Ok, so I just got back from the high ropes course a couple of minutes ago. It was SO cool! I was scared like you wouldn't believe for the first one, but then I realized that the belayers had control of it, so all was good. I think I did pretty decently on this stuff. It was awesome! And the zip line was super cool, too! Huge shout out to all the belayers and to the lead facilitator! Ha.
Anyway, T over at Praying on the Prairie interviewed me. the rules:
1. If you are interested in being interviewed, leave me a comment saying “Interview me.”2. I will respond by posting five questions for you. I get to pick the questions.3. You will update your blog with a post containing your answers to the questions.4. You will include this explanation and an offer to interview someone else in the same post.5. When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will ask them five questions.
So, if you want me to interview you, comment away!
T's questions to me and my answers:
1. If you could spend a day with any celebrity, who would you spend it with and why? I would have to say Zach Braff (J.D. Dorian from Scrubs) just because he seems like a LOT of fun. Plus, I love the show. But really, I am not that big into celebrities. What matters to me is if you're fun and open to new experiences.
2. What is your favorite children's book of all time? This is EASY! Morris Goes to School. It's about a Moose who can't read, so he goes to school so he can go to the candy store and read and count the money he has so he can buy the proper amount of candy. It was the FIRST book I ever read all by myself.
3. What is your favorite bedtime snack? Sunflower Seeds, hands down. I love them. They're salty and delicious!
4. If you won some money and could only give it to a small town of 500 or less, what would you tell them to use the money for? I'd say probably get some activities for the kids so they could stay out of trouble and not think they could be all city/urban and make their own trouble. Kids need constructive things to do.
5. Since you are attending seminary, what has been your fave event of prologue week? I'd have to say that this is a toss-up. I really liked doing the "walkabout" activity where we went in groups/pairs/threes and went to our areas and tried to talk to people about ordinary things to see the "religious" in their lives. I also enjoyed doing the interview with another classmate. We had to pick a partner we didn't know very well and ask some questions about their theology. It was a really great getting to know you exercise, and it also let me practice my listening/questioning skills. I had a good time.
Ok, so if you want me to interview you, bring it on!
Saturday, September 08, 2007
Weee!
I can't believe how awesome seminary is! I am having such a blast. Today I was driving to a Taize service (which was in CPETown) to meet a friend from Greek class who isn't joining us this semester, and I was thinking about the upcoming semester. I'm SO excited about it. I'm excited to learn, to hang out with my friends, and to just grow a bunch in my walk of faith and knowledge. I am so excited about it all!
A friend and I are going down to do the high ropes course tomorrow. I've never done this and I really have no idea what it's about, but it sounds like fun. Plus, if I can skydive, I figure I can do high ropes, too. They're also doing the grape crushing thing tomorrow morning, but I'm not going to be a part of that because you have to be there at 7:30 A.M!!!! Fuggedaboutit. Yeah, Seminary makes it's own communion wine. The grape vines are in the grassy area by some of the parking lots. I got out of my car the other day and my childhood came and rammed into me.
Why? Because, when I was a kid, we had a grape vine out in the backyard. We'd pick grapes and eat them, or just throw them at boys or something. It was fun, but we didn't weed it, so the grapevine was choked out by weeds. So, one day a couple of years ago, I weeded the fence and posts that had been the support for the grapes, and it was bare, so I just pulled the whole thing out of the ground. Yup, I'm buff! It's a lot easier to take care of, but alas, no more grapes. I was kinda nostalgic when I smelled the grapes here at Seminary, and that's what knocked me back into my childhood. I think I've heard that smell is the most powerful sense that is able to trigger emotions. I think I'd have to agree.
Anyway, things are going pretty well, otherwise. Mom seems to be doing well with the new home. Good thing. I'm happy about that. And with that, I'm tired, so I'm going to go to bed. Have a fabulous day.
A friend and I are going down to do the high ropes course tomorrow. I've never done this and I really have no idea what it's about, but it sounds like fun. Plus, if I can skydive, I figure I can do high ropes, too. They're also doing the grape crushing thing tomorrow morning, but I'm not going to be a part of that because you have to be there at 7:30 A.M!!!! Fuggedaboutit. Yeah, Seminary makes it's own communion wine. The grape vines are in the grassy area by some of the parking lots. I got out of my car the other day and my childhood came and rammed into me.
Why? Because, when I was a kid, we had a grape vine out in the backyard. We'd pick grapes and eat them, or just throw them at boys or something. It was fun, but we didn't weed it, so the grapevine was choked out by weeds. So, one day a couple of years ago, I weeded the fence and posts that had been the support for the grapes, and it was bare, so I just pulled the whole thing out of the ground. Yup, I'm buff! It's a lot easier to take care of, but alas, no more grapes. I was kinda nostalgic when I smelled the grapes here at Seminary, and that's what knocked me back into my childhood. I think I've heard that smell is the most powerful sense that is able to trigger emotions. I think I'd have to agree.
Anyway, things are going pretty well, otherwise. Mom seems to be doing well with the new home. Good thing. I'm happy about that. And with that, I'm tired, so I'm going to go to bed. Have a fabulous day.
Monday, September 03, 2007
A plethora of activities...
Wow, things around here have been busy! I passed my Greek final, and I think it pulled my grade up. Had I taken the class for a grade instead of as credit/no credit, I would have gotten a B! I'm excited.
After Greek was over, our class had a really huge party out on the field. It was a lot of fun. After the "main" party was over, some of us continued the celebrations "on the veranda." It was a blast!
I went "home" for the weekend to see Sis, BiL, Howard, and Sunscreen. BiL made my favorite meal and I ate leftovers multiple times this weekend. The boys are as cute as ever, too. I love my family.
Some of my best pals from high school and I got together this weekend to have a "post-bachelorette" type party. It was totally awesome. We went to lunch, the zoo, did paddle-boats, ate ice cream, went back to one of their houses, and hung out more. For the paddle boats, one of my friends and I hopped into the four seater and paddled the bride around. It was SO much fun. The other two friends went in a two seater. I was freakin' out a little because I was totally afraid we were going to bash into each other a few times, and that is against the rules. I'm often a stickler for the rules. :) But, the day we hung out totally rocked my socks. I love my pals, and I hope we continue the tradition of getting together for a very, very long time.
