My diploma finally came in the mail!
Tuesday, March 01, 2011
Monday, February 21, 2011
Stand Back, I'm a Professional
A couple weeks ago, my friend Jenn (of the Ash Family Blog I follow) invited me to a Bunco tournament a friend of hers was throwing. I had heard of Bunco clubs and several people I know are in such clubs but I didn't really know what it was. Bunco is a dice game played at tables of two pairs of people. Basically you roll three dice multiple times for a specific number. In the first round everone is rolling for ones. The round is over when the head table has rolled 21 ones. Then everyone moves on to twos. A bunco is if you roll a three of a kind in the number you want, for instance 3 ones in the first round. They are worth more points. The person who has won the most rounds win.
Needless to say it is a fun and mindless game so you can chat with the other players and after each game you switch partners. To join the game I had to pay $5 and bring $5 gift. At the end of the night the winner got one gift and the loser got four gifts. I came in third and got a couple old dvds. Not bad for my first time playing a game of luck :)
Then, this weekend Jenn invited me to a Hand and Foot tournament at her sister's house. Hand and Foot is similar to Canasta so you know I was all over it. The biggest difference is that you have a hand-11 cards that you play from, and a Foot-11 cards you have to play after you play your hand. Mind blowing I know! The change I had to get used to was that you can't pick up the discard pile, which of course changes your entire discarding strategy.
Now some of you may remember that the summer after freshman year of college I was hired by my high school art teacher to come over in the afternoons and play Hand and Foot with her 93 year old mother for $5 an hour. It was a super sweet deal since her mother a) drank vodka like it was water and b) suffered from slight dementia so she was willing to play for four hours straight but as the time went on she started to forget what she was doing.
This summer experience has come in handy during ice breakers and parties because no one would ever believe i have been a 'professional card player.' I barely remembered the rules so I had to laugh that I was actually going to play Hand and Foot again. It was super fun and surprisingly my partner and I won the tournament! We didn't win any prizes but we do get bragging rights- which is a big deal to the group I was playing with. The last champions have been bragging for two years since the last big game.
It has been a fun couple of weeks but I am afraid Jenn might stop inviting me to her friends' events it I keep doing so well. Luckily she is on the same softball league as me and knows I suck at that :)
Needless to say it is a fun and mindless game so you can chat with the other players and after each game you switch partners. To join the game I had to pay $5 and bring $5 gift. At the end of the night the winner got one gift and the loser got four gifts. I came in third and got a couple old dvds. Not bad for my first time playing a game of luck :)
Then, this weekend Jenn invited me to a Hand and Foot tournament at her sister's house. Hand and Foot is similar to Canasta so you know I was all over it. The biggest difference is that you have a hand-11 cards that you play from, and a Foot-11 cards you have to play after you play your hand. Mind blowing I know! The change I had to get used to was that you can't pick up the discard pile, which of course changes your entire discarding strategy.
Now some of you may remember that the summer after freshman year of college I was hired by my high school art teacher to come over in the afternoons and play Hand and Foot with her 93 year old mother for $5 an hour. It was a super sweet deal since her mother a) drank vodka like it was water and b) suffered from slight dementia so she was willing to play for four hours straight but as the time went on she started to forget what she was doing.
This summer experience has come in handy during ice breakers and parties because no one would ever believe i have been a 'professional card player.' I barely remembered the rules so I had to laugh that I was actually going to play Hand and Foot again. It was super fun and surprisingly my partner and I won the tournament! We didn't win any prizes but we do get bragging rights- which is a big deal to the group I was playing with. The last champions have been bragging for two years since the last big game.
It has been a fun couple of weeks but I am afraid Jenn might stop inviting me to her friends' events it I keep doing so well. Luckily she is on the same softball league as me and knows I suck at that :)
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Mobile Posting
OK so now I really do have my Droid X. Turns out I can even upload blogger to my apps. If any of you learn of really useful apps to have, let me or my mom know. We are all about it!
Wednesday, February 09, 2011
droid post
I just got a droid x. Now I can access the internet from my phone! I am definitely having a lot of fun with this! I still have a lot to figure out but it is amazing to have so much at my fingertips :)
Tuesday, February 08, 2011
Happy Birthday Ariana
Ok, so I am a day late in the birthday wishes, but the important thing is that my gift was not late. And I got a phone call from Ariana last night, which was really fun. I am getting a new phone this week with skype mobile but I don't know if it would connect to computer accounts. I will have to play with it. Worst case, only my mom and I can skype each other on our phones - not bad at all!
Happy Birthday Ariana!
Happy Birthday Ariana!
Sunday, January 30, 2011
New Developments
So about a week ago, my boss' bosses pulled me into a late afternoon meeting and told me "we think we have a great opportunity for you, and don't think you really have a choice about it"
Great opening lines eh? They went on to say that due to my student supervisory experience at the MU and my master's degree, that they would like me to supervise our group of evening student telecounselors. As well as continue to do all my other duties. They mentioned how it would help build my resume, and also would make me point person for our social media branding as well as our private social network (in which the telecounselors are student bloggers).
While that might not sound like a great offer to many of you, it actually is really great, because it does bolster my resume AND let's me get more involved in our social networking, skills I gained as a college student and for my graduate program.
My only major worry (aside from how to do it all and my counseling duties) was how I as going to work full time and supervise evening student workers? that would be 12 hours days. My bosses let me know they were hiring a part-time staffer to actually supervise those students, and he would report to me - whew! oh, and I would receive a 10% raise. The offer is good until the end of the fiscal year in June.
I am pretty excited about it!
Then this week, they posted a new position for an assistant director of communications for the department. this person would be in charge of the entire communication flow to students, as well as manage social networking, and work with other university offices to maintain consistent branding. This job sounds like about half of it is duties they just assigned me, so I am definitely applying for the job.
This would be a perfect move up for me. I don't want to get too excited though, it is highly possible they will get applicants with more communications experience than me, but I definitely don't think it will hurt me to apply. My past experience isn't so strong, but my knowledge of the department and my ideas for how we can move forward are pretty good, so I think I have a shot. I am going to meet with some people I know at the university who can give some advice on how to best approach this application, but I am excited that this new job has appeared.
I don't know how many times people have asked me what my career goals are, or where I plan to be in 5 years - I think that was because jobs like this werent invented yet for me to know that was an option.
If I don't get this job, I will certainly need to look outside the department - after all my raise is good until June, and then whoever becomes this asst. director will have most of those duties, seems unlikely it would continue for me.
Great opening lines eh? They went on to say that due to my student supervisory experience at the MU and my master's degree, that they would like me to supervise our group of evening student telecounselors. As well as continue to do all my other duties. They mentioned how it would help build my resume, and also would make me point person for our social media branding as well as our private social network (in which the telecounselors are student bloggers).
While that might not sound like a great offer to many of you, it actually is really great, because it does bolster my resume AND let's me get more involved in our social networking, skills I gained as a college student and for my graduate program.
My only major worry (aside from how to do it all and my counseling duties) was how I as going to work full time and supervise evening student workers? that would be 12 hours days. My bosses let me know they were hiring a part-time staffer to actually supervise those students, and he would report to me - whew! oh, and I would receive a 10% raise. The offer is good until the end of the fiscal year in June.
I am pretty excited about it!
Then this week, they posted a new position for an assistant director of communications for the department. this person would be in charge of the entire communication flow to students, as well as manage social networking, and work with other university offices to maintain consistent branding. This job sounds like about half of it is duties they just assigned me, so I am definitely applying for the job.
This would be a perfect move up for me. I don't want to get too excited though, it is highly possible they will get applicants with more communications experience than me, but I definitely don't think it will hurt me to apply. My past experience isn't so strong, but my knowledge of the department and my ideas for how we can move forward are pretty good, so I think I have a shot. I am going to meet with some people I know at the university who can give some advice on how to best approach this application, but I am excited that this new job has appeared.
I don't know how many times people have asked me what my career goals are, or where I plan to be in 5 years - I think that was because jobs like this werent invented yet for me to know that was an option.
If I don't get this job, I will certainly need to look outside the department - after all my raise is good until June, and then whoever becomes this asst. director will have most of those duties, seems unlikely it would continue for me.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
January
So, I guess it is time I updated you all on the happenings of me.
Christmas came and went! I got a ton of cool stuff, and we had fun Skyping with Greg and family in NY.
New Years was also fun, I went to a coworker's house and we drank White Russians and played board games. We also had Black Russians, so as not to appear racist (substitute Coke for cream). I guess I am still in that age group where trying new alcoholic drinks is an event onto itself. The Russians weren't bad, although I find myself liking mixed drinks less and less. Not necessarily a bad thing.
My apartment is shaping up. still have to find places for a few things but otherwise all is well. I do not yet have internet at my house. I am surprised that I don't miss it as much as I thought I would. I mean, sure it is inconvenient sometimes (for instance, I am blogging from my office right now) but for the most part I use the internet for entertainment so now I just have to entertain myself in new ways.
Ok, really I am just waiting to be able to afford a smartphone, they are so advanced now that I can access just about anything online from one. I predict that before the end of this year, I will have some sort of Droid phone. I just don't know which one yet.
