (for a week and a half).

Good: I created an awesome design in response to a need.
Bad: The design is now a shell of its former self - basically chopped up and sold for parts.

Good: My amazing little sister (who is almost 18) has an exciting future ahead of her!
Bad: My little sister is growing up and moving far away! :(

Good: I get to go to London in May!
Bad: We have to pay for me to go to London in May (involves extra work for Eric and singleness for me).

Good: I am working out regularly with a friend from school!
Bad: I am so sore and tired - all I want to do is sleep!

Cheer me up! I want to hear about your good this week!

Ode to Old Green

2009-01-18T15:35:00.000-06:00

We gather together today to bid farewell to beloved family member, Old Green.

He was meant to reside in the basement, but preferred the living room.

All attempts to mask his distinctive odor failed.

His appearance lacked a certain sophistication, but exuded comfort.

Although completely void of nutrition, he became a nearly daily snack.

He was a game participant and a napping partner.

With heavy hearts we commend him - holey, stained, torn and slightly smelly - to the giant blue trashcan beside the back porch.

Good bye Old Green. We'll miss you.

Gasp!

2009-01-15T16:01:00.001-06:00

There has been a lot of gasping going on around here lately. Mainly, the sharp intake of breath is due to the HORRENDOUSLY cold temps, which reached a high today of 4. That's four degrees Fahrenheit - not that balmy four degrees Celsius!

The other gasp was uttered by myself when I was given permission (by me) to drop a class. Yes, drop a class. This is something I do not do. I have always been one to plan, execute, achieve, celebrate (for a second) and jump back to plan, etc, etc, etc...

As I sat through this particular class on Tuesday afternoon (from 4-6 p.m. - aka: Kate's sleepy-and-need-caffeine time) I felt myself getting lower, and lower, and lower. And not just my mood - my chair was broken and sinking slowly.

"Why am I doing this?" I kept asking myself. The details of the class made me slightly queasy and exhausted. All I did was listen for two hours!

As I sat, I began to think about how to get out of this commitment. Besides moving to India or faking my own death, the logical explanation seemed to be to drop the class. I can hear you out there! You're saying, BIG DEAL! Everyone drops classes all the time - what's the dilemma?

I don't drop classes. I start something, I strive for excellence, and I finish something.

I achieve. It's what I do.

But, this week, I gave myself the chance to quit. Not fail, but quit.

I quit something that would have consumed my life.
I quit something that would have stolen my free time.
I quit something that would have given me the experience of doing exactly what I have been doing for the past 5 years.

And I am happy. And content.

I can quit. It doesn't kill me. And that could be the best lesson of all!

Dairy and Me

2009-01-09T19:10:00.000-06:00

I realized that unsuspecting readers may expect this post to detail the effects that dairy has on my body. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Which is: I love milk. Milk loves me. We have had a long and happy relationship for nearly 28 years. However, something seemed to be missing. The milk I remember pouring on my cereal when I was eight tastes nothing like the gallons of 1% I grab from the refrigerator today. It was slightly sour, tasteless and hard to drink alone.

However, on December 29, 2008, that scenario changed. That is the day I had my first glass of Horizons Organic 1% milk.

I think I specifically avoided the organic bandwagon to prove to myself that "regular" food was just as good. I may now have to go over to the natural side because of the amazing experience I have had with my current favorite beverage.

The taste? Sublime!
The texture? Extremely milk-like?
Aftertaste? Nothing but fantastic!

If you haven't had a chance to try Horizon's dairy products, pay the extra money and just do it. You'll mouth and your cereal will thank you!

(Man, Horizon should hire me! I could sell their milk all day long!)

Closing One Chapter

2008-12-31T16:35:00.000-06:00

I'm having a great time doing absolutely nothing. I have slept, watched movies, done a little laundry (my happy chore), and read books - lots and lots of books.

I can't promise any exciting posts over the next few days, but I can promise that I will be relaxing, starting my new job, and keeping my mind clear for the next week and a half.

On January 12, I will start my senior year of college - and it only took 10 years to get here! 2008 ends today, 2009 begins tomorrow.

Happy New Year everyone!

Today is Today

2008-12-16T20:50:00.000-06:00

The semester is over!
Every final item "checked!"

Our Christmas tree is up.
I have figured out how to drape garland.

Our city got its first real snowfall of the season today.
Too bad today was the day I picked to do all my errands!

I have become enamored with reed diffusers.
A beautiful scent without the flame - who knew?

I yelled at the dogs today.
It was only because Sadie spilled my Cherry Coke Zero which I had left in a precarious place.
We've since made up.

Our Tiny House has once again become cozy.
Three inches of snow outside.
Christmas lights inside.

What were the highlights of your day?

"Check!"

2008-12-09T19:53:00.000-06:00

Let's direct our attention to the list, shall we?

New advertising campaign for Apple (18 pp)? CHECK!
Case Study Presentation on the use of stereotypes in editorial cartoons and the ethical theories that should guide our decision to run or not to run? (24 slides - 20 minutes long)? CHECK!
Magazine article about traffic and why we drive the way we do? (4 pp)? CHECK!
Ethical case study paper discussing the above presentation in literary form (9 pp)? CHECK!
Comprehensive Publication Design final? CHECK!
Design campaign for client - 8 pieces in all? CHECK!
Presentation on above campaign? CHECK!
PR Case Study Final? no check...
Creative Advertising Final (because an 19 page advertising campaign is not enough)? no check...
Mass Media Ethics final? no check...

As you can see, the end is nearly in sight! Celebratory post coming soon!

Too many finals...

2008-12-04T16:54:00.000-06:00

...so I'm going to blog!

I'm looking through my informational binder and gearing up to finish my final projects, presentations and tests. I'm just a little Type A and neatly draw a line through each class period I sit through, each assignment I turn in and even each vacation day. My daily planner is filled with diagonal lines through each day and little check marks when the activity has passed.

