Mom has always told us not to leave anything remotely valuable in the car lest someone have motive to break in. Today we saw exactly why that was good advice. While out, a car not four spaces away from ours had a window delicately smashed (or not so delicately, however you so choose to look at it). The four police cars in the parking lot served as evidence that someone had indeed broken into it. Kirstin was paranoid for the rest of the day, but I think I'll never forget to heed mom's advice from here on out.
This evening I spent some time trying to find the best mode of transportation to Amy's wedding in the beginning of July. So far I think the train is the most economical way to get from MI to WI and back. As long as that experience is as pleasant as my previous one nearly 2.5 years ago, I think I'll be in great shape :). Rachael's wedding, on the other hand, is a bit easier. Hmm... let's see, how should I travel to Grand Rapids. Should I fly. Train? Bus? :P Uhh... drive. Yes! I even have a place to stay with several other Maddawgs that weekend. Since it's June 14th, Tim will have just finished school and Kirstin will be traveling home from her orientation at Taylor. What an eventful time!
Speaking of eventful... here's what our 'social' calendar looks like:
May 26- celebrate my b-day with the fam
May 30- celebrate my graduation with the fam (including g-ma this time)
June 1- family celebration of KK's graduation
June 3- KK's graduation ceremony
June 7- Mom's b-day
And then there's Mom and Dad's anniversary and Father's Day soon thereafter. I've lost track.
Even with events planned and things to do, it's a dreadfully difficult transition from the jam-packed-no-room-for-breathing-let-alone-sleeping schedule I ran just a few weeks ago. I like sleeping. But I also enjoy goals, deadlines, and at least a little bit of stress to keep things in order. And no, being concerned about finding a job does not count under that category of 'stress'. Nice try.
I'm getting antsy. And it's not even June. Oh dear... :P
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Friday, May 30, 2008
Graduation Celebration!
All things considered, today was a rather lazy day. I slept in quite late. Kirstin and I didn't start today's recovery run until about 11:30 after setting up our "garage sale". We came home, made chicken salad for lunch with grandma, and then had a little fun with some garbage bags (pictures to come) before going out to pick up the items for sale before it started to rain.
I had to run out to do some quick errands and, when I came home, I found the garage door and kitchen decorated with "Congratulations Graduate" paraphernalia. Although we had a nice shin-dig in Upland post-commencement, we went out to dinner as a family this evening and opened family cards with grandma, which was a very special time. It was even topped off with some M&M cheesecake. Now that's hard to beat. (M&M Fridays, anyone...? ;) )
I had to run out to do some quick errands and, when I came home, I found the garage door and kitchen decorated with "Congratulations Graduate" paraphernalia. Although we had a nice shin-dig in Upland post-commencement, we went out to dinner as a family this evening and opened family cards with grandma, which was a very special time. It was even topped off with some M&M cheesecake. Now that's hard to beat. (M&M Fridays, anyone...? ;) )
A few especially noteworthy items from today:
- During the run, Kirstin and I saw a deer not more than 20 paces from our trail. It was beautiful! Yesterday we saw two within a stone's throw of where we were. And I can't throw well. ;) One of these days I'm taking a camera with us. The packed dirt trail with tree tunnels is absolutely gorgeous- I couldn't ask for much more on a trail run. :)
- Kirstin spent the time to curl my hair in ringlets for this evening's festivities. It looked great! Again, pictures to come.
- "I like my watch it can survive me." -Tim. So true, my dear brother. And I like your watch too, which is maybe why I have the same one ;).
- The storms held off all day and the rain only began to fall once the garage door had closed on our way back from dinner. Now there's a lovely thunderstorm outside which I get to fall asleep to.
Oh, and the Pistons lost tonight and thus have lost the Eastern Conference Finals. Sad game, but it's still a happy day.
Postings for two schools closed this week. Hopefully several more phone calls will follow within the next few weeks. I should receive my Indiana teaching license by the middle of June. As long as I have my first aid certification renewed by then, I can apply for my Michigan certificate. Oh, the timing of it all... :P
Thursday, May 29, 2008
We Are Marshall
It's a powerful film. Perhaps more so for myself than for others because 1) I tend to get overly emotionally involved in movies (yes, Rachel, I admit that's true) and 2) it brought back recollections of the accident at Taylor a few years back.
Maybe you'll appreciate it, maybe you won't. Either way, I still think you should see it. If nothing else, resonate with the pain of that university and that town. Empathize with the loss of sons, teammates, and friends. Be thankful for the resilience of so many who stood in the face of grief. Smile at the overcoming of adversity.
Above all else, remember to be thankful for what you have. I am once again reminded that the physical things of my life are all but meaningless; the people and relationships I have hold all the value.
[And now I'm going to bed so I can run with KK in the morning. That's becoming a precious sister time. :) ]
The end.
Maybe you'll appreciate it, maybe you won't. Either way, I still think you should see it. If nothing else, resonate with the pain of that university and that town. Empathize with the loss of sons, teammates, and friends. Be thankful for the resilience of so many who stood in the face of grief. Smile at the overcoming of adversity.
Above all else, remember to be thankful for what you have. I am once again reminded that the physical things of my life are all but meaningless; the people and relationships I have hold all the value.
[And now I'm going to bed so I can run with KK in the morning. That's becoming a precious sister time. :) ]
The end.
Give Thanks
It's hard to transition from such a structured and busy schedule at school to a completely open summer where my time is not nearly as in demand.
Today, however, was relatively more productive compared to those previous. Grandma, KK, and I went out to breakfast and ran some errands around town for mom (including a splurge stop at "Give Thanks" bakery downtown). Mom gave me a stack of books to return to the public library and I might have inadvertently returned one of Tim's books that belongs to the school library. Yikes! So now we're hoping it shows up within the next few days.
I cleaned out my dresser and closet today and have things marked for a garage sale tomorrow (Kirstin is excited about that one). One step closer to having my life organized again. It's a nice feeling.
After a tasty dinner of baked spaghetti (it was actually leftover night, but you would've never known), we settled down to the Red Wings and Pistons games (and another job application). Both teams lost. :( But we did have our scrumptious mousse and tiramisu with hazelnut coffee during an intermission, which was far better than I expected. Thus, I can't really complain about the evening as a whole. :)
And now I sit here wondering how much I want to pursue the school corporation that called me this morning. It's an offer for an interview at a high school with a 79.9% graduation rate for a graduating class of 55.
Tomorrow Kirstin learns what a fartlek is. Maybe I'll learn where I'm supposed to teach.
Or maybe I'll learn patience and trust.... yup, that's probably it... :)
Today, however, was relatively more productive compared to those previous. Grandma, KK, and I went out to breakfast and ran some errands around town for mom (including a splurge stop at "Give Thanks" bakery downtown). Mom gave me a stack of books to return to the public library and I might have inadvertently returned one of Tim's books that belongs to the school library. Yikes! So now we're hoping it shows up within the next few days.
I cleaned out my dresser and closet today and have things marked for a garage sale tomorrow (Kirstin is excited about that one). One step closer to having my life organized again. It's a nice feeling.
After a tasty dinner of baked spaghetti (it was actually leftover night, but you would've never known), we settled down to the Red Wings and Pistons games (and another job application). Both teams lost. :( But we did have our scrumptious mousse and tiramisu with hazelnut coffee during an intermission, which was far better than I expected. Thus, I can't really complain about the evening as a whole. :)
And now I sit here wondering how much I want to pursue the school corporation that called me this morning. It's an offer for an interview at a high school with a 79.9% graduation rate for a graduating class of 55.
Tomorrow Kirstin learns what a fartlek is. Maybe I'll learn where I'm supposed to teach.
Or maybe I'll learn patience and trust.... yup, that's probably it... :)
Monday, May 26, 2008
[Archives 8]
And the last post of old news.... :)
TUTF Banquet May 10th, 2008
I think Elise said it best. “No matter how excited I am about teaching or coaching, or how pleased I am with the season, at some point I will still have to go through the grieving process of ending my competitive career.”
Tonight was my fourth and final TUTF year-end banquet. There are more than enough pictures to mark the occasion. It’s one of those times where there simply are not sufficient words to convey the emotions that accompany such an event. I received my varsity blanket. Four years in coming and I finally have it. Believe it or not, it will definitely rival my diploma in significance. This year coach also distributed metal “senior” plaque/plates. Beautiful. It’s the first permanent adorment for wherever I end up.
Each year it has been hard to say good-bye to the team knowing how much it changes with the graduation of our seniors. But each year has been better than the previous. This year is definitely the hardest to let go, for obvious reasons. But ’such great sorrow is simply a reminder that what we had was so great’. [I made it through my ‘thank you’ speech without crying. That was an accomplishment. :P]
Thank you, TUTF2K08. Thank you.
KY road trip May 10th, 2008
Thursday afternoon following my last college class (woo hoo!) and a panel discussion on student teaching, I packed up my car and drove to Louisville. After a bit of traffic I arrived at the hotel with 10 minutes to check in and change before meeting my recruiter in the lobby for dinner. He, several other hiring personnel, other recruits, and myself went out for dinner and saw a part of the town. It was beautiful and I enjoyed seeing the area. We got back around 9 and had the rest of the evening to ourselves.
Friday morning they picked us up again at 9 for a grand tour of the city. Three high schools, the teacher resource center, administration building, two apartment complexes, and 7 hours later they dropped us back off at the hotel. Throughout the day I had the opportunity to talk to different principals, veteran teachers, and new teachers. The hospitality was wonderful. The resources and technology were amazing. But, at the end of the day, it was still a city in my eyes. Although the idea of a city (even though Louisville hardly qualifies as one) sounds attractive, I’m realizing I don’t know if I could cut it. I found myself asking my recruiter how long it would take to get out into the country. 20 minutes. Let’s just say after spending 4 years in the cornfields of Upland, my idea of rural is vastly different than his.
I have an offer. I have 10 days to decide. But after a good think on the drive home, I’m still praying for more interviews.
KY Called May 4th, 2008
This afternoon I had my first ‘official’ interview for a teaching position. Apparently it went well. Jefferson County Schools is bringing me down to Louisville, KY this Thursday and Friday for a tour of the schools, the area, and other formalities.
FYI- This means I’ll be skipping my last day of class. Ever. Who does that? Well, for an interview, I guess it’s only fitting.
So, Louisville, eh…?
C. Nats May 4th, 2008
Mom came down Friday afternoon to watch the first day of our Christian Nationals meet. After a little driving fiasco, she made it to the track with just enough time to yell “hey Becky” before the starter put us in the set position. Crazy! She saw my open 400 and 4×800 that evening. We ran the 4×800 at 8:45… under the lights! It almost made up for the hurricane-like winds that we had on the homestretch. Afterwards we had a great photo op- all four of us on the relay had our moms there that evening which had NEVER happened! So Alyssa, AJ, Tabs, and I had a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Saturday the rest of the family drove down and were great troopers. They all sat the five hours in the wind and cold to watch me run the very last, and my favorite, event of the day- the 4×400. I didn’t PR, which was expected with another day of horrible wind, but it was by far one of the best races of the season, and I couldn’t have asked for a better way to end my career. I had two gals on my tail and was forced to run smart. The team surrounded the track and cheered. Kelsey, Vanna, and I were able to run our very last race together, remembering why we love this sport and why we love our teammates. And the fourth member of our relay, AJ, just about made me cry with her hugs and sentimentality when I crossed the line. Like I said, I couldn’t have asked for anything more. The smile on coach’s face and the huge hug just sealed the deal.