In other news, similar to mom and dad's retirement, classes start up again next week, and I don't have to go!!! No more school. Of course this just means that now I have no excuse not to be better at my job (give it the ol' 110%) or find an awesome new one. I have applied to several and didn't get them. I may try to get a side job for a while to make some money, but otherwise I am pretty confident that I will get hired when the right job becomes available.
I think that is about all for now folks.
Christmas came and went! I got a ton of cool stuff, and we had fun Skyping with Greg and family in NY.
New Years was also fun, I went to a coworker's house and we drank White Russians and played board games. We also had Black Russians, so as not to appear racist (substitute Coke for cream). I guess I am still in that age group where trying new alcoholic drinks is an event onto itself. The Russians weren't bad, although I find myself liking mixed drinks less and less. Not necessarily a bad thing.
My apartment is shaping up. still have to find places for a few things but otherwise all is well. I do not yet have internet at my house. I am surprised that I don't miss it as much as I thought I would. I mean, sure it is inconvenient sometimes (for instance, I am blogging from my office right now) but for the most part I use the internet for entertainment so now I just have to entertain myself in new ways.
Ok, really I am just waiting to be able to afford a smartphone, they are so advanced now that I can access just about anything online from one. I predict that before the end of this year, I will have some sort of Droid phone. I just don't know which one yet.
In other news, similar to mom and dad's retirement, classes start up again next week, and I don't have to go!!! No more school. Of course this just means that now I have no excuse not to be better at my job (give it the ol' 110%) or find an awesome new one. I have applied to several and didn't get them. I may try to get a side job for a while to make some money, but otherwise I am pretty confident that I will get hired when the right job becomes available.
I think that is about all for now folks.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
'Moving On' or 'Just 20 more minutes'
So I moved this past weekend. I have yet to set up new internet service so I can't post any pictures yet, but will get to that after the holidays.
I had several of my coworkers and their boyfriends (7 people total) come help me move everything into my Uhaul, and then everything right back out at my new place. I only moved about 4 miles east of my other place, but it is in the Dobson Ranch area, right next to a park and a Mesa library. My new place is a little smaller than the last place but the living room and bedroom are both longer so I feel like I have more space. My kitchen also had stainless steel appliances and cherry wood finished cabinets so it seems fancier too, even though it is older than the other place, and seems to have been inhabited by a smoker in the past (it is a faint smell so not too bad).
After my friends got everything moved (there was only one casualty. a bookcase a friend and I were carrying fell on top of me when I tripped on the sidewalk and my foot went right through it, I am fine, but the bookcase was KIA) I promised them I would buy their drinks at a local british restaurant/pub. Let's just say it was a good thing I had sold my futon the day before.
On Sunday my parents came up with their old wooden hutch that is now my old wooden hutch. we put it right next to my fancy cherry cabinets and steel appliances, so I guess I could turn into that person that brings the property value down of the people around me. I am pretty excited to have it though - so thanks mom and dad! They had some time to kill so they helped me unpack my kitchen stuff and rearrange my living room furniture.
Here is where my 20 more minutes comes in (See dad's blog to understand that phrase). I haven't unpacked much since this weekend, so there are still several boxes to unpack and some furniture to find a place for, but I did get my Christmas tree unpacked and set up, and I got all my presents bought, wrapped, and shipped which really, is much more important.
My biggest adjustment has been getting a digital antenna and losing my cable (and more importantly my DVR). I have to go back to remembering when shows are on, and what channel they are on. But it has been fun to have more channels per station, so now I have a permanent weather channel and a traffic channel. I even have 4 PBS channels! I also discovered about 10 Spanish channels and as many religious channels. not much use to me but good to know I have choices. As soon as I have my internet connected I will be able to watch some cable shows on my computer. I have now put my computer and TV right next to each other so it is a true entertainment center. In my old place, my computer was in my bedroom, and I didn't like having to watch shows in my bed.
Hopefully I will have pictures soon! I will be in Tucson for Christmas and am looking forward to seeing some friends (yes mom and dad, Julie is in town and is looking forward to seeing you too!)
Hope you have a wonderful holiday week!!
I had several of my coworkers and their boyfriends (7 people total) come help me move everything into my Uhaul, and then everything right back out at my new place. I only moved about 4 miles east of my other place, but it is in the Dobson Ranch area, right next to a park and a Mesa library. My new place is a little smaller than the last place but the living room and bedroom are both longer so I feel like I have more space. My kitchen also had stainless steel appliances and cherry wood finished cabinets so it seems fancier too, even though it is older than the other place, and seems to have been inhabited by a smoker in the past (it is a faint smell so not too bad).
After my friends got everything moved (there was only one casualty. a bookcase a friend and I were carrying fell on top of me when I tripped on the sidewalk and my foot went right through it, I am fine, but the bookcase was KIA) I promised them I would buy their drinks at a local british restaurant/pub. Let's just say it was a good thing I had sold my futon the day before.
On Sunday my parents came up with their old wooden hutch that is now my old wooden hutch. we put it right next to my fancy cherry cabinets and steel appliances, so I guess I could turn into that person that brings the property value down of the people around me. I am pretty excited to have it though - so thanks mom and dad! They had some time to kill so they helped me unpack my kitchen stuff and rearrange my living room furniture.
Here is where my 20 more minutes comes in (See dad's blog to understand that phrase). I haven't unpacked much since this weekend, so there are still several boxes to unpack and some furniture to find a place for, but I did get my Christmas tree unpacked and set up, and I got all my presents bought, wrapped, and shipped which really, is much more important.
My biggest adjustment has been getting a digital antenna and losing my cable (and more importantly my DVR). I have to go back to remembering when shows are on, and what channel they are on. But it has been fun to have more channels per station, so now I have a permanent weather channel and a traffic channel. I even have 4 PBS channels! I also discovered about 10 Spanish channels and as many religious channels. not much use to me but good to know I have choices. As soon as I have my internet connected I will be able to watch some cable shows on my computer. I have now put my computer and TV right next to each other so it is a true entertainment center. In my old place, my computer was in my bedroom, and I didn't like having to watch shows in my bed.
Hopefully I will have pictures soon! I will be in Tucson for Christmas and am looking forward to seeing some friends (yes mom and dad, Julie is in town and is looking forward to seeing you too!)
Hope you have a wonderful holiday week!!
Friday, December 17, 2010
Graduation
I am all graduated!
Wednesday night was the university graduate commencement ceremony, just for masters and doctoral students.
I didn't realize that I would actually do anything at this ceremony, but it turns out all the masters students get hooded at this ceremony. so I got to go up to the front of the stage and be hooded (sounds like being knighted or something). The process is actually called Investiture, and basically it is the university investing its authority in us. It was really moving to go up and have my hood place around my neck (in pictures it is the blue sash you see around my neck, but it actually drops down my back too).
Afterwards my parents and I went out to the Cheesecake Factory and had a great dinner!
Thursday was the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College Convocation, where I had my name read aloud as I walked across stage and received my degree. This was a lot of fun, and I was able to find my graduate director and get a picture with her.
Earlier on Thursday my parents and I had an adventure - I should know better than to go anywhere with them, but I didn't. We headed over to IKEA and a few other shops near by to do some Christmas shopping, and personal shopping. But when we were ready to leave at around 2pm the Jeep wouldn't start! Wouldn't even try to start. So we had to use roadside assistance to get towed to the nearest autoshop, which just happened to be the Jeep dealership. We were literally about a quarter mile from the dealership (so it was a short tow) and then we were only about half a mile from my house. Needless to say I started to get a bit antsy wanting to get home to get ready for graduation and knowing that I could probably walk home. But it was raining, and dad was confident it would be a quick fix.
turns out he was right enough. it took about three hours from the time the car wouldn't start to driving out of the dealership. We had enough time to eat and get ready for the convocation. I am sure mom and dad will blog in more detail (and with photos) about the day.
Wednesday night was the university graduate commencement ceremony, just for masters and doctoral students.
I didn't realize that I would actually do anything at this ceremony, but it turns out all the masters students get hooded at this ceremony. so I got to go up to the front of the stage and be hooded (sounds like being knighted or something). The process is actually called Investiture, and basically it is the university investing its authority in us. It was really moving to go up and have my hood place around my neck (in pictures it is the blue sash you see around my neck, but it actually drops down my back too).
Afterwards my parents and I went out to the Cheesecake Factory and had a great dinner!
Thursday was the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College Convocation, where I had my name read aloud as I walked across stage and received my degree. This was a lot of fun, and I was able to find my graduate director and get a picture with her.
Earlier on Thursday my parents and I had an adventure - I should know better than to go anywhere with them, but I didn't. We headed over to IKEA and a few other shops near by to do some Christmas shopping, and personal shopping. But when we were ready to leave at around 2pm the Jeep wouldn't start! Wouldn't even try to start. So we had to use roadside assistance to get towed to the nearest autoshop, which just happened to be the Jeep dealership. We were literally about a quarter mile from the dealership (so it was a short tow) and then we were only about half a mile from my house. Needless to say I started to get a bit antsy wanting to get home to get ready for graduation and knowing that I could probably walk home. But it was raining, and dad was confident it would be a quick fix.
turns out he was right enough. it took about three hours from the time the car wouldn't start to driving out of the dealership. We had enough time to eat and get ready for the convocation. I am sure mom and dad will blog in more detail (and with photos) about the day.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Pamp and Circumstance
Months ago Nicole and I decided to get each other manicures for graduation since we were both finishing our degrees this December. Today was the day.
