Quibbleism

N. - Practice of quibbling

Wow. It has been a very, exhaustively long time. I suppose I sincerely lost motivation to do this little project when I discovered, only two people every remotely read my blog. Well, to my two loyal, devout readers, the post you've been waiting for...

Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does. William James








I've admitted before that I think I might have a Google addiction. Does anyone else out there Google "Quotes" and then spend hours reading through quotes like I do?

This particular quote stuck out to me for many a reason... the first is simply referring to this blog. I was unmotivated to continue blogging, because frankly I felt like I was writing each post just so that I could read it four more times. Then check my blog hourly for a few days, hoping I would get more comments. Not to say I don't appreciate the comments I get, I just never received an overwhelming number of them. So in response to this fine quote... who cares? I'll blog as I like, and if no one reads it 'sides my two readers, at least I (hopefully) made them smile or ponder or keep informed on my vastly exciting trials and tribulations.

The second reason this quote popped out to me, was in its timeliness regarding my current job. It's one of those "I've been doing this job for three summers now and I feel like deja-vu all over again". The same people, the same problems, the same irritating character flaws. And I often feel treated as incompotent and irresponsible. Which is irritating because 1) I am niether of those things, and 2) I bust my little butt to keep things running in some semblence of organized chaos. So this quote reminded me, quite bluntly in fact, that even if no one else knows this fact but me, even if no one else will ever understand or appreciate the effort I put into my job, I'll know that I made a distinct and important difference in the lives of many. So there. It might not be much of a motivation, but when all seems dark and dismal, it's the tiniest of points of light in the tunnel.

Yet another reason I stopped upon this quote (I think too much, it's going to get me in trouble someday)... is how I look at quotes, ascertain some thoughtful meaning or interpretation and so rarely consider the author. Sure there's the typical Einstein, Emerson, Martin Luther King Jr. etc. quotes, but I'm talking about the quotes from people I've never heard of... like William James from above. I feel guilty that I should be taking his words, his thought and using it for my own purposes when I have not a clue as to who he was, what he did, or anything about him. It feels alost like stealing, or worse, showboating. So often I see people quoting (or perhaps misquoting) items in order to further thier own motives and actions, and its a bit annoying. The Bible is often labeled the "most misquoted piece of literature ever written" and it is because people tend to pick and choose what applies to them and what doesn't. I would never in a second claim to be an expert on the Bible or Christianity in general, and I would never use either to further my own selfish impulses. To share an idea, thought, or even fact, sure, but to promote an ideaology, belief, or political system other than the faith itself seems like stealing to me. "Well in the Bible, it says abortion is wrong, so that's why I think that." First off, does it really say that? Or does it say many things that support the idea (we were His from the moment he created us, all life is sacred), and by presenting the conclusion (Abortion= Bad), are we cheapening the message to support a political/social/ideological aim? Shouldn't it instead be said, "I believe, as a result of my faith and study of the Bible, that abortion is wrong." Perhaps I'm reaching, but I've never felt that God would want us to use our faith as a vehicle for other pursuits (selfish?), but rather our other pursuits should support our faith(selfless?). Is there a difference?

Whoa... didn't mean to go that direction.. oh well... I told you I think too much :)

And finally, I think this quote applies best to the world of retail. There are two types of retail workers in this world. Those that follow this quote and those that don't. The first group are helpful, cheerful, and fun to interact with. They take the extra minute to wrap your fragile purchase in tissue paper. They fix a price error themselves rather than send you to the mile-long custoer service line. They'll give you the motivating pep talk you need during that horrible time known as "bathing suit season." It's the cart collector who goes out of his way to grab your cart so you don't have to wheel it over to the cart corral. They'll help you find the perfect dress for the perfect evening.. Mostly, every minute you interact with them, directly or otherwise, you know they have a passion for what they do and they take care to make every effort to make a difference.

The second group makes your shopping experience the most miserable time of your life... A cashier too disinterested to notice she's starting scanning the next person's items in your order. The stock boy who parks his ginourmous pallet right in front of your cart, blocking the entire aisle. The customer service desk where it's anything but service for customers. 99.9% of retailers on Black Friday.

We've all been there, I'm sure... Just remember that if the first group of people can act so wonderfully in the midst of the most notoriously awful environments to work in, we shouldn't have any problems whatsoever :)



Look forward to in the future...

-A blog tour of my new room :)
-A ponderance of my post-graduation options
-Perhaps a few more stand-out quotes
-Anything else, as requested by my loyal readers :)

Spacers

Today I got spacers.

In my experience (of the two prior times of having braces), spacers are worse then the first week of actual braces. For those of you not familiar with the term here is the medical definition...

Separators are small elastics (rubber bands) that are first stretched out with a special separator instrument. Then, they are simply flossed into the contact where space is needed. While the separator is being placed, the patient may feel slight pressure or a "pushing" sensation - this is due to the pressure needed to allow the rubber band to squeeze through the contact of the teeth. Sometimes, as the separator begins to touch the gum tissue, a "pinch" feeling may be noticed. This sharp feeling will usually go away within a minute or two.

Once the separators are in place, the patient will notice that they feel as though a piece of food is caught between their teeth. Usually within 4-6 hours after placement, the soreness from tooth pressure/movement will begin. The dull ache feeling will normally worsen over the next day or two, and will then subside.

This whole "braces" thing is about to become a painful reality.

I would genuinely appreciate the support and loving words of those in my life during this difficult and painful time. You can give some good-nature ribbing as well. Here's a list to get you started and make me giggle a bit about my impending doom.

Train Tracks

Tinsel Teeth

Brace Face

Metal Mouth

Antennae Mouth

Jaws

Oraluminum

Bumper-beaker

Tetanus Breath

Buick Mouth

Also, please recall the list of foods I'm no longer allowed to eat...

Hard candy
Caramel
Taffy
Hard bread crusts
Pizza crust
Hard nuts
Tacos
Tortilla chips
Corn Nuts
Popcorn
Jerky
Corn on the cob
Dried fruit
Bagels
Apples
Raw carrots
Raw celery
Gum
Ice

This stinks.

Always,

K

Solstice

N- an astronomical event that occurs twice each year, when the tilt of the Earth's axis is most inclined toward or away from the Sun, causing the Sun's apparent position in the sky to reach its northernmost or southernmost extreme.





Schoooooooool's Out. For. Summer. **duhnduhduhnnnduhnn**

So finally my beloved summer is here. This warrants both a big Whoppeee!! and also a vow to post far more regular on this here blog. I'm also going to try and get some more readers. I think having a semi-interested audience will be a much better motivator :)

I thought it might be fitting to discuss the wonderful season that is summer....

What is it about summer that evokes such happiness? As Spring comes to a close, the air is filled not only with the songs of crickets and birds, but with the chattering of excited, happy people eager to experience the adventures of the summer season. Summer is magical. There is this sense of a greater unknowing, a seemingly endless time period devoted to work and projects in one sense, but also friends, fun, and relaxation. I find myself listening to more upbeat music, with an extra bounce in my step, and smiling so often my face hurts as summer approaches. I have a theory that we are conditioned to love summer, simply because as children it is often when we have the most fun.

Not to say summer is my favorite season, because it is not. I love autumn most of all. But summer evokes this nostalgic feelings that I can't help but love. So what are some of my favorite parts about summer?