I hope I'm not the only one who does this! (Sidenote: it reminds me of the way my former piano teacher kept tabs on the things in her life. Checkmarks, notes, and lots of lists!)

I think my favorite class this semester has been Publication Design and Graphics. I think this class has strengthened my resolve to work in design in some form some day. Although I can write copy (really well) and take pictures (not really well), my talents shine when I get to incorporate both words and graphics on a page.

I learned C.R.A.P. in Pub Design this semester; which stands for Contrast, Repetition, Alignment, and Proximity. Those four principles working together are what takes an awful design to tolerable and a good design to great. Leave out any one element, and the whole thing can flop. Use each one appropriately, and you've created a design that looks like art!

Not that these all look like art, but I am VERY proud of the finished products! I'll be presenting this campaign to an actual organization on Tuesday. I have to pitch my work and my abilities, then ask them to choose my pieces for their campaign! (That will be the hard part for me - I'm not good at selling.)

A little background: the middle school/center is hosting a community financial literacy night - where students teach the seminars - and needed materials to promote the event and educate the community.

Remember, this is the culmination of 4 months of hard work, my nerves are frayed and I haven't had more than 6 hours of sleep a night for the past week. Be kind! And enjoy!

A banner announcing the event...

A business card that students could hand out...

The front page...

...the second page...

...the third page...

...and the back page...

A poster for the event...

A general ad for the school...

And an event-specific ad...

I also designed two pieces of stationery, but am too tired to post them tonight. Check back tomorrow. (My favorites are the ads!)

Cowboys and Horses and BBQ

2008-12-02T18:18:00.000-06:00

(Pre-Note: Too tired to fix caption/photo layout. Sometimes blogger drives me crazy!)

A school/work/life update is coming soon! But first, a trip down south...

Our hospitable hosts...

Eric standing on a rock...

Some good Texas scenery...

The cockpit...

An infamous Texas sunset...

Our Thanksgiving feast...

The Bird (G450)...

Posing at the falls...

The B-Dog after a long walk...

Mule deer playing soccer...

Note the disappearing edge...

The best BBQ in Texas...

The falls...

Eric meets a cactus...

Me - on little bits and pieces of sleep...

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! And now, back to my homework...

Here It Comes

2008-11-06T21:12:00.000-06:00

Winter, that is.

Sleet, wind and clouds have moved in. It is dark in the evening and cold in the middle of the afternoon. I intend on digging out my scarves, hats, gloves and coats tomorrow before work.

I'm ready to hunker down on the couch for the next five months and do nothing but drink coffee, watch old musicals and read lots of books.

Instead...

I will be finishing my 17 hours of classes this semester.
I will be looking for an extra job to make extra money for a trip to London next spring.
I will trek through snow and wind to take 15 hours next semester.
I will write papers and walk dogs and cook dinner.

Even if I won't be a woman of leisure, I think it'll be a fun snowy season!

Kick in the Teeth

2008-11-05T14:34:00.000-06:00

I read a quote today: "We judge others by their behavior, but judge ourselves by our intentions."

Ouch.

Inwardly smirking at morbidly obese people? Guilty.
Intending to change my own eating habits to live a healthy life? Always.
Actual change? Not so much.

Wondering why our neighbors don't clean out their packed-to-the-max garage? Guilty.
Intending to maintain a schedule to clean out my closet? Of course.
Actually ever cleaning? Hmm...no.

I live my life intending to do things. Be more careful with the household budget. Work out daily. Wash dishes immediately after using. Volunteer at the animal shelter. Go to sleep at NINE P.M. Wake up early enough to walk the dogs. Walk the dogs if I wake up early enough. Be the one to keep the peace. Be a truly kind person. Shut my mouth. Open my mouth. Call a friend. Write a friend. Forgive a friend. And on...and on...and on...

When do these intentions ever produce action? Does there have to be some reward to me? Do I have to see a gain from the activity? That isn't great reasoning, but it seems to hold true for me. I want to see every good intention actually produce results! Otherwise, I'm only left with a bunch of wasted thought and guilt when the moment as passed.

Does this begin with lowering expectations or focusing on follow-through? When I find out, I'll let you know!

Voting and 150

2008-11-04T11:32:00.000-06:00

I don't keep track of my posts - if you've noticed, I rarely even label them (I think I have, maybe, twice). But, Blogger is so great about keeping me up to date. And today, this post, the one you're reading right now, is number one hundred and fifty. I feel like it should be a higher number, but 150 is still awesome, right?

Now that you are appropriately awed by the sheer number of my posts, I need to tell you, chide you, and remind you to VOTE!

I'm not going to tell you who to vote for, I'm not not going to tell you who I voted for (although, you may be able to figure it out...but, then again, maybe not!), but I am going to tell you that we have an awesome ability and responsibility in the United States to pick the leaders for ourselves.

The system isn't perfect, but people have died fighting for this right - both here and around the world.

Now, I'm off to get free Starbucks (voting does have its perks) and hope every one of you will sport this sticker by the end of the day:

The Project is Complete!

2008-11-02T17:19:00.001-06:00

After 18 months of work in the middle of Omaha, the area finally has a new Wal-Mart! Say what you will about the big-box store, but that company has been keeping my husband busy for a year and a half. Eric took over the entire project 1/2 way through and brought it in on-time and under-budget! (If you know anything about construction, this is a HUGE accomplishment!) This is one of the largest and most expensive-to-build Wal-Marts in the world, it is three stories tall, and has the smallest parking lot of any Wal-Mart so far. The site was incredibly challenging to work with, but my man pulled it off!

The site went from this:

...to this... (all fall, winter, and spring)

...to this...

...and this!