I made sure it was on one of my pitchfork fingers!
She went a little further than I did and got a maroon and gold french manicure, but since I have a job interview the same day as graduation and kept it a simple light pink. The manicurist talked me into a little design.
I made sure it was on one of my pitchfork fingers!
Happy Birthday Tomoko!
This is a gift somewhere around here for you...it might still be in the interwebs but will get to you sooner rather than later. I hear you understand the hectic life right now too :)
Have a great day!
Casey
Have a great day!
Casey
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Party Time
'Tis the Holiday season which can only mean one thing - parties! so far I have been to 3 parties (and my own birthday happy hour) and it is only the 11th!
I went to a Hanukkah party last weekend and ate latkes (potato pancakes) and donuts. I didn't know donuts were traditional Hanukkah fare, but I also don't balk at tradition. We played Dreidl with gelt - you know the chocolate coins that dad always put in our stockings? who knew he was being multi-cultural. I didn't win, but I didn't lose either. Then we played Apples to Apples which is a fun group game and I am surprised my family has never played it at a gathering before.
Yesterday was the big office holiday party at our director's house. It was the first time we had had a family friendly party and it was really surprising to realize all my coworkers' wives and children were in fact real people and not just people they talk about. It reminded me of when I met Margot and was so shocked at what she actually looked like, because in all my imaginings of her, I hadn't been able to think of her face and it hadn't dawned on me that she would have distinct features. Suddenly the nameless spouses were in front of me and I no longer had to imagine what they might look like.
Tonight I had a cookie exchange at my office-mate's house (if you didn't know, I share an office with one other person, for whatever reason my office is the only one big enough to fit two people, and therefore I am the only one that has to share. It isn't a problem because I really like the girl who shares it with me - oh which reminds me, Margie, my office mate is named Linda and she is the Northern AZ rep and visits Mingus once or twice a semester). Anyway I went to the party and there were a couple other coworkers and a bunch of people I didn't know. I had made key lime bars (from a box) and boiled cookies. the key lime bars came out fine, but something went wrong with the boiled cookies and they were sticky and chewy - did I buy the wrong oats or just not cook the sugar long enough? I brought both but on the way to the party the plate with the boiled cookies slid on top of the key lime bars. when I parked I found the key lime bars ruined and stuck to the bottom of the boiled cookies plate. I swapped out the plates and had to go in with just the boiled cookies. It was a bummer, but luckily there were so many types of cookies mine just went unnoticed for the most part. one lady made a beeline for them though and thanked me for making them because she loves that type of cookie and hadn't had one in forever.
Oddly, we have an office-wide cookie exchange on Monday so I may try to make the boiled cookies again. if they don't come out right the second time I will know it is the oats. I bought 1-minute quaker oats, but I fear they are the problem, even though my last canister was also quick oats.
I have a potluck to go to on Tuesday because one of my coworkers is also graduating this week and her parents are coming into town and want to meet everyone. I think I am going to make Grace's cheesy bread...hopefully mom remembers the temperature it has to cook at, or will have the house unpacked enough to find the recipe, Thanks mom!
The following Monday is our office white elephant exchange, hopefully in my packing will unearth something worth "regifting."
The best thing about all these parties is that I have become friendly with enough of my coworkers' boyfriends that I think I will have a nice little posse to help me move on Saturday! I have also put a few items on craigslist and have gotten a couple interested people in my old desk and sofa bed - no better time to make some cash than Christmas!
I will keep you posted after the move, and hopefully will hear about a new job in the next couple of weeks. I ended up having two interviews (both in our school of business) and one of them has called me for a second interview next week - not the one Dad and Margie helped me prep for, but a different one that is a little closer to what I do now. My interview is on my graduation day, thank goodness I already took the day off!
I went to a Hanukkah party last weekend and ate latkes (potato pancakes) and donuts. I didn't know donuts were traditional Hanukkah fare, but I also don't balk at tradition. We played Dreidl with gelt - you know the chocolate coins that dad always put in our stockings? who knew he was being multi-cultural. I didn't win, but I didn't lose either. Then we played Apples to Apples which is a fun group game and I am surprised my family has never played it at a gathering before.
Yesterday was the big office holiday party at our director's house. It was the first time we had had a family friendly party and it was really surprising to realize all my coworkers' wives and children were in fact real people and not just people they talk about. It reminded me of when I met Margot and was so shocked at what she actually looked like, because in all my imaginings of her, I hadn't been able to think of her face and it hadn't dawned on me that she would have distinct features. Suddenly the nameless spouses were in front of me and I no longer had to imagine what they might look like.
Tonight I had a cookie exchange at my office-mate's house (if you didn't know, I share an office with one other person, for whatever reason my office is the only one big enough to fit two people, and therefore I am the only one that has to share. It isn't a problem because I really like the girl who shares it with me - oh which reminds me, Margie, my office mate is named Linda and she is the Northern AZ rep and visits Mingus once or twice a semester). Anyway I went to the party and there were a couple other coworkers and a bunch of people I didn't know. I had made key lime bars (from a box) and boiled cookies. the key lime bars came out fine, but something went wrong with the boiled cookies and they were sticky and chewy - did I buy the wrong oats or just not cook the sugar long enough? I brought both but on the way to the party the plate with the boiled cookies slid on top of the key lime bars. when I parked I found the key lime bars ruined and stuck to the bottom of the boiled cookies plate. I swapped out the plates and had to go in with just the boiled cookies. It was a bummer, but luckily there were so many types of cookies mine just went unnoticed for the most part. one lady made a beeline for them though and thanked me for making them because she loves that type of cookie and hadn't had one in forever.
Oddly, we have an office-wide cookie exchange on Monday so I may try to make the boiled cookies again. if they don't come out right the second time I will know it is the oats. I bought 1-minute quaker oats, but I fear they are the problem, even though my last canister was also quick oats.
I have a potluck to go to on Tuesday because one of my coworkers is also graduating this week and her parents are coming into town and want to meet everyone. I think I am going to make Grace's cheesy bread...hopefully mom remembers the temperature it has to cook at, or will have the house unpacked enough to find the recipe, Thanks mom!
The following Monday is our office white elephant exchange, hopefully in my packing will unearth something worth "regifting."
The best thing about all these parties is that I have become friendly with enough of my coworkers' boyfriends that I think I will have a nice little posse to help me move on Saturday! I have also put a few items on craigslist and have gotten a couple interested people in my old desk and sofa bed - no better time to make some cash than Christmas!
I will keep you posted after the move, and hopefully will hear about a new job in the next couple of weeks. I ended up having two interviews (both in our school of business) and one of them has called me for a second interview next week - not the one Dad and Margie helped me prep for, but a different one that is a little closer to what I do now. My interview is on my graduation day, thank goodness I already took the day off!
Tuesday, December 07, 2010
Quarter for your thoughts?
I am 25 years old - where does the time go?! I am no longer in my "early twenties." We just hired a new guy in my office and he just happens to share the same birthdate as me, except he is only going to be 23! That was me once...long ago...two years ago to be exact...I was the new girl in the office barely turning 23, the youngest in the office by years. Now I am the older, wiser, veteran in the office - weird!
I went from precocious to just plain knowledgeable. Boring! Must be time for a new job. I have been applying around campus and have an interview this week for a position in the business school. fingers crossed! Thanks to Dad and Margie for the tips for the presentation I have to give as part of the interview.
In other exciting this-December-is-the-most-life-altering-month news I found a new apartment! Hopefully I will be moving into my new digs on the 18th :) I will now be a Mesan, Mesanite, Mesaur(?) and living in the Dobson Ranch area just by the 60 and the 101. Sorry Greg, New York isn't in my near future yet. But this means I will be moved in prior to Christmas, so I can decorate!!
I graduate the 15th (University Commencement) and 16th (Teacher's College Convocation) and am taking that Wednesday - Friday off from work anyway, which will be nice for packing and moving that weekend, and you know, the graduating part!!
So far for my birthday, I went out with co-workers last Friday for drinks and a movie. my friend and I saw Faster, the new Dwayne 'the Rock' Johnson movie. Let me tell you, it is one of the best bad movies I have seen in a long time. the ending is ridiculous, and Dwayne's character says about 20 words in the whole film, but there's a lot of eye candy and satisfying gore too.
Tonight Michaela fixed me a birthday dinner of bbq chicken sandwiches and sweet potato fries followed by a yummy devil's food cake and funfetti frosting. She got me a really neat owl/leaf motif necklace too - she must have known I would like it because I was wearing my other owl necklace today. she knows me so well :)
These next couple of days/weeks are jam packed for me. I will be happy to be moved, and happier for Christmas to come around - I can't wait to see mom and dad's 'new' house!
I went from precocious to just plain knowledgeable. Boring! Must be time for a new job. I have been applying around campus and have an interview this week for a position in the business school. fingers crossed! Thanks to Dad and Margie for the tips for the presentation I have to give as part of the interview.
In other exciting this-December-is-the-most-life-altering-month news I found a new apartment! Hopefully I will be moving into my new digs on the 18th :) I will now be a Mesan, Mesanite, Mesaur(?) and living in the Dobson Ranch area just by the 60 and the 101. Sorry Greg, New York isn't in my near future yet. But this means I will be moved in prior to Christmas, so I can decorate!!
