No U-Turns

Yeah, Dawgs!

2010-03-21T23:50:00.001-04:00

March Madness is a fantastic time of the year . . .

. . . especially when my team is rocking it out!

Go, Dawgs!

A little tune is in order:

We'll sing the Butler war song,
We'll give a fighting cry;
We'll fight the Butler battle--
Bulldogs ever do or die.
And in the glow of the victory firelight,
Hist'ry cannot deny
To add a page or two
For Butler's fighting crew
Beneath the Hoosier sky.

Sad Death

2010-01-04T09:41:00.002-05:00

This was sent to me, and I love it and wanted to share it. Enjoy ... and RIP, Common Sense!

Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend, Common Sense, who has been with us for many years. No one knows for sure how old he was, since his birth records were long ago lost in bureaucratic red tape. He will be remembered as having cultivated such valuable lessons as:
- Knowing when to come in out of the rain;
- Why the early bird gets the worm;
- Life isn't always fair;
- and maybe it was my fault.

Common Sense lived by simple, sound financial policies (don't spend more than you can earn) and reliable strategies (adults, not children, are in charge). His health began to deteriorate rapidly when well-intentioned but overbearing regulations were set in place. Reports of a 6-year-old boy charged with sexual harassment for kissing a classmate; teens suspended from school for using mouthwash after lunch; and a teacher fired for reprimanding an unruly student, only worsened his condition.

Common Sense lost ground when parents attacked teachers for doing the job that they themselves had failed to do in disciplining their unruly children. It declined even further when schools were required to get parental consent to administer sun lotion or an aspirin to a student; but could not inform parents when a student became pregnant and wanted to have an abortion.

Common Sense lost the will to live as the churches became businesses; and criminals received better treatment than their victims.

Common Sense took a beating when you couldn't defend yourself from a burglar in your own home and the burglar could sue you for assault.

Common Sense finally gave up the will to live, after a woman failed to realize that a steaming cup of coffee was hot. She spilled a little in her lap, and was promptly awarded a huge settlement.

Common Sense was preceded in death, by his parents, Truth and Trust, by his wife, Discretion, by his daughter, Responsibility, and by his son, Reason.

He is survived by his 4 stepbrothers;
I Know My Rights
I Want It Now
Someone Else Is To Blame
I'm A Victim

Not many attended his funeral because so few realized he was gone. If you still remember him, pass this on.

Engaged!

2009-11-30T22:45:00.003-05:00

...not, not me!

But I will be welcoming a brother-in-law into the family in the Spring!

Congrats, Katelin and Paul!

Mom

2009-11-21T19:36:00.000-05:00

Check this out: Racing Lupovs

Order of Things

2009-11-16T23:43:00.000-05:00

NO CHRISTMAS BEFORE THANKSGIVING!!! AAAAHHHHHH!

Long-Distance Fun!

2009-10-18T13:33:00.002-04:00

As some of you know, I'm doing the "long-distance" thing between Milwaukee and Philly. Blah. For those of you in the same boat, here are some ideas to bridge the gap.

SKYPE SKYPE SKYPE!!!
1. Watch a movie together at the same time (We even pause/fast forward to make sure we're on the same frame - haha!)
2. Scrabble on Facebook interactively
3. Sporcle games together (It's even fun on your own!)
4. AIM, Gmail, FB chat
5. other quizzes/games online together
6. e-cards (I especially enjoy Hoops & Yoyo!)
7. phone calls, texts, pix messages (Thank you, iPhone for finally figuring out the pix message feature!)
8. CD with favorite songs
9. good 'ole fashioned snail mail cards/letters
10. date-in-a-package
11. go on a walk "together" (talking on the phone)

12. save up the (lots of) money it costs to see each other in person (NEVER FLY UNITED - i won't even link you to their website - . . . unless you want them to screw up and get a free flight, but only if it's "their error." idiots.)

If you have any other ideas for me/us, please pass them along! We're always looking for something new to do together!

(Also, enjoy all of the links ... the Packer game is pretty bad so I had fun putting a little something extra into this post.)

It's just not the same ...

2009-09-19T21:10:00.011-04:00

...without all of you around! I miss you all!

Back home again in ... oh, wait! Wrong song!

2009-09-12T16:47:00.003-04:00

with how much i LOVE winter, i'm sure it comes to you as no surprise that i moved back to wisconsin! (*cough* sarcasm *cough*)

i'm up here living with my family (jake and i are roomies again after a long absence), and going to grad school at marquette university in milwaukee. i am getting a masters of arts in christian doctrine. i miss all of my friends in indiana A TON, but am looking forward to this adventure of getting my butt kicked by some awesome jesuit priests!

hopefully i'll be a little better at writing something fun on here now that i need plenty of reasons to put my books down and procrastinate. :)

in the meantime, i bring you a flashback for those of you who in indiana who always said that my mom sounded like bobby's mom! don't'cha know!

50th Post!

2009-04-22T18:19:00.002-04:00

in honor of this being my 50th post, i thought i would give you a life update in exactly 50 words. (go ahead, count 'em!)

i ...

am working for drum corps international as a CSR and am loving it!

applied to grad schools for a masters in theology/ministry to work in young adult/campus ministry. so, i'll be moving somewhere in august!

spent Easter with mom, dad, kate, and jake, and am grateful for them.

Flunking ... with Style!

2009-03-19T05:10:00.003-04:00

these crack me up (thanks, joanna!) ... even if you've already seen some of them, that doesn't make them any less hilarious.

any favorites? i'm partial to the elephant ... :-P

If Only ...