Hmm, today was Labor Day, so Sis, BiL, YS, Howard, Sunscreen, and I went to a nearby town for the famous Labor Day Parade. I got a lot of sun, but I don't think I'm burned. Unfortunately, I had to leave before the parade was all the way over because tonight was opening worship back here at the Mothership. But, as I walked to my car, I walked past the rest of the parade, so I didn't miss any of it, really. Mr. Moocow wasn't in the parade this year. I was slightly bummed. I also wish I'd had more time because I saw a lot of people I know while I was there and I would have loved to stay and chat, but I was running late. Worship started at 6:30, and I pulled into the parking lot at 6:20. I made it in time!
So, Prolog week class starts tomorrow, and thus begins a new semester here at the castle. I am very hopeful and enthusiastic about what is coming our way while here.
Oh, and Ma is moving to a locked dementia unit in another nursing home tomorrow. She was walking around her current home the other day asking where her mom and dad were. She also said she needed to be going so she could make the girls some supper. It sucks that she's so bad, but Sis says the new place is REALLY nice. So, I'm hopeful they'll be able to make her quality of life better. We'll see.
So, that's been my life in a nutshell. I hope y'all are doing well, and staying cool in these last few weeks of summer. See ya later.
After Greek was over, our class had a really huge party out on the field. It was a lot of fun. After the "main" party was over, some of us continued the celebrations "on the veranda." It was a blast!
I went "home" for the weekend to see Sis, BiL, Howard, and Sunscreen. BiL made my favorite meal and I ate leftovers multiple times this weekend. The boys are as cute as ever, too. I love my family.
Some of my best pals from high school and I got together this weekend to have a "post-bachelorette" type party. It was totally awesome. We went to lunch, the zoo, did paddle-boats, ate ice cream, went back to one of their houses, and hung out more. For the paddle boats, one of my friends and I hopped into the four seater and paddled the bride around. It was SO much fun. The other two friends went in a two seater. I was freakin' out a little because I was totally afraid we were going to bash into each other a few times, and that is against the rules. I'm often a stickler for the rules. :) But, the day we hung out totally rocked my socks. I love my pals, and I hope we continue the tradition of getting together for a very, very long time.
Hmm, today was Labor Day, so Sis, BiL, YS, Howard, Sunscreen, and I went to a nearby town for the famous Labor Day Parade. I got a lot of sun, but I don't think I'm burned. Unfortunately, I had to leave before the parade was all the way over because tonight was opening worship back here at the Mothership. But, as I walked to my car, I walked past the rest of the parade, so I didn't miss any of it, really. Mr. Moocow wasn't in the parade this year. I was slightly bummed. I also wish I'd had more time because I saw a lot of people I know while I was there and I would have loved to stay and chat, but I was running late. Worship started at 6:30, and I pulled into the parking lot at 6:20. I made it in time!
So, Prolog week class starts tomorrow, and thus begins a new semester here at the castle. I am very hopeful and enthusiastic about what is coming our way while here.
Oh, and Ma is moving to a locked dementia unit in another nursing home tomorrow. She was walking around her current home the other day asking where her mom and dad were. She also said she needed to be going so she could make the girls some supper. It sucks that she's so bad, but Sis says the new place is REALLY nice. So, I'm hopeful they'll be able to make her quality of life better. We'll see.
So, that's been my life in a nutshell. I hope y'all are doing well, and staying cool in these last few weeks of summer. See ya later.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Telos!
I finished my Greek final today around 7:00 p.m.! It took about 5 hours or so, but I got it done. I'm fairly confident about it. I know that I didn't ace it, but I'm not worried about failing. I'm so happy that it's over! It was a good experience, but it was just so tough. I had a hard time writing out the last sentence in translation because I knew it was about to be DUN!!! I'm excited. Tomorrow at 11:45 we have to go see how we did. I'm excited.
Tonight, I was hanging with some friends down in one of their rooms. We played Guitar Hero and I was totally impressed that I was passing the songs! I mean, my pals are rockstars, but I am a little coordinationally challenged. It's all in good fun though. I also told them to keep it hush hush that I am a fan of Poison. I figure future congregants might be a little weirded out if they knew I like big hair 80s bands. Ha.
After hanging out in that room, I was looking for another friend, but she wasn't in her room. I decided to go check if there was anyone left in the room some of us were taking our test in. On my way, I found my other pal. She was in the formal lounge with some other Greek students. They invited me in and we all had a beer and some chips and had some good laughs. The people here are SO MUCH DANG FUN! This is so exciting. Anyway, I need to be going now. It's been a good/long/tiring/fun day, and I need to be getting to sleep. You all have a wonderful day.
Tonight, I was hanging with some friends down in one of their rooms. We played Guitar Hero and I was totally impressed that I was passing the songs! I mean, my pals are rockstars, but I am a little coordinationally challenged. It's all in good fun though. I also told them to keep it hush hush that I am a fan of Poison. I figure future congregants might be a little weirded out if they knew I like big hair 80s bands. Ha.
After hanging out in that room, I was looking for another friend, but she wasn't in her room. I decided to go check if there was anyone left in the room some of us were taking our test in. On my way, I found my other pal. She was in the formal lounge with some other Greek students. They invited me in and we all had a beer and some chips and had some good laughs. The people here are SO MUCH DANG FUN! This is so exciting. Anyway, I need to be going now. It's been a good/long/tiring/fun day, and I need to be getting to sleep. You all have a wonderful day.
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Molita!
When I was at junior college, I took an introduction to psychology class with a really neat guy. He used to pass around a sheet of paper for us to write our names on and that was what he used for attendance. But, the thing is, the only times he looked at the paper was on test days. So, I gleaned that he was a funny type, and thus, I would write my name as Trishalita or Trishmolita or Trishalitalicious or Trishypants or some such thing. I found it amusing, and I figured it wouldn't be such a bad thing so long as he could get that it was me.
Anyway, after the first test, he and I were talking one day before class started. He said, "Someone wrote something mean after your name on the attendance paper." I said, "What'd they write?" And he said, "Something like, 'Trishmolita' or something." I replied, "I wrote that!" He asked me if that was really my name and I told him that Trisha is my real name, but I was just goofing around. I figured he might get a kick out of it, too.