I graduate the 15th (University Commencement) and 16th (Teacher's College Convocation) and am taking that Wednesday - Friday off from work anyway, which will be nice for packing and moving that weekend, and you know, the graduating part!!
So far for my birthday, I went out with co-workers last Friday for drinks and a movie. my friend and I saw Faster, the new Dwayne 'the Rock' Johnson movie. Let me tell you, it is one of the best bad movies I have seen in a long time. the ending is ridiculous, and Dwayne's character says about 20 words in the whole film, but there's a lot of eye candy and satisfying gore too.
Tonight Michaela fixed me a birthday dinner of bbq chicken sandwiches and sweet potato fries followed by a yummy devil's food cake and funfetti frosting. She got me a really neat owl/leaf motif necklace too - she must have known I would like it because I was wearing my other owl necklace today. she knows me so well :)
These next couple of days/weeks are jam packed for me. I will be happy to be moved, and happier for Christmas to come around - I can't wait to see mom and dad's 'new' house!
Monday, November 01, 2010
Moving
So I found out today that if I were to renew my lease in my current apartment, my rent would increase by $125.
Needless to say...I am moving!
Don't know where I will be moving to yet...but I guess it is time for the next living adventure.
That...or find another job. Somehow moving sounds more realistic and easy.
Needless to say...I am moving!
Don't know where I will be moving to yet...but I guess it is time for the next living adventure.
That...or find another job. Somehow moving sounds more realistic and easy.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Thomas, M.Ed
I have officially completed my master's program! Yesterday was my poster symposium.
Since my topic was the use of Twitter as a classroom discussion tool, I, of course, had to have a Twitter page open! The middle of my poster is actually a projection from my computer of a Twitter account I created so people can see a) how easy it is to tweet and b)tweet about the day's event.
It went pretty well, not as many people tweeted as I thought would but several people tried it for the first time and really liked it. I also got several older people coming up to me to say "yeah, but what about older people like me, who are wary/timid to use Twitter?" They came to me with a defeatist attitude that they would be unable to learn how to tweet. Which is why creating a Twitter account as a class assignment is so great! not only, would they learn how to tweet, but they would be given direction and a purpose about what to tweet about.
For example in a class I took, we had to tweet about things we observed in an educational setting. So one week we would tweet about the physical location of learning (what we noticed about a college campus, or classroom, or library) and another week we tweeted about groups of people interacting (are they studying, or having heated discussion, or chatting about the drama in the residence hall?). It certainly made getting into Twitter easier for me.
I think the best part of the day was that one of my fellow graduates and I went to a local brewery afterwards to celebrate our graduation, and our graduate director came with us! Neither one of us had really had a chance to get to know her outside of class and it was so much fun! We talked about where the program was going, how her role is growing, and also what is next for us as professionals.
Mom and Dad came up for trivia and for my symposium which was so great! I know they hadn't really gotten to see what my program was about so for them to see my project but also all my classmates projects was really cool. And Dad was a total dad, he brought a camera and was taking pictures of me, haha :) Several of my coworkers got to meet my parents as well, which they were so excited about (my coworkers, not my parents - but also my parents) because I talk about my parents adventures and they all think I have the coolest parents around. Which, I kinda do :)
Trivia night was fun! we ran into one of Bruce's students at the restaurant so when we were leaving Dad went and whispered something to her. He wouldn't tell any of us what he had said so Bruce did not have a good night's sleep worrying about what she was going to do the next day at school, it was a pretty good practical joke.
We went out to breakfast with Michaela and Margot, and Margot was a happy, smily baby. She even felt Dad's beard and immediately hugged him to feel it on her face, so cute! Michaela baked a cake the day before so we went to her house for chocolate-covered cherry cake, which was delicious.
It was a great day and I am so glad my parents got to come see my final project!
Back to work today :)
Since my topic was the use of Twitter as a classroom discussion tool, I, of course, had to have a Twitter page open! The middle of my poster is actually a projection from my computer of a Twitter account I created so people can see a) how easy it is to tweet and b)tweet about the day's event.
It went pretty well, not as many people tweeted as I thought would but several people tried it for the first time and really liked it. I also got several older people coming up to me to say "yeah, but what about older people like me, who are wary/timid to use Twitter?" They came to me with a defeatist attitude that they would be unable to learn how to tweet. Which is why creating a Twitter account as a class assignment is so great! not only, would they learn how to tweet, but they would be given direction and a purpose about what to tweet about.
For example in a class I took, we had to tweet about things we observed in an educational setting. So one week we would tweet about the physical location of learning (what we noticed about a college campus, or classroom, or library) and another week we tweeted about groups of people interacting (are they studying, or having heated discussion, or chatting about the drama in the residence hall?). It certainly made getting into Twitter easier for me.
I think the best part of the day was that one of my fellow graduates and I went to a local brewery afterwards to celebrate our graduation, and our graduate director came with us! Neither one of us had really had a chance to get to know her outside of class and it was so much fun! We talked about where the program was going, how her role is growing, and also what is next for us as professionals.
Mom and Dad came up for trivia and for my symposium which was so great! I know they hadn't really gotten to see what my program was about so for them to see my project but also all my classmates projects was really cool. And Dad was a total dad, he brought a camera and was taking pictures of me, haha :) Several of my coworkers got to meet my parents as well, which they were so excited about (my coworkers, not my parents - but also my parents) because I talk about my parents adventures and they all think I have the coolest parents around. Which, I kinda do :)
Trivia night was fun! we ran into one of Bruce's students at the restaurant so when we were leaving Dad went and whispered something to her. He wouldn't tell any of us what he had said so Bruce did not have a good night's sleep worrying about what she was going to do the next day at school, it was a pretty good practical joke.
We went out to breakfast with Michaela and Margot, and Margot was a happy, smily baby. She even felt Dad's beard and immediately hugged him to feel it on her face, so cute! Michaela baked a cake the day before so we went to her house for chocolate-covered cherry cake, which was delicious.
It was a great day and I am so glad my parents got to come see my final project!
Back to work today :)
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
The Grasshopper Becomes the Master
I passed my applied project - I get to graduate!
I have a poster symposium Oct 21 from 11:30-1pm in the student union, which is the official end of my program.
It is so nice to be done with a degree and then have graduation two months later, no pressure at all :) Graduation is December 15th and 16th.
So the big question is....now what?
I have a poster symposium Oct 21 from 11:30-1pm in the student union, which is the official end of my program.
It is so nice to be done with a degree and then have graduation two months later, no pressure at all :) Graduation is December 15th and 16th.
So the big question is....now what?
Wednesday, October 06, 2010
Hail and Homework
So, I flew to Minneapolis yesterday. It was supposed to be a quick 2.5 hour flight and we were scheduled to take off around 3:15 yesterday afternoon. guess what hit Phoenix at 3:15? yep, thunderstorms. We sat on the runway for 45 minutes in a line of 35 jets waiting to take off and then when we were 5th in line, got hit by a blinding hail storm! yes, hail! (you may have heard about it, it was on CNN this morning) just so you know, planes do shake when hit with golf ball-sized hail.
So, the storm passes, and we are told we have to go back to the gate to get a hail inspection - should take 30-45 minutes. Great. We are allowed off the plane, so I got food, got back on the plane and then they said everyone had to deplane and the inspection would take an hour and a half!! Turns out we did have some hail damage, so I am not too upset about that delay.
So two hours later, we got back on the plane and took off. We didn't leave Phoenix until 8pm, and got to MN at 2am. Just in time to get a couple hours' sleep before it was time to get to the college fair at 8am.
The best part, was that the plane was only half full due to earlier delays and some missed connections, so I got an entire row to myself! (talk about a silver lining) I was able to lay down to get some sleep on the flight.
But so you all know, I am fine, and survived the great Phoenix hail storm of '10!
Also, I just turned in my applied project paper today!!! It still has to get graded, and may need some revisions, but it is done! Whew. Grad school all but done :)
So, the storm passes, and we are told we have to go back to the gate to get a hail inspection - should take 30-45 minutes. Great. We are allowed off the plane, so I got food, got back on the plane and then they said everyone had to deplane and the inspection would take an hour and a half!! Turns out we did have some hail damage, so I am not too upset about that delay.
So two hours later, we got back on the plane and took off. We didn't leave Phoenix until 8pm, and got to MN at 2am. Just in time to get a couple hours' sleep before it was time to get to the college fair at 8am.
The best part, was that the plane was only half full due to earlier delays and some missed connections, so I got an entire row to myself! (talk about a silver lining) I was able to lay down to get some sleep on the flight.
But so you all know, I am fine, and survived the great Phoenix hail storm of '10!
Also, I just turned in my applied project paper today!!! It still has to get graded, and may need some revisions, but it is done! Whew. Grad school all but done :)
Monday, October 04, 2010
Let's get it done
So I haven't been posting because I have spent the last several weeks out of town, at evening events, or working until all hours of the morning on my graduate thesis. All of that is almost over!
I have my thesis out to one last reader before I turn it in this week - it feels so good to be sooo close to being done!