Bonfires/campfires: I love sitting outside at night with a group of friends, facing a hot fire with a cool, summer breeze at my back. Laughing, singing, and just talking about any old topic, what an awesome time :)

Roadtrips: There's nothing that lends itself to summer adventures more than a car, a group of friends, a tank of gas, and not a freaking clue of where your going. There's a reason so many comedies are based on a roadtrip of sorts, the situation just screams for mishaps and mayhem. I remember on Senior Skip Day back in high school when we all drove to Lake Geneva. What a ridiculously awesome day!! We hit the beach, junky little sovenior shops, a delicious lunch and a million memories along the way.

Working: I love working, I really do. Particuarly when its a job I love, with people I love. When I worked at the Cougars in high school, I worked as often as I could because I had so much fun there. I enjoy being busy and havign things to do, feeling productive. That's the one thing that drives me the most crazy about school is that I so often find myself working for something as ambigous, disheartening, and pointless as a grade, when I could be DOING things, helping people, and making a difference.

Being in the sun: Hello skin cancer. I love sitting in the sun, but my skin does not. I burn fairly easily, at least until July, and I'm not very good at applying sunscreen as often as I should. But stll there's something so relaxing as feeling the sun warm your skin. I love taking a nap in the afternoon, by a window and waking up all warm and toasty because of the sun. It's a warmth that seems to just penetrate all the way through you. I also like being tan, vain? Perhaps, but oh well... we all have our petty loves.

Sunglasses: I love a big ole pair of sunglasses. And aviatars. I feel like a rock star wearing them. And I don't like havign the sun in my eyes.

Grass: One of the worst parts about cities is how there is no grass. I lvoe walking around barefoot, particularly on a plush green lawn, but those are tough to come by here in Milwaukee. Laying in the grass, staring at the clouds is truly a spiritual experience, with the power to heal most problems.

Bugs, but not the icky kind: I like to watch bugs. They have the craziest lives. Don't believe me? Watch ants sometime... their society is fascinating.

WAYYY more daytime: I like being able to go out at 7 PM and it's still light out. Makes me feel like I have more time to do fun things.

The list goes on and on, but I think you get the point. I love summer and I'm soooo looking forward to the enxt few months :)

Cineast

N. - one who takes artistic interest in motion pictures

Why Life Would be So Much Cooler As A Movie

1. Important life events would all occur in a neatly packaged 90-120 minute story line.

2. No one would ever have a "slum" day where they throw on yesterday's jeans and the first sweatshirt they find. This would be due to having extensive wardrobe coordinators on hand, ready to assist at a moment's notice.

3. Laws regarding physics, gravity, and basic scientific principles would not be concrete.

4. We'd be able to go to a galaxy, far, far away.

5. Your best friend would be Keira Knightley and your boyfriend would be Brad Pitt.

6. You could spend one day as a pirate, the next as a revolutionary, and then spend some time as a high schooler with too much money and devishly good lucks.

7. College would simply be an opportunity to socialize, go on crazy road trips, party, and seemingly never have class, homework, or a lack of cash funds.

8. Relationships issues would seem so much more humorous and entertaining.

9. You'd see car chases everywhere.

10. We'd have a global disaster every few months. However, we'd be saved by Will Smith.

11. Those weird goth kids in school really WOULD be vampires.

12. No one would ever get STD's as a result of countless, risky sexual encounters, often accompanied by druge use and binge drinking.

13. All high schoolers would somehow look 25, but really only be 17.

14. Bad hair day's wouldn't exist.

15. Your boyfriend would actually be a superhero in disguise, he'd rescue countless number of times. You'd never question how he always knew where you were.

16. Having kung fu skills and the ability to kill an entire room of armed men without messing up your hair would be completely normal.

17. Your life would have a soundtrack composed by John Williams.

18. There would be an island of dinosaurs you could visit. Just don't be there when the power shuts off.

19. You'd be able to find James Bond at a bar with a martini, if you simply looked hard enough (and I would... Daniel Craig is gorgeous).

20. Everyone would be part of an ancient secret society somewhere, somehow.

21. You'd have the option to take the blue pill or red pill for real.

22. Everyone would have a Mac book.

23. You'd never visit a Bed and Breakfast, for fear a creepy clown on a creeky tricycle had rigged up to be a torture chamber.

24. Every enemy, bad guy, or monster, would conviently have one weakness that would be easily exploitable.

25. Every story would have a happy ending, somehow.

Quaere

V. - to introduce a question or issue


Oy, it's been awhile since I've posted. Unfortunately, the end of the term has arrived and I'm frantically trying to get projects done, tests studied for, and my sanity reclaimed... But in typical college student fashion, I'll set aside the books for a good ole time consuming blog post :)

But what to talk about? Why do I have this problem so often? I have so much to say everyday, but when it comes time to put it into words, it seems unneccessary.

So I'll just randomly through thoughts out there.. respond as you please...

I wonder, who else organizes their computer files as anally as I do.

I wonder what makes people chose to use a standard backpack versus the "messenger" style.

How did we ever come up with the standard units of measurement? It makes no sense, 12 inches to a foot, three foots to a yard, 2 cups to a pint, 16 cups to a gallon....

I wonder why more people don't give blood.

I wonder if Swine Flu really is a big deal, if we should be concerned, or if everyone was just freaking out needlessly.

I wonder how I'm going to really feel when I get braces on again.

Why don't we (my friends and I) do more crazy, random, spur-of-the-moment things?

I wonder what my brother will be when he grows up.

Isn't it kind of crazy the random jobs people have, and how somehow we are able to define a purpose for 95% of our citizens career-wise. Just look at some of the business cards people put in those "Drop a Business Card, Win Lunch" jars at restaurants. (Senior Executive Analyst... what does that mean?)

What is Star Trek REALLY about?

Is Star Wars supposed to be occurring in the past, present, or future? It says "A long time ago...." but if it happened in the past, where did all the super fast space crafts go? And the talking aliens? And Naboo?

Why are video games so appealing to the males of our world?

Does hand sanitizer work? Is it a government conspiracy to make us think we are safe from virulent germs, but really it doesn't do anything?

What do those "I'm a PC" commercials even mean? She's a computer? She looks like a girl to me...

Why would anyone pay 250 dollars for a coffeemaker? I'm looking at wedding registries...

Who comes up with card games? What is the process like?

Did people talk more in public areas before walkmans, portable CD players, mp3's, etc? It seems the world would be a much more friendly place if everyone took out their headphones and conversed with their neighbors.

Just some points to ponder :)

Have a wonderful day everyone! T minus 18 hours until I'm free from school!

Always,
K

Gowpen

N. A double handful


So... I didn't know what to blog about. And if you remember my previous blog "Brontide" in February, you know that when I'm stumped, I Google. In fact today I had an astounding number of google searches for various items I didn't know, but that's a different topic entirely...

And so the Google began....

"blog topics" ..... Results 1 - 10 of about 172,000,000 for blog topics. (0.22 seconds)

Holy Cannoli.

Fourth from the top, I discovered...

http://www.darrenbarefoot.com/archives/2007/09/55-more-blog-posts-i-hope-you-write.html

I love these topics! I stopped at each item and instantly had a thought pertaining to the topic suggested, talk about a muse!

So, without further ado, #1 The Story of My Most Serious Injury

I laughed when I read this. Mostly because, I am known as being a complete klutz. I have zero grace, coordination, or dexterity. Despite that, I could not think of a single serious injury I've ever had. How lucky am I? Not to say that I haven't been without my injuries but I would not label any of them in the category of serious. So instead, here's my top 5 klutziest moments that may/may not have ended in injury...