2009-03-10T10:21:00.001-04:00

Check this out! I was especially intrigued by the info about Forest Gump.

10 Career-Changing Roles that Almost Weren't

Lost Generation

2009-03-02T19:19:00.002-05:00

I saw this on Lindsey Culli's blog, and I had to post it on mine, too. Check it out, and let me know what you think!

Run for Vocations

2009-03-02T18:50:00.003-05:00

Check out this blog to learn about the Run for Vocations in Indianapolis. I have signed up for the Mini Marathon 5K this year. (I did the Mini one year ... I don't feel any need to prove that I can do that again!) I would appreciate prayers!

Here's how this works: Everyone has a vocation. Either you're called to the Priesthood, Consecrated Life (Nuns), Married Life, or Single Life. All are blessings from God. If you are willing to pray for vocations while I'm running, please visit the blog and post a comment indicating your willingness to pray. Or, feel free to simply comment on my blog!

I'm sure that some of you are thinking, "Here's another crazy Catholic thing that Talia is doing." Well, you're right! BUT, you definitely do not have to be Catholic to pray for vocations! Are willing to "pledge" a few "Our Fathers," "Hail Marys," rosaries, or some original prayers for each mile I run? Let me know!

Vocation... Everyone has one. What's yours?

These 40 Days of Lent ...

2009-03-01T19:36:00.002-05:00

Well, folks, the ashes have washed off, and we find ourselves getting into the thick of Lent. Lent is a time of reflection and preparation for the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Many people choose to give things up for Lent, add things to their lives, give alms, etc. If you forgot to set that goal for these next weeks, it's not too late!

I like the idea of giving up something that gets in the way of your relationship with Christ, as well as adding something that will enrich one's spiritual life. Tithing is always a good choice, too. ;)

I felt convicted to give up my daily dose (x100) of Law & Order and majorly limit my TV time. You wouldn't believe how cool life can be when it's not spent entirely in front of the TV and you actually venture outside. While I am venturing outside, I am committed to receiving the Eucharist daily. Along with praying the rosary daily, this is the best addition to my life yet.

Without a job, my tithing situation is a little dismal. Hopefully that will change soon. Ha, ha!

What are you adding/giving up this Lent?

An apology ...

2009-02-12T08:56:00.003-05:00

It is with my sincerest apologies that I did not mention Michele as another person who guessed absolutely correctly #22. :)

In fact, besides my sister, Michele probably put waaaaaay too much effort into figuring it out! Thanks, Michele!

The truth ... revealed!

2009-02-11T11:53:00.006-05:00

I'm stealing my sister's response to my last blog post to reveal the truth! The bold/italicized words are my additions, but Kate's pretty hilarious by herself. :) (You should check out her blog, too!)

1. False, Chocolate = Headaches
2. False, If I took your camera away you would die for sure.
3. You should be using TaxACT instead of whatever you are currently doing. And for some reason I think you paid to do H&R block. Correction: I use Taxslayer - a name quite suited for taxes. :)
4. False, you finally agree with me that teaching any-graders sucks.
5. Banana? Who's favorite flavor is banana? Oh wait... dad's. Yeah, I'm a sucker for the reds and greens.
6. False. Favorite soup... not sure on this one. I don't like hot liquids, generally; soups, coffee, tea, hot chocolate (esp: refer to #1)
7. False, You were the only girl in catholic school who boycotted skirts.
8. Mom didn't think up the name during the Rocky movie, it was on the credits of Rich Man, Poor Man. That is cheap.
9. Am Fam - BAM!
10. You love Diet Dew. Who cares about the can? I do! The new can is ridiculous!
11. False, ideal family has 14 kids. Enjoy being pregnant for 20 straight years..
12. False, I think Michelle kicked your a$$ the other night in Nertz.. multiple times.
13. False, you sleep too late.
14. False, you order strawberry lemonade at STARBUCKS.
15. Quote "I am not Betty Crocker, Deal with it."
16. False, Golf sucks. Football is the bomb!
17. Dawson's Creek, Warm Pillsbury Cookies, the Muscato's living room, heeeeeaven!
18. 18? Try minus 10!
19. False. But I wish this were true!
20. WWE? Who cares.
21. CSI or Law & Order? I say People's Court!! Law & Order, all day, everyday!
22. There was this one time when I flipped a skittle in your mouth!
23. Do you even know what eggplant is?!
24. Yes! Order extra whipped cream, since I am the one who always has to eat yours!
25. Planning ahead. Yeah, you should work on that. This is such a lie, it was probably an exposure!

Soooo...way to go, Bob, Mom, & Kate! #22 ... I cannot travel without a pop (usually Diet Dew/Diet Dr. Pepper) and skittles! Fun! Thanks for guessing!

24 lies ... and a truth

2009-02-02T11:35:00.002-05:00

I have been reading a lot of interesting lists of "25 things" on Facebook. I thought I would make my own, with a twist! Here are 25 things about me ... but only one of them are true! Let's see if you can figure out my hidden truth.