So, fast forward to the next test day. I wrote another weird something after my name. Then, the next time we met for class, he approached me again and said, "Someone wrote something mean after your name again." I told him that it was me doing the writing, and that it was for fun. So, this pattern went on til about the last few weeks, when he started getting the joke. He started calling me funny little things like, "Trishyroo" and whatever. I found it endearing. He was slightly bizarre, but really, a very funny and charming man.
Anyway, so I was so amused by that semester's antics with the professor that I told Sis and BiL about it. They were also amused, and have since started calling me Trishmolita on occasion. Also, if you call my cell phone and get my voice mail, it says, "Trishmolita is not available...." The other day, a seminary friend called my phone while we were in class so that I could have her number since I gave her mine. Anyway, she hung up and she said, "Who's Trishmolita?" I told her the psychology story, and she was amused (I think).
Tonight, some of us went out to HyVee to get some ice cream. HyVee has individual serving things of ice cream. Since I'm not really into ice cream all that much, I thought that was great. But anyway, all day and night, the same seminary friend has been calling me "MOLITA!" And I REALLY like that nickname! It's so different! I told her to spread it around. Now it's my job to come up with a nickname that sticks with her. It may be slightly tough, but I think I'm up to the challenge.
Anyway, tonight was really awesome. I know I said it a while ago, but I'm REALLY starting to like it here. :) yay!
Anyway, after the first test, he and I were talking one day before class started. He said, "Someone wrote something mean after your name on the attendance paper." I said, "What'd they write?" And he said, "Something like, 'Trishmolita' or something." I replied, "I wrote that!" He asked me if that was really my name and I told him that Trisha is my real name, but I was just goofing around. I figured he might get a kick out of it, too.
So, fast forward to the next test day. I wrote another weird something after my name. Then, the next time we met for class, he approached me again and said, "Someone wrote something mean after your name again." I told him that it was me doing the writing, and that it was for fun. So, this pattern went on til about the last few weeks, when he started getting the joke. He started calling me funny little things like, "Trishyroo" and whatever. I found it endearing. He was slightly bizarre, but really, a very funny and charming man.
Anyway, so I was so amused by that semester's antics with the professor that I told Sis and BiL about it. They were also amused, and have since started calling me Trishmolita on occasion. Also, if you call my cell phone and get my voice mail, it says, "Trishmolita is not available...." The other day, a seminary friend called my phone while we were in class so that I could have her number since I gave her mine. Anyway, she hung up and she said, "Who's Trishmolita?" I told her the psychology story, and she was amused (I think).
Tonight, some of us went out to HyVee to get some ice cream. HyVee has individual serving things of ice cream. Since I'm not really into ice cream all that much, I thought that was great. But anyway, all day and night, the same seminary friend has been calling me "MOLITA!" And I REALLY like that nickname! It's so different! I told her to spread it around. Now it's my job to come up with a nickname that sticks with her. It may be slightly tough, but I think I'm up to the challenge.
Anyway, tonight was really awesome. I know I said it a while ago, but I'm REALLY starting to like it here. :) yay!
Thursday, August 23, 2007
32 times
Today I was talking to YS because I needed to have a break from Greek. We were talking about getting together next weekend to hang out because I'll be home and she's not working. However, we both have plans for Saturday. Hopefully we can do something another day. Who knows. I'm slightly bummed because I'm not sure if I'll be able to go to the annual Labor Day parade in one of the small towns by my town on Monday. It's TRADITION that we go, sit on BiL's best friend's truck, and watch the parade while drinking some lovely adult beverage from a styrofoam cup. (Hey, the kids get their treats when the floats throw candy; we need our treats too!) Opening worship is slated for Monday at 6:30, I think, and if that's the case, I might not have time to see the parade. Yikes. Hopefully something'll work out though.
Anyway, we were talking about Ma today. She's been living in a nursing home for about a month or so. However, that nursing home is trying to give her the boot because she has an agenda to get out of there and go home, even though that's not a possiblity for her or us right now. She gets out and gets in peoples' cars, thinking that it is her car and that she can still drive. So, the administrator has been bugging Sis to find a new place; a place with a locked dementia unit. My feelings about the place she is are mixed right now, but hey, what are ya gonna do?
I've decided that I can't keep being so upset about this situation. I was really sad about the whole situation for a while. I didn't realize it was obvious until a good seminary friend expressed concern. So, I think I've come to a point where I have realized that the situation isn't what I would like, but I can't do anything to change it besides be there for my family. So, I think I've rebounded back to funny/charming Trish fairly well. I've been telling jokes and things in Greek and my class has been laughing quite a bit. I enjoy making people laugh. I think it's one of my spiritual gifts. Everywhere I go, people tell me that they enjoy my sense of humor. My CPE mates told me last semester that they were surprised when I didn't list my sense of humor as one of my stronger gifts. Until then, I hadn't really thought of it as a "spiritual gift." But, I guess it can be. So, lemme use it, eh?
So anyway, you must be wondering why this post is titled, "32 times." Ha. Ma has only slept a few hours total the past few days, and in one evening, she escaped 32 times. They had to PHYSICALLY carry her back in. It's not funny, and yet it is, kinda. Call me a heartless beast, but I mean, really... Laugh or go insane. I know what my choice is. Have a nice day.
Anyway, we were talking about Ma today. She's been living in a nursing home for about a month or so. However, that nursing home is trying to give her the boot because she has an agenda to get out of there and go home, even though that's not a possiblity for her or us right now. She gets out and gets in peoples' cars, thinking that it is her car and that she can still drive. So, the administrator has been bugging Sis to find a new place; a place with a locked dementia unit. My feelings about the place she is are mixed right now, but hey, what are ya gonna do?
I've decided that I can't keep being so upset about this situation. I was really sad about the whole situation for a while. I didn't realize it was obvious until a good seminary friend expressed concern. So, I think I've come to a point where I have realized that the situation isn't what I would like, but I can't do anything to change it besides be there for my family. So, I think I've rebounded back to funny/charming Trish fairly well. I've been telling jokes and things in Greek and my class has been laughing quite a bit. I enjoy making people laugh. I think it's one of my spiritual gifts. Everywhere I go, people tell me that they enjoy my sense of humor. My CPE mates told me last semester that they were surprised when I didn't list my sense of humor as one of my stronger gifts. Until then, I hadn't really thought of it as a "spiritual gift." But, I guess it can be. So, lemme use it, eh?