So there it is. The last one. It’s hard to swallow. Extraordinarily hard. But I’m so thankful that I was able to share these moments with a phenomenal team. I’m glad to have ended it on such a note. But how do I say good-bye to such a family? Maybe it’s one of those groups where you never really say good-bye or leave…
Counting April 30th, 2008
What’s left…
16- Days of class
15- Classes
1- Day of track practice
2- Days of intercollegiate competition
6- Exams
2- Panel discussions
3- 45-minute warm-ups
12- Wrapped ice bags
1- Math video [topological concepts on metric spaces, anyone?]
0- Math classes!
[And hopefully there will be some offers for more interviews thrown in the mix there somewhere too.]
TUTF Banquet May 10th, 2008
I think Elise said it best. “No matter how excited I am about teaching or coaching, or how pleased I am with the season, at some point I will still have to go through the grieving process of ending my competitive career.”
Tonight was my fourth and final TUTF year-end banquet. There are more than enough pictures to mark the occasion. It’s one of those times where there simply are not sufficient words to convey the emotions that accompany such an event. I received my varsity blanket. Four years in coming and I finally have it. Believe it or not, it will definitely rival my diploma in significance. This year coach also distributed metal “senior” plaque/plates. Beautiful. It’s the first permanent adorment for wherever I end up.
Each year it has been hard to say good-bye to the team knowing how much it changes with the graduation of our seniors. But each year has been better than the previous. This year is definitely the hardest to let go, for obvious reasons. But ’such great sorrow is simply a reminder that what we had was so great’. [I made it through my ‘thank you’ speech without crying. That was an accomplishment. :P]
Thank you, TUTF2K08. Thank you.
KY road trip May 10th, 2008
Thursday afternoon following my last college class (woo hoo!) and a panel discussion on student teaching, I packed up my car and drove to Louisville. After a bit of traffic I arrived at the hotel with 10 minutes to check in and change before meeting my recruiter in the lobby for dinner. He, several other hiring personnel, other recruits, and myself went out for dinner and saw a part of the town. It was beautiful and I enjoyed seeing the area. We got back around 9 and had the rest of the evening to ourselves.
Friday morning they picked us up again at 9 for a grand tour of the city. Three high schools, the teacher resource center, administration building, two apartment complexes, and 7 hours later they dropped us back off at the hotel. Throughout the day I had the opportunity to talk to different principals, veteran teachers, and new teachers. The hospitality was wonderful. The resources and technology were amazing. But, at the end of the day, it was still a city in my eyes. Although the idea of a city (even though Louisville hardly qualifies as one) sounds attractive, I’m realizing I don’t know if I could cut it. I found myself asking my recruiter how long it would take to get out into the country. 20 minutes. Let’s just say after spending 4 years in the cornfields of Upland, my idea of rural is vastly different than his.
I have an offer. I have 10 days to decide. But after a good think on the drive home, I’m still praying for more interviews.
KY Called May 4th, 2008
This afternoon I had my first ‘official’ interview for a teaching position. Apparently it went well. Jefferson County Schools is bringing me down to Louisville, KY this Thursday and Friday for a tour of the schools, the area, and other formalities.
FYI- This means I’ll be skipping my last day of class. Ever. Who does that? Well, for an interview, I guess it’s only fitting.
So, Louisville, eh…?
C. Nats May 4th, 2008
Mom came down Friday afternoon to watch the first day of our Christian Nationals meet. After a little driving fiasco, she made it to the track with just enough time to yell “hey Becky” before the starter put us in the set position. Crazy! She saw my open 400 and 4×800 that evening. We ran the 4×800 at 8:45… under the lights! It almost made up for the hurricane-like winds that we had on the homestretch. Afterwards we had a great photo op- all four of us on the relay had our moms there that evening which had NEVER happened! So Alyssa, AJ, Tabs, and I had a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Saturday the rest of the family drove down and were great troopers. They all sat the five hours in the wind and cold to watch me run the very last, and my favorite, event of the day- the 4×400. I didn’t PR, which was expected with another day of horrible wind, but it was by far one of the best races of the season, and I couldn’t have asked for a better way to end my career. I had two gals on my tail and was forced to run smart. The team surrounded the track and cheered. Kelsey, Vanna, and I were able to run our very last race together, remembering why we love this sport and why we love our teammates. And the fourth member of our relay, AJ, just about made me cry with her hugs and sentimentality when I crossed the line. Like I said, I couldn’t have asked for anything more. The smile on coach’s face and the huge hug just sealed the deal.
So there it is. The last one. It’s hard to swallow. Extraordinarily hard. But I’m so thankful that I was able to share these moments with a phenomenal team. I’m glad to have ended it on such a note. But how do I say good-bye to such a family? Maybe it’s one of those groups where you never really say good-bye or leave…
Counting April 30th, 2008
What’s left…
16- Days of class
15- Classes
1- Day of track practice
2- Days of intercollegiate competition
6- Exams
2- Panel discussions
3- 45-minute warm-ups
12- Wrapped ice bags
1- Math video [topological concepts on metric spaces, anyone?]
0- Math classes!
[And hopefully there will be some offers for more interviews thrown in the mix there somewhere too.]
[Archives 7]
Meeting the Legend April 30th, 2008
Monday afternoon I was asked to represent the women’s track team on a panel of student-athletes. The athletic department is currently in the midst of their 10-year review and they wanted our input and feedback on our experiences. Little did I know that the man running the meeting was going to be none other than George Glass. We had been waiting in the room for a few minutes waiting for someone to come in and begin the meeting. Then I heard the door open and saw that man come around the corner. I couldn’t say anything. Coach Glass came to TU as a student, played basketball and ran track and then came back later to coach a very successful 40-some years for Taylor. In case you’re wondering about the impact he had on Taylor’s running program, our track complex is named after him. It’s been incredible to hear Coach Bowers tell stories about Coach Glass over the past four years. It is completely evident that he has lived his life to honor to Lord in all that he does; it is so clear in his speech and interactions with others. I wonder if anyone else in the room realized with whom exactly they were speaking. I felt honored just to be able to spend an hour in his presence and listen to the encouragements and truths he spoke to us during that time. That is a man who has lived for God. Wow!
[Final] MCC Championships April 27th, 2008
Saturday evening marked the end of my last Conference meet. The end of my fourth and final conference week- the physical and mental preparation- over and done. What a strange strange feeling.
We competed at Goshen College both Friday afternoon/evening and all day Saturday. The wind hindered performances some, but overall it was a great day to be wearing purple, as coach said. It was also the first meet I ran all three relays- 4×100, 4×400, and 4×800. Quite frankly, running an 800 and 100 in the same meet is an adventure; I loved it. Several team members qualified automatically for the NAIA national meet in St. Louis in a few weeks, which is a pretty big deal. We’re all rather excited for that.
Today after church a handful of us had a cookout down by Taylor Lake. We spent about an hour waiting for Deb to show up with the majority of the food. We made good use of our time by identifying plants, listening to Vanna read to us from an Anatomy and Physiology textbook, and munching on brownies and chips on my blanket in the parking lot. If nothing else, I appreciated the time to simply sit back and relax for a bit.
This coming weekend marks my final track meet. Christian Nationals. The whole family is coming down to watch. I’ve been counting down to this weekend for a few months and I don’t think it’s quite set in yet. Maybe it will next November when I’m not attending team meetings or organized practice- at least as an athlete.
Ten days left of class (as a student). That hasn’t sunk in either.
Oh boy, oh boy….
Math Department Banquet April 25th, 2008
We had a silent practice today. Warm-up and stretches with no noise. It was quite the strange experience- and a crazy way to psyche yourself out for Conference meet. Coach was slightly concerned at came over after our team prayer to remind us to have fun and enjoy ourselves. Oh coach, we are having fun. Perhaps that was a little too much silence, but it’s broken now and we’re ready. We’re ready for tomorrow. The big meet of the year is upon us… Mid-Central Conference Championships here we come!
Thankfully practice was a quick one today and I was able to jet out of there by 5:30 and make it to the math department banquet in Marion on time. It was nostalgic to realize it was my last time at the banquet- especially when the graduating seniors were announced. But I had a delightful conversation with Dr. Case’s three daughters (ages 6, 8, and 10). They’re wonderful, even if they did make fun of me for eating shrimp. :P I also received a one-year membership to the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics for my efforts during student teaching. That means that as soon as I have a permanent address I will begin receiving the “Mathematics Teacher” magazine! I am honestly super excited about this. Don’t worry, I called my sister on my way home and she was sure to remind me that I was a nerd.
This afternoon I completed my final team homework assignment for my math classes. The last one of this class and the last one forever. Ironically, it’s also the only one I’ve turned in a day early. We were ready to get it out of our hands. There might have been a happy dance involved in the process. Tomorrow marks the final M&M Friday… last day we eat M&M’s in math class on Friday… rather self-explanatory, eh? Although, it may be a tradition I keep up with my future students. We shall see.
On another note, Susan and I finally finished the bulletin board for the department and it looks stunning. We still need to put up pictures from tonight and eventually pictures from the approaching commencement breakfast, but the title boards are up on the wall now and we met our goal of having it done by Heritage Weekend, which brings me to my next point.
The new prayer chapel is being dedicated this weekend. Please pray for all those who will be coming to campus, for all those who have worked diligently to bring the events of this weekend together, and especially for the families who lost loved ones two years ago in the accident. This is going to be a powerful time. I don’t think it will be easy for anyone, but God continues to move and work in us and in spite of us. To Him be the glory.
Window Visitors from Downstairs April 21st, 2008
voice outside: Psst. Becky.
me: yes?
voice: hi!
me: Leah?
voice: can you tell us apart?
me: Amy?
voices: lean your head out the window.
I perched precariously on my desk chair, which unfortunately rocks quite well, as I opened the screen on the window. I proceeded to lean significantly far out to see the window below mine. There, not so much to my surprise, were Amy and Leah in similar positions. Soon my roommate joined me and the four of us carried on a lovely conversation, primarily punctuated by stifled laughter. Why we had never done this before I do not know. Perhaps because we did not engage in such behavior in the dorms. I’m just sorry it was so late and no one was out there to wonder what in the world those crazy souls were doing.
There are some things you’ll never forget. Unexpected window visitors from downstairs is probably one of them.