5. Cross Country camping trip (2004): We went on yearly camping trips as a team to a state park in Rockford where we would do daily runs on the trails, then clown around the rest of the day. I had been running with some people and they decided to head back. I wanted to get in a few extra minutes so I kept going. Mistake #1. As I was running, I started getting paranoid wondering if animals, or a human, were going to attack me. That is after all, how it happens in horror movies. Which leads me to Mistake #2, looking up from the ground and frantically searchign the passing bushes for my attacker. And that's when it happened, I tripped on a log which sent me flying through the air. I then landed with my knee square on, the sharpest rock I've ever seen. I did a triple take thinking I had landed on an arrowhead.

**The image I am about to describe might be too graphic for small children or those uncomfortable with blood and other gross things. You've been warned.**

And THAT's when I saw the blood. It was everywhere, my leg, shoe, the ground. I pity whomever passed that spot after I left, they probably became very concerned for their well-being, as it looked like someone had been murdered there. Being the extremely logical and rational person I am, I did not freak out. I know I had approximately 2.5 miles back to camp, so I did what any tough-as-nails cross country runner would do. I ran back. This little jaunt would easily make my list of top 5 worst runs ever. It was hilly and uneven terrain and getting very hot and humid outside. I was miserable, but just when I thought I could not make it any further, I emerged from the woods. As I saw the look of horror on my coach's face, I suddenly realized what I must have looked like. A bloody, sweaty, dirty mess. Before he could have a full on aneurysm I yelled to him I was ok, I had just tripped and needed a Band-Aid. He laughed as he tried to find a band-aid big enough to cover the gaping wound.

Injuries sustained gaping wound in knee (scar still present), loss of right to run by myself. Ever.

4. Juneau Street (2007)- When I got invited to go with a group of people out for dollar burgers at a local establishment, my freshmen year of college (Spring), I was ridiculously excited. I am not sure why, but it was the first outing I had been invited to in awhile, so I was really looking forward to it. Plus I did not know most of the people, and I was looking forward to meeting a bunch of new people. You all know me, and my love of making new friends :).

I took an extra few minutes to dress up before they picked me up. Everyone introduced themselves to me and off we went, walking towards our destination. We were walking down a hill and I was demonstrating some wicked dance move I had seen on TV. As I went to complete the jump-turn-sashay, I suddenly realized I was no longer touching the ground, worse, I was staring at the ground as I was catapulting down the hill.

I come to rest about 10 feet from my original point of departure. As I recovered I recognized the sound of my 6 new friends dying of hysterics, tears streaming down their face. I had no other option but to laugh as well, because it truly had been a ridiculous fall. But I didn't mention the best part. My outfit I had so carefully picked out? A miniskirt. Yep.

Injuries sustained scrapes, bruises, and the knowledge that my new friends may/may not have seen some articles of clothing typically reserved for my eyes only.


3. My House (Year Unknown, but probably in the 1999-2002 range): My grandmother and mother were sitting out on the deck talking. I thought I would join them. I started running down the hall and then out the door.

The door was made of glass.

Have you ever seen a bird hit a window and fall to the ground only to sit there stunned for a few minutes before slowly hobbling away? That was me.

My grandmother and mother took twice as long to recover from the shock and also, the effects of hysterical laughter.

Injuries sustained were slightly slowed mental processes for the next several hours. And a bruised ego.


2. Cross Country Practice (2003): It was picture day for Cross Country, why I remember that, I have no idea. In any case, afterward, our coach decided we would have practice as well. JV was supposed to do the 2 mile warm up loop, then he'd let us know what to do next. In typically cross form, we decided to make the warm up more interesting by singing the entire way.

So there we are running down Wilson Street, directly across from the old public library, when out of nowhere a very large stick jumps in front of us. Gabby and Amy, my running buddies on either side of me, were able to divert onto the grass, but I was stuck, hopelessly in the path of the oncoming stick. The vicious stick attacks my feet and drags me down with it. I hit the pavement face first.

As I'm getting up I notice a car has pulled up along side us, thinking some well-meaning citizen wished to offer assistance, I brushed off myself off and went over to talk talk to the driver. Then I noticed the car was a gray Toyota Camry, very similar looking to my dad's car. And the driver bore a striking resemblence to Mr. Madaus himself. And he was laughing hysterically. And then he said, "Your a klutz, see you at home..By the way, your mother is going to love this story.." That well-meaning citizen sure was an @$$. :) :) :)

Injuries sustained, bruised ego, sore nose, and psychological trauma of perpetual teasing by parents...

1. My top klutziest moment actually consists of three separate occasions that all resulted in the same injury. So individually, they may not be all that klutzy but the fact they all occurred to me in one lifetime is a bit entertaining....

First Incident: Running around the kitchen to win control of the remote over my brother, I stub my pinky toe on the kitchen table. It breaks and I need to tape it for a month until it heals.

Second Incident (6 Months later): While playing on a jungle gym, I decided to hang from my legs from the top. I slip off and smack my foot on a metal bar. Rebreak same pinky toe. Must be taped for a very long time.

Third Incident (A few years later): While walking in downtown Milwaukee, arms full of books, I notice a squirrel staring at me. It freaks me out a little, as facts about rabies circle around in my head. I walk a little faster, when the squirrel hops along after me. I break out into a light jog, the squirrel picks up speed. All of a sudden the squirrel jumps in my direction, I do a little skip-hop-jump to avoid his talons and fangs, when I stub my toe on the raised sidewalk. Toe and foot is so swollen I go to the doctor, they take X-rays and ask if i had prior trauma to the area. It has healed so haphazardly they say it will never be straight. I have to wear an ugly shoe to keep it straight for a week, then tape it for several more weeks.

Injuries sustained maimed toe and a perpetual fear/hatred of squirrels.



I hope you enjoyed this as much as I enjoyed writing it :) It's true that time heals most wounds, and I most certainly got a good laugh out of this....

Always,
K

Quiddity

N. - the essence or nature of a thing


Puzzled on what to blog about?
Worried your readers won't find you interesting?
Call us at 555-Blog and we'll help you!



Disclaimer: We don't know how to help you...


Look! I'm advertising on my blog! I'm big time now!


Ok, but seriously, I hate having the bug to blog (haha, that's cute!) but nothing comes to mind to write about. How about... 10 things I've learned from being an RA. This should be good....

1. How to clean up biohazard waste including vomit, urine, blood, and feces. I'm sure that'll come in handy more often than I think..

2. When calling someone at 2 AM don't expect them to be coherent. Don't expect them to be eager to come help you clean something up. Or break up a party. Or help with a building evacuation following a fire alarm. Which always happens in January. In Milwaukee. And there's never a fire.

3. If given the choice, deal with those under the influence of marijuana rather than alochol. How much can they really argue and fight when they are trying to figure out where their feet are and if they can walk to the nearest Taco Bell.

4. I can now discuss the most awkward of topics with anyone, and not even blush. Seriously, once you have had the "People can hear you and your boyfriend in your most intimate of situations" conversation everything else is easy-peazy.

5. Given the resources, motivation and time, anything is possible. Including discovering a way to lock the women's bathroom from the outside. And posting fake notices from the city saying the women's bathrooms were locked due to excessive water usage. And doing this before 8 am class. When 40 crabby, tired, stressed girls are expecting a hot shower. And their RA is hoping to sleep in after a long night of studying.

6. Some people are physically incapable of flushing the toilet.

7. Some people think drawing gentials on everything is a form of art.

8. I am distinctly familar with the sound that a ping pong ball makes when hitting a tile floor. I'm also familar with the sound of ten drunken 18 year olds trying to hide three cases of beer and a beer pong table after I knock on the door and announce "On Duty RA." (ex. Shhhh it's the RA, hide the beer! Hide the girl in the closet!Just be quiet, she won't hear us...)