1. I am a confessed chocoholic. I can't get enough of it!
2. Usually, I rely on others to take pictures of get-togethers and send them to me.
3. I use Turbo Tax to do my taxes.
4. Teaching 6th graders was so much more fun than 1st and 3rd graders!
5. Banana is the best Laffy Taffy flavor ... ever.
6. Chicken and wild rice soup is my favorite meal on a cold day.
7. If I had it my way, I would wear skirts everyday.
8. Mom claims that she thought of my name while watching the Rocky movies.
9. State Farm is my preferred insurance provider.
10. I consider the new Diet Mountain Dew can to be a great improvement over the former one.
11. My ideal family would consist of a husband and two children.
12. I can beat anyone (especially my roommate) at Nertz. (aka: Nurtz, Nurts, Nerts, Mertz, Dutch Blitz, Squeal, Squeak, etc.)
13. I'm not much of a morning person.
14. In fact, I need a couple cups of coffee to wake myself up.
15. I take after my brother, as I am a fantastic chef.
16. Golf is my favorite sport to watch.
17. I have always thought Dawson's Creek was a stupid show, a complete waste of time to watch. (I mean, who would watch it every single Wednesday night ...)
18. 18 is my favorite number.
19. Winter is my all-time favorite season. Gosh, I LOVE the snow, being cold, winter sports ... the whole bit!
20. My favorite WWE wrestler is J.B. Layfield.
21. I prefer CSI to Law & Order any day of the week.
22. I cannot travel without Skittles and a pop.
23. Eggplant is delicious.
24. Ice cream just isn't ice cream without whipped cream on top!
25. I am completely spontaneous ... I never plan anything ahead of time.

Any guesses?

March for Life

2009-01-19T12:44:00.006-05:00

We are marching in the light of God.
We are marching in the light of God.
We are marching in the light of God.
We are marching in the light of,
the light of God.

We are marching, marching,
We are marching, marching,
We are marching in the light of,
the light of God.

Siyahamba, hamba,
Siyahamba, hamba,
Siyahamb' ekukhanyen' kwenkhos'.

I'm off to D.C. this week! No, it's not to support President-elect Obama, although we'll arrive soon after the inauguration. I'll be participating in the March for Life.

I will be proud to march next to my sister, praying to end abortion and the use of contraceptives on the anniversary of Roe vs. Wade. Life is precious, and should be treated as such.

When I think of marching, I am reminded of Martin Luther King, Jr., war protests, and the like. What an honor to stand up for something I believe so strongly in, with 200,000 others who share my viewpoint.

What would you march for?

We miss you, Mackenzie!

2009-01-12T20:06:00.005-05:00

My friend, Mackenzie, is spending a month in Bulgaria learning ... Bulgarian. She is so brave! Even though she is having fun across the miles, we miss her here!

Check out her blog!

Her husband, Ivan, is back in the States, so we thought we would take him out for some quality food at Buca's!

soooo...i lied.

2008-12-29T10:24:00.002-05:00

i guess i lied. i have something else to post.

i had the craziest experience the other day, and i know you all have had something like this happen to you ... and i want to hear about it!

i was at a target while visiting my family in wisconsin. i had to go to target to return a bunch of junk that was purchased the same day. blah. as i was walking into target, someone stopped and yelled, "talia!"

i couldn't believe it! here was my friend, jamie, who i never see in indy (where we LIVE), in the parking lot of target in WISCONSIN! her mom happens to live about 5 minutes from my parents. cRaZy!

it's a small world after all.
it's a small world after all.
it's a small world after all.
it's a small, small world.

now, i know that you all have a story or two like this. i want to hear it! these stories never cease to make me grin. :-)

Blogging ... who is it for, anyway?

2008-12-28T20:38:00.002-05:00

i started this blog as a way of throwing thoughts, funny stories, quirky videos, and fun pictures out into ... wherever. i am realizing that i have less and less to say to "the world." so, if things slow down a bit, don't be alarmed. ;-) i think blogs are meant more for communication across the miles, and ALWAYS for showing off pictures!

i will certainly keep my blog up, even if just to be able to get to my other favorite blogs; those of my friends with babies, new spouses, have moved far away, are buying a house, etc. or, my sister, who actually blogs about interesting topics and lets her readers offer their thoughts!

although i will not write a ton more, i will look forward to checking out my friends' blogs for fun pictures, thoughts, etc. happy holidays!

Belgium Holiday House

2008-12-20T11:48:00.002-05:00

Alan & Sarah Bublitz spend time each year to put together a Christmas light show at their house. Alan works tirelessly orchestrating the lights, and he even cooperates with a local radio station to have them play the music while you sit in your car and watch/listen.

If it weren't enough to watch such a cool show, Alan is raising money (through the light show) for the T-Baum Foundation. The Foundation is striving to help adults with life-threatening illnesses in Southeastern Wisconsin. What a great cause!

So, if you find yourself in Southeastern Wisconsin over the holidays (I know that I will!), stop by Belgium and see Alan's handy-work. If nothing else, go and check out Bublitz's Restaurant!

Career Explorations

2008-12-16T16:33:00.002-05:00

what's the statistic? adults will change their careers four or five times throughout their lives? hmmmm ... well, it looks like i'm on my way to #2 ... whatever that is!

i resigned from teaching to pursue other career options. it's a little scary, and i certainly wouldn't suggest resigning from one job without another one - or, at least, a plan! i'm working on all of those silly details, but i'm blessed to have a new roommate! i am looking forward to sharing my lovely little apartment with a great friend! i'm sure that we'll paint the town red, and (for whoever reads this silly blog), you'll be able to hear allllll about it.