Also, I am headed to Minneapolis for my last trip to the midwest. I am going with two coworkers and I am only going to be at the main college fair and our own evening event, I don't have to go to any high school visits. It actually feels like more of a vacation than work. I may not have any time to see Annie this trip since I have very little free time, but I will see what I can do. On the flip side I am staying downtown which I have never done :)
Also it turns out Beth (of Bruce Hickman Fiancence- Yeah I made up a word)will be in Minneapolis the exact same days as me! We may actually run into each other at the airport on the way home. Talk about a small world.
Oh yeah, mom and dad, Phoenix is supposed to get into the 80's this week, so it must be time for you to come home (oddly enough, MN will be in the 70's so I am not switching climates too badly this trip).
I have my thesis out to one last reader before I turn it in this week - it feels so good to be sooo close to being done!
Also, I am headed to Minneapolis for my last trip to the midwest. I am going with two coworkers and I am only going to be at the main college fair and our own evening event, I don't have to go to any high school visits. It actually feels like more of a vacation than work. I may not have any time to see Annie this trip since I have very little free time, but I will see what I can do. On the flip side I am staying downtown which I have never done :)
Also it turns out Beth (of Bruce Hickman Fiancence- Yeah I made up a word)will be in Minneapolis the exact same days as me! We may actually run into each other at the airport on the way home. Talk about a small world.
Oh yeah, mom and dad, Phoenix is supposed to get into the 80's this week, so it must be time for you to come home (oddly enough, MN will be in the 70's so I am not switching climates too badly this trip).
Sunday, September 12, 2010
T-Town again
Alright alright, I haven't posted in forever. To my credit though, I haven't done anything interesting and therefore have spared you from boredom :)
This week however, I will be back in Tucson for my last recruitment trip. I am training the new guy, so we are going down together to hit up all the college fairs. It should be a good time, but it definitely feels more like one of my out of state trips, I guess because I know I won't be coming back for months and not for work anymore.
My grad program is winding down, although I still have my final paper to write. The good news is that my paper is due in October so I will actually be done with everything in the next month and then just coast until graduation in December. Oh yeah, mark your calendars for Oct 21. That is the day of my poster symposium. Basically everyone in my class has to create a poster about our topics and papers so other people can come see what we studied. It is very reminiscent of a middle school science fair. (although in actuality, middle school science fairs are modeled after collegiate poster symposiums! And yet it feels so juvenile to make a poster. this seems like a chicken and egg moment)
This week however, I will be back in Tucson for my last recruitment trip. I am training the new guy, so we are going down together to hit up all the college fairs. It should be a good time, but it definitely feels more like one of my out of state trips, I guess because I know I won't be coming back for months and not for work anymore.
My grad program is winding down, although I still have my final paper to write. The good news is that my paper is due in October so I will actually be done with everything in the next month and then just coast until graduation in December. Oh yeah, mark your calendars for Oct 21. That is the day of my poster symposium. Basically everyone in my class has to create a poster about our topics and papers so other people can come see what we studied. It is very reminiscent of a middle school science fair. (although in actuality, middle school science fairs are modeled after collegiate poster symposiums! And yet it feels so juvenile to make a poster. this seems like a chicken and egg moment)
Monday, August 16, 2010
Happy Birthday Dad!
This year I have decided to give you the gift of saved money. Here is a list of all the places you can now receive senior discounts:
Amtrak
Everyday. 15% discount on adult rail fare with some exclusions. Ages 62+.
Greyhound
5% discount on unrestricted passenger fares. Ages 62+.
Hyatt
Save up to 50% at participating hotels. Ages 62+.
Kohl’s
Every Wednesday. 15% discount. Ages 62+. (Day may vary by store)
Marriott Hotels
A discount of at least 15% for ages 62+. Good seven days a week.
And the piece de resistance: National Parks
Lifetime free entrance to national parks with purchase of $10 America the Beautiful Senior Pass. Ages 62+.
Now get to spending that new Social Security check!
Happy birthday and happy travels :)
Love,
Casey
Amtrak
Everyday. 15% discount on adult rail fare with some exclusions. Ages 62+.
Greyhound
5% discount on unrestricted passenger fares. Ages 62+.
Hyatt
Save up to 50% at participating hotels. Ages 62+.
Kohl’s
Every Wednesday. 15% discount. Ages 62+. (Day may vary by store)
Marriott Hotels
A discount of at least 15% for ages 62+. Good seven days a week.
And the piece de resistance: National Parks
Lifetime free entrance to national parks with purchase of $10 America the Beautiful Senior Pass. Ages 62+.
Now get to spending that new Social Security check!
Happy birthday and happy travels :)
Love,
Casey
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Girls Weekend
I have some really great friends and I got to hang out with them this weekend.
Yesterday, Joe and Michaela and I (and Joe's friend in his own car) headed up to Flagstaff for a day of his and her hikes. We got up a O-dark thirty in the morning to drop off Margot with Joe's mom and then headed up to the mountains. This was the proud new parents' first all day excursion without baby Margot so I think there might have been some mixed emotions and worry, but we were all pretty excited for our hikes. Michaela and I were going to do a nice 2mi. loop hike and Joe and his friend were going to do a much harder, longer hike up an entire mountain.
When we reached Flag we called grandma to see how Margot was doing. We didn't have to hear her response, Margot was screaming in the background. Turns out she doesn't like bottles, and so decided a prolonged, hours long screaming fit was in order. We thought she would tire out or figure out the bottle was the next best alternative so we parted ways with Joe, and Michaela and I began our ascent.
We weren't quite halfway up our hike when Michaela got the call for surrender. Margot, the diva, was not happy with her new surroundings and her screams had everyone on edge. Michaela and I began our descent and retreat back to Phoenix. Luckily for Joe, because his friend had driven himself, he could catch a ride back to town with him and Michaela and I could take their car home so Joe didn't have to leave.
Although we were a little bummed not to complete our hike (I mean I had just lathered myself in sunscreen - such a waste) we did really enjoy the car ride home singing along to CDs and discussing girl things like boobs (mostly the difference between how they feel when you are breast feeding and when you arent). Needless to say we had a great time and the point of the day was to hang out together, it didn't matter if it was on a mountain or in the car.
We picked up Margot and decided to veg out at Michaela's house. We watched movies and ordered pizza and Margot was a total sweetheart, smiling for us and chatting away. It was a perfect lazy saturday. We did get a couple pictures of our hike before heading home so look for those pics on Michaela's blog.
As for today, my coworker/officemate/friend Janell set up a girl date for a group of us at work to all go see Eat Pray Love and get drinks afterwards. Only three of us showed up but we had a ball. We all loved the movie and had some great discussions about the themes and journey Julia Roberts' character goes through. and we chatted for another two hours after the movie.
It is so nice to have girlfriends to hang out with who are interested in the books and movies that I am so we can discuss them and plan trips and get silly together. It was a very fulfilling weekend.
And I highly recommend Eat Pray Love to everyone, I didn't even read the book and I totally enjoyed it!
Yesterday, Joe and Michaela and I (and Joe's friend in his own car) headed up to Flagstaff for a day of his and her hikes. We got up a O-dark thirty in the morning to drop off Margot with Joe's mom and then headed up to the mountains. This was the proud new parents' first all day excursion without baby Margot so I think there might have been some mixed emotions and worry, but we were all pretty excited for our hikes. Michaela and I were going to do a nice 2mi. loop hike and Joe and his friend were going to do a much harder, longer hike up an entire mountain.
When we reached Flag we called grandma to see how Margot was doing. We didn't have to hear her response, Margot was screaming in the background. Turns out she doesn't like bottles, and so decided a prolonged, hours long screaming fit was in order. We thought she would tire out or figure out the bottle was the next best alternative so we parted ways with Joe, and Michaela and I began our ascent.
We weren't quite halfway up our hike when Michaela got the call for surrender. Margot, the diva, was not happy with her new surroundings and her screams had everyone on edge. Michaela and I began our descent and retreat back to Phoenix. Luckily for Joe, because his friend had driven himself, he could catch a ride back to town with him and Michaela and I could take their car home so Joe didn't have to leave.
Although we were a little bummed not to complete our hike (I mean I had just lathered myself in sunscreen - such a waste) we did really enjoy the car ride home singing along to CDs and discussing girl things like boobs (mostly the difference between how they feel when you are breast feeding and when you arent). Needless to say we had a great time and the point of the day was to hang out together, it didn't matter if it was on a mountain or in the car.
We picked up Margot and decided to veg out at Michaela's house. We watched movies and ordered pizza and Margot was a total sweetheart, smiling for us and chatting away. It was a perfect lazy saturday. We did get a couple pictures of our hike before heading home so look for those pics on Michaela's blog.
As for today, my coworker/officemate/friend Janell set up a girl date for a group of us at work to all go see Eat Pray Love and get drinks afterwards. Only three of us showed up but we had a ball. We all loved the movie and had some great discussions about the themes and journey Julia Roberts' character goes through. and we chatted for another two hours after the movie.
It is so nice to have girlfriends to hang out with who are interested in the books and movies that I am so we can discuss them and plan trips and get silly together. It was a very fulfilling weekend.
And I highly recommend Eat Pray Love to everyone, I didn't even read the book and I totally enjoyed it!