Spring Nights April 21st, 2008
It is springtime in Upland. The night air is exquisite. Refreshing. Calming. Soothing. Energizing. My steps always slow as I turn my face to catch the slightest movement of the air. A smile creeps across my face as I’m reminded once again of the joy I have.
Isn’t life wonderful?
In spite of the ups and downs, late nights and early mornings, triumphs and trials… isn’t it wonderful?
Monday afternoon I was asked to represent the women’s track team on a panel of student-athletes. The athletic department is currently in the midst of their 10-year review and they wanted our input and feedback on our experiences. Little did I know that the man running the meeting was going to be none other than George Glass. We had been waiting in the room for a few minutes waiting for someone to come in and begin the meeting. Then I heard the door open and saw that man come around the corner. I couldn’t say anything. Coach Glass came to TU as a student, played basketball and ran track and then came back later to coach a very successful 40-some years for Taylor. In case you’re wondering about the impact he had on Taylor’s running program, our track complex is named after him. It’s been incredible to hear Coach Bowers tell stories about Coach Glass over the past four years. It is completely evident that he has lived his life to honor to Lord in all that he does; it is so clear in his speech and interactions with others. I wonder if anyone else in the room realized with whom exactly they were speaking. I felt honored just to be able to spend an hour in his presence and listen to the encouragements and truths he spoke to us during that time. That is a man who has lived for God. Wow!
[Final] MCC Championships April 27th, 2008
Saturday evening marked the end of my last Conference meet. The end of my fourth and final conference week- the physical and mental preparation- over and done. What a strange strange feeling.
We competed at Goshen College both Friday afternoon/evening and all day Saturday. The wind hindered performances some, but overall it was a great day to be wearing purple, as coach said. It was also the first meet I ran all three relays- 4×100, 4×400, and 4×800. Quite frankly, running an 800 and 100 in the same meet is an adventure; I loved it. Several team members qualified automatically for the NAIA national meet in St. Louis in a few weeks, which is a pretty big deal. We’re all rather excited for that.
Today after church a handful of us had a cookout down by Taylor Lake. We spent about an hour waiting for Deb to show up with the majority of the food. We made good use of our time by identifying plants, listening to Vanna read to us from an Anatomy and Physiology textbook, and munching on brownies and chips on my blanket in the parking lot. If nothing else, I appreciated the time to simply sit back and relax for a bit.
This coming weekend marks my final track meet. Christian Nationals. The whole family is coming down to watch. I’ve been counting down to this weekend for a few months and I don’t think it’s quite set in yet. Maybe it will next November when I’m not attending team meetings or organized practice- at least as an athlete.
Ten days left of class (as a student). That hasn’t sunk in either.
Oh boy, oh boy….
Math Department Banquet April 25th, 2008
We had a silent practice today. Warm-up and stretches with no noise. It was quite the strange experience- and a crazy way to psyche yourself out for Conference meet. Coach was slightly concerned at came over after our team prayer to remind us to have fun and enjoy ourselves. Oh coach, we are having fun. Perhaps that was a little too much silence, but it’s broken now and we’re ready. We’re ready for tomorrow. The big meet of the year is upon us… Mid-Central Conference Championships here we come!
Thankfully practice was a quick one today and I was able to jet out of there by 5:30 and make it to the math department banquet in Marion on time. It was nostalgic to realize it was my last time at the banquet- especially when the graduating seniors were announced. But I had a delightful conversation with Dr. Case’s three daughters (ages 6, 8, and 10). They’re wonderful, even if they did make fun of me for eating shrimp. :P I also received a one-year membership to the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics for my efforts during student teaching. That means that as soon as I have a permanent address I will begin receiving the “Mathematics Teacher” magazine! I am honestly super excited about this. Don’t worry, I called my sister on my way home and she was sure to remind me that I was a nerd.
This afternoon I completed my final team homework assignment for my math classes. The last one of this class and the last one forever. Ironically, it’s also the only one I’ve turned in a day early. We were ready to get it out of our hands. There might have been a happy dance involved in the process. Tomorrow marks the final M&M Friday… last day we eat M&M’s in math class on Friday… rather self-explanatory, eh? Although, it may be a tradition I keep up with my future students. We shall see.
On another note, Susan and I finally finished the bulletin board for the department and it looks stunning. We still need to put up pictures from tonight and eventually pictures from the approaching commencement breakfast, but the title boards are up on the wall now and we met our goal of having it done by Heritage Weekend, which brings me to my next point.
The new prayer chapel is being dedicated this weekend. Please pray for all those who will be coming to campus, for all those who have worked diligently to bring the events of this weekend together, and especially for the families who lost loved ones two years ago in the accident. This is going to be a powerful time. I don’t think it will be easy for anyone, but God continues to move and work in us and in spite of us. To Him be the glory.
Window Visitors from Downstairs April 21st, 2008
voice outside: Psst. Becky.
me: yes?
voice: hi!
me: Leah?
voice: can you tell us apart?
me: Amy?
voices: lean your head out the window.
I perched precariously on my desk chair, which unfortunately rocks quite well, as I opened the screen on the window. I proceeded to lean significantly far out to see the window below mine. There, not so much to my surprise, were Amy and Leah in similar positions. Soon my roommate joined me and the four of us carried on a lovely conversation, primarily punctuated by stifled laughter. Why we had never done this before I do not know. Perhaps because we did not engage in such behavior in the dorms. I’m just sorry it was so late and no one was out there to wonder what in the world those crazy souls were doing.
There are some things you’ll never forget. Unexpected window visitors from downstairs is probably one of them.
Spring Nights April 21st, 2008
It is springtime in Upland. The night air is exquisite. Refreshing. Calming. Soothing. Energizing. My steps always slow as I turn my face to catch the slightest movement of the air. A smile creeps across my face as I’m reminded once again of the joy I have.
Isn’t life wonderful?
In spite of the ups and downs, late nights and early mornings, triumphs and trials… isn’t it wonderful?
[Archives 6]
Halfsies. Again. April 18th, 2008
This week has been full… busy but wonderful. Saturday night coach had asked me to share devotions with the team this week and Monday I had the opportunity to do so. I’ve been praying to have the chance to do that for quite some time, but since the coaches usually take turns I wasn’t counting on anything. I was thankful to be able to share my heart with the team in that manner and just hope that the Holy Spirit put the right words in my mouth to work in their lives.
Tuesday night I had an Advanced Calc test (eww) and as soon as I finished Erin, Amy, and I drove down to Erin’s house in Indy for the night. The next morning the three of us attended the Teacher Candidate Interview Day [all day Wednesday]. I was able to hand out a number of resumes and had 7 interviews throughout the course of the fair. It was quite the beneficial experience, although I’m fairly certain I don’t want to have to sell myself again anytime soon.
Today was catch-up day after missing all my classes yesterday due to the fair. Thankfully I only had one class to worry about- Coaching Track and Field. Speaking of which, we learned about the discus today. It went a bit better than the hammer on Tuesday. By that I mean I didn’t almost kill coach with my implement. Oops.
And, speaking of coach, that man has a sense of humor. He entered me in the open 200m dash for Saturday. The 200! First he halved my 800 and entered me in the 400, which I loved. But now he halved my 400 to bring me down to the 200. I’ve managed to run the 400 without starting blocks, which is quite acceptable considering that I’m not blazing fast. But to run the 200 without blocks is insane. So guess what I’m learning for the first time in my life tomorrow. If you said “starting blocks” you are 100% correct. Ten years into my career and I leave it up to the last two weeks to learn something new. Go figure.
But I think it’s a good reminder that there’s always time to learn; I can’t settle into a groove and putz along forever.
Vanna Discovers Meaning… April 11th, 2008
After being utterly discouraged and out of sync last week, Vanna walks up behind me during my warm-ups this afternoon and wraps me in a big hug.
“I think I figured out the meaning of track.”
Oh really? Do share.
“It’s a training ground for how I want to handle challenges and difficulties in larger life.”
Well said, my dear, well said.
It is a wonderful environment in which we learn to deal with inevitable disappointments and failures.
But there are also those shining moments when success peeps through and we are allow to enjoy that experience as well. Like tonight. Another second cut off the 400. Season PR. Coaches were proud. T.Bow: “Did your buddy tell you she PR’ed today?”… “Did she tell you she PR’ed?”…. “Another great coaching decision… made in someones 4th year.” Haha!
Somehow having someone else believe so much in you makes in near impossible to doubt yourself.I hope someday I’ll be half the coach that T.Bow and D.Bow are. They’re incredible.
36 days April 11th, 2008
“That is, technically, the best I’ve ever seen you run.” -Coach
Sometimes I get caught up in the details of school and fail to realize that the time I thought was creeping by is actually flying past me at a break-neck speed. It seems I can’t turn a corner around here anymore without thinking about how quickly my time is slipping away. Thirty-six days. Four track meets. Then my college career is over. My years as a competitive athlete have run their course. Tomorrow is my final Little State Invitational. Oh boy.
Yesterday I had the chance to lounge in the grass for a good 30-45 minutes while my relay members were hurdling and doing field events. As I waited on them to practice hand-offs, I laid down in the soft cool grass and had the time to take in my surroundings. The birds were constantly singing. There was the occasional sound of a ball meeting the baseball bat. Then there was the steady and rapid approach of footsteps. As they came closer I’d hear one forceful exhale for every two steps. It was a consistent and steady rhythm. “Stick.” Another set of footsteps would join in, metal would hit the hand, and a few paces later the strides would slow down to a stop while the audible breathing continued. It was beautiful. Thank you, Lord, for providing an opportunity for me to simply stop.
Potluck #2 April 7th, 2008
Today was quite possibly one of the best days of the semester. It seems that Voss potlucks tend to do that. Rach and I worked the nursery during first service this morning and has an absolute blast with Tristan, our sole visitor. I hadn’t realized how much I missed church over the past two weekends. Granted, we attended a service on Easter as a track team (which was wonderful), and held several services of our own, but as incredible as it was, it’s a far cry from being back with the church body. After second service we drove over to the Voss household to join in the church-wide dinner. Plans to leave at 2 were quickly thwarted and soon Rach, Deb, Mark, Mitch, and I found ourselves packing away leftovers, cleaning dishes, and sitting outside on the porch. I finally left around 7:45 to make it back to campus for a meeting. Ashley, Sarah, Rach, and I had apartment dessert at 9 and Mark and Deb came over afterwards to watch “Enchanted”. The price of procrastination is steep, but when considering the activities and interactions of today, it was more than worth it.
DePauw April 6th, 2008
This weekend’s meet was a fairly good way to come back from spring break and compete on legs that are, perhaps, slightly less exhausted. Highlights of the day include three very successful hand-offs in our 4×100 (thus meaning the baton made it the entire way around the track- a very big accomplishment for our first time), my first collegiate open 400, watching a guy high jump 7′4″ and eating pizza in the stands with the team after the 4×400.