Christmas Challenge

2008-11-30T11:42:00.003-05:00

i have heard about a great challenge from friends, a youtube video ... and even a priest!

what if we took some/all of the money we were going to spend on a christmas gift and gave it to charity? i can think of several charities that are in much more need than me of a gift. do we really need a gift this year?

this year is the first one where i actually feel sick to my stomach when i see commercials and the news reports about black friday and cyber monday. i hear stories about people being trampled and fights breaking out in stores. really? has your child been taught that they need that toy or video game system that badly.

Here's the challenge: give a gift to charity in someone's name as part of their present, ask for the same to be done for you this Christmas.

Weddings, Houses, Babies ... Oh, my!

2008-11-05T06:19:00.004-05:00

it is definitely that time of life when i am excited to find out that friends are engaged, having their weddings, pregnant, buying a first home, or already playing with their first child.

it's amazing to see friends that i have grown up with - whether that's from wisconsin, btown, or butler - getting married and becoming moms and dads. (doesn't it seem like those were such "grown-up" things to do?) i am really proud of all of my friends who are growing up so happily with their new spouses, big bellies, new children, and beautiful homes! (all of your children are ridiculously cute, by the way!)

it is funny that almost everytime i catch up with a friend, there is some big news to hear, such as an engagement, baby, or house. what fun conversations to have! so, this is a big CONGRATS to all of my friends who are doing such grown-up things, and doing a darn good job, too!

Novena

2008-10-22T06:52:00.005-04:00

a little info for those who i haven't excitedly told about novenas already . . .

after Christ died the apostles locked themselves in a room for nine days until they were sure of how to spread the gospel...

a novena is essentially a nine-day prayer. usually, it is said through the intercession of a saint or mary; st. jude, st. therese of lisieux, mary/our lady of guadalupe, etc. they can also be said straight to the Big Guy, too! one commits to spending time in prayer everyday for nine (usually) days, requesting something specific.

my novena was brought about by my discernment about my future plans; should i stay in indianapolis next year or not? i asked, through the intercession of st. therese, to know if i should stay or not. if so, send me a certain colored rose (right to me) by a certain date (the end of the nine days). if not, another colored rose by that same date.

during this time, my belief in the verses stating that if you ask, you shall receive and that prayer without belief is pretty much ridiculous was tested. for once in my life, i was really praying and believing that God would answer my prayer!

there were a couple close calls - one involving the color of rose that would indicate my staying indy, but i waited patiently for a sure sign . . . which brings me to the ninth day of my novena.

i was sitting at holcomb gardens (location of hedge-diving, from my previous post), having arrived an hour early to pray. i started to doubt that this novena would be answered, so i text messaged my sister to pray to end my doubt. she immediately started praying (from WI), so i decided to start praying myself. where two or more are gathered, right? i prayed that God would allow me to hear His voice.

and He delivered.

all of a sudden a light breeze began, and i truly felt like i was in communion with God. amazing. i looked around and saw nature as i never had before: through the eyes of the Lord. the trees, grass, flowers, etc. all looked so beautiful that they brought me to tears. then, i had to use the restroom. weird, but part of the story, nonetheless. the building at the gardens (which is usually open) was locked on all sides, forcing me to walk the beautiful path through plenty of nature to the music building to use the restroom.

on the way, i praised God for the small beauties we are allowed here through the nature around me. it is amazing to feel His presence so strongly. (have you ever felt this???) when i got up the hill, i saw three vw beetles (my favs). i noticed one with a gerbera daisy in it, one without any flower in the cute flower-holder each beetle comes with, and then couldn't see the other car. the driver got into the car at that time, and she had to drive straight at me to turn around and leave butler. when she drove toward me, with the wind still keeping me company, there were a certain color of roses scattered all across her dash and in her flower-holder.

at that moment, i cried, feeling priviledged that God would listen to me, to my seemingly-insignificant prayer. at that moment, the wind stopped. as i turned around, i could not see nature the way i had before. perhaps someone else needed that wind. who knows, but i am grateful for its presence.

God is good, and i am staying in indy next year. :-)

James 1:6-8 "But he should ask in faith, not doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed about by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord, since he is a man of two minds, unstable in all his ways."

Matthew 21:22 "Whatever you ask for in prayer with faith, you will receive."

John 16:23-24 "On that day you will not question me about anything. Amen, amen, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in my name he will give you. Until now you have not asked anything in my name; ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete."

The Holy Land

2008-10-22T06:32:00.013-04:00

As promised, here is evidence that katelin and i visited the Holy Land this past weekend...

me: stunned to silence (i know, i know - amazing, huh?)

our photographer had one too many and forgot vince's body!!! here katelin and i are, though!

this guy was hilarious! i think i "grated" on his nerves when he found out that i live in indianapolis...

here we are!!! i could NOT contain my excitement, really! (best bday present EVER, kate!)

the UW band was glad that we were there, too! how nice of them to come!

GO, PACK, GO!!!

guess who else was there?!? (katherine, i know that you met him, but now i have, too!)

the funniest part is that mccain was on my right, but the photographer cut him out - must be an obama fan!

proof (for all you skeptics) that this really IS the Holy Land!

three cheers for a great game at lambeau! sorry, peyton! GO PACK!

this says it all . . . *sigh*

Coming soon to a blog near you . . .

2008-10-20T07:01:00.001-04:00

(1) a fantastic novena story
(2) my trip to the holy land (aka: lambeau field)
(3) pics of this blessed event
(4) another suggestion to read my sister's blog: http://thefehrenbox.blogspot.com/

Conviction

2008-10-02T20:45:00.004-04:00

Recently, I felt quite convicted by a priest at a Frassati meeting in Carmel.