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
New Table
A big shout out to Sheri Arner, Joe's mom, for giving me a new dining table! She was moving and didn't need it as her sewing table anymore.
(You can see how much bigger it is than my last table)
I don't know when but I decided a while ago that when I did get a real dining room table that I wanted to paint it turquoise. So trusty readers, it is your job to look at this table and help me decide just how turquoise I should go.
Should I
a) Paint the whole table (and chairs) turquoise
b) Paint the white parts of the table (and chairs) turquoise
c) Paint only the tabletop of the table (and chairs) turquoise
notice there is no "d) don't paint the table (and chairs) turquoise." that is because this is an Ikea table, not a priceless antique and therefore if I grow out of my turquoise phase, getting a different table (or repainting again) won't be a big deal.
Please cast your votes in the comments section! Thanks for your help in this decision :)
(You can see how much bigger it is than my last table)
I don't know when but I decided a while ago that when I did get a real dining room table that I wanted to paint it turquoise. So trusty readers, it is your job to look at this table and help me decide just how turquoise I should go.
Should I
a) Paint the whole table (and chairs) turquoise
b) Paint the white parts of the table (and chairs) turquoise
c) Paint only the tabletop of the table (and chairs) turquoise
notice there is no "d) don't paint the table (and chairs) turquoise." that is because this is an Ikea table, not a priceless antique and therefore if I grow out of my turquoise phase, getting a different table (or repainting again) won't be a big deal.
Please cast your votes in the comments section! Thanks for your help in this decision :)
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad!
40 years is a huge accomplishment! Can't wait to celebrate when you get home :)
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
I am related to a movie star
So I printed out this photo of Ariana (from GaT Blog) because it is sooo adorable and I put it in a frame on my desk at work.
One of my coworkers mentioned that she looks like Boo from the Monsters Inc. movie.
Uncanny right?! I am just sayin'...if Ariana starts talking about monsters in her closet - I would believe her.
One of my coworkers mentioned that she looks like Boo from the Monsters Inc. movie.
Uncanny right?! I am just sayin'...if Ariana starts talking about monsters in her closet - I would believe her.
Monday, July 05, 2010
Fireworks and Birthday Cake - That's a Holiday!
So I had a really busy weekend, good thing it was three days long!
On Saturday I got to go to a wedding reception for my coworker (and soon to be new officemate) Janell. Several of us from work went to the reception which was at Janell's house, and we had a great time. She was so excited to see us because all of her family are out of town and only her parents could come, so we filled out "the bride's side" for her. We all had a really good time, and it was nice to have an excuse to buy a new outfit :)
On Sunday I drove up to Cottonwood to spend the 4th with some family. I was dreading the heat here in town and decided it was time to go on a mini-vacation. After all it is Thomas family tradition to see fireworks in a different place each year and I had been in the Phoenix area for the last 4 years! much too long in one, very hot, place. I was right to choose Cottonwood, not only was the weather much more manageable at a mere 90 degrees in the daytime, but it was birthday season!
I got to Cottonwood just in time for Dave to make tacos and enchiladas as Margie's birthday meal. Go figure they taste just like mom and dad's enchiladas - they must use the same "recipe" for the sauce :) Then two hours later Liz was having a barbeque at her house so I headed over there to see all the kids and cousins. we had a great time and at around 8:30pm we headed over to Matt's family frame shop because it is located right next to the firework launch site and there were no other people around.
We had a great 20-25 minute display and Liz and I had to laugh because we really did ooh and ahh at each firework. We even had the requisite mishap when one of the fireworks did not go off as planned, instead we saw a fire cloud - which was still pretty cool, and did not stop the show.
Today was cousin canasta day and birthday celebrations. I headed over to Liz's and trounced Liz and Vada at canasta - beat 'em so bad they were begging to quit :) It has been a while since I won so soundly, which is why it bears mentioning here. Afterwards we played Rock Band on the Playstation (turns out I was smart not to become a drummer)and then headed over to Margie and Dave's for the birthday party.
We celebrated Dick, Margie, and Lorelei's birthdays which meant we had two chocolate cakes (with chocolate frosting) and chocolate and vanilla ice cream. You know, the perfect amount. I found an incredibly apt birthday card for Dick that read: When I think of birthdays I always think of the grand redwood trees, standing tall and majestic for hundreds of years...(open card) Thanks for planting them. Dick vowed to look high and low for the perfect birthday card for me this year, hahaha. I told him the card companies must of heard of him because all I had to do was walk to a card store go to the uncle section (yes, there is an uncle section - crazy) and there was the card!
Later, Liz and Vada and I went back to Liz's house to play on the Wii. We started with bowling and then I introduced them to the Wii Fit Obstacle Course and we all had fun "running" and "jumping" in place. Then Liz's family and I went to Clarkdale for the best pizza in town before I had to come home.
It sure doesn't feel like it is time to go back to work, because I had so much fun this weekend!
On Saturday I got to go to a wedding reception for my coworker (and soon to be new officemate) Janell. Several of us from work went to the reception which was at Janell's house, and we had a great time. She was so excited to see us because all of her family are out of town and only her parents could come, so we filled out "the bride's side" for her. We all had a really good time, and it was nice to have an excuse to buy a new outfit :)
On Sunday I drove up to Cottonwood to spend the 4th with some family. I was dreading the heat here in town and decided it was time to go on a mini-vacation. After all it is Thomas family tradition to see fireworks in a different place each year and I had been in the Phoenix area for the last 4 years! much too long in one, very hot, place. I was right to choose Cottonwood, not only was the weather much more manageable at a mere 90 degrees in the daytime, but it was birthday season!
I got to Cottonwood just in time for Dave to make tacos and enchiladas as Margie's birthday meal. Go figure they taste just like mom and dad's enchiladas - they must use the same "recipe" for the sauce :) Then two hours later Liz was having a barbeque at her house so I headed over there to see all the kids and cousins. we had a great time and at around 8:30pm we headed over to Matt's family frame shop because it is located right next to the firework launch site and there were no other people around.
We had a great 20-25 minute display and Liz and I had to laugh because we really did ooh and ahh at each firework. We even had the requisite mishap when one of the fireworks did not go off as planned, instead we saw a fire cloud - which was still pretty cool, and did not stop the show.
Today was cousin canasta day and birthday celebrations. I headed over to Liz's and trounced Liz and Vada at canasta - beat 'em so bad they were begging to quit :) It has been a while since I won so soundly, which is why it bears mentioning here. Afterwards we played Rock Band on the Playstation (turns out I was smart not to become a drummer)and then headed over to Margie and Dave's for the birthday party.
We celebrated Dick, Margie, and Lorelei's birthdays which meant we had two chocolate cakes (with chocolate frosting) and chocolate and vanilla ice cream. You know, the perfect amount. I found an incredibly apt birthday card for Dick that read: When I think of birthdays I always think of the grand redwood trees, standing tall and majestic for hundreds of years...(open card) Thanks for planting them. Dick vowed to look high and low for the perfect birthday card for me this year, hahaha. I told him the card companies must of heard of him because all I had to do was walk to a card store go to the uncle section (yes, there is an uncle section - crazy) and there was the card!
Later, Liz and Vada and I went back to Liz's house to play on the Wii. We started with bowling and then I introduced them to the Wii Fit Obstacle Course and we all had fun "running" and "jumping" in place. Then Liz's family and I went to Clarkdale for the best pizza in town before I had to come home.
It sure doesn't feel like it is time to go back to work, because I had so much fun this weekend!
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Auntie Casey
I waited all day on Friday and came back to the hospital with dinner, just so I could have a couple hours holding Margot
Friday, June 18, 2010
Margot Lynn Crabtree
As I said earlier, I got to the hospital at 1am. By 8am Michaela was almost completely dilated and I was able to get out of my morning meeting.
At 11:47 AM, weighing in at 7lbs 13oz and 21 inches long...
Margot Lynn Crabtree was born!!!
At 11:47 AM, weighing in at 7lbs 13oz and 21 inches long...
Margot Lynn Crabtree was born!!!
Now's the time!
So it is nearly 5am and I have been in the hospital for 3 hours. Michaela's water broke around 1am and now she is about 4cm dilated.
Of course this is the day that my boss set up a meet and greet for me at one of my new schools.* I plan to attend the meeting but take the rest of the day off. So at 1 am I showered and packed some work clothes and headed to the hospital. As long as Margot doesn't come between 9-10am during my meeting I think I will be ok. This is so exciting!!!
*I recently found out that I am no longer the Tucson rep. My bosses have reassigned me to the Scottsdale and Chandler schools. I am pretty excited about it because it means I will have fewer schools but more qualified students. I will be expected to get 200 students per school to enroll, instead of 30 (at the most) from my old schools. And it means no more really early mornings or late nights on the highway.
My parents are sad that I won't be in town all the time but now that I have a cool new apartment they are more inclined to visit me
Of course this is the day that my boss set up a meet and greet for me at one of my new schools.* I plan to attend the meeting but take the rest of the day off. So at 1 am I showered and packed some work clothes and headed to the hospital. As long as Margot doesn't come between 9-10am during my meeting I think I will be ok. This is so exciting!!!