So anyway, you must be wondering why this post is titled, "32 times." Ha. Ma has only slept a few hours total the past few days, and in one evening, she escaped 32 times. They had to PHYSICALLY carry her back in. It's not funny, and yet it is, kinda. Call me a heartless beast, but I mean, really... Laugh or go insane. I know what my choice is. Have a nice day.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Skechers No More
Well, tonight, I decided that my Skechers have finally fallen apart bad enough for me to put them out of commission. I've worn them for about two years or so, and I went skydiving BOTH times in them. I sported my neon orange shoelaces in them, walked, hiked, and lived in those shoes. I'm going to miss them.
Plus, my other tennis shoes have pink on the bottom and orange doesn't go very well with the pink. But, I don't care, because the orange shoelaces are NOT going away. I need COLOR in my life! Ha.
Oh, and I had a weird dream last night. Considering it's been a while since I've shared any dreams with my adoring public, I figured I'd share this one: I was pregnant and I gave birth to a baby. But, it wasn't MY baby. A woman had been pregnant with triplets and she lost two of them and wanted me to carry the 3rd one to term for her. So, I gave birth to this baby and was suddenly transported to the classroom where my section of Greek is held. I turned and decided to go, and I walked past one of my classmates, turned around, and said, "See y'all later! I just had a baby!" or something like that. It was weird. Anyway, that was the dream. I told the class the gist of the dream during class and they laughed hard, which in turn made me laugh. I think we're at the point in class where we're teetering perilously close to the edge of insanity. Ha.
In other news, our 5th Greek vocab test is tomorrow. I think I'm pretty much ready. I want to ace it because I missed one last week. I do think that I have a pretty decent handle on this week's other stuff though. I'm pumped. I want to do well! We're almost done and I don't want to just barely squeak by. Pray for me! (Proseuxete emoi!!) Ha. How apropos, considering we just learned imperatives today. Later.
Plus, my other tennis shoes have pink on the bottom and orange doesn't go very well with the pink. But, I don't care, because the orange shoelaces are NOT going away. I need COLOR in my life! Ha.
Oh, and I had a weird dream last night. Considering it's been a while since I've shared any dreams with my adoring public, I figured I'd share this one: I was pregnant and I gave birth to a baby. But, it wasn't MY baby. A woman had been pregnant with triplets and she lost two of them and wanted me to carry the 3rd one to term for her. So, I gave birth to this baby and was suddenly transported to the classroom where my section of Greek is held. I turned and decided to go, and I walked past one of my classmates, turned around, and said, "See y'all later! I just had a baby!" or something like that. It was weird. Anyway, that was the dream. I told the class the gist of the dream during class and they laughed hard, which in turn made me laugh. I think we're at the point in class where we're teetering perilously close to the edge of insanity. Ha.
In other news, our 5th Greek vocab test is tomorrow. I think I'm pretty much ready. I want to ace it because I missed one last week. I do think that I have a pretty decent handle on this week's other stuff though. I'm pumped. I want to do well! We're almost done and I don't want to just barely squeak by. Pray for me! (Proseuxete emoi!!) Ha. How apropos, considering we just learned imperatives today. Later.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Spontaneity
This past Friday, I got back to my room after chapel and sat down. I was surprised at just how few people were in chapel Friday. There were probably 10 people, tops. I know that a lot of students go home on the weekends because they're married or have children or whatever, so that's totally understandable. However, I was BORED out of my MIND last weekend (besides Saturday night). So, I sat down, flipped open my phone to look at the time, and said, "If I leave now, I can be home by 8:00. And whaddaya know? I actually packed a bag and left! Without thinking it through or rationalizing it or anything. Now, that is very unusual for me. Usually I think things through for a long time. I just like to think of everything. But, I decided to go home this weekend, and so I did.
I had a really good weekend, for the most part. I loved seeing my nephews and Sis and BiL. I didn't get to see YS, but I will on Labor Day weekend probably. I really love my family, and missing them is one of the only things that really bothers me about being here. But Howard still remembers me and is excited to see me. Sunscreen also looks SO MUCH DIFFERENT! They're both adorable boys. I wish I could see my oldest nephew (he's 4) more often. But, I'm very blessed through my siblings and their children.
Anyway, not that you all were terribly interested in my weekend, but that is really all I had to post about.
Oh, and the 14th was my 1 year anniversary for my first skydive! Yeehaw. Anyway, have a good week.
I had a really good weekend, for the most part. I loved seeing my nephews and Sis and BiL. I didn't get to see YS, but I will on Labor Day weekend probably. I really love my family, and missing them is one of the only things that really bothers me about being here. But Howard still remembers me and is excited to see me. Sunscreen also looks SO MUCH DIFFERENT! They're both adorable boys. I wish I could see my oldest nephew (he's 4) more often. But, I'm very blessed through my siblings and their children.
Anyway, not that you all were terribly interested in my weekend, but that is really all I had to post about.
Oh, and the 14th was my 1 year anniversary for my first skydive! Yeehaw. Anyway, have a good week.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Today was cool.
And not in the temperature sense.
Which is good, because I was worried slightly there for a bit, what with waking up about 6 times in the night for various reasons.
After Greek, studying, lunch, studying, chapel, and more studying, some of us dorm students were planning on having somewhat of a "Bon Voyage" to our beloved Meet & Greet Coordinator. "Michelle" was the first friend I made here last semester, and she has served wonderfully as one who meets new students and does her best to make sure they get settled in. She is heading off for internship tomorrow, and thus, we decided to have festivities. Two students made a big card that a lot of us signed, and I offered to make margaritas in the lounge for those who wished to come. I bought the pre-made stuff and some ice today, and brought it back here for tonight. Then, at the appointed hour, I took it down, and people started meandering in. It was SO much fun. We didn't get all drunkered up. We just were able to enjoy one another's company, play a little Wii bowling, laugh, and have an all around good time. Tonight was probably the funnest time I've ever had here. I used up all the ice I bought, and most of the margarita stuff, but I'd rather blow that on friends than drink by myself. :) It was fun. I'll probably be regretting it when I get a big fat "F" on my next Greek exam, but, in the words of Julian of Norwich, "All will be well, all shall be well, all manner of all things shall be well." or something like that. Have a good night.