9. I know how to shut off the water supplies to... the sprinkler system, urinals, showers, toilets, water fountains, and the drain in the kitchen. I also know the nearest mop bucket location at any place in either of the residence hall building on campus.

10. I've learned that being an RA sets you up for a lifetime of great stories to use to start up conversations. For example, When I was an RA, a kid rappelled out of his window. On the fifth floor... OR when I was an RA, I walked past a room with 5 guys watching a movie on a big screen TV. They were discussing the physics and math behind what was happening on the screen. Interested I turned to see what they were watching, expecting Mythbusters or the History Channel. Instead I saw material that would most likely be too explicit to be rated X and most certainly would have made even the most sexually liberated person blush...

How I love my job :)


Always,
K

Philia

Greek- Means love as found in a friendship

At random times I find myself surprised by how utterly perfect life seems to fit together. I know I shouldn't be surprised, God after all, is in control. But it still seems so crazy how in this world of 6 billion people you can somehow cross paths with the right people at the right times. I think about my 3 years at MSOE so far and the people I've met. Some of my experiences have been negative, but so many more, positive. I truly have no idea how I would have made it to this point without the support and love of some of these people.

I feel so blessed to have so many people in so many places that I can count on for whatever I might need, and I hope they all trust me to be there for them too.

I often feel that life is a result of the stars aligning so to speak. Things will always work out, just maybe not the way you want or desire. As a Christian, I attribute this to God putting challenges, successes, and events in your path that you need, though you probably don't recognize the need. Though I get sad, frustrated or even angry when things don't work out the way I hoped or wanted, in the end, I find myself spending less and less time dwelling on "what could have been" and more time just enjoying what's here and now. Perhaps this is what maturing feels like :).

For that reason, when I take the time to step back and look at the big picture, I'm simply in awe at how things come together... How did God know I needed Justin at that exact point in my life? How could He have foreseen how wonderfully amazing he would make my life. How did He know I would have hard times and need someone there to lean on? How did God know that I needed all the friends I've made, I won't name them because then I'll get yelled at for not including others, believe me your all important to me, and I don't hide that fact, you'll know :)..and so many others? I recognize the absolute ridiculousness of trying to figure out how He knows all of that. It's so outside our realm of understanding, but thank goodness for Him, and his gracious gifts of all these people :)


In particular, two people in my life come to my mind who seem to have a distinctly different take on life. They are so caught up in what comes next and next after that, I feel like they don't appreciate all the wonderful things in their life. I hope they can open their eyes and see all those things soon, they are definitely missing out...

This is a little outside my normal topics.. but I was just sitting here and was struck by inspiration, divine without a doubt :)

Back to studying for exams .. yuck..

Always,
K

Vivace

Music Term- Describes a piece that is quick and lively

I love music. Seriously, everything about it... I love how you can find a song to perfectly match your every mood, how a song can cheer you up on the crummiest day. I love CD's, concerts and concert T's... I love dancing, I love singing (maybe not all that well, but I don't care).. I love driving alone with my favorite music on, window's open... in my opinion, music is such a spiritual experience.. I think there's a definitive reason why as humans, music is a part of all the major events of our lives.

So I thought, in honor of my new blog playlist, I would make a post about my ten all time favorite musicians/songs/albums. Realizing this is a bit difficult when one has the music collection that I do.. bear with me if I have to stretch to 11 or 12 :) I do, after all, make the rules...


Also, these are in no particular order...

1) Joshua Tree by U2



SUCH a beautiful, empowering album. It's one of the few albums I can sit down and listen to from beginning to end without once touching the "Next" button. Favorite U2 song? With or Without You. As a continuation, I love most all of U2's work, with the exception of their popular song "Beautiful Day." That song annoys me, for what reason I have no idea...

2) Keith Urban - Better Life



This is our (Justin and I) song, decided by me. He might disagree and say either Tim McGraw "Last Dollar" or Snow Patrol "Chasing Cars"... though I do in fact love both of those songs as well, I feel like Keith's song perfectly captures the ups, downs, and everything else of our (and assumedly, many other's too) relationship... It's also upbeat and positive which I love..

3) The Bobs and Jimi



This is an example of me breaking the rules, but I have a good reason... Bob Dylan and Jimi (Hendrix, in case there was doubt) share many of the same songs and I truly couldn't decide between them. I also enjoy a Bob Marley tune or two when I'm feeling the modern-day hippie vibe.. Favorite Dylan song? Rainy Woman #12 & 35. Favorite Hendrix? Hey Joe. Favorite Marley? One Love/Three Little Birds.

4) Justin Timberlakes FutureSex/LoveSounds album



Seriously... I've listened to this album probably 200 times. It's so easy to put in when I'm doing any number of others things from studying to driving to stretching and such, post workout. It also takes me back to my boy bands days without the full on N*Sync "Bye, Bye, Bye" dance.

5) Taylor Swift .. Anything



Yes, I'm your typical girl.. I love Taylor Swift, how fun and cute she is and how her songs always strike a chord in soemthing in my own experience. I also genuinely think that in real life, she'd be a really awesome friend, I have a lot of respect for her and how she manages to stay so down-to-earth despite her celebrity status.



** Already half way done and so many more to include.. now this gets difficult**

6) Frank Sinatra (and Rat Pack company)



Call it my yearning to live through this time period and date a guy who wears a suit and sweet hat every day, but I love Ol' Blue Eyes... Particularly at Christmas time, the only Christmas tunes I truly enjoy breaking out are the Rat Pack's version of anything AND The Chipmunks.. c'mon who doesn't love it? Favorite Sinatra song? Young at Heart or Come Dance With Me

7) Journey, REO Speedwagon


Thanks Dad. After years of me complaining about his music choice, I find myself going back to these two classics, particularly when I'm feeling homesick. Not to mention you can see REO at pretty much any state fair nowadays ;) Favorite Journey Song? Faithfully. Favorite REO Speedwagon song? Time For Me To Fly.

8) "Lazy Eye" by Silversun Pickups and MSOE's very own band Solace (who may or may not still be together...)


I grouped these together becasue they haev a similar sound. Kind of an edgy rock that's still very laid back. It reminds me of that kid in high school who had a bit of edge to him, but was effortlessly cool... think Dylan McKay from 90210 (the original)... These bands/songs remind me to look up new, upcoming bands from time to time.. shakes things up so to speak.

9) The Classic Love Songs


'Nuff said. Those songs that everyone dances to at weddings and you can always count on to be perfect for whatever romantic moment your trying to create. Think "Stand By Me" Ben E. King, "Unchained Melody," The Righteous Brothers, and "My Girl" The Temptations and countless others.... plus that song that goes.. "Here she comes just a-walking down the street, singing Doo-a-didee-didee-dum-didee-dee" was the song my Mom used to sing to me.. OH! Elvis!!! Maybe he should be his own seperate category.. well, you guys get it...

10) Amazing Grace, that one version...


I know this song is, lyrically, quite uplifting (!), but I find something so solemn about it at the same time. I think the best performers of this song are those who are able to communicate that feeling of overcoming adversity through their voice alone. There's a version where the lyrics are sang to the melody of "House of the Rising Sun." I saw it performed at church function once, but since haven't found a digital copy to enjoy (any help from you all?).. it's haunting and beautiful. I could listen to it ten times in a row easily.