Okay, so rewind to that part about the 7′4″ high jumper. He’s in his later twenties and sponsored by Nike. To give you an idea of his caliber, the world record (I believe) is 8′1″. He’s in the top 5 or 6 high jumpers in the country and definitely Olympic quality. It was an impressive show of pure talent, let me tell you.
Another side-note, our guys qualified provisionally for nationals in both their 4×100 and 4×400 relays. Huge accomplishment. Congratulations!
And so the countdown to Little State meet begins…. festivities begin Friday!
This week has been full… busy but wonderful. Saturday night coach had asked me to share devotions with the team this week and Monday I had the opportunity to do so. I’ve been praying to have the chance to do that for quite some time, but since the coaches usually take turns I wasn’t counting on anything. I was thankful to be able to share my heart with the team in that manner and just hope that the Holy Spirit put the right words in my mouth to work in their lives.
Tuesday night I had an Advanced Calc test (eww) and as soon as I finished Erin, Amy, and I drove down to Erin’s house in Indy for the night. The next morning the three of us attended the Teacher Candidate Interview Day [all day Wednesday]. I was able to hand out a number of resumes and had 7 interviews throughout the course of the fair. It was quite the beneficial experience, although I’m fairly certain I don’t want to have to sell myself again anytime soon.
Today was catch-up day after missing all my classes yesterday due to the fair. Thankfully I only had one class to worry about- Coaching Track and Field. Speaking of which, we learned about the discus today. It went a bit better than the hammer on Tuesday. By that I mean I didn’t almost kill coach with my implement. Oops.
And, speaking of coach, that man has a sense of humor. He entered me in the open 200m dash for Saturday. The 200! First he halved my 800 and entered me in the 400, which I loved. But now he halved my 400 to bring me down to the 200. I’ve managed to run the 400 without starting blocks, which is quite acceptable considering that I’m not blazing fast. But to run the 200 without blocks is insane. So guess what I’m learning for the first time in my life tomorrow. If you said “starting blocks” you are 100% correct. Ten years into my career and I leave it up to the last two weeks to learn something new. Go figure.
But I think it’s a good reminder that there’s always time to learn; I can’t settle into a groove and putz along forever.
Vanna Discovers Meaning… April 11th, 2008
After being utterly discouraged and out of sync last week, Vanna walks up behind me during my warm-ups this afternoon and wraps me in a big hug.
“I think I figured out the meaning of track.”
Oh really? Do share.
“It’s a training ground for how I want to handle challenges and difficulties in larger life.”
Well said, my dear, well said.
It is a wonderful environment in which we learn to deal with inevitable disappointments and failures.
But there are also those shining moments when success peeps through and we are allow to enjoy that experience as well. Like tonight. Another second cut off the 400. Season PR. Coaches were proud. T.Bow: “Did your buddy tell you she PR’ed today?”… “Did she tell you she PR’ed?”…. “Another great coaching decision… made in someones 4th year.” Haha!
Somehow having someone else believe so much in you makes in near impossible to doubt yourself.I hope someday I’ll be half the coach that T.Bow and D.Bow are. They’re incredible.
36 days April 11th, 2008
“That is, technically, the best I’ve ever seen you run.” -Coach
Sometimes I get caught up in the details of school and fail to realize that the time I thought was creeping by is actually flying past me at a break-neck speed. It seems I can’t turn a corner around here anymore without thinking about how quickly my time is slipping away. Thirty-six days. Four track meets. Then my college career is over. My years as a competitive athlete have run their course. Tomorrow is my final Little State Invitational. Oh boy.
Yesterday I had the chance to lounge in the grass for a good 30-45 minutes while my relay members were hurdling and doing field events. As I waited on them to practice hand-offs, I laid down in the soft cool grass and had the time to take in my surroundings. The birds were constantly singing. There was the occasional sound of a ball meeting the baseball bat. Then there was the steady and rapid approach of footsteps. As they came closer I’d hear one forceful exhale for every two steps. It was a consistent and steady rhythm. “Stick.” Another set of footsteps would join in, metal would hit the hand, and a few paces later the strides would slow down to a stop while the audible breathing continued. It was beautiful. Thank you, Lord, for providing an opportunity for me to simply stop.
Potluck #2 April 7th, 2008
Today was quite possibly one of the best days of the semester. It seems that Voss potlucks tend to do that. Rach and I worked the nursery during first service this morning and has an absolute blast with Tristan, our sole visitor. I hadn’t realized how much I missed church over the past two weekends. Granted, we attended a service on Easter as a track team (which was wonderful), and held several services of our own, but as incredible as it was, it’s a far cry from being back with the church body. After second service we drove over to the Voss household to join in the church-wide dinner. Plans to leave at 2 were quickly thwarted and soon Rach, Deb, Mark, Mitch, and I found ourselves packing away leftovers, cleaning dishes, and sitting outside on the porch. I finally left around 7:45 to make it back to campus for a meeting. Ashley, Sarah, Rach, and I had apartment dessert at 9 and Mark and Deb came over afterwards to watch “Enchanted”. The price of procrastination is steep, but when considering the activities and interactions of today, it was more than worth it.
DePauw April 6th, 2008
This weekend’s meet was a fairly good way to come back from spring break and compete on legs that are, perhaps, slightly less exhausted. Highlights of the day include three very successful hand-offs in our 4×100 (thus meaning the baton made it the entire way around the track- a very big accomplishment for our first time), my first collegiate open 400, watching a guy high jump 7′4″ and eating pizza in the stands with the team after the 4×400.
Okay, so rewind to that part about the 7′4″ high jumper. He’s in his later twenties and sponsored by Nike. To give you an idea of his caliber, the world record (I believe) is 8′1″. He’s in the top 5 or 6 high jumpers in the country and definitely Olympic quality. It was an impressive show of pure talent, let me tell you.
Another side-note, our guys qualified provisionally for nationals in both their 4×100 and 4×400 relays. Huge accomplishment. Congratulations!
And so the countdown to Little State meet begins…. festivities begin Friday!
[Archives 5]
1 am April 4th, 2008
I walk out of the apartment at 1 am to mail a letter and retrieve my laundry from the dryer.
The rain has stopped and the air is left slightly damp, fresh, and clean.
I tell myself most of the world retired to bed hours ago.
I look forward to when I may go to bed and wake-up on different days.
Life is not simply ahead.
It is here and now.
Even at 1 am in Upland.
Becoming a Lefty April 2nd, 2008
I knew coach wanted to make me a sprinter.
I didn’t know I’d be drafted for the 4×100.
That’s right, folks, we’re putting together a 4×100 relay. It’s official. We even practiced hand-offs this afternoon and I’ve counted out my steps. Since I’m running second leg (so that my long legs are on the straightaway) I have to carry the baton in my left hand. For the past six years I’ve only done open hand-offs in the 4×400 and 4×800 which means I receive the baton in my left hand and immediately switch it over and carry it in my right. Now I’m carrying it in the left hand and doing blind exchanges. It’s taking a lot of faith.
me: How far do I back up, coach?
coach: We want you full speed when you reach Andrea’s mark for the fly zone
me: [turns around and continues walking down the backstretch]
coach: [throws head back and laughs]
… so it may take me a little longer to accelerate….
Yesterday I realized D.Bow has done an amazing job recruiting for the long, triple, and high jumps. All other girl sprinters jump. I don’t. Yesterday I practiced with just the guys. Slightly intimidating at times. They’re ridiculously fast. I’m… well, still finding my feet.
I walk out of the apartment at 1 am to mail a letter and retrieve my laundry from the dryer.
The rain has stopped and the air is left slightly damp, fresh, and clean.
I tell myself most of the world retired to bed hours ago.
I look forward to when I may go to bed and wake-up on different days.
Life is not simply ahead.
It is here and now.
Even at 1 am in Upland.
Becoming a Lefty April 2nd, 2008
I knew coach wanted to make me a sprinter.
I didn’t know I’d be drafted for the 4×100.
That’s right, folks, we’re putting together a 4×100 relay. It’s official. We even practiced hand-offs this afternoon and I’ve counted out my steps. Since I’m running second leg (so that my long legs are on the straightaway) I have to carry the baton in my left hand. For the past six years I’ve only done open hand-offs in the 4×400 and 4×800 which means I receive the baton in my left hand and immediately switch it over and carry it in my right. Now I’m carrying it in the left hand and doing blind exchanges. It’s taking a lot of faith.
me: How far do I back up, coach?
coach: We want you full speed when you reach Andrea’s mark for the fly zone
me: [turns around and continues walking down the backstretch]
coach: [throws head back and laughs]
… so it may take me a little longer to accelerate….
Yesterday I realized D.Bow has done an amazing job recruiting for the long, triple, and high jumps. All other girl sprinters jump. I don’t. Yesterday I practiced with just the guys. Slightly intimidating at times. They’re ridiculously fast. I’m… well, still finding my feet.
But coach has said three specific things to me over the past two days that have provided an immense amount of needed encouragement through this venture.
During the 150’s all-out Tuesday I ran past coach at the finish line. He leaned in and simply said “that was great“. Great. Such a powerful word when I feel lost in an unfamiliar world. I have it. I can do it.
During hand-offs today- “That’s a great spot to be in. As long as we can get you running like you did during practice yesterday we’re in good shape.” There’s hope.
After practice today leaving the locker room “good-bye, sprinter”. [I’m in…] Bye coach. I’ll see you tomorrow.
“Becky, when’s the last time you ran the 100?”
“Maybe freshman year of high school, Voss.”
“Yup. Drive the knees.”
“Yeah, but you’ve only been a sprinter for three days, so…” thanks, guys
I’m excited about making a fool of myself this weekend.
I like new adventures.
At least new adventures of this variety.
Home Again March 30th, 2008
Yes, it’s true. I’m once again back in Indiana. The past ten days with the team have been phenomenal and the best TUTF spring break trip I’ve had by far. Yet with the realization that it was my last, it’s been terribly hard to come back to classes. The chance to live in close quarters and have constant interaction with my teammates provided numerous occassions for growth and encouragement. It’s the time in each season where we reaffirm and seal our status as a family. A family. Wow. Although I know we’ll always return as a tighter knit group than when we left, sometimes I forget just how drastic and wonderful that change and growth truly is.
Details on the events of the week will follow later, but for now there’s a bit of unpacking and sleeping to do.
I wish there were adequate words to describe the joy and excitement I have welling up inside me. For now I think it’s just sufficient to say “ain’t it great to be a tracksta…”
Pre-Spring Break March 19th, 2008
Day 3 of sprinter Becky and I am loving my life. The workouts are fast and keep my on my toes-literally- but it’s worth it. I love the speed and the feeling of truly pushing myself to my limits like we did today- 300’s ’til failure. Coach had to cut Kelsey and I off. We were hitting consistent splits- some even negative. Wonderful feeling. Absolutely wonderful!