Oh, and this is my 300th post!
Which is good, because I was worried slightly there for a bit, what with waking up about 6 times in the night for various reasons.
After Greek, studying, lunch, studying, chapel, and more studying, some of us dorm students were planning on having somewhat of a "Bon Voyage" to our beloved Meet & Greet Coordinator. "Michelle" was the first friend I made here last semester, and she has served wonderfully as one who meets new students and does her best to make sure they get settled in. She is heading off for internship tomorrow, and thus, we decided to have festivities. Two students made a big card that a lot of us signed, and I offered to make margaritas in the lounge for those who wished to come. I bought the pre-made stuff and some ice today, and brought it back here for tonight. Then, at the appointed hour, I took it down, and people started meandering in. It was SO much fun. We didn't get all drunkered up. We just were able to enjoy one another's company, play a little Wii bowling, laugh, and have an all around good time. Tonight was probably the funnest time I've ever had here. I used up all the ice I bought, and most of the margarita stuff, but I'd rather blow that on friends than drink by myself. :) It was fun. I'll probably be regretting it when I get a big fat "F" on my next Greek exam, but, in the words of Julian of Norwich, "All will be well, all shall be well, all manner of all things shall be well." or something like that. Have a good night.
Oh, and this is my 300th post!
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Everyone has a secret.
PostSecret is a website that allows people to mail in their secrets on postcards. Some secrets are joy-filled, while others are filled with sorrow. Some are secrets involving others, yet some are very personal and private. The point is that people often find freedom in telling their secret, even if only anonymously on a postcard that is posted to a website by a man they could possibly never even meet. Everyone has a secret. This video shows many secrets, and is in its own way, quite powerful.
Saturday, August 11, 2007
The wheels keep on turnin'
First off, let me preface this post by saying that things are going pretty well for the most part. This piece of writing is basically just some thoughts I've been having.
Ma went to live in a nursing home almost three weeks ago. She doesn't like it at all, but we don't think she realizes she's living there. The times I've talked to her, she seems to think she's visiting someone else. I was talking to YS today, and she said that they called Sis the other day to tell her to find someplace else to place Ma because Ma keeps escaping. This place has been restraint free for 70 years, and they don't want to start up again now. So, we're probably going to have to move her farther away, because, to my knowledge, there aren't any locked dementia units near "home."
Because Ma no longer lives at home, and because OB has his own house, no one is left at home. No one. There is no one to come and go, sit on the porch, or get the mail. The last one kinda had me in a funk last week. YS went to the post office and had Ma's mail forwarded to Sis, and had my address changed here to the Mothership. P.O. Box 81 for us is no more. It doesn't seem like a big deal, but it feels like it is. This is the address I memorized when I was a kid, and the address where I received mail (that made me feel important). But, I no longer get any mail there; not by my full choice, but by circumstance. But, I'm not moving home just so I can keep getting mail there. We all must move on, and so I am realizing this further.
I also have been pondering a lot about Clinical Pastoral Education lately. While in CPE, I really "enjoyed" (if that is a word you can use when dealing with illness and death) my time. As I reflect back on my time in CPE, I am continuing to find the exceeding value of those few months, and those people with whom I shared my CPE time. I have taken the training I received out of that place, and have tried to implement it in my family, and in social and other settings. I have been finding myself listening more intently and caring more deeply. This is a good thing. I like listening to people; to their stories, to their struggles, to the mundane, to their joys, and even to their fears. I like trying to speak a word of grace and hope to those who come to me. So, I've been finding myself contemplating taking another unit of CPE next summer. At this point, I'm not sure if I will or not, but I know that I have a place at my previous CPE location. Supa included in his evaluation of me a sentence that read, "I would take Trish as a student again with no reservation." So, it's something I will be considering and discerning these coming months.
I also have been reading about and viewing much of the Churchwide Assembly the last day and a half. As a matter of fact, I have it playing now. I watched the fourth ballot for the election of a new Church secretary. I have read that David Swartling has been elected. If my memory serves me correctly, he is a lawyer. I also watched the gratitude expressed to outgoing Secretary Lowell Almen. Thanks be to God for his many years of service, and for his dry, and yet amusing humor. I read the many pages on www.elca.org/assembly concerning chaplaincy, pastoral counseling, and clinical education. Unfortunately, the number of ELCA leaders engaging in this type of leadership is decreasing in a fairly dramatic way. And while I was reading this, I think I may have felt a tug toward this type of ministry. I'm really, REALLY not sure if this was really a tug, or if maybe it was just me being "nostalgic" or appreciative of my time in CPE. But I do know that I appreciate Supa and the man of faith and grace he is, and I pray and hope that many other people like him join the ranks of those who try to shape learning minds to reach out to people who are living with pain and fear.
And so, as I look back on my short life and the things I've seen and done, I think that perhaps the hardships I have faced and am facing could be seen as gifts for chaplaincy or as a CPE supervisor ministry. Even more of a gift is the fact that God has remained faithful and loving to me, despite my sometimes angry cries and prayers to God, and despite my own unfaithfulness. So as to not put the cart before the horse, I will discern about a second unit of CPE, as multiple units are required to become a chaplain and supervisor. I'm also very early on in my theological education, and I know that I will have time to discern. Don't get me wrong, ordained leadership is still very much where I feel called. The question is merely, "To what type of ordained ministry am I called?"
Life is most assuredly an interesting ride.
Ma went to live in a nursing home almost three weeks ago. She doesn't like it at all, but we don't think she realizes she's living there. The times I've talked to her, she seems to think she's visiting someone else. I was talking to YS today, and she said that they called Sis the other day to tell her to find someplace else to place Ma because Ma keeps escaping. This place has been restraint free for 70 years, and they don't want to start up again now. So, we're probably going to have to move her farther away, because, to my knowledge, there aren't any locked dementia units near "home."