**I knew I couldn't keep it to ten**

11) 3Oh!3 (That's a band)


This is my oh-so-guilty pleasure. Their lyircs are not PG, nor are they PG13 in some instances, but they have this irresistible beat that I find awesome. I'm going to their concert this weekend (SO excited). They are one of those crazy indie bands on the brink of total stardom and I look forward to the point when I can say.. "I like them BEFORE they were popular... " Favorite song? Dance With Me or Don't Trust Me.

12. John Mayer and Jack Johnson


Such great summer, chill music. Pretty much anyone likes it, maybe not loves it. It reminds me of sitting around the fire in high school with friends at night.. Favorite Mayer song? Daughters or Slow Dancing in a Burning Room. Favorite Jack Johnson? Do You Remember


Ok, I'm cutting myself off... I could go on for days I'm sure. But maybe this gives you a little insight into the musical mind that is me :)

Acataleptic

N.- a person who suspends judgment in the belief that certainty is impossible

Let's be frank, half of the junk we learn in college is useless. Ok half might even be an exaggeration, so why in the heck do we spend at least four years here? Why do we spend countless hours in front of books and computers and professors hopelessly memorizing useless information that we could just as easily look up if we ever had a pressing need to know it? Well, I have a theory... and since this is my blog.. I'm going to share it...

Let's go a generation back, our parents.. they could go to college or not and probably end up in roughly the same position in life. There were still plenty of careers that did not require a four-year degree unlike now, where it seems even fry cooks at McDonald's requires a high school degree and a "fry cook certification" at the very minimum. Go two generations back, our grandparents. College was absolutely unnecessary except for the few careers that truly needed additional training (doctors, lawyers, engineers etc.), so what changed for us? Well I cannot say with certainty where this began, but somewhere between our parents and us, someone started a rumor that you need four additional years of college to be successful. So more and more people went to college and then more and more people felt obligated to go, in order to get a job, stay competitive and all that. Fast forward to today, rumor has it, if you don't have a college degree the best job you can get is the guy that cleans out grease traps at restaurants and with all this biodiesel nonsense, even that requires a special certification. I'm kidding of course, but is it so wrong to think that maybe every job on the planet doesn't need a degree. Shouldn't people be able to be successful because they've spent years on the job learning a trade or industry, not just because they sat through four years of bogus classes that taught them nothing other than to commit a large amount of information to short term memory?

If you don't think college has a negative effect on society I invite you to go check out a high school, or even some middle schools, heck even an elementary school here and there. The pressure to ace every class and get a 30 on the ACT is astronomical. Parents are spending so much time, effort and cash to get their kid into a "good" school because that's apparently the secret to wealth, success, and happiness. I've got news for everyone. The old saying a pig dressed up as a girl is still a pig. Some kids just aren't "college material" and you know what? There's nothing wrong with that. They should be encouraged to succeed in whatever way they find most satisfying and not pushed into this ridiculous "college" ideal that really doesn't mean anything anymore. And those of us in college should really get over ourselves. A piece of paper declaring you fit to work in whatever field you majored in does not make you anything more than a person holding a piece of paper. It doesn't make you any better then the kid from high school who went into automotive work or the kid who's a struggling artist. It will afford you not the slightest bit more happiness.

So the real purpose of college? Truly? I think it's a way to hold off real life for a few more years. At 18, not many people are prepared or willing to jump into the real world. Some people do go to learn a trade, and thank God for that. We need our doctors, lawyers, and engineers just like anyone else. But I'd say the majority of us are, well, too scared to do much else then hide behind a pair of ivory towers.

Late Night Question

If you could give yourself any award.. no matter being modest, what award and why?


This can absolutely be a fictional award..


Discuss...

Always,
K
:)

Numerophobia

N. The fear of numbers



Why I should never be an accountant or in finance...
(As written during Business Finance Class..)

1. I don't have an attention span.
2. Lectures that involve numbers, immediately put me to sleep. It's a medical condition, I'll find the name later... ;)
3. I don't balance my checkbook. Ever.
4. I never use cash. Ever.
5. I like to read.
6. But not financial statements. Books.
7. I like sunlight and social interaction.
8. I often type "." instead of "," which can be a huge mistake.
Example: A $6,000 charge to an account versus a $6.000 will result in zero points on the
test.
9. I have to use my fingers to count months.
10. I use TurboTax to do my taxes. And I still get confused.
11. My method of personal budgeting is just making sure have a lot of extra money in the bank at all times.
12. When people say the stock market fell 600 points today, I have NO idea what that means...
13. When people talk about the stock market, I pretend to know what they are talking about..
14. When people talk about the stock market, I engage them in a heated debate about a current issue in finance. Which I've ripped, word for word, from the Wall Street Journal front page. I never read the article.
15. I might have given some bad stock market advice that resulted in someone losing their life savings.
16. Thank God it was just a school project and they didn't invest any real money.
17. "Economic Downturn" translates to, "really great shoe sales," in my language.
18. I dislike wearing a suit.
19. I passed Accounting because of Troy Giljohann. And a great photographic memory of what was on the board immediately before pop quizzes.
20. My only hope for passing Business Finance is Troy Giljohann.
21. The last investment I made was a pair of black stiletto pumps that I'll be able to wear forever.
22. I am way too good at talking to sit at a desk with only a calculator for company.
23. I'm in an epic love-hate relationship with Excel.
24. I calculate percentages based on prior sales I've been too... (Kohl's 30% off an item that's already 70% off, with an additional 10% off coupon...)
25. I've decided to set a chunk of my salary away this summer for investing. Investing in.. a new business wardrobe.
26. I'm not quite sure what a dividend is, but I use the word when I have no idea what I'm talking about anymore.
27. My teacher thinks I'm a genius when I use the word dividend.
28. I don't understand why 2,800,000 and 2.8 million are the same thing.
29. I'm not sneaky enough to hide my mistakes.
30. I've left my money in a savings account earning .12 cents of interest a year for the past ten years.
31. I start doing my finance homework, and end up drawing imaginary animals.
32. "Futures" is what is happening a while from now.
33. Retirement planning means deciding to move to a cold climate or warm climate.
34. Bear and Bull refer to Chicago sports teams.
36. Dow Jones is a race car driver competing in the NASDAQ.
37. I've spent the past hour, NOT listening to my professor lecture on financial forecasting but instead made this list.
38. I don't feel like I wasted my time...



:) Have a wonderful night!
Always,
K

Querimonious

Adj. -complaining, querulous, apt to complain

R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to me
All I'm asking for, is a little Respect...

Ok, prepare oneself, this blog might get a bit rantish...

This past year, as a Junior, I've been working to really establish myself on campus as a leader and someone who makes a difference. I'm not doing this for recognition or for awards. In fact, the reason I'm doing it, is because I care about my school, my fellow students, and the future students to come here. But it just seems like everything I try to do is stopped before I even get a chance. Granted on this campus, there are so many brilliant, wonderful, caring students that there is an endless supply of people willing to step up and do things. But it bothers me that I'm never given an opportunity. Perhaps, that's my fault for not stepping up and demanding more opportunities. In fact that's very true.. I'm not stepping up enough. It just seems like it should be so easy, a completely dedicated, willing, and available student wanting to help out with things on campus. Shouldn't faculty, staff, and the school be throwing opportunities at me?

I feel so unprepared for real life. I have nothing to talk about in interviews, no real accomplishments to discuss. When asked to furnish a resume, whereas some have trouble keeping it to a page, I have problem lengthening it to a page, some creative additions results :)

All i want is a project of my very own, that I can see from start to finish, that when I leave campus I can cite as my "crowning accomplishment" so to speak. I DON'T want people throwing me bones, so to speak, I don't want pity or other's leftovers. I just want to be great at something tangible, something of value. I want to make a difference and know it.