*I recently found out that I am no longer the Tucson rep. My bosses have reassigned me to the Scottsdale and Chandler schools. I am pretty excited about it because it means I will have fewer schools but more qualified students. I will be expected to get 200 students per school to enroll, instead of 30 (at the most) from my old schools. And it means no more really early mornings or late nights on the highway.
My parents are sad that I won't be in town all the time but now that I have a cool new apartment they are more inclined to visit me
Monday, June 07, 2010
Picture it!
I finally got moved in to my new apartment and I have done a little decorating. Check out the album, I have ordered it all as before and afters and you will notice there is still a lot of after left to do (look at that word play dad!). I am woefully lacking in wall art in my bedroom, but my crafty side may soon remedy that, I just need some bigger canvas and lots of inspiration.
Also, here is a picture of my latest Mod Podge adventure with Michaela. Check out her blog for the jewelry box she updated! This is the T from the word "Information" that hung above the MU Information Desk when I worked there. We renovated the whole building after a fire in 2007 so the letters from the sign came down. It was just a piece of wood that was painted maroon. I think this really spruces it up. And as you can see in the apartment photo album - it goes with the decor a little better now :)
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| New Apt |
Also, here is a picture of my latest Mod Podge adventure with Michaela. Check out her blog for the jewelry box she updated! This is the T from the word "Information" that hung above the MU Information Desk when I worked there. We renovated the whole building after a fire in 2007 so the letters from the sign came down. It was just a piece of wood that was painted maroon. I think this really spruces it up. And as you can see in the apartment photo album - it goes with the decor a little better now :)
Thursday, June 03, 2010
New Addition to the Blog Family
I am so excited to announce that Michaela has started a blog! I have listed her under my Family Blogs because she is practically my sister and is my emergency contact for everything (since my parents decide to leave the continental US for 6 mos out of the year!...and live in Tucson the rest of the time).
Now you can all follow her life, and the addition of little Margot when she comes later this month! Check out her blog, she is awesome :)
http://crabtreezy.blogspot.com/
Now you can all follow her life, and the addition of little Margot when she comes later this month! Check out her blog, she is awesome :)
http://crabtreezy.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, June 01, 2010
Moved!
So, Thanks to a lot of help from Don Ash and Joe and Michaela, I am officially moved into my new place! I still have to finish un packing my bedroom stuff, and my clothes but otherwise I am all settled!
...except of course my AC went out on Sunday (aka my first day in my new place). This would seem bad except...
I woke up Monday morning to my power out. I called SRP and they said they are closed for the holiday and will not turn on the power.
I have waited around all day today, no power. Which means the cable and internet cannot be set up. Which means, I have to hope that while I am at class tonight, the power is turned on, so the cable guy can come first thing in the morning.
This was supposed to be easier than living with other people. Now I just wish I had a roommate who could stay home all day and wait for utility people.
I am still happy to be in my new place.
Oh yeah, did I mention my super awesome housewarming gift from my parents?! I am getting a Roomba!Check it out: http://store.irobot.com/category/index.jsp?categoryId=3334619&cp=2804605&ab=CMS_IRBT_Storefront_011510_vacuumcleaning
I will come home to a freshly vacuumed house every day! How you ask? because this roomba can be programmed to vacuum how ever often I like. it starts on its own, vacuums, then goes back to its docking station! I haven't bought him yet - but it is going to be awesome!!...you know, when I have the electicity to charge him up :/
...except of course my AC went out on Sunday (aka my first day in my new place). This would seem bad except...
I woke up Monday morning to my power out. I called SRP and they said they are closed for the holiday and will not turn on the power.
I have waited around all day today, no power. Which means the cable and internet cannot be set up. Which means, I have to hope that while I am at class tonight, the power is turned on, so the cable guy can come first thing in the morning.
This was supposed to be easier than living with other people. Now I just wish I had a roommate who could stay home all day and wait for utility people.
I am still happy to be in my new place.
Oh yeah, did I mention my super awesome housewarming gift from my parents?! I am getting a Roomba!Check it out: http://store.irobot.com/category/index.jsp?categoryId=3334619&cp=2804605&ab=CMS_IRBT_Storefront_011510_vacuumcleaning
I will come home to a freshly vacuumed house every day! How you ask? because this roomba can be programmed to vacuum how ever often I like. it starts on its own, vacuums, then goes back to its docking station! I haven't bought him yet - but it is going to be awesome!!...you know, when I have the electicity to charge him up :/
Saturday, May 29, 2010
I hate moving
I hate moving. There are so many little things to remember to do. Clean out the fridge, call the sparkletts people to pick up the water cooler, switch over utilities (because of course I am moving only 3 miles away, but do not have the same utility companies for any of my services).
Oh yeah, and I accidently left my debit card in my car (which I never do!!) and it melted and warped. so I am 7-10 business days without that.
But the great news is that I get the keys to my new place and my moving truck today, and my friend Don (of the Ash Family Blog I have linked on the right hand side ->) is going to help me load stuff up tonight, and then Joe and Michaela are going to help me move to the new place tomorrow! Pictures to come of course. I won't get my new cable/internet set up until Tuesday, so you will be in suspense for a couple of days.
It is going to be awesome!!!
Oh, and in other news, I should get to go to Hickman Family Trivia Night again starting on Monday. I have been MIA for the whole month because of Suns games and work events (there isn't trivia night if the Suns play on Mondays). I am so glad I have connected with my extended family here in the valley, it is nice to have some local relatives to hang out with - we have so much in common! weird, I know. :)
Oh yeah, and I accidently left my debit card in my car (which I never do!!) and it melted and warped. so I am 7-10 business days without that.
But the great news is that I get the keys to my new place and my moving truck today, and my friend Don (of the Ash Family Blog I have linked on the right hand side ->) is going to help me load stuff up tonight, and then Joe and Michaela are going to help me move to the new place tomorrow! Pictures to come of course. I won't get my new cable/internet set up until Tuesday, so you will be in suspense for a couple of days.
It is going to be awesome!!!
Oh, and in other news, I should get to go to Hickman Family Trivia Night again starting on Monday. I have been MIA for the whole month because of Suns games and work events (there isn't trivia night if the Suns play on Mondays). I am so glad I have connected with my extended family here in the valley, it is nice to have some local relatives to hang out with - we have so much in common! weird, I know. :)
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Grand Canyon
Brett, Bryan and I went to the Grand Canyon today. We had a blast! It wasn't very windy, and for most of the day didn't even have our jackets on (although there were times we needed them). It was sunny and calm, and I have never been on I-17 with less traffic!
All day we seemed to be hopping from one viewpoint to the next with a group of Swedish Harley Davidson enthusiasts. About thirty of them had rented bikes and were roadtripping across the US and this was their stop today. Pretty cool.
Below is my album of Photos from the day. At one point Bryan decided he wanted a picture from an outcropping of rocks so there are some fun pictures of him getting there, and then once there he decided to sun bathe for a couple minutes - too funny!
Oh, and Mom and Dad, you should be very proud, I didn't have any real "adventures."
All day we seemed to be hopping from one viewpoint to the next with a group of Swedish Harley Davidson enthusiasts. About thirty of them had rented bikes and were roadtripping across the US and this was their stop today. Pretty cool.
Below is my album of Photos from the day. At one point Bryan decided he wanted a picture from an outcropping of rocks so there are some fun pictures of him getting there, and then once there he decided to sun bathe for a couple minutes - too funny!
Oh, and Mom and Dad, you should be very proud, I didn't have any real "adventures."
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| 2010_05_24 |
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Just Relax
I have taken this next week off of work because my roomies and I are moving out of our apartment. Brett flew into town yesterday to help pack up and move her furniture out of the apartment. She leaves on Wednesday. Anthony, plans to go out of town on Wednesday and come back Sunday. We have until Monday,the 31st, to move out.
Last night Brett and Anthony discussed when they should move her stuff into her storage unit - Today, or next weekend. Today because it was the only day they could borrow a friend's truck, or next weekend (when the truck would be available again) and when a)Brett is gone and b)Anthony and I are trying to move our stuff. the decision, of course, was to move the furniture at the end of the week. This was supported by Anthony, because he was going to have to help move the furniture anyway and apparently he thinks it will be easier since he is moving his stuff to the storage unit too. I don't get it.
I am wishing we could go ahead and get all of her stuff out, because then I could get my stuff out early too and we could ALL clean the living room and kitchen areas. Now it is going to be left up to me and Anthony. If ever I wondered why I was moving out, now I remember.
Brett decided to come out this weekend because it is her birthday weekend (birthday is tomorrow) so she really just wants to see friends and hang out for the trip. She will finish packing up her stuff, but somehow I think the cleaning is going to go undone.
Whatever, this is my week of vacation. on Monday we (Brett, her boyfriend, and I) are going to head up to the Grand Canyon because he is from Philly and has never been to Arizona. I haven't been to the canyon since a spur-of-the-moment trip my family took one Thanksgiving when I was in high school. I am really looking forward to it!
Also, there are some other good things. Brett has agreed to let me keep all the furniture I wanted! I thought because we had bought some pieces together she might fight me for some items but it turns out she doesn't really want them.
And, I have a week off from work!!! It is also Michaela's last week of work since the school year is ending, so I think we are going to have a couple lazy days in the pool, punctuated by slow, possibly more methodical, packing. I don't think I will be able to get into my new apartment before the 31st, so I also took the 1st off from work so I could get myself situated.