Conviction can be a bear. When it hits, I feel one of two ways:
(1) Youch.
(2) Watch out, world!

This time, #2 was the winner (thank goodness). Father challenged us in two ways. First, he asked us how we spend our free time. How do I spend it? Well, not in a way that is always furthering my walk with the Lord, encouraging new relationships, strengthening cherished ones, getting into the Word and adoration, etc. Watching TV, surfing the web, and an occasional nap are my hobbies lately.

The second challenge goes hand-in-hand with the first. He challenged us (quite forcefully) to pursue our vocations. Are we called to holy orders (convent/nun, seminary/priesthood), marriage, or single life? Are we pursuing the knowledge to answer that question honestly? When we know, are we making every effort to make that happen?

Now, I have to say, if I felt called to be a nun (which, at one point, I though I was), I would up and join today. That seems like an easy one to pursue. But, marriage! Seriously? I examined how to "pursue" marriage without being too forceful myself.

For me, it boiled down to how I spend my free time. Am I spending my free time seeking the Lord's Kingdom in such a way that I can ask and receive with full belief that my prayer will be answered? Am I making myself available by joining groups that will allow me to meet good, solid, Catholic men? How am I portrayed at these meetings; as a woman of faith?

All great questions for anyone - not just Catholics. This particular conviction will be one that sticks. Fortunately, I feel motivated and called to a major change in my life.

Watch out, world...

Leaping into Hedges

2008-09-22T23:54:00.004-04:00

leaping into hedges . . .

this is quite the phenomenon during monday night frisbee games at holcomb gardens on butler university's campus.

mackenzie and i decided to start up a little frisbee game last year, calling any friends we thought would play. now, here we are, a year or so later, and we have 80 people on the weekly email listserv!!! how lovely!

back to the leaping. since we play in the holcomb gardens, we have to play with some prickly boundaries, also know as: the hedges (shown above). these are no ordinary hedges. i believe that they are extra forgiving (most of the time), and that they like the extra attention paid to them on monday nights. it's a pretty exciting experience to jump into a hedge simply to catch a flying disc.

ahhhhhh . . . the glory!

the only bummer is when the hedge decides against the forgiveness aspect i mentioned and scrapes you to smitherines! i feel like my back was a canvas for a particular hedge . . . and it surely left it's marksssssss - youch!

at least i caught it. :-)

Sista, Sistaaaaa!

2008-09-14T09:59:00.006-04:00

i love my sister, katelin! aside from being hilarious, fun, beautiful, athletic, and classy, she's quite the deep thinker.

here's a post encouraging you, all 5 of my readers (ha!), to check out her blog. don't just read her thoughts, but share some of your own! she loves a good debate, and comes up with some fantastic food for thought. so, check it out!

www.thefehrenbox.com . . . CORRECTION: http://thefehrenbox.blogspot.com

Pain & Suffering

2008-09-10T20:55:00.002-04:00

after at least six months of just plain BAD news, my family finally received some GREAT news about my mom's cancer. it actually shrunk! 25%, at that! thank God!!!

as i am so used to bad news at these doctor's appointments, i was especially delighted to hear such a positive report. it makes me think about an ongoing conversation my sister and i have been having about pain and suffering.

it's an interesting thought that we, as humans, believe that we are entitled to live without any pain or suffering. we think that modern medicine should solve all of life's problems and keep us from feeling even the smallest pains . . . to the lengths of more controversial medical ideas. (i'll leave those alone for now - i don't feel like rocking any boats tonight.)

i am learning many lessons watching my mom suffer through countless chemo, radiation, surgeries, scans, and waiting, waiting, waiting . . . she takes it like a champ, of course, and has even decided to go to college and obtain a degree (which she never got to do in her 20s). way to go, mom! one lesson i learned from her is that suffering is a privilege. if you think about it, we really deserve to suffer all day, everyday for the amount of sins we commit. instead, Jesus took care of that for us when He died for us on the cross. if we have the chance to suffer, we should look at it as a sort of suffering FOR and WITH Him . . . what an honor! what a different way to look at suffering; to be truly joyful in one's suffering, as james talks about.

although this may seem basic to some, it has truly rocked my world recently. truly delighting in suffering by doing it for Christ takes immense faith and perseverance. what a blessing to have someone so close to me to teach me such lessons through her unyielding faith and commitment to Christ.

(i think you should all be jealous - excluding katelin, of course - that's she not YOUR mom!) he, he . . .

Politics

2008-09-04T21:32:00.006-04:00

politics. money. religion.

i believe that these are the three taboo topics at dinner parties, weddings, etc. somehow, though, a guest of a wedding i attended managed to bring up ALL THREE for an entire night. nice.

in one way, it's all good. this year, i am more interested in politics than ever before. it's also a tougher year for me to pick a candidate to follow. i have finally pushed myself enough to become more educated on the issues . . . and figure out which issues are actually important to me.

i do think it's tough to become educated because of all biases present in friends, media, websites, etc. i did find a few websites that have been helpful in outlining the issues with each candidate without bias. check them out if are having as much trouble as i am in distinguishing what the candidates REALLY think. he, he . . .