Because Ma no longer lives at home, and because OB has his own house, no one is left at home. No one. There is no one to come and go, sit on the porch, or get the mail. The last one kinda had me in a funk last week. YS went to the post office and had Ma's mail forwarded to Sis, and had my address changed here to the Mothership. P.O. Box 81 for us is no more. It doesn't seem like a big deal, but it feels like it is. This is the address I memorized when I was a kid, and the address where I received mail (that made me feel important). But, I no longer get any mail there; not by my full choice, but by circumstance. But, I'm not moving home just so I can keep getting mail there. We all must move on, and so I am realizing this further.
I also have been pondering a lot about Clinical Pastoral Education lately. While in CPE, I really "enjoyed" (if that is a word you can use when dealing with illness and death) my time. As I reflect back on my time in CPE, I am continuing to find the exceeding value of those few months, and those people with whom I shared my CPE time. I have taken the training I received out of that place, and have tried to implement it in my family, and in social and other settings. I have been finding myself listening more intently and caring more deeply. This is a good thing. I like listening to people; to their stories, to their struggles, to the mundane, to their joys, and even to their fears. I like trying to speak a word of grace and hope to those who come to me. So, I've been finding myself contemplating taking another unit of CPE next summer. At this point, I'm not sure if I will or not, but I know that I have a place at my previous CPE location. Supa included in his evaluation of me a sentence that read, "I would take Trish as a student again with no reservation." So, it's something I will be considering and discerning these coming months.
I also have been reading about and viewing much of the Churchwide Assembly the last day and a half. As a matter of fact, I have it playing now. I watched the fourth ballot for the election of a new Church secretary. I have read that David Swartling has been elected. If my memory serves me correctly, he is a lawyer. I also watched the gratitude expressed to outgoing Secretary Lowell Almen. Thanks be to God for his many years of service, and for his dry, and yet amusing humor. I read the many pages on www.elca.org/assembly concerning chaplaincy, pastoral counseling, and clinical education. Unfortunately, the number of ELCA leaders engaging in this type of leadership is decreasing in a fairly dramatic way. And while I was reading this, I think I may have felt a tug toward this type of ministry. I'm really, REALLY not sure if this was really a tug, or if maybe it was just me being "nostalgic" or appreciative of my time in CPE. But I do know that I appreciate Supa and the man of faith and grace he is, and I pray and hope that many other people like him join the ranks of those who try to shape learning minds to reach out to people who are living with pain and fear.
And so, as I look back on my short life and the things I've seen and done, I think that perhaps the hardships I have faced and am facing could be seen as gifts for chaplaincy or as a CPE supervisor ministry. Even more of a gift is the fact that God has remained faithful and loving to me, despite my sometimes angry cries and prayers to God, and despite my own unfaithfulness. So as to not put the cart before the horse, I will discern about a second unit of CPE, as multiple units are required to become a chaplain and supervisor. I'm also very early on in my theological education, and I know that I will have time to discern. Don't get me wrong, ordained leadership is still very much where I feel called. The question is merely, "To what type of ordained ministry am I called?"
Life is most assuredly an interesting ride.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Agios Cow, Dude!
I totally just took an IQ test online that said my IQ is 142, which qualifies me as "A UNIVERSAL GENIUS!!!" Yeehaw. If only I could trust the scientific validity of Testriffic.
Saturday, August 04, 2007
Congratulations!
My dear, good friend Jacki got married today! It was a really beautiful ceremony. It was held in a little chapel on the campus where she went to college. I think it was extra nice because the whole ceremony just seemed so intimate. I'm all for big weddings, but this one was refreshing in the smaller size. Also, the chapel was just a really neat place for a wedding. Knowing Jacki and how much she appreciated her time at college, I know this was a really good place for her to get married. She and her new husband asked me to read during the wedding, and I was honored to say yes. I walked to the front, looked out, and read what they asked me to read, and it was just really something to not even have to use a microphone. Lest I really start repeating myself, I really enjoyed the day.
Before the wedding, I met up with three of my other friends from high school in a town nearby the college town. We had lunch, walked around a mall, and then went to the wedding. I got there a little early to be in some pictures, and I made some jokes with the photographer, some random people, and some of the people I knew. Then, after the ceremony, we went back to nearby town and had dinner at a nice Italian place. It was a day of fun, joy, and laughter. I'm grateful to have been a part of the ceremony, and to have been included in the day. I'm even more grateful for the friends I got to see today; friends who are easy to just pick up like we've never been apart. We always laugh so much when we're together, and now I can't wait for Labor Day when the bride, my friends, and I get together and share more of each others' lives! I love those people! AND CONGRATULATIONS, JACKI!!!
Before the wedding, I met up with three of my other friends from high school in a town nearby the college town. We had lunch, walked around a mall, and then went to the wedding. I got there a little early to be in some pictures, and I made some jokes with the photographer, some random people, and some of the people I knew. Then, after the ceremony, we went back to nearby town and had dinner at a nice Italian place. It was a day of fun, joy, and laughter. I'm grateful to have been a part of the ceremony, and to have been included in the day. I'm even more grateful for the friends I got to see today; friends who are easy to just pick up like we've never been apart. We always laugh so much when we're together, and now I can't wait for Labor Day when the bride, my friends, and I get together and share more of each others' lives! I love those people! AND CONGRATULATIONS, JACKI!!!
Friday, August 03, 2007
A thought
I was just reading Dooce.com's archives and something the writer (Heather B. Armstrong) wrote made me think. She was writing about being stung by a bee. I thought it was kinda weird because bees usually die after they sting someone, don't they? Yeah. And the way it sounded, Heather B. Armstrong was not doing anything to provoke the bee because the friend she was with is incredibly allergic to bees and she had her baby strapped to her front with one of those baby holding things.
So the question is, "Why did that bee just sting her for no reason?"
But really, that's not the question at all. My question is, why do sometimes we get angry and do things for no good reason? I know many hotheaded folks, and I myself used to have a very bad temper, so now I find myself wondering, if we were like bees, we might die after we lose our temper. That might make a person think before losing her temper.
