Sunday, December 19, 2010

Final Grades are posted....and I'm pissed.

How is it that you can work all semester and still make a B. I know I didn't deserve a B. I never missed a class, turned in all my work and participated in all class discussion. But still my effort was B-worthy. There was one person in my class who missed at least 3 times, and I'm sure that person made an A because that person was the class favorite.

It is unacceptable. I did better than a B. My professor was a total fool. He is old and just plain mean. I will never speak to him or take another class with him ever. I AM BETTER THAN A B. School is what I do. Now that the rant is over....Have a Merry Christmas. Until next time...

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Christmas is here....almost

With Christmas approaching rapidly, it is time to name the Top 5 Christmas movies for 2010. Those of you who know me know my Top 3 Christmas movies never change ... So it should be of no surprise to you. So here we go.

1. A Christmas Story

Hands down the best Christmas movie of all time. Nothing can top it. There is nothing better than watching Ralphie and Randy on Christmas morning. It is on in my house every Christmas. Thank you TBS for playing it 24 hours.

2. Christmas Vacation

Clark W. Griswold to the rescue. I think most people can relate to this movie because we all have crazy relatives. And somehow everyone has the crazy aunt who can't understand where she is. "Is this the airport Clark?" ... "No, Aunt Bethany." Classic Christmas. Love it.

3. Home Alone

The ORIGINAL Home Alone is unbeatable. All the other versions can't compare. Kevin is the best of the best in the film. Really great every time.

4. Elf

"Buddy the Elf, what's your favorite color?" "Santa, I know him. I know him." Buddy the Elf has stolen my heart. And even though it is relatively new to the Christmas genre, it is a quick classic and must-watch every year.

5. How the Grinch Stole Christmas

Who can resist Cindy Lou Who and the mean old Grinch with the heart that was three sizes too small. This movie is a testament to how Christmas can change lives. Love Christmas. Love everyone. It's perfect. I love it.

Go out and rent these movies or add them to your Netflix list. But these movies need to be in your life ASAP. Enjoy. Until next time...

Friday, December 3, 2010

Fa la la la LA la la la la

Four more classes and then I am free of school. It will be the best day. Today we are listening to Christmas Carols at work and talking about Christmas movies we love. I have to say it makes for a great day.

Next weekend I am going home to make Christmas ornaments with my friend and her 6-year-old sister. I am so exicted. It will be the most fun. And hopefully by then school will calm down enough so I don't feel guilty about having fun.

So many things to look forward to this time of year. But most importantly, school will not be ruining anyone's life this Holiday. :)Until next time...

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

The Last of the Novembers

It seems like every year I get the November blues. Once Thanksgiving gets here, I just want it to be the Holidays (officially). But then we go back to school and back to work until Christmas Break, and for those who just work Christmas Eve. Thanksgiving Break makes me want to be on a longer break.

So the next two weeks of school will be unbearable. And all the big projects are due in those two weeks, so it feels like academic exhaustion has set in for me.

I can't wait for Dec. 15 when I can read for fun and hang out with my friends and family. My Wish List at barnesandnoble.com is starting to get pretty full. So I am hoping I can read a least a book or two a week because once school starts again no more reading for entertainment.

Side note---My new Food Network magazine came in the mail, and I have had a chance to look at it. I am so excited about the recipes in there. Once I look it over I will post some of my favorites.

I also have to post photos of the Christmas decorations in my house. It is so cute and jolly. Makes me feel so happy when I am home. Very exciting. Oh how I love Christmas time.

December starts tomorrow, and so start the official countdown the Christmas day. I'll keep you posted on all Holiday events and other delights throughout the next 25 days. Until next time...

Monday, November 29, 2010

Funny Target Christmas Commercial...THE BEST



The best Christmas commercial of the year. Really sums up how I feel about Christmas. Be sure to check out her face toward the end. It's really funny.

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Work is the Prison for Good People

How is it that it is the day before Thanksgiving and I am still cooped up inside this building. I would much rather be spending time with my family.

I have a lot of things to do this holiday weekend.

1. Put up the Jones' Family Christmas tree.
2. Start working on a research paper.
3. Finish a book.
4. Write 2 book reports.
5. Eat as much Thanksgiving food as I possibly can.
6. Go downtown to see what the festivities are like in the hometown.
7. Finish all the homework.
8. Decorate our Christmas tree.

And of course there is always sleep and other daily activities. But I have to be at work until at the latest 3:30 p.m. My brain will explode by then, I just know it.

So that is how I have gotten to this very valid conclusion that work is the prison for the good people of the world. I'm not saying I don't like my job because most days I do, but my holiday spirit is getting the best of me today. So let us all go home boss lady. Close this prison early please. Until next time...

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Sometimes You Need a Real Coke

Today is one of those days where I need a real coke. Sometimes I crave cokes in a can that burn all the way down your throat. It's weird because I hate, but at the same time I love it.

So as you can see, I have added a Christmas Countdown because apparently I can't count anymore. I have been writing so much I forgot how to do simple math. It's sad, but true. I think it is a sign of my age. The older I get the less math I can remember.

It's been a pretty stressful week. I've been trying to get stuff done before Thanksgiving break. That way I will only have 984793487 things to do instead of 289452958279878239587 things to do.

School has a looming assignment hanging over my head like the Black Plague. One 10ish page paper, 3 book reports and one and a half books left to read. Then the semester will come to a much needed close. I can't wait for Dec. 15th. It will be the most looked forward to day of my whole entire year.