Oh well, guess that's it for the rant... I'll post again with something more positive and fun :) it'll make both of us feel better I'm sure...

Always,
K

Matutolypea

N- getting up on the wrong side of the bed

Who knew there was a word for that? I certainly did not.. nor did I get up on the wrong side of the bed today. In fact in a twin bed, I dare say there better not be a wrong side, otherwise I might end up on the floor..

I'm quite excited about this post because I want to share a recent gift I received. It means so much to me and I'm so proud to be the owner of it.. I took pictures! (Thanks Jon for camera use..)

Love, Love, Love...

That my friends, is my Great, Great, GREAT Grandmother's wedding ring. I just got it back from the jeweler's yesterday after having it fixed up and fitted to my finger. It's an absolutly gorgeous ring that I love, love, love.

But what I love even more is that it has been worn by the women in my family for the past 100 or so years. It's amazing to me, that somehow this has made it to me, and can now reside on my hand. The events this ring went through! Honestly, I'm wearing a piece of family history and that in itself is priceless. I received the ring (which was actually attached to another ring that belonged to my Great Grandmother, I had them seperated) from my grandpa as a Christmas gift. It had belonged to my Grandma since her mother had given it to her about 15 years ago. My grandma has since passed a few years ago, but my Great Grandma is still very much alive and kicking :) The only stipulation given by my Grandpa is that I pass the ring onto my children one day, (well duh!).

I could not thank him enough and still am so grateful that out of all the children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, I somehow managed to receive this amazing gift... I'm not sure why I was chosen, but I have a feeling it's because they knew that I would treasure and honor it.

Please ignore the fact that I'm quite pale...

My Great Grandma recently found a picture of her mother and father back in the 1920's all dressed up in your typical zoot suit and flapper attire. It was by far the coolest family picture I've found. All of this just reminds me of how we truly are all connected in this crazy world. To think that the woman who wore this ring before me, existed so many years ago, but is kept alive through the memory of family stories is fascinating to me. It makes me wonder if our generation and subsequent others will have the same impact that our ancestors did. Will my great, great, great grandchild, 100 years from now be at all concerned with her old granny who existed way back during the Millennium? What kind of world will she be living in? It's all so interesting to think about..

Jon also brought me a fortune cookie, which I love, because the "fortunes" always make me feel like something awesome is about to happen :) I'm not superstitous, its just fun to think about.. In any case, here's my fortune..

Hmm, something to live up to this week :) I shall try something new, remind me to post about it!

I hope your all having a wonderful week!

Always,
K

Late Night Question

-Oh no, I didn't use an unusual word

I'll stray on this one post that I hope to do on a semi-regular basis. Late at night, when I should very well be sleeping I'll ask a question, answer and wait impatiently for others to answer as well. Sound good? Deal.. ok, let's go..


Question: If you could have any career in the world, regardless of money, prestige, education etc., which would you pick and why?


Without a doubt, I would pick a career involving animals. When my Mom worked at the vet clinic many years ago, I LOVED going with and helping her. And I think I'd be open to working with more exotic animals then dogs and cats, maybe a penguin trainer or something. Though, I really like polar bears and elephants so either of those would be awesome. I suppose I don't have a specific career mostly because there's so many that I know I would be ecstatic about, that to pick just one seems impossible. But in the end, animals would be the key :)

I miss my Kyra :(

Seriously, how adorable IS she!?!?

Accismus

- a form of irony, a pretended refusal of something one desires

This Twilight craze got to me.

Before Christmas, my curiosity got the best of me and I started reading the now infamous Twilight series. A week and four books later, I had finished said Twilight series. Some might assume that because I read the books so fast I was addicted to them. That's not really the case, I do that with all books. I'm in such a hurry to find out what happens that I stay up for 72 straight hours, doing nothing but reading. But alas, I finished and last night I watched the movie. What better place is there to comment but on my blog? C'mon, everyone's doing it... :)

For starters, Stephanie Meyers, good job on creating a fairly interesting plot and set of characters. The writing style itself was nothing immensely fascinating or unique, but then again, when your audience is 13-18 year old girls who read the book for a dreamy male character, prose is not your priority.

Moving on to content, I won't deny being intrigued by the story outlined in the four books. BUT, I had trouble believing the story. And no, not because there were vampires and werewolves, etc. I have no problem believing in such fantastically, unrealistic things in a book, but I had a huge time believing the love story/stories that occur in this book. The characters lack what I consider the "realness" factor, they are perfect in every way, including their 'flaws". Yes even their 'flaws' are perfect.

Now perhaps I'm a bit jaded as a 21 year old in a completely amazing relationship, that I just can't get excited about a fictious relationship between a klutzy human and a blindingly good looking vampire. But maybe it's just because the characters are so inherently unrelatable. Edward (main vampire) is the quintessential protective, mysterious, and completely romantic male that falls madly for the most unlikely of girls, Bella. Bella is the qunitessential klutzy, non-belonginging, indepedent girl. Together their relationship is what ever girl desires. Action, romance, anger, sadness, passion, adventure and throughout it all, complete and utter bliss. But seriously, who can believe that any relationship has that much going on. Most nights with Justin result in doing homework, the occasional movie, maybe a night out for dinner etc. And we're ok with that, in fact, I daresay if we were under the same stress of the characters in the book, we would have a rough time remaining sane enough to be in love.

Ms. Meyers, I assume, meant the characters to have these flaws that makes them more relatable. Edward's wayward passion, Bella's emotional instability, Jasper's ironic lifestyle, Jacob and his impatience. But what she does instead is give them the perfect flaws to make the story even MORE perfect. Seriously, Edward would be so much more relatable if he occasionally ditched Bella for a night with the guys, or if Jacob could once in awhile chill out and just be around Bella without freakign out. I can't really explain it but to say that while reading the book, I was so frustrated at how perfectly unreal everything was that it prevented me from truly loving the book with the same intensity that I see in my peers.

Only I would expect a book about a romance between a human and a vampire to be realistic.

On to the movie. Someone described it to me as being the most melodramatic thing to hit a screen since early episodes of 90210. Obviously, they never read the books. I really never enjoy movies made from books. I try to enjoy them, but they can never fully live up to how the story unfolds in my head. This is just as true with Harry Potter. So I watched Twilight with the knowledge that I probably wouldn't love it, but could enjoy it for its entertainment value. And I did. I won't pay 10 dollars to go see Twilight 2 in theaters, nor will I be buying the DVD, but I was impressed with how closely they stuck to the book. Props. They strayed slightly, but only for time's sake I imagine.

I imagine I've lost the interest of most of my readers by now, but I miss being able to have literary criticism discussions. My only advice to the male readers, particularly those of the MSOE variety, is this... girls are madly in love with Twilight for a very distinct reason. Those books are like a manual to the mind of the average 15-20 year old. Read them, and take a few notes. If nothing else, when your future girlfriend drags you to the movie, at least you'll know what's going on ;)

Colubrine

Adj, - Of, like or pertaining to snakes


Happy St. Patty's Day! (The title is meant to be a play on St, Patrick driving the snakes from Ireland, even though that is modernly assumed to be a metaphor. Ok you caught me, I couldn't find a more relevant word..)

I'm currently in my second week of 10 in this term. I wanted to share about my classes, mostly because this is much more fun then actually doing the work for those classes :)

8AM- Intro to Computer Programming: I SOO have no idea what this class is about. Basically I go to class, follow EXACTLY what the teacher does and print the results off at the end. I'm not learning anything, but I have this feeling, that even if I tried I would not know what was going on. In the meantime, Kyle (my brother) has been working along with my class online. He's considering careers in computer programming and game design, my teacher is totally into it and wants to help him. In the near future I predict my 16 year old brother will have to tutor me.