When I was doing my Chaplain thing, one of my calls was for a young man who had been hit a few times by another guy. The young man lost consciousness, quit breathing, and lay in the hospital for a couple of days on life support before the family acted on what they believed the young man's wishes were. So, he died. After being hit twice. With an average-Joe's fists.
And the thing that gets me is that if the "perpetrator" had simply stayed in his car and driven away, the young man might (And I stress, "MIGHT" here because the situation is complicated, but I'm not at liberty to discuss that) still be alive. If the bee hadn't decided to sting for something so stupid as a few cruel words, countless lives wouldn't have been so deeply wounded, families might still be intact, and another young man wouldn't be in deep, deep trouble for being hotheaded.
It troubles me when people I love act hotheadedly and threaten action. The police have a saying, "You choose your victim as he is." That means if you jump some stranger who already has a medical condition, and you therefore "cause" death, you're responsible. Some physical conditions are not easily spotted. People look healthy all the time, but we don't know what's going on inside them. Oftentimes THEY don't know. So, why risk it? Why not show a little grace to those who are less gracious, that they might see and learn what unmerited favor is like? Why be that bee who stings for no good reason and loses its life? Why risk so much to gain so little? What-a little ego boost for being able to avenge one's self? It's not worth it. Get a handle on that anger. The better work is among the flowers.
So the question is, "Why did that bee just sting her for no reason?"
But really, that's not the question at all. My question is, why do sometimes we get angry and do things for no good reason? I know many hotheaded folks, and I myself used to have a very bad temper, so now I find myself wondering, if we were like bees, we might die after we lose our temper. That might make a person think before losing her temper.
When I was doing my Chaplain thing, one of my calls was for a young man who had been hit a few times by another guy. The young man lost consciousness, quit breathing, and lay in the hospital for a couple of days on life support before the family acted on what they believed the young man's wishes were. So, he died. After being hit twice. With an average-Joe's fists.
And the thing that gets me is that if the "perpetrator" had simply stayed in his car and driven away, the young man might (And I stress, "MIGHT" here because the situation is complicated, but I'm not at liberty to discuss that) still be alive. If the bee hadn't decided to sting for something so stupid as a few cruel words, countless lives wouldn't have been so deeply wounded, families might still be intact, and another young man wouldn't be in deep, deep trouble for being hotheaded.
It troubles me when people I love act hotheadedly and threaten action. The police have a saying, "You choose your victim as he is." That means if you jump some stranger who already has a medical condition, and you therefore "cause" death, you're responsible. Some physical conditions are not easily spotted. People look healthy all the time, but we don't know what's going on inside them. Oftentimes THEY don't know. So, why risk it? Why not show a little grace to those who are less gracious, that they might see and learn what unmerited favor is like? Why be that bee who stings for no good reason and loses its life? Why risk so much to gain so little? What-a little ego boost for being able to avenge one's self? It's not worth it. Get a handle on that anger. The better work is among the flowers.
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Therapy
After Greek today, my Greek pal "Marty" and I got together for a little bit of ping pong. We played for a few minutes last night, and after class today, I asked her if she'd be willing to play a bit more. After lunch, we met down in the basement where the ping pong table is, and we played. I really enjoy it because it's a good Non-Greek conversation. I've asked her about her life and where she's been, and she's asked about me and where I've been. Marty is a little bit older than I am, and she's had some really interesting life experiences. I'm grateful that she shared some of them with me. One of her life experiences includes a time when she was a P.E. teacher. Among many other things, she taught self-defense.
Self Defense has always been one thing I've been interested in learning. Marty told me that a lot of self-defense is psychological/cognitive. We discussed how we're socialized and how to step back and realize this. It was a very interesting conversation. The methodic back and forth of the ping pong ball also had a calming effect on me. It was almost like a therapy session, even though neither of us spilled our guts fully about what we've done and what our lives are like. But, it was refreshing, to say the least.
When I got back to my room a minute ago, I woke up my computer and started reading an article I had opened prior to going down. As I read it, I realized that people are able, a lot of the time, to get things they need by talking to accessible friends. Sometimes that's not an option though, when we don't want to weigh our friends down, or when we don't want to change the pace or heading or content of our relationship. But, when we are able to find these friends, it is a good thing. Don't get me wrong, the lighthearted friendships are NOT!!! bad things at all. Maybe having friends is like a box of crayons; they're all great, but you wouldn't normally color a cloud green. Anyway, so this article also had a really interesting quote that I thought fit well with the conversation Marty and I had about self defense:
"All violence is unsuffered suffering."*
Out of context it may not make a whole lot of sense, but it is something you can think about. :) Have a nice day.
*-Quote taken from LeadershipJournal.net
The link is: http://www.christianitytoday.com/leaders/newsletter/2007/cln70730.html
Self Defense has always been one thing I've been interested in learning. Marty told me that a lot of self-defense is psychological/cognitive. We discussed how we're socialized and how to step back and realize this. It was a very interesting conversation. The methodic back and forth of the ping pong ball also had a calming effect on me. It was almost like a therapy session, even though neither of us spilled our guts fully about what we've done and what our lives are like. But, it was refreshing, to say the least.
When I got back to my room a minute ago, I woke up my computer and started reading an article I had opened prior to going down. As I read it, I realized that people are able, a lot of the time, to get things they need by talking to accessible friends. Sometimes that's not an option though, when we don't want to weigh our friends down, or when we don't want to change the pace or heading or content of our relationship. But, when we are able to find these friends, it is a good thing. Don't get me wrong, the lighthearted friendships are NOT!!! bad things at all. Maybe having friends is like a box of crayons; they're all great, but you wouldn't normally color a cloud green. Anyway, so this article also had a really interesting quote that I thought fit well with the conversation Marty and I had about self defense:
"All violence is unsuffered suffering."*
Out of context it may not make a whole lot of sense, but it is something you can think about. :) Have a nice day.
*-Quote taken from LeadershipJournal.net
The link is: http://www.christianitytoday.com/leaders/newsletter/2007/cln70730.html
Sunday, July 29, 2007
I didn't flunk
I didn't flunk my Greek exam. I didn't do as well as I would have liked, though. I need to work harder (if that's even possible). I think I studied more this past week than I studied for my whole undergrad career! ha. Oh well.