Well gotta go get my stuff together to take home from work. Then I'm off to class (who thinks it is a good idea to watch a movie the day before Thanksgiving Break starts? NOBODY!) Hopefully I can get a real coke ASAP. Until next time...

Monday, November 22, 2010

Countdown to...

It's time to start the countdowns. And yes I meant countdownS.

Thanksgiving: T-minus 3 days.
End of the academic semester: T-minus 23 days.
Christmas: T-minus 28 days.

In my opinion, it is never too early to start the countdown. I am so looking forward to a break. Once the semester is over, I won't have to work for two weeks. Even though school will be out, I still have to work my normal schedule. But not for two whole weeks of pure and utter bliss.

I can't wait to read books I want to read instead of have to read. I can't wait to hang out with all my friends and have some kind of a social life again. I want to watch movies and stay up late...basically do all the things I use to do before graduate school and work came along.

I know this can seem petty, but I want my college life back. It was just so much more enjoyable. But I can't go back now...

I am super excited Thanksgiving break is just days away.I won't get to go home until Wednesday after work, but I am so excited to eat all the best food.

I went home this past weekend, and my mom baked pumpkin rolls and a pumpkin cheesecake. She also made homemade chicken and dumplins and homemade chicken salad, which is one of my all-time favorites. It was nice to be home and spend time with the family and, of course, my dog Kate.

Looking forward to Thursday. Until next time...

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Facelift

YAY for the blog getting a new look. While it is not finished yet, I am still working to make it look like I want. MT is working on a new header for my title, which will be great because she can make anything good.

Also I put up my little baby Christmas tree at my desk. The office where I work is pretty bland and all one color. Luckily, our office has a lot of natural light. Yay for lots of windows.

As soon as I can I will be posting photos of my desk tree and all the decorations from my apartment. It is going to be a Christmas extravaganza!

I'll keep you posted. Until next time...

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

The Giving of the Thanks

I know I jumped the gun with the Dave Barnes Christmas video, but sometimes I get too excited. Thanksgiving is just around the corner. And I'll tell ya, I'm pretty excited about the feast.

And it will be a feast. Every year my mom and grandma make enough food to feed a small country. It seems like we have leftovers for weeks. But I don't care right now because I haven't had it yet.

My Aunt Connie is making a fantastic pecan pie (a Southern staple desert), my dad is deep frying a turkey (the best way to have Thanksgiving turkey) and my mom and grandma will come up with more amazing sides (not an exaggeration).

I AM SO EXCITED!!!!

The Wings Over the Prairie Festival will also be in full force. I'm looking forward to corn dog and funnel cake. Yay for carinval foods.

I'll keep you up-to-date on the latest Holiday news. Until next time...

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Bring on the Holidays

With the Holidays just around the corner, I thought today would be a good day to have some "Holiday Cheer"!

So I bring you this...



Everyone watch it and love it. Laugh until you cry. And then hug someone you care about. And pass this video on to someone who will appreciate its true greatness.

P.S. Police never die. Happy Holidays!! :)

Thursday, October 21, 2010

When one door closes, a window opens

This has been a tough week. On Sunday I found out a long-time high school friend died in a car accident. This is the first classmate and second young friend who has passed away in the last five years. So needless to say, I have not been myself lately.

My thoughts and prayers are with the Murray Family during this difficult time.

Yesterday I went to the funeral, which was basically a class reunion under terrible circumstances. Everyone was there. The entire church was packed. Standing room only. He would have loved that.

So I find myself taking stock of my life. What is important to me? What do I love? What makes me happy? All of this is important to know because I would hate to say I've had almost 23 years to live this life, and what have I done...because nothing but God keeps me here on this earth, waking up every day. Who knows when He will call me home?

Enough of the morbid talk, but I have been thinking about what makes me happy or use to make me happy. I have little time to spare with school and work dominating my life, but I want to start taking a ballet class.

I took ballet for 15 years, and I really loved it. I loved the music, the grace of the movements, and its relaxing quality. It was a structured kind of creative. Something that could be taught and perfected over time. Something that forced discipline to mind and body. But at the same time, it was so beautiful and full of life and spirit.

I have been thinking about it for a while, how I want to dance. But now my want to has been turned into more of a need to. I feel like I need to have some kind of outlet for my school/work/other areas that cause me stress. I want to do something I truly love and appreciate. I want to dance, have warm-ups on the bar, get lost in the wordless music with my mind focusing only in the moment and what my feet are doing.

Life is short, even when it is long. But it can get cut shorter because of unexpected events or incidents. We should be doing something we love along with the stuff we have to do. Make a conscious effort to review your life to this point. Look at it from all aspects. Remember what you use to do, but don't anymore. Bring back the childhood memories so Coke floats or Cracker Jacks. Find something you love and incorporate it into your life. Maybe it's something old, or maybe it's something new. Who knows?

Saturday, October 16, 2010

October is full of good things

Susan G. Komen was a success. I finished the race along with 9865874875 other women. And it was just like I remember...with the exception of a really attractive fireman. He was about the greatest thing I saw all day.

The best support sign said "Save the War on My Rack" Race for the Cure 2010. HAHA! So clever and somehow absolutely appropriate.

My legs are sore now, and it has turned into a pleasantly lazy Saturday. I am truly enjoying it. My brain and body were in need of a break. And the rest of the weekend poses the same trend...except maybe tonight.

I will be attending a wedding shower of a sorority sister. If things go as they normally would, I will wake up hung over and be hazy of the details. But it will be a good time, no matter the outcome.