Everything that you see, MY husband coordinated, inspected, and managed.

Didn't he do a fantastic job?

Better Together

2008-10-19T14:42:00.000-05:00

Laughing.

A conversation.

Meals outside.

A funny movie.

Singing.

Future planning.

Vacations.

Exercise.

Fighting.

Coffee.

Snow.

Dessert.

Fall and Oil

2008-10-18T09:07:00.001-05:00

It is a perfect fall day:

overcast
cold
breezy
smelling like snow

Yes, you heard me, snow! I have the most potent sniffer I know. This means that a) I can smell rain and snow, and b) certain smells make me throw up in my mouth, when I normal person would only say, "Peuw! That stinks!"

A couple of weeks ago, we cleaned out the garage. The garage hadn't been touched since our move to the "big city" almost 1 year ago. We took advantage of the giant dumpster at Eric's disposal (hah - no pun intended) at work, and loaded up a few trashcans that had been sitting around that contained a mixture of yard waste, rocks, dirt and trash. We got to the giant dumpster, proceeded to unload the trashcans, and...

I almost threw up on the husband.

It turns out, we were making oil in our backyard with that mixture of yard waste, rock, dirt and trash. Homemade oil has a distinctly unpleasant smell. Especially when someone has not prepared for the smell by holding his or her breath!

So, I almost threw up - complete with the retching sound that accompanies, well, retching.

I didn't want to pander to your hankering for disgusting, so I threw in a little fall anecdote!

Enjoy the smells of autumn! May they be more pleasant than mine!

The Criticized Bride

2008-10-12T20:05:00.000-05:00

A girl fantasizes about her wedding day for years before it actually occurs. Often, long before the groom is even in the picture. She thinks about the flowers, the colors, the pictures, the location and, of course, the dress, veil and shoes. I think this dreaming is wonderful. She gets to wish and hope for a spectacular, meaningful occasion.

Then, reality sets in. Family conflicts have a way of coming to the forefront during the planning of a wedding. And everyone has an opinion:

"That dress looks terrible!" (when it's the one she's dreamed about since she was 7)

"No one has a chocolate wedding cake!" (when she thinks white cakes tastes like sweetened flour)

"You have to have his second-cousin-once-removed in your wedding party - it's only polite!" (when she's never met his second-cousin-once-removed, and would like to have only close friends surrounding her for this important occasion)

"Why did she pick that song? That's not very appropriate for a wedding." (when it's the song that was playing the first time she held her groom's hand)

"Why didn't she pick so-and-so to do this-or-that?" (when she has very good reasons for these decisions)

I am a former wedding coordinator and I have played piano in numerous weddings since I was 18 years old. I've seen it done every way imaginable and heard every song imaginable (and a few other songs over, and over, and over, and over... you get the idea).

When I was a coordinator, I spent more than half of my meetings with the bride (and sometimes the groom) convincing her (and him) that it was her (their) day and if she wanted to do something a certain way, it was perfectly fine. I even had to talk down a few mothers, sisters or attendants when their insistence was wearing down a very frazzled bride. Many brides want their day to be perfect and, to make everyone happy, they do things they wouldn't have chosen for themselves.

I think every wedding is beautiful. Every detail should reflect an aspect of the couple's new life or their personalities. Many actions are chosen for a very specific reason, and I think my job - whether I am a merely a guest or am assisting them to create lasting memories - is to be happy that two people have found love and have chosen to spend their lives together.

(I'll climb down off my soapbox now... Enjoy your next wedding!)

See My Head? BOOM!

2008-10-03T21:56:00.001-05:00

(NOTE: Audience Participation Requested! Feel free to email katherinsorensen@yahoo.com with extra information!)

My brain is too small - or too slow - to absorb all this stuff:

1. The Financial Crisis: I CANNOT believe that the government is giving away BILLIONS of dollars to people who got greedy, lost a little money, and then "needed help." I realize the effects of the capsizing banks on the "little people," and I understand how our financial system may have dipped for a while without a bailout. But, continuing to borrow, finance and "use" credit will land this country in an even bigger mess and I'm furious that while I choose to live my life debt-free, the people running my country think that's there's no other way besides borrowing up to your eyeballs to keep a sinking system afloat! Does this "solution" make you mad or glad?

2. Higher Education: I now realize how so many people come out of the educational system and follow the liberal cause in this country like lemurs off a cliff. It's easy! I sit in every classroom, inwardly seething, occasionally commenting and constantly wondering if my fellow classmates, and teachers realize they are spouting rhetoric and fail to have a single original thought. They're repeating what they've heard without rolling it around in their brains for a while to see if it actually makes sense. There's no reason to point it out, they'll just get more angry! Can you sit silently while people voice their opinions that are exactly contrary to yours?

3. Dangerous Dog Ordinance: We have escape artist dogs. Even Sadie, with her sad, old hips will get free if she tries hard enough. So, we removed the ineffectual fence in the backyard and attached their cables to a stake in the ground. Then, this week, the Omaha City Council decided that dogs cannot be tethered for more than 15 minutes without an adult present. So, my dogs will no longer be able to bask in the sun all afternoon while I clean up in the house. They can't sit outside and sniff the breeze and chase the rabbits away. No, now they have to stay locked inside, underfoot, while I fight the losing battle against the furballs in the corners. Do we build a fence or find another way around the ordinance?

4. Fasting: Our pastor has called for a church-wide fast next week. I'm nervous, having never fasted for any length of time (unless I forget to eat breakfast - and that doesn't really count). The biggest problem is my caffeine addiction. I tried three times this week to go caffeine free. Today was the final effort and I am currently fighting a horrible migraine. We're supposed to do a juice fast or strictly fruits and veggies fast. I don't know if I'll be able to make it through a day, let alone act as a functioning member of society! Could you do it? Am I crazy to even try?