I went home this weekend. I preached at a neighboring church. The service went long and I don't feel too good about that. Not that it's my fault. We sang a lot of hymns. Oh well. I myself don't mind going over, but some people from "my" church came because I have a reputation of getting people out early. Then, we ended up staying late. Oh well. I got a lot of good comments on my sermon, so that was good. I'm always amazed that when I go to other churches and shake hands at the end that so many people say, "Thanks for being here this morning. We hope to have you back!" It's nice to know that people think I'm doing a good job. Unless they're patronizing me. But, I'm going to choose to believe they're honest about what they say.
Anyway, I didn't do any Greek this weekend because the Prof. said at the end of class Friday, "Your assignment for this weekend is to NOT do ANY Greek at all." So, I took his advice. I got some much needed sleep. I turn stoopid when I'm lacking sleep, and that was most definitely the case. So, I slept in on Saturday and woke up refreshed. Then, I got back to the Mothership tonight and took a nap. But people kept calling me and interrupting. Ah well. Hopefully I'll be able to sleep tonight.
YS, Ma, and I went to lunch today. The food was good. I left my leftovers in Sis's fridge to give to "Howard" for lunch tomorrow or something. He's such a cute kid! He's trucking all over! Last Sunday we had to coax him to walk, and now he just gets up and does it like, "Yeah, I walk.. How 'bout it?!" When I got home Friday, I peeked around the corner and saw BiL's mom (who is babysitting him until the real babysitter gets back from vacation) and said, "Hi!" And he heard me and came right for me. I love that kid like crazy. I felt bad for leaving today without getting to tell him goodbye and give him lubbins. I don't think I'll be going home for a while.
Ok, well, with that, I think I'm going to go now. I'll talk to y'all later.
I went home this weekend. I preached at a neighboring church. The service went long and I don't feel too good about that. Not that it's my fault. We sang a lot of hymns. Oh well. I myself don't mind going over, but some people from "my" church came because I have a reputation of getting people out early. Then, we ended up staying late. Oh well. I got a lot of good comments on my sermon, so that was good. I'm always amazed that when I go to other churches and shake hands at the end that so many people say, "Thanks for being here this morning. We hope to have you back!" It's nice to know that people think I'm doing a good job. Unless they're patronizing me. But, I'm going to choose to believe they're honest about what they say.
Anyway, I didn't do any Greek this weekend because the Prof. said at the end of class Friday, "Your assignment for this weekend is to NOT do ANY Greek at all." So, I took his advice. I got some much needed sleep. I turn stoopid when I'm lacking sleep, and that was most definitely the case. So, I slept in on Saturday and woke up refreshed. Then, I got back to the Mothership tonight and took a nap. But people kept calling me and interrupting. Ah well. Hopefully I'll be able to sleep tonight.
YS, Ma, and I went to lunch today. The food was good. I left my leftovers in Sis's fridge to give to "Howard" for lunch tomorrow or something. He's such a cute kid! He's trucking all over! Last Sunday we had to coax him to walk, and now he just gets up and does it like, "Yeah, I walk.. How 'bout it?!" When I got home Friday, I peeked around the corner and saw BiL's mom (who is babysitting him until the real babysitter gets back from vacation) and said, "Hi!" And he heard me and came right for me. I love that kid like crazy. I felt bad for leaving today without getting to tell him goodbye and give him lubbins. I don't think I'll be going home for a while.
Ok, well, with that, I think I'm going to go now. I'll talk to y'all later.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Gadzooks!
I think I may have just flunked my first Greek exam. The prof. handed out the test, I looked at it, and the entire singular second declension just flew right out of my head. I'm just hoping and praying to at least get a "C" on it.
On the brighter side, though, I totally aced my vocab quiz yesterday. 100% A+. Yeehaw. Maybe I still have a chance! :) Anyway, we have to go back around 11:00 and see how we did. I'm REALLY looking forward to that! One week down, four and a half to go!
On the brighter side, though, I totally aced my vocab quiz yesterday. 100% A+. Yeehaw. Maybe I still have a chance! :) Anyway, we have to go back around 11:00 and see how we did. I'm REALLY looking forward to that! One week down, four and a half to go!
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Here or there.
Well, I'm coming along in Greek; not as fast as I'd like, but I'm getting there.
YS called me today. I wasn't in my room to answer it, though. I tried calling back, but she didn't answer, so I called Sis. Mom is going to live in a nursing home on Friday.
I don't know how I'm feeling about this. I think I'm probably blocking it so that I can stay focused on Greek. That may sound callous, but I can't change Ma's situation. OB is taking a job where he'll be travelling all around doing carpentry work at places pretty much all over the country. No one else is able to do what he's been doing. I wish he'd given us more time to get things worked out, but what can we do? Things did work out. Hopefully Ma won't hate us for this.
I gotta go do some studying now. Have a nice day.
YS called me today. I wasn't in my room to answer it, though. I tried calling back, but she didn't answer, so I called Sis. Mom is going to live in a nursing home on Friday.
I don't know how I'm feeling about this. I think I'm probably blocking it so that I can stay focused on Greek. That may sound callous, but I can't change Ma's situation. OB is taking a job where he'll be travelling all around doing carpentry work at places pretty much all over the country. No one else is able to do what he's been doing. I wish he'd given us more time to get things worked out, but what can we do? Things did work out. Hopefully Ma won't hate us for this.
I gotta go do some studying now. Have a nice day.
Monday, July 23, 2007
It's all Greek to me.
Greek started today. I've been chatting with a few "upperclasspeople" about it. They've given me some valuable insight. But, I'm totally not getting some of this. I think I've got the alphabet down pretty well, but some of the other rules are just above me right now. So, my question is for those who have BTDT, should I be worried if things aren't flying right into my cognition right away?
Oh, and by the way, I only am on the computer because I took a break to write a sermon for Sunday, and because I think I was focusing too hard on it for a little while there. It's been about two hours, so I'm going to get back to my work. Comments, suggestions, and encouragement are strongly welcomed! Later, Gators.
Oh, and by the way, I only am on the computer because I took a break to write a sermon for Sunday, and because I think I was focusing too hard on it for a little while there. It's been about two hours, so I'm going to get back to my work. Comments, suggestions, and encouragement are strongly welcomed! Later, Gators.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)