Tomorrow is also a pretty laid back day. We are going to the corn maze. I know it sounds like it could be a stressful event, but sometimes you just have to roll with it. Good friends and good conversation can get you through anything.

My sorority is also having an alum function, the first alum function where I will actually count as an alumna. So crazy. There will be new girls I don't know, who will be scared to come talk to me because I am old (and I wasn't there when they got in...therefore not as cool). How unfortunate.

But until the excitment happens, I think I will spend the day lounging and watching Sandra and Hugh in "Two Weeks Notice"...makes for a pretty good day!

Until next time...

Friday, October 15, 2010

The Eve of Komen

Tomorrow is the big day. Susan G Komen Race for the Cure is happening tomorrow morning bright and early, and it is one thing I love getting up early for.

Arkansas's Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure is the third largest race in the United States. It is kind of hard to believe that so many men and women come out to support the same cause. It is just amazing.

Every year when I'm walking over the Broadway Bridge I get misty-eyed. It is such an amazing sight to see all those women coming together to do something for the greater good. And it is even more amazing to see all the men who line the city streets to support all the women racing. It is something everyone should participate in once in their lives.

This year is my fifth year to "race". However, I am not running, just walking. One of these days I will run. But until then...

In preparation for Komen, I went on a little jog yesterday to get my mind right. Even though I'm not running, I still need to be on my game. Otherwise, I'll get ran over.

So today, the eve of Komen, I want to say thank you to all who participate in the event. Whether you're a runner, a walker, a survivor or just a donor, everything you do helps breast cancer patients and puts us one step closer to a cure. I applaude your efforts and wish you the best on this beautiful day.

Thursday, October 14, 2010

What's been happening?

I have been not writing for a while, but I do have good reasons (if there ever were any). I was graduating from my alma mater, getting ready for graduate school, looking for a job and moving all at the same time.

I did graduate college, start grad school, get a job and move. So that is pretty productive considering I have neglected to write, but now I am back. Maybe less frequent posts will keep my brain full of ideas.

So lets start with topic one: Graduate school...the biggest happening in my life as of now.

Grad school is not what I thought it was going to be. While I knew it wasn't an extention of undergrad, I thought there would be some similarities. Hardly any is more like it.

Gone are the days of editorial writing, city council meetings and rushing to turn stories in for the school newspaper, now I welcome the scholarly articles, summaries, pointless outlines and seminars. Like I said, not in any way, shape or form like undergrad work.

I do find it challenging and intellectually stimulating, but I miss the classes of hands-on work, reporting and writing. I do still read, write and report, but on a totally different level. It seems like everything I learned as an undergrad doesn't count.

For example, commas. Journalistic style has special uses for commas, as in using them less frequent. Serial commas are a big no no. My rule of thumb is less is more, and over time I have become pretty consistent with this rule.

Rules for comma usage in grad school...USE THEM EVERYWHERE!!!! Serial commas are a must (it is part of academic writing...which is now what I am doing).

I must say academic writing is for the birds. Being consistent should count for something, and I am in a graduate program for JOURNALISM!!!

So that having been said, I am tired of talking about grad school. I feel like it is all I ever talk about because it is consuming my life, which I guess is what's suppose to happen when aiming for success. But I didn't sign up to be an academic, I signed up for this to be a well-rounded journalist and person....and to buy some time to look for a full-time job.

Monday, October 11, 2010

Long Time Coming...

So sorry I have been absent. Just trying to get my life together....but while I was gone, I did have some success at that.

I graduated from college, got my first job and started graduate school. Some things are still "under construction" (as in my love life). I just don't need to have a boy messing up my set goals, but I do think it would be a nice distraction sometimes.

MY FUTURE PROMISE: I will try to blog at least three times a week. I know my family really enjoyed reading this. My roommate is venturing into the world of Twitter, and she is becoming a master Twitter-er. So I am going to try to do better.

That having been said, more to come...

Friday, February 19, 2010

It's Official...I can run.

Today I ran the most I've ever ran at one time (since graduating high school). My street is set-up with two blocks on, and I ran both blocks without stoping. Talk about an accomplishment.

As you know, I have been exercising since January so I should be in better shape. I was going to go to the HYPR today to do my usual workout, but I didn't have enough change to pay for the meter. So I went home. And instead of eating something, I decided to go for a little run...just to see how much I've improved since the last time I ran.

Well I ran two whole blocks without stopping, and then walked a short way and then ran a whole other block (which was up-hill). I felt great I had done it, but now my body is mad. I'm achy and sore...all the things I hate about working out. BUT I did run more than I've ran in years.

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Let me help others

I'm sorry I've been slacking on the blogging. Over the weekend I was busy and for most of this week I've not been feeling well. So now that's out of the way...

Not much has been going on...Besides the fact that Lost is my new favorite show. I've been watching it on Hulu.com with limited commercial breaks. Hulu is the best invention ever. Endless amounts of shows...and in this case every single episode of every season of Lost. AMAZING!!!

I'm thinking about becoming a volunteer for Make A Wish foundation or Habitat for Humanity. I looked over each of the volunteer forms last night, and I just don't know how to pick between the two.