After practice we headed to the grille and had a great team dinner and shared the anticipation of our fast-approaching spring break. Then Vanna, Deb, Rach, Erin and I headed to Wal-mart to pick up some essentials for our trip, namely suntan lotion. It’s hard to believe it’s my last grand trip with the track team. Did time really pass that quickly? I’m out to make the best of it. And given that I have an amazing small group, my much-hoped for kitchen duty throughout break, and I’m running under Bowers for the week, it’s already shaping up quite nicely.
Workout tomorrow, class, meeting, pack, and we’re out of here by 6pm and headed to Effingham, ILFri & Sat- meet at Rhodes College in Memphis, TNSun-Thurs- training in Panama City Beach, FLFri & Sat- meet at Emory University in Atlanta, GASun- drive home to Upland
So here’s to my last whirlwind TUTF tour.And here’s to spending that TUTF tour with my amazing trackstas.
Wabash Relays March 16th, 2008
Saturday we traveled down to Crawfordsville, IN to compete in the Wabash Relays- a lovely little meet where the weather is always unpredictable. Thankfully this year we had near perfect weather for mid-distance/distance runners- mid-40’s and overcast. It was a little windier than desired, but you can’t have everything.
We managed to put together two relays in addition to the field events and hurdle events. Tabs, AJ, Alyssa and I ran the 4×800 and Distance Medley Relay together- our standard races- with standard times. All in all, not a bad performance for the first outdoor meet of the season. It takes a few practices to mentally adjust race strategies to the larger track. I got to run the 400 leg of the DMR. Apparently Coach and Cinders were happy enough with my performance that they’ve decided to pull me down from mid-distance to practicing with the sprinters… at least for a bit. Between the new drills and knocking over speed hurdles, it will be quite a show. But even with the drastic change that that will require, I’m super excited for the move. Hopefully the speed work will not only improve my turnover in the 400 but my overall time in the 800 as well. That would be ideal.
I’ve been hoping to get back to the 400 for quite some time now, but I’ve always been needed more in the 800. Now with a team of 11 girls, 4 of whom are currently training for the 800, they can afford to switch me to the 400 where we currently have… no one… competing. Oh the benefits of small teams.
Besides the excitement of changing events, I was reminded today of how much I love praying with the other relay teams after we race against each other. Such an amazing opportunity to compete hard, cross the finish line, and then join together in earnest and thankful prayer. Reason #472 why I love TUTF (women’s edition).
Oh, and by the way… 4 days until we leave for TUTFPCBSB2K08.[Taylor University Track and Field Panama City Beach Spring Break 2008]Get excited!
[Archives 4]
Kickoff March 12th, 2008
I’m fairly certain today marked the official kickoff of outdoor season, at least as far as I’m concerned. What better way is there to bring in the season than a dozen 500’s as the first workout on the outdoor track (in the famous Upland wind, mind you) to be followed by the annual dinner at coach’s house? There is no better way- especially when coach prepares the most amazing wings, chili, cornbread, maddawg punch, cookies, and cheesecake for several towns around. We’ve been anticipating this event since practices began in November. My appreciation for home-cooked food and great company and friends has never dwindled. But, if nothing else, this evening was a great time for the girls’ team to just sit down and relax outside of practice. We had 100% attendance- including our team trainer. It even warranted a group photo. Now you know that’s an occasion to remember.
[20 years] March 9th, 2008
Happy birthday my dear Lori.
Happy birthday.
Bring the Rain March 9th, 2008
I can count a million times people asking me why I can praise you with all that I’ve gone through.
The question just amazes me. Can circumstances possibly change who I forever am in you?
Maybe since my life was changed long before these rainy days
it’s never really crossed my mind
to turn my back on you, oh Lord, my only shelter from the storm.
But instead I draw closer through this time.
So I pray.
Bring me joy. Bring me peace. Bring the chance to be free. Bring me anything that brings you glory.
And I know there’ll be days when this life brings me pain. But if that’s what it takes to praise you, Jesus bring the rain.
I am yours regardless of the clouds that may loom above
because you are much greater than the pain,
you who made a way for me, suffering your destiny. So tell me, what’s a little rain?
So I pray.
Bring me joy. Bring me peace. Bring the chance to be free. Bring me anything that brings you glory.
And I know there’ll be days when this life brings me pain. But if that’s what it takes to praise you, Jesus bring the rain.
-MercyMe
Muncie March 9th, 2008
Weekend plans were almost thwarted by the snow, but in the end “the tank” (Vanna’s car) prevailed. Yesterday, following Rach’s comp exam, she, Deb, Vanna and I headed to the civilization of Muncie. A few hours, graduation dress purchases, and a Panera stop later we made our way back to Upland to pick up Guillotine (new favorite card game) and head to Starbucks to bother Jake. An entire afternoon/evening devoted to nothing but enjoying the company of the gals. It was long-awaited and definitely did not disappoint.
Ice March 9th, 2008
Friday. Piglet. Mile 2. The road was covered in ice for the better part of a half mile. Now you have to realize that we’re relatively skilled at running on ice. Unfortunately I overestimated my not-so-superior abilities. Enter my first wipe-out on ice during a run. It was rather graceful and I was able to avoid face-planting as Elle did just a few minutes after I took my little spill. At the very least it provided a great round of laughter for the better part of the next quarter mile or so.
Later that evening Anna and one of my professors had to push my car out of my parking space in the library parking lot- not because I was stuck in the snow, but because there was a solid sheet of ice under my car. There was no traction to get over the bump of ice in the back. I have to say that I never saw that one coming!
Mark that up as two new [and relatively eventful] experiences in one evening. Yes!
I’m fairly certain today marked the official kickoff of outdoor season, at least as far as I’m concerned. What better way is there to bring in the season than a dozen 500’s as the first workout on the outdoor track (in the famous Upland wind, mind you) to be followed by the annual dinner at coach’s house? There is no better way- especially when coach prepares the most amazing wings, chili, cornbread, maddawg punch, cookies, and cheesecake for several towns around. We’ve been anticipating this event since practices began in November. My appreciation for home-cooked food and great company and friends has never dwindled. But, if nothing else, this evening was a great time for the girls’ team to just sit down and relax outside of practice. We had 100% attendance- including our team trainer. It even warranted a group photo. Now you know that’s an occasion to remember.
[20 years] March 9th, 2008
Happy birthday my dear Lori.
Happy birthday.
Bring the Rain March 9th, 2008
I can count a million times people asking me why I can praise you with all that I’ve gone through.
The question just amazes me. Can circumstances possibly change who I forever am in you?
Maybe since my life was changed long before these rainy days
it’s never really crossed my mind
to turn my back on you, oh Lord, my only shelter from the storm.
But instead I draw closer through this time.
So I pray.
Bring me joy. Bring me peace. Bring the chance to be free. Bring me anything that brings you glory.
And I know there’ll be days when this life brings me pain. But if that’s what it takes to praise you, Jesus bring the rain.
I am yours regardless of the clouds that may loom above
because you are much greater than the pain,
you who made a way for me, suffering your destiny. So tell me, what’s a little rain?
So I pray.
Bring me joy. Bring me peace. Bring the chance to be free. Bring me anything that brings you glory.
And I know there’ll be days when this life brings me pain. But if that’s what it takes to praise you, Jesus bring the rain.
-MercyMe
Muncie March 9th, 2008
Weekend plans were almost thwarted by the snow, but in the end “the tank” (Vanna’s car) prevailed. Yesterday, following Rach’s comp exam, she, Deb, Vanna and I headed to the civilization of Muncie. A few hours, graduation dress purchases, and a Panera stop later we made our way back to Upland to pick up Guillotine (new favorite card game) and head to Starbucks to bother Jake. An entire afternoon/evening devoted to nothing but enjoying the company of the gals. It was long-awaited and definitely did not disappoint.
Ice March 9th, 2008
Friday. Piglet. Mile 2. The road was covered in ice for the better part of a half mile. Now you have to realize that we’re relatively skilled at running on ice. Unfortunately I overestimated my not-so-superior abilities. Enter my first wipe-out on ice during a run. It was rather graceful and I was able to avoid face-planting as Elle did just a few minutes after I took my little spill. At the very least it provided a great round of laughter for the better part of the next quarter mile or so.
Later that evening Anna and one of my professors had to push my car out of my parking space in the library parking lot- not because I was stuck in the snow, but because there was a solid sheet of ice under my car. There was no traction to get over the bump of ice in the back. I have to say that I never saw that one coming!
Mark that up as two new [and relatively eventful] experiences in one evening. Yes!
[Archives 3]
Christmas in March March 8th, 2008
Anna was in town visiting this evening. She was here to listen to the C.S. Lewis speaker along with the other fellows from her Heartland program in Indy. Sometimes you never realize how much you miss people until they step back into your life for a period. It was absolutely wonderful to see her. We were able to spend some time with her group from church at Ivanhoe’s and settle in for some “White Christmas” to honor the heavy-falling snow outside. I have to say, I’m extremely impressed that Anna is as well-versed in “White Christmas” as I am. Poor Caitlin had to put up with us quoting every other line- she held up quite well. But alas, now Caitlin has departed, Anna has gone down to 1J to spend the night, and I am soon heading to bed. Anna and I had casually mentioned before that we would like to repeat our rooming situation and once again live together after I graduate. This evening we solidified that just a little more. Under the circumstances that we both find employment in the same general vicinity, I have a roommate for next year. Oh, how she makes my heart happy.
Comps March 7th, 2008
I passed.
I passed my senior mathematics comprehensive exam.
Once step closer to graduation.
One less hoop to jump through.
Yet it all still seems so surreal.
I’m not really growing up, am I?
I’m not really applying to teach, am I?
Yes, Rebecca Lynn. Yes you are.
[Where did time go?]
I may be uncertain about the next few months…but I passed.
Church Dinner March 3rd, 2008
Tonight I am thankful for…
Anna was in town visiting this evening. She was here to listen to the C.S. Lewis speaker along with the other fellows from her Heartland program in Indy. Sometimes you never realize how much you miss people until they step back into your life for a period. It was absolutely wonderful to see her. We were able to spend some time with her group from church at Ivanhoe’s and settle in for some “White Christmas” to honor the heavy-falling snow outside. I have to say, I’m extremely impressed that Anna is as well-versed in “White Christmas” as I am. Poor Caitlin had to put up with us quoting every other line- she held up quite well. But alas, now Caitlin has departed, Anna has gone down to 1J to spend the night, and I am soon heading to bed. Anna and I had casually mentioned before that we would like to repeat our rooming situation and once again live together after I graduate. This evening we solidified that just a little more. Under the circumstances that we both find employment in the same general vicinity, I have a roommate for next year. Oh, how she makes my heart happy.
Comps March 7th, 2008
I passed.
I passed my senior mathematics comprehensive exam.
Once step closer to graduation.
One less hoop to jump through.
Yet it all still seems so surreal.
I’m not really growing up, am I?
I’m not really applying to teach, am I?
Yes, Rebecca Lynn. Yes you are.
[Where did time go?]
I may be uncertain about the next few months…but I passed.