Select Smart (you will have to click on the top link after answering to avoid solicitations, but includes ranking interest level of issues.)
Select a Candidate Quiz (a bit shorter, easier - includes ranking interest level of issues)
Pick your 2008 Presidential Candidate (easy, includes ranking interest level of issues)
Compare the Candidates (allows you to simply put the two candidates side-by-side)

AND DON'T FORGET TO REGISTER!!!

but what am i supposed to do when my percentages are consistently equal or near equal. grrrrrr . . .

Grad School

2008-09-02T17:28:00.003-04:00

it's nice to be back working, but it's been ever nicer realizing that it's not where i hope to be next year. somehow, thinking about getting out of teaching is making teaching even more bearable. it's not that i don't like working with kids - i do! it's all the politics and unnecessary stress that's put on teachers just meet some state or national standard. blah!

in the meantime, i am staying busy looking at grad schools on the east coast! as long as it's catholic, has a theology masters program, and isn't in the midwest, i'm golden! the idea of going somewhere i haven't and trying to make it is extremely appealing! everyone has to do it at least once in their life, right? leave what they know as "home" and expand their horizons.

three weeks of school down; 33 to go . . .

The Life of a Lion

2008-08-23T18:04:00.014-04:00

i was recently in chicago, having a much-needed reunion with my best high school friends. for starters, it's amazing that the five of us (which has now turned into the nine of us with three marriages and a girlfriend - and soon to be a baby!) are still as close as we are after "all these years." ask yourself, how many friends from high school do you really keep in close contact with?

anyway, we were at the zoo after the air and water show, when i became a bit jealous of the lives of lions. take a look, and tell me what you think:

(1) Lion rests

(2) Lion eats & licks chops

(3) Lioness greets Lion with a little nudge

(4) Lion returns interest

(5) Lioness allows Lion to lead

(6) Lion mounts!!!

(7) Lion finishes quickly . . . and sleeps. (niiiiiiiice move, Lion)

(8) Lioness lets us know with her growl how happy she is that we interrupted things so early

(9) Lioness is REALLY going to let me know how unhappy . . . or should we say, frustrated, she is

I mean . . . wow! Lions really have the life . . . but those poor Lionesses . . .

Ventriloquist, Part 2

2008-08-17T22:43:00.001-04:00

i'm obsessed with this profession! what can i do to become so talented?!?!?

if he would have started to harmonize with himself, i might have just lost it. amazing! definitely check out his garth brooks one, too.

Ventriloquist, Part 1

2008-08-17T22:39:00.001-04:00

oh my goodness - i am still laughing hysterically at this one! he has other acts, too (with other characters), so check him out!

School Days, School Days . . .

2008-08-17T22:32:00.003-04:00

well, i'm back at it! school is officially in session, and i have already put in a full week with students, and even threw a parent night in there. whew! i'll have some cute "first grade sayings" coming soon . . .

Life Philosophy

2008-08-06T10:50:00.002-04:00

i really have enjoyed adopting "no u-turns" as my life philosophy. i want to continue to move forward in life, enjoying everything that each moment brings at that moment, and never look back.

it's idealistic, i know, but still something great for which to strive.

i felt delighted that in the current book i'm reading, someone else adopted a similar philosophy. although i don't intend to follow mccandless's exact footsteps, he can be quite an inspiration - and not just to hippies!

The Saga That is Brett Favre

2008-07-29T16:32:00.004-04:00

oh, my. this is becoming ridiculous.

as many of you know, i'm a HUGE green bay packers fan. brett favre retired after last season. i cried with him during his announcement and prepared my heart for an interesting 2008-2009 season.

and now, brett wants to play again. ugh. he tried coming back to the packers, but paying him $12 million for one year isn't in the books. the packers are offering to keep him on as a back-up, but that may not be financially possible. so, they are talking to tampa bay & the jets about making a trade.

TRADING BRETT FAVRE!!!!!! BAH!

thinking about the whole situation gives me an ugly feeling inside. i wish brett would have just gone fishing like he said he was going to. if i have to see him play in another team's jersey, well, i wouldn't be like the lady in this interview, saying that she would be a "packer fan" and cheer for brett anyway. i'll be honest, i feel betrayed by my friend, brett. he just doesn't seem like a sell-out or a guy who wants to do this for the money.

despite all of this crap, i am still a HUGE packers fan . . . so much so that my sister gave me my (november) birthday present early; two tickets (row 28) to a packers vs. colts game at lambeau field in october. AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!

Com-castic!

2008-07-22T21:57:00.003-04:00

i am in love. MADLY in love . . .

with my cable, dvr, and wireless internet! after 2.5 months of making weekly trips to panera and begging friends for some time on their computers, i can check my email in the comfort of my own home while i watch my dvr-ed episodes of law & order svu.

*sigh*

you wouldn't think that it would be that big of a deal not having cable & internet, and for some people, it's no biggie:
for the rest of us, it's really nice to have some variety when you want to unwind with a tv show. although i am grateful for the cable and dvr, having internet again has been MUCH more satisfying. looking up addresses, phone numbers, email, facebook picture posts, budgeting, movie times, information, etc. is much more difficult when it's not at one's fingertips.

although AT&T gave it a good try at my apartment, after three hours, they decided that my wires weren't up to date enough, leaving me severely disappointed last thursday night. i immediately called comcast, and, as usual, they delivered.

love is a beautiful thing.

Blogs

2008-07-20T14:32:00.002-04:00

blogs can be sort of arrogant, don't you think? i mean, here i am writing about whatever crap i feel like writing about at the moment, assuming that people care enough to read it! ha!

the funny thing is, even though it might appear arrogant, i still love reading, commenting on, and writing on blogs. i think others do, too. blogs are a blast; a fun way to keep in touch, see pics, hear funny stories, and say silly things that are on one's mind.

so, thanks if you do read this, and big THANKS to those of you who even choose to comment and feed my ego - ha, ha!