Those of you who know me probably doubt my abilities to help build a house, but there are other things I can do for them. They have a media committee where I could write stuff and do things for PR purposes. I just really like the idea of building houses for those who are less fortunate than I am. I think I would be good at all of the other aspects (fundraising, recruiting, PR, etc.) and I wouldn't mind trying my hand at a little construction. :)

With Make A Wish foundation, I could be a volunteer wish granter. How awesome would that be? It would be so fulfilling to meet a child, get to know he/her, figure out how to grant the wish of their dreams and then grant it. My hopes would be that I'm so good at it and I love it so much that the organization would give me a permanent position.

I feel like I need to be doing something else with my time. I've been so active in college, and with graduation looming I need to figure out what my next step should be. While most of you probably think I should be thinking about jobs, I feel like doing something to benefit others and not necessarily myself first will lead me to the place I'm suppose to be next.

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Some days are tough

Concentration is something I lack some days. Not everyday, but some. Most of the time I can concentrate on a task and get it done. Other days it takes me hours to accomplish one little thing.

Let's talk about today.

Today I had a hard time concentrating. It took me 3 hours to write an editorial. My brain just couldn't do it. It was not wanting to think about forming an argument. Not very opinionated on a good day, but today was especially diffcult to crank out a piece of work.

I'm never really satisfied with what I write. I would spend days and days working on something and not want to turn it in. There is always going to be something wrong with it. I don't ever want to turn anything in for my editorials and reviews class. I just don't think I'm good at opinion writing. I have to really love something or really hate something to have an opinion....as you see my reasoning for taking the class.

Well it challenged me today. I sat and typed and re-typed and worded and re-worded sentences for what seemed like forever....and all for what you may ask? I wrote it for other people to rip my opinion apart. Yep. That is basically it.

Yes, favorite teacher. I know you will probably read this. Your class is hard for me. This most recent topic was super hard for me. It's not your fault...You are trying to make me a better writer...I know. Trying to remember what not to do makes producing something that much more difficult.

Let me just say....I have not felt confident in any editorial I have handed in this semester. It's not that everyone's are just super awesome and mine aren't...because we are all usually about the same...with the exception of a few here and there. We all have our off days. Well this week will have to be mine.

While the idea of editorials seems inspiring and exciting, I've come to realize I get my worst writer's block in this area. Does it ever go away? Am I ever gonna feel good about one I turn in?


****Note to teacher*****

DK.

I do like your class. Today it was just extra difficult for me (even though we didn't actually have class today). I spend a lot of time thinking and doing homework and reading for your class. I'm learning...even if it doesn't show up in my editorials. I still trying to figure out the rules and how to apply them. Ok. Great.

ashten

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

My new love of the snow day

I know what I said about snow. I don't really like it, but I've been lucky enough to enjoy a Friday with a cancelled class, a birthday on Saturday, a Sunday of rest and relaxation and a Monday and Tuesday of snow and no school. LUCKY!!!

This is the most snow I think I've ever seen in Arkansas in my life. I'm from Southeast Arkansas, and it doesn't really snow much down there. I've been in Central Arkansas going to school for the past three and a half years, and pretty much whatever weather is coming into the state is going straight through Faulkner county.

Yesterday I made a snowman, and he is legit. Three snow balls (small, medium and large) make up the body. Two sticks for arms. Two pieces of charcoal for the eyes and one carrot for a nose. Lets not forget the sweet argyle scarf wrapped round the makeshift neck. He is pretty great.

I also made two snow angels and had a snowball fight with my roommates. Good times when it snows. But just like with the last snow day, I find myself having a craving I can't shake. All I wanted was a Dr. Pepper and some gaucamole.

Even though I got to make snow ice cream, which is delicious by the way, I couldn't get the idea of the spicy green delightful dip and carbonated beverage out of my head.

And guess what? I can't drive anywhere. The roads are covered in a snowy, icy mess. So just like the Big Mac from the last snow day, I will have to do without....for a little while longer. Just til I can get to the store to get the fixing for the gaucamole and baby cans of Dr. Pepper.

Well enough about that, I slacked yesterday with my working out. So I have to make up for it today. I'm going to do my regular workout with Bob and add the next 10 minute crazy fast workout with Jillian. Good thing the roads are covered in snow because I will officially be unable to move after this workout. Sore muscles....here I come.

Friday, February 5, 2010

For You To Act Like This

Why is it that people dislike (and fear) journalists so much? I don't really understand it. We are just trying to get the facts, put everything together and then deliver a message. That is it. Good journalists don't try to purposefully attack people. Now if a person did something wrong and a journalist finds out those facts are true, it is our job to report the truth, even if it is unpopular.

In the past year, my school has undergone two significant budget cuts. So it is important for the school publication to report those facts and figures to the public. I had a lot of trouble getting the administration to cooperate with me during the first round of cuts. It took me a month and a half to get enough information to actually write a story worth reading. Three of those weeks I spent interviewing and getting nothing. No one wanted to talk...or at least no one wanted to be the first person to talk. Long story short, I finally got enough information, wrote the story and now it's done.

Well that is what I thought. The state made a second round of budget cuts on my school in January. Since I am the school paper's budget "expert" (ha ha ha), I was asked to help the reporter with this budget story. So this morning at 8 a.m. I had an interview with the Provost. I've met with him before, and he was the one who made the last story worthy of publication. He gave me all the numbers and all of the facts as it pertained to academics.

So I had a meeting with him this morning, and I get there about 15 minutes early. My appointment was at 8:15 a.m., and when the secretary tells him I am here this is what he does: He looks at a co-worker, and say something about that girl from the paper. And the other guy has the nerve to say something about the "stupid press always wanting something" and then a "good luck".