Church Dinner March 3rd, 2008
Tonight I am thankful for…
- the babies in the nursery at church
- church dinner
- chats with Mama Voss
- spending time in a home with a family
- spring-like weather
- math friends
- laughter
- clear skies and bright stars
- fresh breezes
- apple turnovers
- long talks with my dad
- Rachel
- Vanessa
- a comfy bed beckoning my name…
Sidenote: Yesterday marked Day 30 of consecutive iron pills. Good-bye anemia. I’m keeping this up and you won’t hold me back this year. Booyah!
“You’re calling me to lay aside the worries of my day,
to quiet down my busy mind and find a hiding place.
You’re worthy. You are worthy
of a childlike faith and of my honest praise
and of my unashamed love.”
HSR Qualifier March 1st, 2008
Welcome to the 4th annual Hoosier State Relays, or rather the conclusion of this year’s edition. I’ve held my post handing out hip numbers for the last 8 hours and the last heat of the girls 4×400 relay is finally about to go off. Five hundred high school athletes along with their coaches and parents are funneling out of the fieldhouse. Walking in this morning I just had to smile to myself and wonder if any of these poor souls would see me next year in their classroom. I’ve lived it up today with these kids. Some of them know what they’re doing and seem to have grown up on the track, others forget their lane assignments 5 seconds after you tell them, and a select few barely check in before their race begins. It’s a crazy life with these kiddos, but it’s a good one. You can’t help but love them, no matter how ridiculous they may look in their uniforms and spandex.
Happy Leap Day! March 1st, 2008
So you think Leap Year happens once every four years, huh? Wrong. Sometimes there are eight year stretches with no leap year! Why? Well, each year is just a smidgen less that 365.25 days. Crazy, huh? I had forgotten this fact until my ad calc prof corrected me this morning. I should’ve remembered that one from “The Secrets of Mental Math”. Oops.
Well, besides celebrating the beloved leap day, the rest of life has progressed at a fairly standard pace, all things considered. Another week of classes past and first round of tests over. At least half of campus has been sick within the past two weeks or so. I’ve tried valiantly to avoid the multiple illnesses but to no avail. Yesterday the sore throat set it. I’m hoping it just runs its course over the next two days so I’m ready for Monday. Thankfully it’s an off-weekend and I just need to work the check-in (hip number) table for the indoor high school meet we’re hosting tomorrow. In case you were wondering, the check-in table is a highly desired job at such events. My senior year I finally scored that coveted position. Yes!
I skipped practice this afternoon [with coach’s permission] and opted for a nap and some serious time devoted to job applications for this coming fall. Hopefully both efforts pay off in their respective areas. Regardless, it was phenomenal just to have a relaxing evening in the apartment, especially the part where I was able to sit down dinner. Eating on the go might be more time efficient, but there’s something to be said for the mental break that a sit-down meal provides.
Right now Rach is cleaning and Vanna is sprawled out on the couch behind me reading National Geographic. It’s been quiet and productive. And I’m going to miss these gals immensely come May 18.
[Archives 2]
Snowball, meet Professor February 26th, 2008
Upon departing Nussbaum this evening around 10:30, my dear math nerd friends and I were greeted by a crunchy blanket of snow. We brushed off our cars and our professor’s car (we had just completed a review session with him for our test tomorrow night). Then, being the geniuses that we are, we utilized this opportunity and began a rather lively snowball fight in the nearly empty parking lot. It ended with a few snowballs being tossed in the direction of our approaching professor and his wife before we scurried off to our respective vehicles to travel home. In the events of the evening I might have spun around too quickly to avoid a flying object and had my first fall of the season- legs sprawled out smack down on my rear on the pavement. Priceless. It’s moments like those that never fail to bring a smile to my face. Moments where I can make an absolute fool of myself. And, of course, snowball fights in the middle of the night are always a blast as well. It just goes to show that nerds can have fun too.
Welcome to Taylor, Dr. Mummert.
Calling February 25th, 2008
Calling. Sometimes it’s the same as your vocation. Sometimes completely separate. And sometimes the two overlap in various areas. It’s what sparked a late-night conversation between my roommate and myself as we took a break from the books.
Rachel: You know that feeling you get when you just know you’re where you’re supposed to be?me: Yup.
R: Last year I debated for months what to do with my life. And now I know it’s law school.
me: I know. I feel the same way about teaching.
R: Roommate, there is absolutely no doubt in my mind whatsoever that you were meant to be a high school teacher. This is your calling. I can’t imagine you doing anything else in the world. I can’t imagine anything else making you happier or fulfilling you more than teaching. You were made for high school!
Sometimes she can say just the right things. :) I know I’m going to teach, but lately there have been some doubts of incompetency surfacing. That has probably come about with the beginning of the application process. I’ve done all I can up to this point. I’ve waited for this moment for [10+] years (yes, I’ve known that long… :P), and now all my work is on the line. It’s incredibly encouraging to have such adamant and sincere support from someone so dear.
Saying Good-bye to Indoor February 22nd, 2008
Well, Saturday marks my last indoor meet. Ever. And I just realized that. Wow. Craziness.
Tomorrow the team departs campus at 6:30 for Springfield, OH where we’ll compete in the NCCAA national meet at Cedarville. DMR and 4×400, here I come.
Lately we’ve been having our team meetings on Wednesdays before practice. They typically consist of a devotional from coach, meet entries for the upcoming weekend, and other house-keeping details (such as emptying the trash cans if you utilize them for upchuck… guys… Ryan…). I know it’s been said before, but it’s become clearer to me each day. TUTF really is a family. A crazy, fun, off-the-wall, hard working family. There is something extraordinary in the bonds formed amongst teammates. When spending such an exorbitant amount of time together, beating down your bodies together, and striving for a common goal, experiencing successes and failures together, you really don’t have much of a choice I suppose.
Maybe that is why this is where I am most comfortable. It is the place I’ve been made the most vulnerable. I’ve shared my best and worst moments with these girls, sometimes without choice. And they still love me. Take, for instance, last weekend at the IWU meet. I had a relatively decent 600. Vanna didn’t wait 2 steps after we crossed the finish line together to congratulate me. Just a few short hours later I ran a disgusting leg in the 4×800 and I was still loved just the same. Just the same. My acceptance is not conditional upon my performance or my perfection. Thank goodness!
As Vanna said this week, just run your best. It make be a fast time, it may be a slow time. But if you look at the big picture, we’re still not that good. Haha! So true! God sure knew what he was doing with me. He provided me with just enough talent to be able to compete at this level. But there’s also the lack of talent that is a reminder that I don’t run for myself. It’s to glorify the one who allowed me this opportunity.
There’s just no way I can do TUTF justice. To truly be able to appreciate it, you have to experience it- firsthand. It’s a marvelous thing. If the pit in my stomach and the tears in my eyes at the thought of leaving are any indication of my love for these kids, it must be a pretty darn big love. And I mean really big.
EACS February 22nd, 2008
I spent the day, along with 30-some other TU students, up in Fort Wayne for our East Allen County School Partnership with gifted and talented 5th graders. Hooray for encouraging kiddos to continue in math and go to college! We got back to Upland in time for Erin, Amy, and I to make a well-deserved stop at Ivanhoe’s for some sundaes and down time. Then they dropped me off and practice where I was able to persuade the other girls that we really needed to run outside today. Mark today as the first day I’ve worn a dry-fit around my face. Combine that with a colorful hat, sunglasses, and multiple layers. It was quite a sight!
Now I’m back in the apartment after spending a few hours on hw with Susan and Erin. I think it’s the first night this week I made it back home the same day I left. And I sit here and wonder- what’s the point? I’m missing out on life as I keep on top of my studies. Did I miss something here? While it’s not entirely comforting, I am very grateful for my friends in my major and how we’ve been able to support each other throughout the past 4 years. We’ve come to the conclusion that none of us would’ve made it this far without that encouragement.
Thank you, Lord, for community. Thank you for this one evening of the week that I have to catch up with myself. Thank you for the small blessings in life and the moments when I’m able to take the focus off of myself. Thank you for being faithful to sustain me, even when I doubt you.
There have been many aspects of this semester that haven’t panned out as I anticipated, but you have saved me from discouragement and despair. In the midst of a diminishing team, heartache of close friends, and attempting to balance life, you have managed to remind me that you’re in control. That shouldn’t surprise me, but perhaps the fact that I’ve heard and listened does. Help me not to cease seeing your glory and majesty displayed around me.
Pigland in February February 19th, 2008
Today was the first long run we’ve had outdoors in quite some time now. And it was my first LR to pigland of the season. We ran the route backwards and as we were turning the corner on the jog in the road I couldn’t help but notice how blue the sky was. It was that perfect medium-dark blue framed against the bare trees and cornfields; the contrast was absolutely stunning. The wind whipped at my face as I curled my toes with each step to regain feeling. Pine trees lined the left side of the road and swayed violently in the wind as the road dipped down towards the woods and river. But that scene of the sky and cornfield was relentlessly peaceful. And I couldn’t help but smile and marvel at the wonder of God’s handiwork.
Upon departing Nussbaum this evening around 10:30, my dear math nerd friends and I were greeted by a crunchy blanket of snow. We brushed off our cars and our professor’s car (we had just completed a review session with him for our test tomorrow night). Then, being the geniuses that we are, we utilized this opportunity and began a rather lively snowball fight in the nearly empty parking lot. It ended with a few snowballs being tossed in the direction of our approaching professor and his wife before we scurried off to our respective vehicles to travel home. In the events of the evening I might have spun around too quickly to avoid a flying object and had my first fall of the season- legs sprawled out smack down on my rear on the pavement. Priceless. It’s moments like those that never fail to bring a smile to my face. Moments where I can make an absolute fool of myself. And, of course, snowball fights in the middle of the night are always a blast as well. It just goes to show that nerds can have fun too.
Welcome to Taylor, Dr. Mummert.
Calling February 25th, 2008
Calling. Sometimes it’s the same as your vocation. Sometimes completely separate. And sometimes the two overlap in various areas. It’s what sparked a late-night conversation between my roommate and myself as we took a break from the books.
Rachel: You know that feeling you get when you just know you’re where you’re supposed to be?me: Yup.
R: Last year I debated for months what to do with my life. And now I know it’s law school.
me: I know. I feel the same way about teaching.
R: Roommate, there is absolutely no doubt in my mind whatsoever that you were meant to be a high school teacher. This is your calling. I can’t imagine you doing anything else in the world. I can’t imagine anything else making you happier or fulfilling you more than teaching. You were made for high school!
Sometimes she can say just the right things. :) I know I’m going to teach, but lately there have been some doubts of incompetency surfacing. That has probably come about with the beginning of the application process. I’ve done all I can up to this point. I’ve waited for this moment for [10+] years (yes, I’ve known that long… :P), and now all my work is on the line. It’s incredibly encouraging to have such adamant and sincere support from someone so dear.