5. I'm searching for people with a story to tell (continued from #1): I am planning on being pretty uneffected by the financial meltdown, due to the way Eric and I live our lives. Our biggest splurge is eating out (and yes, we do so a little too often). We do not use credit cards or debt. We save for my schooling and pay it all with a check. We rent movies from Red Box (only $1 a night), I buy mostly store brands and love to find great clothes on clearance. The simple life has always worked well for us. However, there are people in this country (and, now I hear, around the world) who will have to drastically change their lifestyles in order to survive after this shift in the financial realm. Do you live a simple life? If so, how do you define simple and do you feel like you will be able to keep living it? Are you going to make changes after the market shake-up? Are there certain things you may do differently? (i.e. pay off credit cards, eat at home, etc?) I know there's a lesson for normal people to learn in all this, and I'll do my best to find it!

We are Busy, oh so Busy...

2008-09-27T21:49:00.000-05:00

What a day! Eric actually had the day off, I put my homework off until tomorrow, and we worked...and worked...and worked. I got a little color on my shoulders, a lot of dirt on my legs and under my fingernails, and sore wrists and knees.

But OH! the accomplishments!

1. We had a nice sleep in today. It's the first time we've been able to wake up without the blaring "BLEEP! BLEEP! BLEEP!" in at least six months.

2. I washed an entire sinkful of dishes before 10 a.m.

3. Eric pulled out the funny little fence that separated a strange portion of our yard.

4. I trimmed every bush in the yard - and cleaned up after myself!

5. Eric used the weedeater on every edge of our grass - it looks awesome!

6. I picked up dog poop - a whole bucket full - YUCK!

7. Eric mowed the yard (on a nice tall setting that makes our grass look healthier than it actually is).

8. We pulled every item out of the garage, finished unpacking boxes from our move 11 months ago, sorted trash from keep items, and put everything back in an orderly fashion.

9. We then filled the truck up twice with trash (and we are good about keeping our trash hording to a minimum - I was amazed) and dropped it off at the dumpster on the job site.

10. We walked the dogs (a little shorter than usual) and got back just in time for the NEB - VA TECH game.

11. Just watched the Huskers make an AWESOME punt return! (88 YARDS for a TD!)

12. Am now going to continue watching a super close game.

13. Looking forward to a sermon series on Finances tomorrow.

What did you accomplish this weekend?

Deal? Or No Deal?

2008-09-26T13:43:00.000-05:00

I'm having a tough time of it these past few weeks. Not school, not work, but other...stuff. I can't go into details, (there are too many of them, for starters), but I'm exhausted deep in my soul. There are so many things that have drained me dry. I feel as if I should sleep for days just to shut out any more possible information that may be heading my way.

I talked to a family member last night about being overwhelmed and dealing with the "stuff." We realized that this is one of the hardest parts about being an adult: Actually knowing all the "stuff" that's out there. I'm sure it existed before, but we were thankfully insulated from the knowledge of it. I don't think I have a very good coping mechanism for handling these things.

How do you deal with all the stuff?

What Did You Snack on Today?

2008-09-25T15:47:00.000-05:00

I was waiting for an appointment today. Standing in a hallway, reading my NY Times (that I get free from school) and wondering about the current state of the financial markets. (Don't laugh! I really was!)

A woman rolled down in the hall in her motorized wheelchair. I am trying to be kind, so I will say, her wheelchair was not for a disability. It was for her weight problem. I'm assuming it was also quite useful for the tank of oxygen she had pumping clean, pure O2 into her nostrils as well.

Around a little corner, next to the stairs, is the building's vending machine. It's a tight fit back there and the machines' compressors make quite a racket. (I'm listening to them as I type.)

This woman attempted to roll into the corner. And got stuck. She called "Ma'am! Can you help me?" I assumed she needed help out of her predicament.

But, no. "Can you hold this?" she asked, handing over the gigantic black bag, "And can you put the coins in for me?" WHAT?! I thought/screamed to myself DON'T YOU REALIZE HOW THIS WAS CAUSED?

I was close to asking if her doctor would ok these purchases (I was on the same floor as a doctor's office.), but wisely/stupidly refrained.

She handed me enough money for 2 double-packs of Hostess Cupcakes and a 3 Musketeer Bar. I pushed the money into the slot for each item, and handed them to her as they were dispensed.

This woman couldn't breathe.
She couldn't bend over.
She could barely speak.
She couldn't even insert coins into the vending machine.

And I enabled her to continue her destructive behavior.

What would you have done?

It Positively Hurt

2008-09-14T22:31:00.001-05:00

So, I caught my finger between two door knobs tonight.

Right before doing dishes.

As I was cleaning the mess of a kitchen.

Hmm...so...the positive mood was challenged this evening.

But nothing a little walk with the husband and dogs couldn't fix!

Must...Stay...Positive

2008-09-10T21:55:00.000-05:00

It's easy to be happy when things are going your way. Your dogs are angels while you're gone, your husband comes home all smiles and ready to conform to your every wish, and every person you have a slight acquaintance with strikes up a conversation with you as you pass their way.

These things did not happen to me.

But, instead of dwelling in the negative past, I'm looking towards tomorrow in a very positive fashion. And will give you a quick and positive update on my workout regimen:

I (finally) received "Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred" last Thursday. I say finally because of Amazon's horrendously slow Super Saver Shipping. (That wasn't negative, simply truthful.) Wow! Feel the burn, folks. It's been a long time since I've felt so sore after a workout DVD. And, I am doing push-ups people - girl push-ups, but push-ups nonetheless! The workout(s) is great! I'm only on Level 1, and will stick with this one until I feel "ready to progress." I'm thinking this will happen towards the end of this week. The great thing about this workout is the way the time is broken up: 3 circuits that each include:

3 minutes of strength (30 seconds of arms, 1 minute of combination moves, repeat both)
2 minutes of cardio (alternating between 2 moves at 30 seconds each)
1 minute of abs (2 moves for the first and second circuit, 1 combination move for the last)

I'm a real watch-the-clock exerciser. And, if I'm bored, I may as well be exercising for the rest of eternity. The best part about this DVD is the "mini-goals" within the workout. I feel a sense of HUGE accomplishment every time I reach the end of each segment.