Clearly I am in hearing distance of this little attack. Mr. Provost turns to leave the office, and he sees me sitting there. He turns a brilliant shade of red and smiles the biggest smile he could muster. He tries to make small talk as we go into his office, and I can tell he is super nervous.

It amazes me that a 40 something year old man is terrified of an almost 22 year old student. And it all because of the power of my pen. I love that. LOVE IT! It is nice to know I scare him because he knows he has no control over what I choose to write down.

Now being the honest journalist that I am, I want to get every single thing he says written down. I try not to get confused and miss words or key phrases. I would never cheat him out of what he wanted to say about the budget...even though his co-worker seems to find my lacking in knowledge.

Well listen up Mr. Provost. I am well versed in the ways of the University budget. I spent hours and hours going over material, interviewing and researching just to get the best information I could. Next to the people in the administration and the reporter from the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, I know probably the most out of any other person (with the help of an amazing teacher who translates budget lingo for me).

I didn't come to your office at 8 a.m. for you to crack jokes with your buddy on my time. I didn't take time out of my morning for you to act like that. As far as I am concerned, I have established my credibility as a journalist with the last budget story. So I should be treated with a little respect. Ok. Thank you. I would greatly appreciate a little consideration. I'm just trying to do my job.

Thursday, February 4, 2010

Defining Words

Urbandictionary.com is one of my favorite Web sites. There are so many words people come up with that are really good, and there are some that just really suck.

I love it because it has a word of the day. Today's word is urbaning. which means to look up one's name on urbandictionary.com to see what it means and then updating it on Facebook, MySpace or Twitter.

Well, I'm guilty of urbaning, but I didn't put it on Facebook. My name means "the most sexiest, awesome person alive. The best friend you could ever ask for". And I urbaned all my friends and even my mom. It is really great. You should try it.

I have found that urban dictionary is a weird kind of stress reliever. It's funny to read what people think words mean. I also like to find new words to use in my every day jargon. You know that college kid jargon with a lot of likes and umms and huhs. Well I'm trying to branch out, break free of those horrid pause fillers.....but I am still guilty. Some days it's just hard to talk. Give me a break...you do it, too.

Birthday celebration is tomorrow night. Birthday day is Saturday...going home to be with my family. YAY!!! I'm going to eat some of the best food. My family is full of great cooks.Really great cooks. They've taught me a lot about food and how to make it taste good, and for that I am thankful.

I've got a good weekend ahead of me, and I'm looking forward to it. Friday with the best of friends. Saturday with the family. Sunday back to the old grind.

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Not too interesting

Nothing good has been happening to me lately. I've been really busy with school. You know writing and reading. Trying to stay up on my current events.

I'm going to set up reservations for my birthday dinner today and call to set up guitar lessons. Yes, I have a guitar. Do I know how to play it? Not really, but I like to pretend.

I like to pretend I can play the opening to "Sweet Child of Mine", "Wanted Dead or Alive" and anything John Mayer. And someone has got to teach me. I love music so much, and it sucks that I can't play even a hint of a song on my sweet guitar.

I got my guitar for Christmas this year from my dad. We both like music a lot, just different kinds...we agree on the classic rock though. Anyway, it is really pretty and it would sound like an angel if I knew what I was doing.

I can almost play a G chord to an E major chord, but my fingers are not very flexy so it makes it difficult to switch from chord to chord quickly. BUT I'm working on it. Apparently I have to get good quick because my mom wants me to play a Christmas cantata next year. I know it seems like a lot of time, but Christmas will be here before we know it.

So that it really it as of now. Just school, birthday and guitar. Maybe something great will happen soon so I can write about it. I'm sure you are getting bored with the same old stories of school, stress and Bob (who by the way is still kicking my butt).

Monday, February 1, 2010

Media History = BUST

Whoever said Media History was going to be interesting and easy is a big liar. I've sat through I don't know how many classes, and I've learned slim to none on the topic of media history. I'm sure all of the professors in the Mass Communication department were itching to teach the class, but the guy that is teaching is not at all what I expected him to be.

Here is what I expected out of a Media History professor: A short, slightly balding man with a lisp who would talk 50 minutes straight on dates and facts that make up today's media history. I expected powerpoints with lecture. Reading assignments out of boring books. Writing summaries of chapters. And taking tests based on dates and facts. DATES AND FACTS. This is what media history is...isn't it?

Well this is what I got: A short, slightly balding man who talks about hardly ever says a date or fact. Lectures over Greek mythology. No actual hard copies of news happenings (everything is sent via e-mail). And hardly any feedback on the e-mails you provide once a week.

We sent 2 weeks talking about Greek mythology. Socrates. Plato. Alexander the Great. Trojan War. Helen of Troy. The Illiad. Homer.

If I wanted to take a Greek mythology course, I would have signed up for one. And he gets upset that we don't know anything about that kind of stuff. Sir, we are all journalism/mass communication majors with little to no interest in Greek mythology/history.

None of us know what is going on in there. We just sit and watch the clock, and those people that can't see the clock sit and watch the others watch the clock. It is pure torture.

All I'm saying is that I signed up for Media History. I like learning about the media. I like some elements of history. So Media History seemed like a perfect choice for me. Not really. And the worst part about it is I have to regenerate stuff he talks about in lecture to media on essay test. Great. It's really great.

Sunday, January 31, 2010

Coke, Fries and a Cheeseburger

Being snowed in does have its benefits: no school, Lost marathons on Hulu and sleeping late.