10 AM- Business Law: Holy cow. Soooo hard. Rumor has it, my professor is a Harvard Grad... how he made it to MSOE I'm not sure. He's a very nice guy, but extremely tough as a professor and I won't lie he scares me enought o be fully and completely prepared for class each session. This class WILL be a lot of work, but I'm strangely super-motivated to do well.

11AM- Technical Composition: This is a freshmen class I missed out on. So now it's me and 28 freshmen boys. And I used boys, not men, on pupose. The teacher is from Siberia and she's definatly a favorite of mine. She's very cool and collected and very intelligent. The class itself is easy enough, just a lot of busy work.

1 PM- Organization Behavior and Leadership Development: What? The title of this class is so long I don't have an attention span to match. In any case, the prof is super devoted to her class and the material she covers. I see a lot of myself in her, which is both cool and creepy at the same time. The class itself has one of those ambigous topics that menever really seems to surfce, but also makes it extremely easy to jump into it with little prep.

5:30 PM- Business Finance: I'll be completely honest. I've had this class three times and haven't heard a word the prof says. He bores me to tears, but he's my advisor so I need to pretend to know what's going on and pay attention. I'll spend this weekend teaching myself the material I've been ignoring.

Anytime PM- Marketing: I have a "hybrid" course which mixes weekly internet assignments with 4 real life lecture sessions. The same teacher as my Org. Behavior class teaches this, so ditto about being super excited and devoted to her material. The class itself is interesting enough.

Being a Business Management major is interesting. I'm still used to Nursing where you took a class and it had a definitive purpose "Oh, I'm going to learn how to administer meds." Business classes seem, often, very unnnecessary. I think that's why its so hard to get and stay motivated, because at the end of the day, if you don't fully understand Marketing, no one will die (hopefully!)

Well with that lovely look into the Life of Kayla, I'm interested.. What class did you have to take, where you could never define a truly realistic purpose to having take it?

Abasement

N. Action of humbling or degrading

Jon v. Jim

DING DING DING

I won't be the first to claim to know what the Jon Stewart v. Jim Cramer debate was even about, why it started etc. etc. BUut what I will comment on is a big thank you to Jon Stewart for calling out not just Cramer and CNBC, but ALL of the media for breaking basic journalism principles. I took an Intro to Journalism class in probably 10th grade, several years ago. I don't remember much from the class, but I do remember the first few weeks. We learned that the field of journalism and journalists had an obligation to reporting the truth and to ethical journalism. Progressively, my faith in our media has been lost due to almost laughable tendencies to shelter the CEO's and major corportations. In our high school class we often cited the importance of a media free from government intervention, my concern is not that the government is censoring our media and sharing of information, but rather corporate America is.

Watching the debate between Jim and Jon was interesting in that they seemed to be debating completely seperate topics. Jim was debating the work he has done over the years on his show "Mad Money" and his credibility as a host for that show. Jon was calling into question the entire network of CNBC and its oversight of reporting major information. Jon quite obviously won this debate, he had his points, made them, and overall jsut hammered his side home. I support Jon in his questioning the credibility of a network who doesn't research thier stories and question the testimonies of their interviewees. Jon did not seem, to me anyway, to ever question Cramer's abilities or his show. Jon, perhaps unfairly, targeted Cramer simpally as a cog in a very crooked machine.

In the end, the debate left me wondering the true role of media. If their job is to protect the big businesses in their obviously unlawful practices, at the expense of the rest of America, job well done. But if their role is, as I have always hoped it to be, one of impartial informing of America in the hopes of allowing citizens to make fair and educated opinions, it needs some work guys. No one is asking you to be a regulatory agency of economic issues, BUT your goals should be to fairly represent all parties involve and as a result, the Media DOES act as a regulatory force. Big business needs someone to answer too.

I should add, that I am a full proponent of the viewers of Jim Cramer's show realizing the need to do their own information hunt, research their options before laying down the cash. But if Jim Cramer cares for the average person as much as he claims he needs to make sure, to the fullest extent of his ability, that he is providing the most researched, most accurate answer to questions.

Hows that for a substantive post?

On a seperate note,
Happy Birthday Justin!!!

Kyphorrhinos

N. A nose that has a bump.

So, I've already fallen behind on my blog. But in my defense, Finals week, a vacation and the start of new classes was all a bit stressful to say the least. In any case, I thought I could jsut use this post to catch up on my adventures and expeditions. Perhaps you ask about the title of this post, and alas! I have an answer...

I got my new Driver's License!!

Not just my "I'm still considered a probationary driver and my license says so..." but a big, bad ole adult one! And my picture is decent, except upon closer inspection one might note that my nose is completely and utterly crooked. Perhaps my head was at an odd angle while being photographed, but in the event my nose truly is that crooked, I feel I should be getting a consultation with a plastic surgeon. That crooked of a nose must be affecting my breathing somehow.

My Mom and I visited the place where dreams come true, Disney World. Besides it being cold, and then me getting dreadfully sick, we had a great time. Once we got home and tried to retrieve some pictures that Disney photographers had taken, I realized we had been hoodwinked and I'm in full-out raging battle with Disney to get them back.

I started my new classes this week and well, the only word I to describe them is, "wow." Between Business Law and Computer Programming I feel completely out of my element, but I think that's exactly what I need to get me back on track. I feel challenged and interested, and I really WANT to excel in them.

I'm really looking forward to this last trimester before summer. I am hoping to turn some things around that I know I've let slide this year. I can use all the encouragement I can get, so any words of wisdom, law-based or otherwise :) I always welcome them!

I realize this post is dreadfully boring, but I quite honestly haven't had a chance to even think about anything more interesting. I promise however to keep eyes and ears peeled for a most interesting topic for my next post.

If you're interested in Disney pics, they are on my Facebook. :)


Oh now theres a place for you and me,
Where we can dream as big as the sky.
I know its hard to see it now,
But baby someday we're gonna fly,
This road we're on, you know it might be long,
But my faith is strong, its all that really matters.
That's for a certain someone, you know who you are :)

Brontide

n. The low rumbling of distant thunder

Google is amazing. How cool is it that when I'm doing something and have a question, I can quite literally type that question into Google search and get 10,000 answers? And then, there are times I find myself getting out of control.. Today was one of those days...

I typed in "What to do with my life post-college graduation"

Not kidding. I'm asking a search engine to help me find direction in my life..

I get tons of responses back with "finding the right job" and "winning the interview" but that was not what I was looking for. Justin, has recently decided to remain at MSOE for an extra year to complete his Master's right away. Which suddenly reminds me that I will be graduating in a year and will have to figure out something to do with my life. This year difference that is now in place between our graduation dates makes me think, "Self, this is a wonderful opportunity to go experience something." The time span of a year seems to perfect, too planned, like God said "Let there be a year for Kayla to go do something," and so, I search. Or rather Google search.