Although you feel like you will die before Jillian calls time for each move, the results are worth it! The only thing I'm not seeing a huge improvement in (yet) is my abs, but that's always the last thing to tone up for me. Now, off to refresh my mind with my positive mantra from yesterday! Stay tuned for more positivism!

I'm Positive, thank you!

2008-09-09T11:09:00.001-05:00

Last night, at 11 pm, I checked on Moosh in Indy and am taking her challenge and running with it!

Of course, my first thought was negative, but, in the spirit of the challenge, I quickly shoved it aside and marched into the Land of Positivism. (I found that this land must exist in the eleventh dimension, only accessible by a constant inner mantra of "stay positive, stay positive, stay positive, I MEAN IT, stay positive!") While I'm normally outwardly positive (or if not, then simply silent), I internally create quite a world of dark broodiness of which escape is difficult and harrowing.

Begone pessimism!

"I, myself, do solemnly swear, that I will think the best of people's comments, intentions and actions this week. I will not let the poor moods of others affect my cheery outlook on life. I will smile more, laugh often and spread my goodwill and positive attitude to all I come in contact with for the next seven days, saith I."

Do you think I can do it?

Better yet, do you think YOU could do it?

Fall, Etc.

2008-09-06T12:59:00.000-05:00

Fall is here. The air is crisp and slightly damp. The sky has been full of high clouds for two days. When the sun comes out, the air is still cool and clean. The wind gusts through the trees pulling a few leaves to the ground.

I.love.fall.

Sadie curls up in the smallest ball possible and hides her nose under her front paw to escape. Nala basks in the sun (when it shows itself) and noses fallen leaves in the backyard.

This year, I may actually get to enjoy this wonderful season. Last year, we were in the midst of moving, trying to sell our old house, adjusting to a new city, etc, etc, etc. This year, even in the midst of school and family (and joining "Real Worship" choir at church - which I am very excited for!), I'm planning on getting the most out of my favorite time of year!

Second topic:

"Sacrifice: the act of giving up something valued for the sake of something else regarded as more important or worthy."

Have you every encountered the same principle over and over and over and over in the span of two days that you feel beat up with it when you stop to catch your breath?

I love my time and my schedule. I like to have things organized, have free time and do the things I want to do when I want to do them. It's easy for me to stay comfortable. I've even noticed that when Eric and have time off together, we tend to argue - mostly because his being home more than normal, disrupts "my" life.

What's more important? My schedule or showing love to my husband? Having (too much) time for myself or giving up a few hours a week for others? So, I'm going to embrace sacrifice for my husband and my church.

At the end of choir auditions this morning, Pastor Les came in and talked to us for a few minutes. Remember all those "beatings" I'd received? This was number three in less than three hours. On the radio, I heard about a worship leader saying that the "sacrifice of praise" involved the sacrifice of moving outside of what is comfortable for "me" to bring glory to God. The second instance, Pastor Sean talked about the sacrifice of being involved in a great choir.

Then Pastor Les came in. Yes, he's a great speaker, yes, he is real and authentic, but I believe that he is truly a communicator for God. I don't know how else to explain the things he says. He talked about offering ourselves as sacrifices. The scary/amazing thing was that he went past the offering part. If you know about sacrifices, the offering isn't the end. I always realized that in a cerebral way this was true, but never thought about how that concept applied to me.

Once a pleasing sacrifice is offered, it is consumed. Completely consumed. That is scary. I like control.

Sorry for the rambling and disjointed post. I like to get words down to work through ideas.

What do you think about sacrifice? Or about fall? Or both?

My Husband - The Hero

2008-09-01T11:44:00.001-05:00

Halfway through a normal hike, on a normal trail on Sunday, we found that all the large pads on every one of Nala's feet was in the process of tearing off. I'm not talking a little scuff here - the.entire.top.layer.of.every.pad. I don't do blood, or guts, or anything that would cause pain, so, I freaked out. Eric, however, stepped up to the challenge. We still had over a mile to go, but my superman picked up our "little" dog (of 65 pounds) and carried her the rest of the way.

(The picture's a bit blurry, but I wasn't about to make him pose!) I tried to give him a break and got about 20 feet... and that's being generous!

Our "big" dog was also limping a little, but we thought it was her hip displaysia. Oh no, she had torn the pad off one of her feet as well! Our poor animals! The city life has made them soft!

After some checks online, and a call to a friend who has lived the ordeal, we found there's really nothing we can do, aside from letting them heal on their own. We've been bandaging Nala's feet when she goes outside, but then removing the wraps when she's inside. They should be ok in a couple of weeks. Nala still trembles every time she stands, but she's getting better at it - especially when there's food involved.

We decided Sadie's a trooper - she must have learned how from Eric!

Revisiting a Certain Venture

2008-08-25T11:41:00.000-05:00

When you grow up, you realize how good things were. Certain activities are seen in a different light and you realize, "That wasn't nearly as horrible as I thought it was!" That being said, I'm getting back to my roots this semester. After taking two years off, I'm ready to start teaching again! If you've been around for a while, you may remember this post. I'm back in the saddle as of today! The only problem is: no students yet! But I do have some great fliers ready to post and a listing on Craigslist. With just eight students, I'll be able to leave the internship that causes me such grief, and save gas all at the same time! Here's my informational flier for your enjoyment.