There is always one thing you wish you could have but you can't cause you're snowed in. Mine was a Big Mac, fries and a Dr. Pepper from McDonald's.

It was all I could think about for 3 days. I was a re-occuring thought that just taunted me from inside my head. I could smell the delicious fries and taste the sweet Dr. Pepper, and I couldn't do anything about it. I was stuck. Stuck inside my house. Without the artery clogging goodness.

Something else that happens when it snows that I'm not too fond of: You can't go anywhere. I can not want to go anywhere for days and days. Then it snows, and I'm itching to get out of the house.

I know what it is...It is because I'm not suppose to leave. It's dangerous to drive in the snow in Arkansas. Because winter weather is so rare, people act totally stupid on the road. Driving in the snow and ice is not an Arkansan's strong point.

So as of Thursday night, I have been restricted to the confinment of my house, which would usually be ok. But I just wanted to get out and get a Big Mac...and I had to wait until today. 3 whole days to dream of the tasty Number 1 with cheese and sauce only.

Mt and I left the house for the first time in one of our own cars. The roads were a lot better, still slushy but drivable. People were out and about in full force (probably because they were tired for being stuck inside just like me).

We drove straight to McDonald's. It almost seemed like we couldn't get home fast enough. But let me tell you, that Big Mac was the best Big Mac I've ever eaten. Not even kidding. SO good. It was like a dream come true, even though I've had my fair share of Big Macs in my day. :)

So yeah, it is not really in line with the healthy foods and the exercise kick, but I'm only human. Sometimes a McDonald's run is needed to keep you motivated. Yes, I ate it. And it was great. Will I regret it tomorrow? Probably so...especially when Bob is kicking my butt with early morning cardio.

Thursday, January 28, 2010

A Letter about the Weather

Dear Winter Weather,

While usually I would love an excuse to get out of school for a whole day, I have a favor to ask. Please please please snow and/or ice all night long and into the wee hours of the morning. Just enough for the big dogs on campus to close the university...and then STOP!

Sincerely,
ashten
a.k.a. lover of snow days/hater of actual snow

************************************************************************

Yeah Yeah. So what? I don't really like snow. I know it is pretty and white and whatever. But it is freakin' cold. I don't really like the cold...and since snow and ice fall into the cold category I'm not really a fan.

Do I want to wake up to icy roads and snow covered roofs? Yes. Do I want to check the campus Web site and see that class was cancelled? Of course. Do I want to be confined to my houes for 3 days because the roads are so icy that I can't drive anywhere? Not so much.

So yes, let it snow. But just stop so I can still do other stuff. I like to have options on my days off...especially days that are suppose to be school days. So snow all you want to sky....but just give me a break so I can go rent a movie and get stuff to make a yummy pot of soup!!!

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

People shouldn't rush you on the bread aisle

For 21 years I have not had to worry about what I eat or drink. Then, I had the most look forward to birthday (21st birthday), and my pants decided not to fit anymore. Lets just say I slowly drank my way to a new pants size....and my eating habits weren't that hot either.

I'm not saying I drank all day everyday of all the weekends, but if I wanted to enjoy a beverage of my choice, I would. And now it has come to bite me in the booty, lower abs and thighs.

Like I said in a previous blog post, I have started a workout routine that is totally kicking my butt. But along with that, I have started to eat healthy. Well healthy foods sometimes don't cut it. Every now and then a girl just needs a pint of ice cream and a spoon....ok. Don't judge.

My roommate (for privacy purposes, lets call her MT) got the "Eat This, Not That" books for Christmas. Well I picked one up the other day and started flipping through the pages. Guess what? Every single thing I love to eat is a NOT THAT. I tell you what...it makes for a crappy day to find out all of your favorite foods are bad for you.

MT, being the newly developed health nut that she is, has asked for us not to eat things with large amounts of butter and/or sugar. Butter and sugar? Well that is stupid. I love butter and sugar. Those two items alone can make cardboard appetizing.

One night I'm cooking supper, and MT comes in the kitchen and says something similar to this: Hey, next time you make asparagus can we maybe use olive oil and not a whole stick of butter.

I tell you that was a sad day for me. I guess it does defeat the purpose of eating the vegetable if it is soaked in a hot butter bath. Now don't go and blame MT for me being hungry and missing out on buttery and sugary delights...she is just trying to keep us alive until we are 150. ;)

After about 2 months, I began to adjust to the new no-butter-no-sugars (in mass quanities) lifestyle.

So here is something funny. I went grocery shopping today. First, why is the bread aisle always so congested? It always seems like a very specific dance is going on there...and if you don't know the right moves, you will be mowed over by more experienced buggy pushers.

Anyway...back to the story. I'm on the always congested bread aisle, and I find myself in a dilemma. I couldn't remember what kind of bread I'm not suppose to buy. I couldn't remember what "Eat This, Not That" said about bread.

So what do I do? I start checking labels on the back of the bread for sugar and sodium content. Yes, I am now one of those people that you hate on the bread aisle. I stood there for as long as I could stand the people giving me death stares and the people accidentially (but purposefully) bumping my buggy and the people reaching around me to the All-American Wonder white bread. I wanted to say: Hey! Just give me a minute. I'm trying to find healthy, 100% whole wheat bread that won't clog my arteries in the long run.

I know eating healthy and exercising is good for you. It's just that no one ever told me it was going to be this difficult. I have been doing good for the most part, but I still sneak in some oldies-but-goodies from time to time. I've got Oreos and Rice Krispie Treats stashed for those bad days...and those days when baby carrots just won't cut it.