Saying Good-bye to Indoor February 22nd, 2008
Well, Saturday marks my last indoor meet. Ever. And I just realized that. Wow. Craziness.
Tomorrow the team departs campus at 6:30 for Springfield, OH where we’ll compete in the NCCAA national meet at Cedarville. DMR and 4×400, here I come.
Lately we’ve been having our team meetings on Wednesdays before practice. They typically consist of a devotional from coach, meet entries for the upcoming weekend, and other house-keeping details (such as emptying the trash cans if you utilize them for upchuck… guys… Ryan…). I know it’s been said before, but it’s become clearer to me each day. TUTF really is a family. A crazy, fun, off-the-wall, hard working family. There is something extraordinary in the bonds formed amongst teammates. When spending such an exorbitant amount of time together, beating down your bodies together, and striving for a common goal, experiencing successes and failures together, you really don’t have much of a choice I suppose.
Maybe that is why this is where I am most comfortable. It is the place I’ve been made the most vulnerable. I’ve shared my best and worst moments with these girls, sometimes without choice. And they still love me. Take, for instance, last weekend at the IWU meet. I had a relatively decent 600. Vanna didn’t wait 2 steps after we crossed the finish line together to congratulate me. Just a few short hours later I ran a disgusting leg in the 4×800 and I was still loved just the same. Just the same. My acceptance is not conditional upon my performance or my perfection. Thank goodness!
As Vanna said this week, just run your best. It make be a fast time, it may be a slow time. But if you look at the big picture, we’re still not that good. Haha! So true! God sure knew what he was doing with me. He provided me with just enough talent to be able to compete at this level. But there’s also the lack of talent that is a reminder that I don’t run for myself. It’s to glorify the one who allowed me this opportunity.
There’s just no way I can do TUTF justice. To truly be able to appreciate it, you have to experience it- firsthand. It’s a marvelous thing. If the pit in my stomach and the tears in my eyes at the thought of leaving are any indication of my love for these kids, it must be a pretty darn big love. And I mean really big.
EACS February 22nd, 2008
I spent the day, along with 30-some other TU students, up in Fort Wayne for our East Allen County School Partnership with gifted and talented 5th graders. Hooray for encouraging kiddos to continue in math and go to college! We got back to Upland in time for Erin, Amy, and I to make a well-deserved stop at Ivanhoe’s for some sundaes and down time. Then they dropped me off and practice where I was able to persuade the other girls that we really needed to run outside today. Mark today as the first day I’ve worn a dry-fit around my face. Combine that with a colorful hat, sunglasses, and multiple layers. It was quite a sight!
Now I’m back in the apartment after spending a few hours on hw with Susan and Erin. I think it’s the first night this week I made it back home the same day I left. And I sit here and wonder- what’s the point? I’m missing out on life as I keep on top of my studies. Did I miss something here? While it’s not entirely comforting, I am very grateful for my friends in my major and how we’ve been able to support each other throughout the past 4 years. We’ve come to the conclusion that none of us would’ve made it this far without that encouragement.
Thank you, Lord, for community. Thank you for this one evening of the week that I have to catch up with myself. Thank you for the small blessings in life and the moments when I’m able to take the focus off of myself. Thank you for being faithful to sustain me, even when I doubt you.
There have been many aspects of this semester that haven’t panned out as I anticipated, but you have saved me from discouragement and despair. In the midst of a diminishing team, heartache of close friends, and attempting to balance life, you have managed to remind me that you’re in control. That shouldn’t surprise me, but perhaps the fact that I’ve heard and listened does. Help me not to cease seeing your glory and majesty displayed around me.
Pigland in February February 19th, 2008
Today was the first long run we’ve had outdoors in quite some time now. And it was my first LR to pigland of the season. We ran the route backwards and as we were turning the corner on the jog in the road I couldn’t help but notice how blue the sky was. It was that perfect medium-dark blue framed against the bare trees and cornfields; the contrast was absolutely stunning. The wind whipped at my face as I curled my toes with each step to regain feeling. Pine trees lined the left side of the road and swayed violently in the wind as the road dipped down towards the woods and river. But that scene of the sky and cornfield was relentlessly peaceful. And I couldn’t help but smile and marvel at the wonder of God’s handiwork.
[Archives 1]
For those who didn't know, I'm switching over from another blog I used during this past semester. I'm not sure exactly how to import those entries, or even if there is a nice way, but I decided cut and paste works just as well.
So here we go, the first of several old posts is below... :)
Elementary AnalysisFebruary 17th, 2008
So, the site name. Strange, right? Right. Probably because it’s the first half of the title to my Advanced Calculus textbook.
Lately some [many] of my thoughts have been directed towards thinking about how I define myself, or at least how I try to do so. How do I explain myself? Who am I, really? It has become quite evident over the years that there are multiple things which require my attention and receive incredible interest. But that’s just what I do, not who I am, no?
Anyway, these thoughts were weaving in and out of my mind as I glanced down at my backpack to be greeted with the sight of a small yellow hardcover book. Elementary Analysis: The Theory of Calculus. Elementary Analysis. I’ve been told that this class isn’t really teaching us anything new but simply taking us back to the basics and teaching us how to do things the ‘right way’. And then I realized that, in a small way, is what I tend to do- pass my thoughts over common areas in attempts to dissect them or understand them at a new level, albeit a very basic, untrained, and elementary level. And thus the title stuck.
First ThingsFebruary 16th, 2008
It’s my last semester of college and one would assume that I would’ve gotten the whole college thing down by now; the only new things to be encountered should be those associated with the ‘real world’. Not so. For example, as I was walking back to the apartment this evening, I encountered a lovely patch of ice. It provided me with several feet of horizontal sliding. Key point: it was all horizontal motion, not vertical. For those of you still ready to laugh, hold it. It was a rather graceful slide and only ended up with my banana flying out of my hand as I made a slightly minor flailing movement. I was left unbruised but the banana was not so fortunate. Let’s just say that I will be having banana-less cereal in the morning. Now, since I tend to be list-oriented, the remainder of “first-things” will have to appear in such a form.
Flailing banana incident (as recorded above).
Yesterday I gave the Board of Trustees a tour of our science building. It’s almost intimidating being in a room with the people who basically run the school. And of course having the president in your tour group is always a fun thing too. :P But man was it fun showing them my home away from home. I do have such a strange attachment to that building… hmm…
I fell asleep at dinner in the dining commons. Yup. I finished eating before the other track girls, slouched down a little too low and fell asleep. No worries, Vanessa woke me up with a flying napkin wad to make sure I didn’t miss too much.
I lost my student ID and had to get a temporary one from Campus Safety. [That’s such a freshman thing to do. Ugh.] Thankfully that 12-yr old looking version of myself found its way back to my desk this evening and is no longer missing.
Tomorrow we run at IWU’s brand-new indoor track facility. Obviously a first since it’s new. Duh.
Posting here! Again, another obvious first. [While we’re on this subject, perhaps it is wise to ask your forgiveness as I attempt to figure this whole thing out.]
It’s only the third week of classes, but I have the sneaking suspicion that the following weeks and months are going to be a time of incredible growth. Not just for reasons of ice patches and sleeping at dinner, but because I have a completely new perspective on life after student teaching. I am still amazed at how different things appear to me now. Perhaps a disclaimer belongs here. So…. Disclaimer: this [post-student teaching and pre-teaching life] may end up being a common theme among future posts. But that will all have to wait for now.
One thing that hasn’t changed is my need for rest.
So here we go, the first of several old posts is below... :)
Elementary AnalysisFebruary 17th, 2008
So, the site name. Strange, right? Right. Probably because it’s the first half of the title to my Advanced Calculus textbook.
Lately some [many] of my thoughts have been directed towards thinking about how I define myself, or at least how I try to do so. How do I explain myself? Who am I, really? It has become quite evident over the years that there are multiple things which require my attention and receive incredible interest. But that’s just what I do, not who I am, no?
Anyway, these thoughts were weaving in and out of my mind as I glanced down at my backpack to be greeted with the sight of a small yellow hardcover book. Elementary Analysis: The Theory of Calculus. Elementary Analysis. I’ve been told that this class isn’t really teaching us anything new but simply taking us back to the basics and teaching us how to do things the ‘right way’. And then I realized that, in a small way, is what I tend to do- pass my thoughts over common areas in attempts to dissect them or understand them at a new level, albeit a very basic, untrained, and elementary level. And thus the title stuck.
First ThingsFebruary 16th, 2008
It’s my last semester of college and one would assume that I would’ve gotten the whole college thing down by now; the only new things to be encountered should be those associated with the ‘real world’. Not so. For example, as I was walking back to the apartment this evening, I encountered a lovely patch of ice. It provided me with several feet of horizontal sliding. Key point: it was all horizontal motion, not vertical. For those of you still ready to laugh, hold it. It was a rather graceful slide and only ended up with my banana flying out of my hand as I made a slightly minor flailing movement. I was left unbruised but the banana was not so fortunate. Let’s just say that I will be having banana-less cereal in the morning. Now, since I tend to be list-oriented, the remainder of “first-things” will have to appear in such a form.
Flailing banana incident (as recorded above).
Yesterday I gave the Board of Trustees a tour of our science building. It’s almost intimidating being in a room with the people who basically run the school. And of course having the president in your tour group is always a fun thing too. :P But man was it fun showing them my home away from home. I do have such a strange attachment to that building… hmm…
I fell asleep at dinner in the dining commons. Yup. I finished eating before the other track girls, slouched down a little too low and fell asleep. No worries, Vanessa woke me up with a flying napkin wad to make sure I didn’t miss too much.
I lost my student ID and had to get a temporary one from Campus Safety. [That’s such a freshman thing to do. Ugh.] Thankfully that 12-yr old looking version of myself found its way back to my desk this evening and is no longer missing.
Tomorrow we run at IWU’s brand-new indoor track facility. Obviously a first since it’s new. Duh.
Posting here! Again, another obvious first. [While we’re on this subject, perhaps it is wise to ask your forgiveness as I attempt to figure this whole thing out.]
It’s only the third week of classes, but I have the sneaking suspicion that the following weeks and months are going to be a time of incredible growth. Not just for reasons of ice patches and sleeping at dinner, but because I have a completely new perspective on life after student teaching. I am still amazed at how different things appear to me now. Perhaps a disclaimer belongs here. So…. Disclaimer: this [post-student teaching and pre-teaching life] may end up being a common theme among future posts. But that will all have to wait for now.
One thing that hasn’t changed is my need for rest.
Maddawg Legend
I may be gone from Taylor, but the Hegeleins have not left. Kirstin will be there in the fall; she is also planning on running cross country there! We've discussed the idea for a few weeks now and she's met with some of the girls on the team and had great chats with them. A few days ago she received a letter from coach, including the summer training schedule. Now she's in.