Who is Inspiring These Dreams?

2008-07-08T17:55:00.002-04:00

I'm considering this year a year of discernment. Although I am pretty excited about switching to a new elementary school and grade level, I still feel a bit like this is "just my job" and not really my calling. I am wrestling with a few ideas of what my dream and/or calling is.

Initially, I had trouble determining any sort of difference between these ideas. I mean, surely one of them is "more right" for me than the others! When talking with a friend (who happens to be in a pretty similar spot in life), I decided that one idea seems to come into my head/heart and truly inspire me mainly when I am praying, at church, or reading the Word. Hmmmm . . . Of course, it's the one that would require me to take the biggest leap. :-) Gotta love it!

Sometimes it doesn't seem so easy as this, though. It can be hard to figure out what my dreams are versus what I am truly being called to do at that particular stage in life. Anyone encountered this?

On a lighter note - I'm pretty pumped about an upcoming wedding that will bring some great friends into town (yeah, bravo!)!!!

Cuddle Buddies

2008-06-26T19:50:00.002-04:00

I was sitting on a rooftop talking with a couple good friends the other night when an interesting concept entered the conversation.

What if (for all of us single folks out there) you had a friend or acquaintance that was willing to be your "Cuddle Buddy?" On those lonely days/nights, the two of you could just, well, cuddle together - no strings attached. Although I know it would take awhile to market this idea, making it socially acceptable, I think that a Cuddle Buddy business is in order!

SUV anyone?

2008-06-14T13:59:00.002-04:00

On a 45-minute drive through some quality Wisconsin farmland yesterday, I saw at least 10-15 SUVs/Trucks for sale. Unreal!

This gas price issue is frustrating for all, but it seems like anyone who was able to splurge on an SUV at one point in their life is now really in a lurch. I'm guessing that they are really wishing that they had a beautiful blue 2002 Pontiac Sunfire these days - that's what I'm guessing! ;-)

What a hot car.

Day-By-Day

2008-06-07T11:39:00.002-04:00

After everything I have learned this past semester, I hope that one lesson does not wear off. Taking life day-by-day is truly a joy! Slowing down and taking time to do what I have always wanted to do is everything it's cracked up to be.

For instance, I am taking time to exercise in some form everyday, during which I actually look around me at God's creation. Pretty beautiful stuff, actually. I mean, did you ever think about finding God in everything that has life? I saw a flower and almost burst into tears. I might have been a bit emotional there, but why not?

I also find it fun to seize moments. If I realize that I don't know how to do something - or do it well, I jump up and give it a try. I am finally dusting off my guitar and keyboard to work on these skills instead of staring at them and wishing I could play them.

Mostly, I am all about relationships. It has been fantastic to catch up with friends and devote the time to building friendships that are worth the build. (Living a little closer to them will help that immensely, not that I'm letting that stop me now!)

Overall, I feel like life really is too short to wait for talents, dreams, wishes, faith, fun to show up on our doorsteps. Instead, as part of my "No U-Turns" philosophy on life, I'm going for it!

Carpe diem! :-)

Where, oh where has my internet gone . . .

2008-05-28T17:57:00.002-04:00

Due to some odd timing and cancellations of services, I currently do not have wireless internet readily available to me in my apartment. (I will also note that I do not have cable, either. Well, that's a lie since channels 4, 6, 8, and 13 come in nice and fuzzy.)

Upon realizing that this would be the case for the next month, I straightened up, telling myself that I do not really need internet and/or cable.

Well, kids . . . I was DEAD WRONG! What was I to do for recipes? directions? communication? apartment hunting? I do not even think I made it one week before looking into prices to get me through a month's time. They were outrageous, of course, due to installation fees. So, I want to take this opportunity to thank one of my favorite cafe's for offering free WiFi. I will be visiting daily. :-)

Superbowl 2012

2008-05-21T11:08:00.002-04:00

My second favorite team is hosting the 2012 Superbowl - fantastic! Their plans to change, build, and transform downtown should be exciting to watch.

Now, I just need my ALL-TIME FAVORITE TEAM to be there . . .

Ironic and Quite Hypocritical

2008-05-07T16:27:00.002-04:00

With my newfound interest in "going green" with my lifestyle, I was perusing the so-designated kiosk at a well-known bookstore, looking for a book that would help to lead me in the right direction. There are several good-looking books out there that have plenty of great tips for becoming more eco-friendly.

Then my eyes happened upon one book that looked a little different than all of the others. When I picked it up, I realized why: It's printed on recycled paper!

...and it was one of only TWO books on that entire stand of approximately 30 books that was printed using recycled paper. Go figure. So, kudos to this book, and may all of those other books get their priorities in check!

Telegrams in the Womb

2008-05-05T22:27:00.002-04:00

Although I cannot take credit for this idea, I totally dig it!

Imagine yourself in the womb. It's pretty dark, but comfortable. Your food comes right to you - no worries. You can kick someone when you feel like it, and people think it's cute!

It's time to head out, but you aren't quite ready to go yet. You realize that someone else might get a chance to occupy the very space you're living in, so you decide to leave them a note.

Yes, you read correctly. What would you say to your little sibling if you could leave them a telegram in the womb?