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

22nd Birthday Extravaganza

Those of you who know me know how much I love celebrating birthdays. I love celebrating friends birthdays. I like buying gifts and making cakes and throwing surprise parties. It truly brings me joy to make someone's birthday extra special.

Now that you have an overview of my love for birthdays, I can tell you something. My 22nd birthday is closing in fast. It is less than 2 weeks away...which is really exciting. So I'm having a dilemma. I need to find a super cool place to eat on my special day of birth.

I want to go to a place where dressing up isn't frowned upon. I have some really cute dresses, and I don't really get to wear them anywhere. I also want to eat foods I don't eat everyday. I just don't know where I should go.

I just want a small group of friends to celebrate with me, but I want the food to be amazing. So if you have any ideas as to where I should go my special birthday dinner, just leave me a comment. I love suggestions. Basically think off the beaten path...I'm not really scared to try different food. Mundane food is not acceptable on this oh so special evening that will be my birthday day.

Monday, January 25, 2010

Working Out Is for the Birds

One of my New Year's resolutions was to start working out three days a week. I don't have class until noon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays so it seems only logical for those days to be my workout days.

Let me just say...I am not the type that likes to work out. I never have been, probably never will be. But when your pants start to not fit something has to be done.

So I have started to work out. My roommate got the Biggest Loser Cardio Max workout video with the trainer Bob from the tv show Biggest Loser. Let me just say...Bob looks amazing, but everyone else on that video not so much.

It is comforting to me that all of the people on the video are bigger and actually breaking a sweat. I know that sounds terrible for me to say, but it is just good to know that I am not the only one breaking a sweat and hating Bob because they sweat and hate Bob, too.

For the past 3 or so weeks, I have been working out with Bob in my living room. It is a 30 minute workout: 5 minute warm-up, 20 minute cardio workout and 5 minute yoga cool down. Let me be real honest: At first, I hated it. I hated Bob. I hated the pretend jump rope exercise. I hated the sweating. Most of all, I hated the sore muscles and pain after the fact.

Now, three weeks later, I am beginning to understand Bob and all he is doing for my body. Bathing suit season is nearing, and I don't want everyone to know that I enjoy a beverage of my choice whenever I want one.

I can already tell a big difference in my breathing. I can do more and not be as tired. My muscles are not really sore anymore, and Bob and I can stay on the same page....or more importantly I can actually keep up with Bob. I'm starting to like the sweat and the workout. Maybe one day I will become a marathon runner....but lets be honest...probably not.

I highly recommend Bob and the Biggest Loser cardio max workout to all of you interested in getting in shape. My goal was not to be buff and ripped with muscle, but to be tone and fit. I tell you...I'm getting there. Tone and fit here I come.

Sunday, January 24, 2010

Bags of White Tees

Why doesn't Hanes make bags of plain white t-shirts for girls? Since when does everything girls wear have to be fitted and tight? Sometimes we just want to put on a t-shirt that doesn't touch us or pants that bag in the butt. I mean we just want to be comfortable.

Why do you think so many women buy clothes out of the men's section? I guess it finally caught someone's attention because they came up with boyfriend jeans that look worn and are baggier than any other brand of women's jeans.

I was in Wal-Mart the other day, and I had to buy a bag of men's Hanes white t-shirts because they don't make those for girls. I don't really care that I had to buy in the men's section, but I just think they should make packs of loose t-shirts for girls.

To the people at Hanes: Just make us some shirts. It's not that hard. Make them just like the men's except put packs in the women's section. Don't make them tight and fitted. Just normal. Normal plain white t-shirts in a bag. Is that too much to ask? No, I don't think it is. The women of America would really appreciate the gesture.

Women want bags of Hanes loose white t-shirts, too. We like to be comfortable, too. So just put some bags in the women's section. Ok. Thanks.

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Journalist turned Market Researcher

I knew there was a reason I named this blog "It's Always Something" because there is always something happening to me. Today was an exceptional day in the happenings of my life. Once you hear this story you will sit there shaking your head saying "Man, it sucks to be her".

So today was the first day of my business management class, which I thought was Personnel/Human Resource Management. So I get to class early with my make-shift lunch of pita chips and Sobe Life Water, and strategically choose my seat in the middle of the room. I sit down, and start reading today's issue of the USA Today.

At 2 p.m. the professor walks in, pulls up the powerpoint slides, and starts his lecture. I take little notice in the fact that the first slide on the powerpoint said Managing People and Work. The professor continue to talk about himself, and he has us introduce ourselves to the class.

I stand up, say my name, major and one interesting fact. He's looking through his roster, flipping the pages, and then looks up at me with a strange look. ***This should have been my first red flag*** He said I don't have you my roster, so he asks for my name again. And when he has expelled all of the effort he could on the dilemma, he said we will talk about it after class.

After the introductions, he dives head first into his lecture on "Managing People and Work". Did I mention that the class is from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.? So I sit through the first half of the lecture (about an hour and a half), and then he lets us take a short break.

Me being the overachiever that I am decide I am going to figure out what is up with roster during this 15 minute break. So I go over to talk to him, and he is talking to this other girl whose name was also not on the roster. And I overhear him say something about Human Resource Management starting in March. ****This should have been my second red flag****

We start talking about the situation, and it turns out that the same teacher teaches both Managing People and Work AND Personnel/Human Resource Management. AND both classes are each 8 week classes. The class I was originally registered for was Personnel/Human Resource Management, which doesn't start until March 8.