Since I ran for Taylor, she has been looking forward to having me coach her through the next few months to get her ready for camp. Today was our first training run- an easy 3 miler. She did great. Unfortunately, I was reminded why I stopped running cross country and converted to the 400, 4x400, and 4x100. My knees don't like distance. :P So, with a minor change in plans, I'm pulling my bike down tomorrow and we're going for our second excursion. Kirstin will end up getting more out of the workouts since she'll be running, but that's the whole point anyway.
From now on, I think running will be a very casual and light activity for me. Another chapter of my life is... changing. The ice on my knees confirms it. I thought I'd dread this day- losing something that has meant so much to me for so long. But right now I'm just extremely thankful to have had so much time doing something I enjoy so much with the people I loved like brothers and sisters. It was simply incredible. There will never be words to describe it.
Hopefully Kirstin will have a similar experience.
Since I ran for Taylor, she has been looking forward to having me coach her through the next few months to get her ready for camp. Today was our first training run- an easy 3 miler. She did great. Unfortunately, I was reminded why I stopped running cross country and converted to the 400, 4x400, and 4x100. My knees don't like distance. :P So, with a minor change in plans, I'm pulling my bike down tomorrow and we're going for our second excursion. Kirstin will end up getting more out of the workouts since she'll be running, but that's the whole point anyway.
From now on, I think running will be a very casual and light activity for me. Another chapter of my life is... changing. The ice on my knees confirms it. I thought I'd dread this day- losing something that has meant so much to me for so long. But right now I'm just extremely thankful to have had so much time doing something I enjoy so much with the people I loved like brothers and sisters. It was simply incredible. There will never be words to describe it.
Hopefully Kirstin will have a similar experience.
A New Friend
Today mom, grandma and I set out hunting for some good Memorial 
Day sales. I ended up with a hand mixer for the insane amount of baking that I'll be doing (hopefully), some beautiful bright sunny yellow measuring cups to aid in that venture, a long plastic cutting board and, finally, a new member to the family.
Fred is my new friend and, to welcome him, we decided to watch TV together this evening... ok, not really, but I am quite excited to put him to use. As you can see, he's a clown fish tea kettle. Now, I'm not exactly sure what could be more exciting than having a clown fish as a tea kettle. If you have any ideas, let me know. But I think I take the cake on this one. :)
Day sales. I ended up with a hand mixer for the insane amount of baking that I'll be doing (hopefully), some beautiful bright sunny yellow measuring cups to aid in that venture, a long plastic cutting board and, finally, a new member to the family.Meet Fred.
Fred is my new friend and, to welcome him, we decided to watch TV together this evening... ok, not really, but I am quite excited to put him to use. As you can see, he's a clown fish tea kettle. Now, I'm not exactly sure what could be more exciting than having a clown fish as a tea kettle. If you have any ideas, let me know. But I think I take the cake on this one. :)Even though Fred and I didn't watch TV, the family did watch a movie tonight. "National Treasure". For those of you who haven't seen it, I pity you. Watch it. Now. :)
Signs of Summer
Grandma flew in last Thursday and we celebrated the occassion with hamburgers and corn on the cob- a meal she rarely makes for herself now that she doesn't have a grill. Those were some true signs of summer. :)
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Still two reasons...
I still have two reasons to love Detroit.
Red Wings
Tigers
(The Tigers? What?)
The Pistons didn't cut it tonight.
Regardless, it was still a great night to live in the Motor City. :)
Red Wings
Tigers
(The Tigers? What?)
The Pistons didn't cut it tonight.
Regardless, it was still a great night to live in the Motor City. :)
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Two Reasons to Love Detroit
It's been one week since graduation. I've fallen back into Michigander mentality. I've been watching basketball and hockey nightly. Side note: I forgot that Hoosiers didn't do the hockey thing.
Tonight, in true Detroit style, we are attempting to watch both the Pistons and Red Wings concurrently. We're so hardcore. ;)
We'll see how long these two reasons to love Detroit last...
Tonight, in true Detroit style, we are attempting to watch both the Pistons and Red Wings concurrently. We're so hardcore. ;)
We'll see how long these two reasons to love Detroit last...
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Senior Walk
Yes, today Kirstin had her Senior Walk, a tradition unique to Stoney Creek. The hour (ok, not quite) we waited was worth it for the photo ops afterwards and here is one of my favorites. Isn't she gorgeous?! I can hardly believe my little sister is about to graduate from high school- much less begin her very own Taylor career this fall.Mom, KK, and I went out to lunch together to celebrate KK's last day of high school (except that 
she's taking an AP exam tomorrow) and then ran a few errands. Once home mom was busy cleaning and such so I got to make dinner tonight! :) Naturally, it was simple. Easy clean-up too, with a one-dish meal (not counting the asparagus). I could use the excuse that I had to appease the family and make something everyone would eat, but let's face it. We had the ingredients for this one and it was a quick fix...
she's taking an AP exam tomorrow) and then ran a few errands. Once home mom was busy cleaning and such so I got to make dinner tonight! :) Naturally, it was simple. Easy clean-up too, with a one-dish meal (not counting the asparagus). I could use the excuse that I had to appease the family and make something everyone would eat, but let's face it. We had the ingredients for this one and it was a quick fix... 
While that was in the oven KK and I studied stats for a bit together. Kirstin proclaimed that I looked too much like a teacher and made me promise to never put my pencil (or any writing utensil for that matter) behind my ear. I promised. But she never said anything about sticking it in my hair...Now that the washer has been running nearly continuously for two days, I think all of my linens and running clothes are finally clean. My sheets, towels, and shower curtain are already packed and ready to go. Gosh, I'm so ahead of the game. I was joking with mom that I'm really just putting myself in a nice position for a late hire. Come August I could literally get a call one day and be ready to move out the next. It's nice being prepared, but I sure hope I have more of a notice than that.
And, the last note for the evening... I recieved an e-mail from Deal today which was actually a forwarded e-mail from her sister, a fellow TU alum. It's been decided. The math majors like Mr. Garringer, our campus photographer. Apparently someone also likes the math majors. "It may not be the Taylor Magazine, but a mass alumni e-mail is pretty close." Thanks, Deal. Check it out! :D
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
And so it begins...
I figured such a momentous occasion as college graduation deserved me finally setting up my own blog. While grateful for those who have pushed me into this blogging world (Cyrus) I figured it was about time I attemtped to stand on my own two feet.
Saturday I graduated from Taylor University. It was my last and final day as a student. Well, at least for the time being. I left a place I had grown to love over the past four years. A place of many joys, triumphs, heartaches, tears, and wonderful memories. Graduation was the perfect conclusion to that time. It was a delicate closure to a time beyond description. And now I have left that haven of sorts. I have left those girls that had become my sisters, my teammates, my math majors, and the professors that cared more than I imagined. Dr. Benbow put things very nicely during our commencement breakfast before the ceremony on Saturday. He said our class was about community, contributing to the department, and acting as a liason beyond Taylor. Of course, he presented it much more eloquently than I can replicate.
As we lined up in the indoor track for our procession, I got such a huge smile out of our behavior. The 9 or so of us math majors, being the close-knit bunch that we are, had to have those last minute graduation pictures together. Naturally, we were the only major to do so. I can honestly say that I never would have made it through without them. Of course, it was only made better by the fact that I got to graduate right next to some of my best friends.
After the ceremony I had the chance to see the faces that had the most impact on my during my time at Taylor. I was reminded of their influence and how they made me smile and grow. Then "the fam" (Rach, Deb, Mark, SJ, Jacob, Vanna, Neil, and I) and our real families headed off to Exit 59 Church where we partook in some catered Fazoli's in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. Again, it was probably the perfect ending to the day.
Fastforward just a bit... here I am, sitting back home in MI. It's Tuesday evening and I'm just over 72 hours removed from Upland. It's the first time I've been home since Christmas and I'd forgotten how much I missed MI- and home. It's strange to have my heart so much in two different places. But I think it has helped me appreciate each all the more. Of course, I'm also in a strange place right now. I am a college graduate, but as my dad so keenly likes to say, I'm "in the ranks of the unemployed". No summer job. No teaching job. Many pieces still need to fall into place. It's taking a whole lot of trust, but I think at least the pieces are beginning to take on a vague form. For now, I'm waiting on my IN teaching license to be processed. The next step after that is to apply for my MI teaching certificate. After that, well... hopefully find a district that wants me!
In the midst of the utter uncertainty, there is profound peace.
Tomorrow Kirstin has her senior walk. Thursday she has her AP Stats exam and grandma flies in from PA! The next two weeks are going to be a whirlwind of activity- applying for jobs, unpacking and packing simultaneously, helping Kirstin with graduation festivities, and celebrating my birthday and two graduations. At least life is never boring with the Hegeleins!
Saturday I graduated from Taylor University. It was my last and final day as a student. Well, at least for the time being. I left a place I had grown to love over the past four years. A place of many joys, triumphs, heartaches, tears, and wonderful memories. Graduation was the perfect conclusion to that time. It was a delicate closure to a time beyond description. And now I have left that haven of sorts. I have left those girls that had become my sisters, my teammates, my math majors, and the professors that cared more than I imagined. Dr. Benbow put things very nicely during our commencement breakfast before the ceremony on Saturday. He said our class was about community, contributing to the department, and acting as a liason beyond Taylor. Of course, he presented it much more eloquently than I can replicate.
As we lined up in the indoor track for our procession, I got such a huge smile out of our behavior. The 9 or so of us math majors, being the close-knit bunch that we are, had to have those last minute graduation pictures together. Naturally, we were the only major to do so. I can honestly say that I never would have made it through without them. Of course, it was only made better by the fact that I got to graduate right next to some of my best friends.After the ceremony I had the chance to see the faces that had the most impact on my during my time at Taylor. I was reminded of their influence and how they made me smile and grow. Then "the fam" (Rach, Deb, Mark, SJ, Jacob, Vanna, Neil, and I) and our real families headed off to Exit 59 Church where we partook in some catered Fazoli's in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. Again, it was probably the perfect ending to the day.
Fastforward just a bit... here I am, sitting back home in MI. It's Tuesday evening and I'm just over 72 hours removed from Upland. It's the first time I've been home since Christmas and I'd forgotten how much I missed MI- and home. It's strange to have my heart so much in two different places. But I think it has helped me appreciate each all the more. Of course, I'm also in a strange place right now. I am a college graduate, but as my dad so keenly likes to say, I'm "in the ranks of the unemployed". No summer job. No teaching job. Many pieces still need to fall into place. It's taking a whole lot of trust, but I think at least the pieces are beginning to take on a vague form. For now, I'm waiting on my IN teaching license to be processed. The next step after that is to apply for my MI teaching certificate. After that, well... hopefully find a district that wants me!
In the midst of the utter uncertainty, there is profound peace.
Tomorrow Kirstin has her senior walk. Thursday she has her AP Stats exam and grandma flies in from PA! The next two weeks are going to be a whirlwind of activity- applying for jobs, unpacking and packing simultaneously, helping Kirstin with graduation festivities, and celebrating my birthday and two graduations. At least life is never boring with the Hegeleins!
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