I think I might have left my sister a note saying, "I'll be waiting on the other side, but take advantage of the accommodations!" Or a note for my brother saying, "Cheeky."

Verdict

2008-04-29T23:18:00.004-04:00

I try not to get addicted to television. It's a lousy waste of time.

Unfortunately, there are some shows that I just can't seem to shake . . .

. . . and Verdict with Dan Abrams is one of these such shows! I'm not that great at staying abreast of current events, especially dealing with politics. Dan Abrams, who you might know best from his coverage of the OJ Simpson trials, discusses current issues with much sarcasm and wit. His show is on MSNBC, Monday-Friday 9pm ET.

My least favorite part of shows where multiple professionals are invited to talk about a subject is when one or two decide to talk and never shut up. Well, Dan handles this much to my liking. A week ago, an idiot "professional" was asked his opinion about the newest findings in the FLDS "polygamist" story. He seriously would NOT shut up - even after Dan asked him repeatedly to do so. So, Dan said, "Turn his sound off. Just shut him up. If he won't shut up, I'll shut him up." HA!!! Go, Dan!

If you're looking for a fun way to stay up on current events and political topics, check out Verdict with Dan Abrams. If you don't laugh at least once, I'll give you a full refund. :-)

Awesome Waffles

2008-04-23T09:49:00.002-04:00

Check out this amazing chef and his "Awesome Waffles!" He's probably the best chef I know . . . even though I'm a little biased . . .

Those Fat Cows . . .

2008-04-21T13:35:00.000-04:00

While sitting in the parking lot of a Wisconsin grocery store, my friend observed that almost every woman walking into the store was at least 30 lbs. overweight. A sad realization, for sure . . . but it's what came out of her mouth next that was more intriguing.

"The reason for obesity in Wisconsin is . . ."

FISH FRY FRIDAY!

And, oh man, do I agree with that statement. Once you've experienced a tasty, greasy, fried lake perch with a side of fries, bread & butter, and some creamy coleslaw, your every Friday will be forever changed. *sigh*

It's not that easy being green . . .

2008-04-16T14:53:00.003-04:00

Before April comes to a close, I want to put my two cents in about "going green."

Kermit may be right that it's not easy, but that will not stop me - and nor should it stop you! Since when do the best things come to us easily?

After reading several sites' suggestions about being eco-friendly, I compiled a list of tips that are useful to house-owners and renters alike!

At the store:
*bring reusable bags to the grocery store & Target (use these bags to hold your produce while you're shopping instead of those little plastic bags)
*buy bulk pack of towels to use instead of paper towels/napkins
*support farmers' markets (fresh & all money goes to the farmers, cuts down on shipments)
*eco-friendly cleaning supplies (or just mix vinegar or baking soda with warm water for a legitimate cleaner)
*buy less meat (even one day/week) & eat more organic foods

At home:
*recycle (wish it were as easy here as Baltimore!)
*turn off lights when not in use
*use a power strip for electronics & turn it off when not in use
*plant a tree (one site suggested doing this with a child . . . whatever . . .)
*buy plants for your home
*replace light bulbs with energy-saving bulbs as old ones burn out
*in the colder months, wear more clothes instead of turning up the heat
*have a "shoes off at the door" policy to save on vacuuming, work, energy, and cleaning chemicals

With water:
*if washing dishes, plug sink & use dirty dishwater to water plants
*create a rain barrel outside to use for watering plants
*wash clothes in cold water & hang clothes instead of drying, when possible
*less bottled water - use PUR/Brita filters or tap water
*lower temperature of water heater to 120-degrees & insulate

On the go/Work:
*walk/ride a bike/carpool to work
*reusable containers/bag for lunches - bring your lunch
*use recycled paper
*use sleep modes or turn off when not using computer to reduce CO2
*dispose of old paint, oil, batteries, chemicals, and medicines properly

My fav:
*use iTunes!!! (less driving to the store/gasoline/emissions, and less non-recyclable jewel cases)

Take 'em or leave 'em, but I'm with Kermit here . . . "I am green and it'll do fine, it's beautiful/And I think it's what I want to be!"

It's a comedy-really!

2008-04-11T01:01:00.006-04:00

In my family, we affectionately refer to the movie shown above as a "comedy," and often times we go so far as to call it a "romantic comedy." I guess that's just how we like it - throwing boulders, incredibly bloody fight scenes, decapitations . . . and orations that give you goosebumps!

Braveheart is a movie that has a speech or line for anytime in one's life. Today, I ended another chapter of my life. For starting out dark, it has quite a happy ending. Mostly, though, I am overwhelmed with one feeling.

I feel . . . well, let's let William Wallace tell you. Aye!

Organized Creative Dreamer

2008-04-08T22:22:00.010-04:00

Inspiration is a funny thing.

One can be inspired by a story, a movie, a song . . . Maybe someone is inspired by a friend (like the one who suggested I start this blog), a relative, a child. Perhaps inspiration comes from a moment, a sunset, or the way the sunlight hits the water. We are inspired by occurrences of all sizes and shapes.

Regardless of how it comes, I'm eager to be inspired! Not only do I crave inspiration, but I am willing to follow it as far down the road as it takes me.

In case you haven't read The Alchemist . . . DO! I was appalled at a recent Scripture Study I attended that no one in the room had read this book! It's applicable at anytime in one's life. I feel that it is extremely applicable to my life right now. I desire to be inspired to find my dreams, but watch out when I do, because I'll be flying 100 mph to achieve them!