But the professor was really nice about it, and he told me that I could just stay in Managing People and Work and drop Human Resource Management. So I say ok since I've already sat through half of the first class, and I will be done with it in March. I'm thinking "YEAH. I've got it made."

As it gets closer to time to go, the professor passes out the syllabus. He explains what is expected of us, the quality of work he wants to see, and all of the projects. As I'm looking at the syllabus, I notice the pre-req's for the class...NONE of which I had had. ***This was my third red flag.***

After class is over, I've been assigned a group of the team project and given all of my contact information to that group, I find the teacher and express my concerns about the pre-reqs. He says it should be fine and that he wanted me to go up stairs to enroll in the right class, Managing People and Work.

So we go upstairs, explain the situation to the department secretary, and she tells us that probably can't be in the class because I don't have the pre-reqs. Then, the professor tells me that the pre-req for Personnel/Human Resource Management is Managing People and Work.

Now ain't that just dandy. I can't take either. Well I proceed to plead my case, saying that it was on my sheet as a class option for me to take and that I need 3 more hours in the College of Business to graduate in May.

I guess was I convincing enough because they let me go talk to another guy, one of the higher-ups, to see if I could stay in the class without the pre-reqs. So I talk to this man, explain my situation, tell him all of the marketing and management classes that I've had and stand strong with the fact that my Marketing electives sheet told me I could take the class. He asks for my name, and then leaves me in his office to wait.

Obviously this guy is not very smart because he goes next door to talk the professor of the class that I just sat through even though I wasn't enrolled in it, and started asking him questions about me. The guy just met me 3 hours ago. What is he suppose to say? I tried my best to hear what they were saying, and I heard him say something to the effect of "She seems like a bright girl..." and he said that because he has no idea what kind of person I'm like. I could be a crazy insano for all he knows.

But anyway...move on. The professor comes to get me, and he starts explaining that I will be doing a directed study. A 3 hour directed study. A 3 hour directed study in marketing. Tell me where that sounds a little off. I'm a journalism major, and yet I am going to doing research in a field that I hate. It's going to be great. JUST GREAT.

He said that I will be helping him do some research on individual personalities and comparing my research to other areas. I mean what was I suppose to do? I couldn't say no. I need the hours to graduate on time, and I can't take either of the courses he teaches because I don't have the pre-reqs.

So here I am. Yesterday a learning journalist, and today a journalist who is also a market researcher....or I should say a individual personality researcher who specializes in the field of management. Welcome to my life.

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

The Stress and Broken Yolk

You know how I know it's going to be a bad day? I'm making breakfast, which usually consists of a fried egg and some type of bread like toast or a biscuit, and as I go to flip my egg the yolk breaks all in the pan. Really gives me rage...and who likes and egg without yolk?? Nobody.

It is the first week of class and already I feel the stress of school. I feel like this semester will be full of some kind of all consuming mind eating stress. So yes I will graduate, but my brain will be the consistency of jello.

I wish I could be one of those people who didn't worry about anything. The type of person who can just let everything go, and it all just works out in their favor. But, unfortunately, I am not that lucky.

I worry about everything, or at least it seems that way to me. I worry about homwork, grades, applying to grad school, getting a job, etc. It's a never ending process, this worrying thing. I wish I could just stop some days.

I was sitting in class this morning, and my professor said part of doing good in the class was trying stuff and failing at it. He lives by this rule: Fail early, Fail often.

What the crap? I've spent my whole life working toward success, and now I have to try to fail. I know, I know. He is not really telling us to actually fail. He just wants us to take risks in his class. (He is very non-traditional when it comes to his teaching methods, which is refreshing).

So here I am. It's been 3 days into the semester, and I already stressed out. Maybe it will get better, but let's be honest....It will probably just get worse. What can I say? I'm a realist.

Monday, January 18, 2010

The First One.

I've been having this reoccuring feeling to start a blog. I wasn't sure what it would be about, but I just kept having the thought that it is something I should do. So today...I started blogging.

I have decided that for me to be successful at this I need to have some sort of purpose or identity that people can relate to. So this blog is about my day-to-day life, all the good and the bad that my daily self comes in contact with. It may not always be the most exciting thing to read each day, but at least I'm trying....so here it goes...the first one.

As I've grown up, I have began to notice that life is not always what it seems it would be. Things happen that you can't understand. People come in and out of your life. Things change. It's always something...

My college graduation is looming...5 more months to be percise. I have no idea what I'm going to do with myself. School has been my comfort zone for most of my life. I've alway been good at school. As dorky as it sounds, I actually like learning new things. I like the challenges of college...It's what I know. I feel safe in my little comfort zone.

I don't know if the real world is going to be as forgiving. I want to be succesful in life. I want to work hard in a job I love and in an organization I care about. But it is just so scary. I'm about to make a huge life change, and I'm scared to death. How does one go about getting an entry level position? When is it time to start applying for jobs? What does one need to do to be successful?

Questions like those boggle my brain every single day. I had my first breakdown today on the phone with my mom. She has always been the one I go to when I can't quite figure it out on my own.

Guess what? My mother had little to no advice for me in the job area...although she did give me a very encouraging your-life-will-be-fine-and-you-will-find-the-perfect-job speech. She made me feel a little better, but I still have all the same questions I had before.

I'm sure I'll get everything figured out, and I have 5 months to prepare myself for what is to come. It's scary, but I am ready....just got to get all my questions answered first.