A Quick Detour

2008-08-25T11:15:00.000-05:00

Be careful, pet lovers, this story will cause immense gratitude for all the close calls with toys that didn't end in disaster!

The Chai Story

I'm so sad for Chai and hoping such a thing never happens to our precious puppies!

It's coming...

2008-08-23T10:13:00.000-05:00

I working on a great, detailed update of the past two months. You'll enjoy it, I promise! But, it needs a little more time to make it better than just good! Check back soon!

I Got a B!

2008-08-13T08:58:00.000-05:00

Really, that's all I have to say.

I passed Astronomy with a solid "B"!

No more science - EVER!

What has brought YOU great relief this week?

A Break to Blog

2008-08-10T16:15:00.000-05:00

I just finished my preliminary study of the last four chapters of Astronomy and will soon move on to Mass Communication Research Methods. Gotta love higher education!

I was completely refreshed, challenged and motivated at worship this morning. This is definitely a God-gift because I was up until 2:45 a.m. last night studying. However, I stayed awake and absorbed what I needed to hear today.

Eric and I took our first baby steps to getting involved at Trinity: we're going to "Step Out and Serve" two Sundays from now. I recently told a friend how nice it has been for the past year to "sit back and absorb." But, the recharging is nearly complete and we're going to give back soon! (I'm a "little" excited!) And, we keep meeting people we know or recognize at our church - a little disconcerting, but in a cool way.

Last night, the 6th of 12 (kids from my family) celebrated his graduation from high school. My bro, Toby, is 18 and living on his own now! I feel really old - and can't believe I graduated EIGHT - wait - make that NINE years ago! What really makes me feel ancient is that this HUGE guy was only 10 years old when I got married and left my parent's home:

... and that HE was a baby (not even 2 years old)...

...and my Janna girl was the cutest flower girl (and the best, I might add!) at 2 1/2 years old.

Everyone else has grown up too (and when I say "up," I mean "UP!"), and it was a fun to see everyone back at the old homestead for the evening.

Right Under Your Nose

2008-08-07T08:21:00.000-05:00

I sat down to my morning routine and laughed over my morning reading. I bemoaned the fact that I had nothing interesting to report and resigned myself to sitting down to homework. (Blah to homework!)

Then, I stepped outside to let Big Sade in...

And almost stepped in a turd.

Yes, a giant turd (fresh, mind you!) on our porch steps.

If you don't have dogs, this may gross you out beyond belief, but it's a fact of life for us dog keepers: sometimes you find turds.

Turds that have grass (or q-tips, or socks - yes, socks) woven through them.

Turds that dangle and need help to fall. (A looooong stick is best for this.)

Turds that stink so bad, you avoid a certain area of the yard.

Are the turds really worth it?

Absolutely.

Omaha Vacation

2008-08-04T08:17:00.000-05:00

Our great friends from Lincoln came up for the weekend and we spent the hottest day of the year outside! Although the humidity was 90% and the temp was over 95 degrees F, the heat was worth the fun!

Omaha Royals v. Salt Lake City Bees (Bees won 7-5)

Mark Schultz in Concert Following the Game
(We decided he probably shaved his head after realizing how humid it was!)

Eric

The Classic Car Show
(A lot of money was sitting in this lot!)

A Brand-New BMW
(Check the sticker price below)

(More than our mortgage is worth!)

A warm walk around the ConAgra Campus
(We saw the biggest carp ever! Three feet long!)

We all went to our church on Sunday morning, after an invigorating breakfast at IHOP. Our pastor was back from a month-long sabbatical and challenged us to "Breathe Spiritually" and not worry about disappointing others - only strive for God's approval!

You Want Me to Do What?!

2008-07-30T17:06:00.000-05:00

I just got done reading one of my "every-day" bloggers who had just posted about reading another blog. Instead of commenting, I rushed here instead:

I have an internship. It is the most boring job in the world. I make copies, write stupid company newsletter articles, make more copies, listen to people tell me I didn't follow the exact formula for the stupid newsletter articles, copy a few more papers, and go home wondering this is what it will be like in "the real world." I die a little bit every time I enter that building.
Last week, my supervisor, who has been with this dry and dusty company for THIRTY FIVE YEARS, said I should try and get a job with the Company. After I'd just finished telling her I wanted to to graphic design. After I'd just told her I didn't think insurance and I were a good fit. After I 'd just finished thinking to myself, "I'd rather walk across needles than come to this soul-sucking company every day of my adult life."
But my supervisor's suggestion was (to her) a wonderful idea. In her mind, a company that makes a good profit, never lays off its workers and offers good benefits is all you should ever want in an employer.
My counter argument is this: You spend most of your life working. Why, oh why, would you spend 93,600 hours of your life doing something you hate? Or that didn't bring you joy? Or that provided you with a paycheck but nothing more? A smaller paycheck is worth waking up anxious to get to work. Fewer dollars in your bank account are worth the excitement of doing something you love.
I realize I have yet to really get out there (in the work force), but I have had a taste of it. I've had a job I loved that I hated to leave and I've worked in places I couldn't run from fast enough. I want to look back on my life and realize I loved what I did, was content with what I made and believed in the work I was doing. It's not just a job. It's really not.

The Dog Days of Internet

2008-07-23T22:13:00.000-05:00

DISCLAIMER: THIS IS NOT A PITY PARTY POST! DO NOT FEEL GUILTED INTO TAKING ACTION!
There is nothing quite as sad as an empty email inbox. The kind that is full of ads, spam and SALE, SALE, SALE! emails. Not. one. meaningful. greeting. I see coupons for "$30 Off This Season's Hottest Looks" and "Fw: Humor Alert," but nothing that lights up my day. I am a little obsessive compulsive. I check the inbox(es) WAAAY too often - I can' t help it (that's what obsessive means). Even a quick note from a classmate makes me happy inside! I could start a service: Quick, Meaningful Emails Sent Daily to You. (it's a working title) Every day, you'd get a happy little communique from someone who asks you little questions about your day, reminds you about your fun weekend coming up, says they're a little jealous about your trip next month, etc... Do you think there's a market? If there was such a service, I think I'd subscribe.