I've considered many of the "traditional" non-traditional things to do post-graduation such as backpacking through Europe, Peace Corps, go live in the middle of Canada by myself foresaking all belongings. But none of these seem right. First of all, I have no money, so anything that requires much money is pretty much off the table. I don't necessarily feel the need to make money in my year of adventure, but making enough to pay for living would be a plus. And the idea of traveling alone has never appealed to me. I'm not nearly confident enough to pull something like that off. So what does that leave me with? Well, not much. So the search continues.. input always welcome from you, my hordes of readers.. ;)

That's me, backpacking through Panama. Maybe... :)

Always,
K

Hirquitalliency

n. Strength of voice

Today, while studying fervently (yea, right..) I happened upon the History Channel, one of my favorite TV channels. Well there was of course a show on that was far more interesting then studying for my final exams tomorrow. It was on the KKK and Aryan Nation. At first I found it interesting simply because I had learned about these groups in school, but did not know what their current status was, or what the groups current actions and goals were. Two and half hours and not nearly enough studying later, I was completely engrossed in the documentary. The program spanned the history of the groups from their start a hundred years ago to today. I found myself asking the same question again and again...

How can someone be so filled with hate?

There was video of rallies of the groups where hundreds of people were all united for the common goal of eliminating so called "inferior" people from the country and Earth. Again and again, I found myself staring at my arm, trying to understand, how can someone look at their skin and determine that its color makes them better then the next guy who is a different color?

Being the social observer that I am, I started to theorize... Perhaps its their own insecurity that makes them feel they need to be superior to someone, anyone, in order to "live" with their shortcomings. Perhaps, they had a bad experience with the members of these other ethnicities or religions. Or maybe, it all comes down to fear. We fear that which is unfamiliar. But none of these were satisfactory, because any of these feelings can be expanded to every human to walk the Earth, what makes these distinct individuals so hateful?

I realized at this point there was no answer and I would remain frustrated and ignorant of the answer for probably forever. But that's not where my day ended. Later, a friend of mine mentioned via AIM that he was sitting across from a person who was bashing homosexuals. Little did that person know, he was sitting across from one. He too was so filled with hate, that the thought never entered his mind that a person he knew and talked too might just be one of those people he was so thoughtlessly maiming. And not much later after that, I came across another group of people expressing hatred for President Obama.

My question is this, why are we so quick to use the term hate, but so hestiant to use the word love? I find myself just as guilty as anyone "I hate this class," "I hate this professor," etc. How awful that is.I do not hate my professor, I simply am unhappy with how the class is going, or felt unsatisfied with my interaction with them. I vow, to my endless audience of readers to use the term hate only to express my hatred for hate. I will find more constructive ways to describe my displeasure with a situation and will never express such a negative attitude towards a fellow human being. Maybe one person will notice and take it upon themselves to do the same thing, and in our own small way, we will influence some small corner of the world to rid themselves of the idea of hate.

Wouldn't you know that today is Mardi Gras, I just noticed. Without even intending I have just decided on something to give up for Lent and beyond(not that I typically celebrate the Easter season like that). I'm giving up hate. :) Happy fat Tuesday all, I love you!

Always,
Kayla

Hemerine

adj. -Daily

So, I am so completely excited for this blog that I feel the necessity to write again. I know this will wear off one day, but I should take advantage of this now to get somewhere with this thing. What to write about? The expanded global market in a time of great globalization and its effect on GDP and inflation? No. I do not even know what I just said...

How about I introduce to my life as a Resident Assistant in Roy W. Johnson Hall (commonly RWJ) 5? I'll try out the "insert photo" option for kicks.

First off, those are the 5th floor bodyguards, Elvis and Elvis. They've been known to keep things jiving all night long. Well until 11 pm when quiet hours kick in. They are exempt from our "overnight guest policy" because of the services they provide.


This is rainbow guy. I know he has a real name, but I don't know what it is... His main job on the floor is to be a reminder that this is 5th floor not 6th floor (the only other girls floor in our 12 floor building). He's the first guy to welcome you to the floor as you exit the elevators.

This is our 5th floor Message Board where we right positive, happy notes to on another. For example "Yay Almost Break" as a little motivation to get us through Finals Week. Nothing obscene or naughty is ever written on this board. ;)

These are some of my residents. They might be my favorites, but I'm not supposed to have favorites. I will be awfully sad when they leave me next year.

My A-MA-ZING bulletin board for January's Women's History month. I know its February, I'm working on a new one :)


My floor has 35ish ladies living here, with 2 bathrooms, 4 showers (1.8 of which are operational). 5th floor is full of trials and tribulations but I love it :)

I have 32 fellow staff members as an RA whom I love dearly. They truly are my family away from home. Bill and Cheryl = Dad and Mom and will undeniably be the best bosses I ever have.

Our family also includes our fabulous facilities workers and housekeeping staff whom I enjoy working with over the summer.

That about rounds out my resident assistant life. Some people say being an RA is like being a babysitter or police officer, at time that is true. But then there's time when you get to be someones friend or help someone through a tough time and the rewards are unquantifiable. The experiences and friendships I've made on staff truly are memorable and I look forward to another year with them...

I better make this blog a million times more interesting if I want anyone to read it :)

Autohagiographer

N-One who speaks or writes in a smug fashion about their own life and accomplishments

Don't get too excited, it will be a cold day in the underbellies of the Earth when I post more than once to this blog in a week's time, much less a day, but I felt i should introduce myself. Granted, most of the 3 people who will be reading this blog know me quite well, in fact, probably better than I know myself, but in case the wayward traveler passes through, let's give him his money's worth...

First, the title... Nelipot- N- Someone who walks without shoes.

Go ahead, laugh. I like it. It's easy, to the point, and so true.

I'll publish my bio in the profile function, but here's the highlights...

- Female, aged 21

-Attending Milwaukee School of Engineering, indeed NOT for engineering, but for what I like to call, "the I have no idea what I'm doing anymore" major of business management. I originally came for nursing, but, it did not work out. End of story, I will graduate on time however. (Most asked question after hearing I've switched majors)

- Quite madly in love with "enter main love interest" Justin. Several years together and he can still handle me. It's meant to be...

- "Enter family," once upon a time, I may not have listed my family this high on a list about me. Now I can't imagine putting them anywhere else. My brother Kyle is an endless source of fascination for me. I'm sure his trials and tribulations will make this blog at some point.

- I am quite unable to be content.

That's the gist of it I suppose. I hear blogs these days all have some little thing that makes them "unique" (strange that unique has become such an un-unique word). My flair will be the usage of such unusual and quite outdated words. In case you haven't noticed.

The Adventures of Kayla just sounded like too high of a bar to set..

PS. The final decision to get this project up and going is attributed to Ms. Stewart, my 5th grade teacher. After reconnecting with her today and being directed to her blog, I realized how this blog-thing is so my "thing" Thanks once again for inspiring me :)

Adoxography

N - The skilled writing on an unimportant subject.

What a brilliant way to start a blog, no? I had every intention of starting a blog a month ago on my 21st birthday as a little celebration to me for the coming year of adventure, excitement, and change. But let's be serious, I am Kayla and schedules have never been my thing. So instead here I start on February 19th (actually quite early on February 20th), with the thoughts and fears of an undoubtedly shaken woman. Whoa, woman, when did I grow up?

This past week was not good. Not many other words to describe it other than that. My plans and hopes for the coming year in terms of academia, relationships, and jobs have all been completely turned inside out and upside down. I quote a good friend, "If you want to see God laugh, tell him your plans." Well indeed God, you got me this time :) But what I am most bothered by this week, is that I am NOT bothered by these changes in plans. Once upon a time, a full on nervous breakdown might have occurred. I would be lying if I said I did not cry or get mad or sad, but in the end, I knew it was happening for a reason. And I was ok with that. Odd.

So, the beginning of this blog signifies the beginning of truly entering an unknown. Maybe that's a little dramatic, but this is my blog and if I want drama, I'll have drama. ;)