My Morning

2008-07-21T09:18:00.000-05:00

If I could quit staying up so late, I could definitely be a morning person. More so, now that I'm getting OLD and have trouble keeping my eyes open all day (that coupled with the Mono Problem cause great big problems). But, the mornings are wonderful - we have a whole array of east facing windows in our home now. And whether I'm ready or not, the Sun wakens me every morning around 6 a.m.

The morning holds the possibility for great things to come! Maybe I'll make a new friend, actually have a challenging day at work, feel caught up with my homework for a change... the list is endless. This is the way I start my day (unless a huge test is imminent, wherein I pare down to only the essentials: coffee and a little mascara - and of course I wear deodorant! I heard you thinking "Where's the mention of basic toiletries?" ).

COFFEE
- always happens, usually at home, or at Starbucks for a treat. (Mmm, Starbucks...)

CONTACTS
I very rarely wear my glasses, not because I'm vain ( no, really!) but because I am very sensitive to sunlight - I must wear sunglasses at all times. And I do not have prescription sunglasses. I'm contemplating Lasik - do you have a stories, horror or otherwise about the procedure?

BREAKFAST:
This. is. the. best. cereal. ever! And it's healthy! It's one of Target's brands and because they were out of stock two weeks ago, I stocked up on the last shopping trip. Yes, I have four boxes in my cupboard right now.

DOGS:
Today, Eric fed the beasts and let them outside. Usually, that's the first priority. Otherwise, Sadie (the chocolate, mopey one) treads on your feet until she has eaten in the morning.

BLOGS:
Every morning - at my table or in the school hallway - I check my favorites. I've never really liked (ok, really just never figured out) the RSS feed, and so I open all from bookmarks and start my day with friends.

I check out my daring Canadian friend, a friend from Lincoln, a friend I've never met, a Texas Rose, an aspiring photographer and family members along with others. Every morning, rain or shine, I'm checking in on you and your life. Do you have a morning ritual you can't live without?

THE LIST

2008-07-18T10:09:00.000-05:00

My To-Do List:

1. Spend two weeks in Australia.
2. Live for at least one year in a huge city surrounded by concrete.
3. Finish school with at least a bachelor's degree.
4. Go on a picnic with a great book and a blanket, and fall asleep in the sun.
5. Learn how to be a photographer - not just a point and shooter.
6. Reread the entire "Little House" series
7. Have the wisdom to know when I'm experiencing "The Perfect Day" and really enjoy it.
8. Grow my library to 1000 books I love.
9. Show a close friend the way to God.
10. Be absolutely comfortable with me.

I'm very hard on myself and dreams. I dream up an idea and then squelch it "knowing" I'll never be able to do "that certain thing." Not exactly a healthy way of thinking. So, here are some of the dreams I never share with anyone - not even myself. I'm sure there are others waiting to get out. I'll let you know when they struggle through.

Titles, Titles Everywhere

2008-07-09T08:56:00.000-05:00

I had a couple of title ideas this morning:

"Et tu, Body?"
"My Coffee is Cold"
"Four Summer Classes at Once? I'm not crazy"
"Good Bye Sweet Pillow"
"Corporate America Stinks"
"Dave Ramsey is Haunting Me"
"Class While You Sleep"
"A Transvestite Just Walked Down the Hallway"

(Ok, not the last one, but I thought you' d like to know.)

With this insane summer schedule I've been keeping for the last five weeks, my body decided it had had enough. Beginning on the last day of June, my face exploded. The lack of sleep, exercise, water and proper nutrition from the previous three weeks caught up with me. I have had at least one honking huge zit every day for two weeks. I've been very blessed to never have had skin problems, so I don't know how to deal with this! Certain areas of my face HURT terribly and no amount of makeup conceals the massive red welts. Most makeup makes it look worse.
I have also seen a noticeable pallor to my skin. I've been living on coffee and Taco Bell for almost five weeks now, and it's beginning to show. (Coffee to keep my awake during the day, and Taco Bell being on the way to work when I forget to pack PB&J.) I long for the nights of 10 hours of uninterrupted slumber and peaceful awakenings.

And for the job? The job I thought would be fantastic, a boon to my experience? Um...well... to put it nicely: I'm not cut out for corporate America. The internship will be a boon to my resume (since it is a Berkshire Hathaway Company) but that's about all it's good for.

I have nine minutes till class starts. Look for my post of joy in about three days!

2008-07-05T20:00:00.000-05:00

The pizza is cooling and Eric is torching (actually soldering, but using a torch). I should be reading Sociology, but am not.

The dogs are both lounging and Eric is working on our plumbing. I should be studying for my sociology test online, but am not.

The laundry sits waiting, the dishes need assistance. I should be cleaning something - anything! - but am not.

Pat your self on the back if you accomplished anything at all this weekend. I did not.

Morning Constitutional

2008-06-26T08:54:00.000-05:00

Every morning, I drive to the park adjacent to school and park my car at the bottom of a hill. Then, I climb the hill to my building and attend classes for three and a half hours. Today was different. I drove to the park, parked my car and looked at the sky. In five minutes, it had turned from light gray to black. The breeze died and as I walked, cotton filled the air around me. The entire atmosphere changed in an instant and I felt a few drops of rain hit my face. As I walked through the tall, thin conifers, the wind picked up, the cotton swirled and the sky grew menacing. I am often struck by God's creation as I walk up the hill, and today was no different. But today, instead of realizing the beauty, I reveled in the uncertainty and power that weather presents. And how amazing is its Creator.

School and Such

2008-06-25T00:19:00.000-05:00

I'm smack dab in the middle of crazy-busy school right now. Only two and 1/2 weeks left, but it feels like an eternity. Hung out with my great friend Anna tonight. Part of the evening was spent drinking a nonfat, caramel macchiato with a double shot. Yes, a double shot at 9:15 p.m. The result is Kate being WIRED at 12:19 a.m.
I have another test tomorrow - my third this week and I have two still to go! But, at the end of this session, I will have 10.5 credits more toward my degree! But I hope I haven't killed 10.5 million brain cells due to the stress and cramming.
One more item: it is h.u.m.i.d. outside. It's like looking through a dirty window. And the heat will show up tomorrow. Suffice it to say, no pictures of my hair for the next two months. Heat+humidity=Crazed Coiffed Kate.
I'll try to post again before the session is over, but no promises. Although, if I have another double-shot, you may get another post! Off to lay in bed with my eyes open for two hours.

The Stress

2008-06-17T16:05:00.001-05:00

I should have known this would happen.
A tiny comment from a friend sent me into gulping sobs today.
The dog watched with sympathetic eyes until I quieted myself.
Why do the everyday concerns about life, friends, marriage and school all seem to hit at once?

A New 'Do

2008-06-13T20:19:00.000-05:00

Relatively new - I got my hair cut about two weeks ago. I'm not sure about the bangs straight down in front. Usually I "swoop" them to one side. But, the hairstylist assures me it's cute this way. This pic is taken first thing in the morning. I have to leave my hair slightly damp to prevent frizz later and I hadn't stepped out into the humidity yet. So, this is the best my hair ever looks. Enjoy!

(Sidenote: Don't you love the burned-out student look after only three days back in classes? Complete with dark circles and droopy eyes.)

The Hazy, Crazy Days

2008-06-11T22:50:00.000-05:00

I may be a little insane.
After deciding that I should graduate in August 2009, I signed up for five summer classes. The U has five different summer sessions, but 3 1/2 of my classes fall during the second session. Five weeks of intense reading, writing and rising at the crack of dawn. Today was my third day of class: I had 5 chapters of reading due, a map quiz, and a meeting with our class "PR "client" for the group project. This is all by the THIRD day!
The only thing getting me through is the fact that in five weeks, it will all be over. Actually, less than five weeks now! I'm already a little happier!

The bathroom project has begun:

(Yes, there is a missing wall.)

I rescued this cute guy from the street.

(He hung out while we waited for animal control. I hate calling them, but what do you do without a collar or tags?)

We went camping and boating with friends on Memorial Day weekend...

...where I got a sunburn that led to this:

I know - it's gross. But if you can't show the gross stuff, what's the point?

Eric took this Monday night. No touch-ups! We have had crazy weather lately - the tornado sirens wailed for 1 1/2 hours tonight. And a torrential downpour led to water in the basement. Not a lot, but enough to make our next project to install drain tile along the property line to divert rainflow.

Have a lazy summer for me!

2008-06-05T08:38:00.001-05:00

This is the 106th post I have posted!

And on that note, I'm off to interview for another internship today. I feel like all I do lately is interview, send resumes and plead for letters of recommendation from my sources. The internship today is at an insurance company (yes, I know, insurance) in the HR department. I feel like the job would make great use of my skills, I could learn a lot and this is required for my degree. Pray for me and wish me luck!

Also, I could leave the horrors of retail and have evenings and weekends with my husband and dogs! I can't imagine what that would be like! (That is, if Eric can make his evenings and weekends free!)

The most boring day ever...

2008-06-03T18:33:00.000-05:00

If you're wide awake and but should be sleeping, keep reading. If you want to congratulate yourself on how exciting and spectacular your life is, keep reading. And if you want to the know the unretouched and honest details of how I spend my nonwork and nonschool days, keep reading.

Let me set the stage: I cleaned the house yesterday. Scrubbed the bathroom (BLECH!), vacuumed and dusted all the dog hair into oblivion (although, the winter coats are still shedding. Am I crazy?) and did the final two loads of laundry (that have yet to be folded). My friend's message at 3:09 p.m. which began with, "I'm headed to the pool. Drop everything and come!" was obediently heeded and we finished off our swimming with pizza and wings. (mmmmm...) That's not the boring part, but here it comes...

Today, I woke up to the humidifier beeping its full-of-water alarm. I emptied it, started to make pancakes, found out there were no eggs and walked to the grocery store. I finished the pancakes, ate four (small) and started to read "The Last King of Scotland." I didn't wash a single dish, fold a single piece of clothing and watched a boring movie on TV. The ONE bit of excitement was a phone interview for yet another internship (please let this be the last interview!) and a trip to Lincoln for Eric's licensing class. Now, realize that the five sentences above constituted a whole eight hours. What lazy bum I am! But you have to reach rock-bottom before real change occurs.

"Every morning you are handed 24 golden hours. They are one of the few things in this world you get free of charge. If you had all the money in the world, you couldn't buy an extra hour. What will you do with this priceless treasure? Remember, you must use it, as it is given only once. Once wasted, you cannot get it back." - Anonymous

How do you motivate yourself when a day stretches empty before you?

Lists for a Weekend Off

2008-05-31T10:51:00.000-05:00

House:
1. Clean / Organize Basement Shelves
2. Vacuum EVERYTHING! (gotta love dog hair!)
3. Finish laundry and put away
4. Paint laundry room

Dogs:
1. Bathe both
2. Walk both
3. Feed both (this goes without saying)

Relationship:
1. Date Night
2. Keep at the Life Plan (this could take up an entire post - more later)

Stayed tuned for pictorial updates!