I am so excited to have the time off and get a new place. I am going to try to be Zen about everything else. It is just one week...just one week...just one week. And most of that time I will be alone, which will be nice, it also means, I get to pack everything I want of our communal stuff, and leave the rest for Anthony to take care of. I mean really, who leaves town the week you are supposed to move out?! Zen.
Last night Brett and Anthony discussed when they should move her stuff into her storage unit - Today, or next weekend. Today because it was the only day they could borrow a friend's truck, or next weekend (when the truck would be available again) and when a)Brett is gone and b)Anthony and I are trying to move our stuff. the decision, of course, was to move the furniture at the end of the week. This was supported by Anthony, because he was going to have to help move the furniture anyway and apparently he thinks it will be easier since he is moving his stuff to the storage unit too. I don't get it.
I am wishing we could go ahead and get all of her stuff out, because then I could get my stuff out early too and we could ALL clean the living room and kitchen areas. Now it is going to be left up to me and Anthony. If ever I wondered why I was moving out, now I remember.
Brett decided to come out this weekend because it is her birthday weekend (birthday is tomorrow) so she really just wants to see friends and hang out for the trip. She will finish packing up her stuff, but somehow I think the cleaning is going to go undone.
Whatever, this is my week of vacation. on Monday we (Brett, her boyfriend, and I) are going to head up to the Grand Canyon because he is from Philly and has never been to Arizona. I haven't been to the canyon since a spur-of-the-moment trip my family took one Thanksgiving when I was in high school. I am really looking forward to it!
Also, there are some other good things. Brett has agreed to let me keep all the furniture I wanted! I thought because we had bought some pieces together she might fight me for some items but it turns out she doesn't really want them.
And, I have a week off from work!!! It is also Michaela's last week of work since the school year is ending, so I think we are going to have a couple lazy days in the pool, punctuated by slow, possibly more methodical, packing. I don't think I will be able to get into my new apartment before the 31st, so I also took the 1st off from work so I could get myself situated.
I am so excited to have the time off and get a new place. I am going to try to be Zen about everything else. It is just one week...just one week...just one week. And most of that time I will be alone, which will be nice, it also means, I get to pack everything I want of our communal stuff, and leave the rest for Anthony to take care of. I mean really, who leaves town the week you are supposed to move out?! Zen.
Saturday, May 01, 2010
Join the Club
So, this isn't a crafting blog, but apparently that is all I do these days. A couple weeks ago Michaela and I got the crafting bug when we made my clock and her baby name plates. This was Michaela's first real foray into creative design because get this...she thinks she doesn't have a natural creative streak - hahahaha, that is so totally not even possible. Everyone is creative, you just have to find what you are good at.
Well, her sister-in-law Denise is a very crafty person so she invited us to her monthly craft club meeting. Her friend who hosts the meetings actually does have a craft blog - Check it out alyashcreations.blogspot.com. The craft today was decoupaging photo frames. Actually we could bring anything we wanted to decoupage, but as novices we thought we would stick with something simple. Ok, I stuck with something simple, Michaela actually did a box.
For those of you who don't know - decoupage (day-coo-pahj) is a really fun and easy process of gluing decorative paper on different surfaces. Here are some pictures of my project. I forgot my camera, so these pictures came from my camera phone. I got the paper and the frame at Michaels for $1 each. The paper is actually a lavender color because the color scheme of my new aparment is going to be black/white/tan and my yellow clock with purple and gray accents - I know that sounds like a lot of colors but most of them are neutrals. I have no idea what photo to put in it though. Also, I forgot to take pictures at the beginning, so I had already cut the paper, but tried to piece it back together so you would know what it looked like in the beginning.
So first you pick your paper and your frame.
Then you turn the paper upside down so you can trace your object around it
Then you cut out the pieces
Then you take a decoupage glue, we used Mod Podge, and a sponge brush and coat the entire back of the paper in glue, then press it on to the frame. you have to be sure to press the paper from the center to the edge to get rid of bubbles. You wait about 10-15 minutes for it to dry and then you coat the entire top of the paper (and sides to seal it down) with the glue. it will dry clear and non-sticky.
This is super easy and really fun! Plus I find this to be more useful than scrapbooking but getting to use the cool paper anyway. Mom, this combines my love of fabric shopping (substituting paper) but is easier to create something than quilting and sewing. Michaela is totally in love with this - I wish I had taken a picture of her box, it is beautiful! - and wants to decoupage any and everything in her path. I may have helped create a crafting monster.
Well, her sister-in-law Denise is a very crafty person so she invited us to her monthly craft club meeting. Her friend who hosts the meetings actually does have a craft blog - Check it out alyashcreations.blogspot.com. The craft today was decoupaging photo frames. Actually we could bring anything we wanted to decoupage, but as novices we thought we would stick with something simple. Ok, I stuck with something simple, Michaela actually did a box.
For those of you who don't know - decoupage (day-coo-pahj) is a really fun and easy process of gluing decorative paper on different surfaces. Here are some pictures of my project. I forgot my camera, so these pictures came from my camera phone. I got the paper and the frame at Michaels for $1 each. The paper is actually a lavender color because the color scheme of my new aparment is going to be black/white/tan and my yellow clock with purple and gray accents - I know that sounds like a lot of colors but most of them are neutrals. I have no idea what photo to put in it though. Also, I forgot to take pictures at the beginning, so I had already cut the paper, but tried to piece it back together so you would know what it looked like in the beginning.
So first you pick your paper and your frame.
Then you turn the paper upside down so you can trace your object around it
Then you cut out the pieces
Then you take a decoupage glue, we used Mod Podge, and a sponge brush and coat the entire back of the paper in glue, then press it on to the frame. you have to be sure to press the paper from the center to the edge to get rid of bubbles. You wait about 10-15 minutes for it to dry and then you coat the entire top of the paper (and sides to seal it down) with the glue. it will dry clear and non-sticky.
This is super easy and really fun! Plus I find this to be more useful than scrapbooking but getting to use the cool paper anyway. Mom, this combines my love of fabric shopping (substituting paper) but is easier to create something than quilting and sewing. Michaela is totally in love with this - I wish I had taken a picture of her box, it is beautiful! - and wants to decoupage any and everything in her path. I may have helped create a crafting monster.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Arts and Crafts Day!
So for those of you who don't know, I will be moving into a new apartment fairly soon and I have already gotten started thinking about how I plan to decorate. My friend Michaela and I were at Ikea and I saw some fabric that I thought could make really cool wall art. I had been on some craft website and got the idea to make a clock. So this past weekend was Casey and Michaela's Arts and Crafts Projects Day! She is going to be having a baby in about two months and wanted to make a name plate for the nursery. So last Sunday we decided to tackle my clock and her painting project.
Turns out the hardest part about my clock was the size of it. I knew I could get the clock movement at Michaels and I already had the fabric, but I needed something to attach the fabric to. I wanted something lightweight because the fabric design is very big... 3'x3' big. I ended up at Lowe's and a nice clerk helped me obtain a large piece of cardboard used to cover a door. He gave it to me for free so the least I could do was to buy some spray adhesive, so I didn't get something for nothing. If you ask Michaela she would tell you I should have given him my number but maybe I am too oblivious to notice when that situation arises.
Anyway, here starts the photographic evidence. I measured out the cardboard (twice) and then Michaela and I cut it up.
I also had to cut down the fabric - my mom is so proud to see me using a cutting board, straight edge, and rotary cutter - although when I showed her this picture she mentioned how I could correct my hand placement. While true, it wasn't that important for this project since I was just shortening the fabric, I didn't need a precise cut.
We set the fabric on the board to make sure it was the right size - it was!
And then it was time to use the spray adhesive!
Nobody said it would be a perfect job - but it works (edit: the spray adhesive does hold it in place, but doesn't seem to be a permanent hold so I am going to use super glue to make sure the fabric doesn't move)
Now all that is left is to add the clock movement and voila! a working one-of-a-kind clock for about...$10 fabric, $8 clock parts, $4 spray adhesive: $22 (priceless)
After about an hour break, we then tackled Michaela's painting project. We had bought wooden circles and some stencils and acrylic paint and each made three backgrounds. Then it took both of us to stencil the letters. but it looks perfect!
Margot will be born in June!
Turns out the hardest part about my clock was the size of it. I knew I could get the clock movement at Michaels and I already had the fabric, but I needed something to attach the fabric to. I wanted something lightweight because the fabric design is very big... 3'x3' big. I ended up at Lowe's and a nice clerk helped me obtain a large piece of cardboard used to cover a door. He gave it to me for free so the least I could do was to buy some spray adhesive, so I didn't get something for nothing. If you ask Michaela she would tell you I should have given him my number but maybe I am too oblivious to notice when that situation arises.
Anyway, here starts the photographic evidence. I measured out the cardboard (twice) and then Michaela and I cut it up.
I also had to cut down the fabric - my mom is so proud to see me using a cutting board, straight edge, and rotary cutter - although when I showed her this picture she mentioned how I could correct my hand placement. While true, it wasn't that important for this project since I was just shortening the fabric, I didn't need a precise cut.
We set the fabric on the board to make sure it was the right size - it was!
And then it was time to use the spray adhesive!
Nobody said it would be a perfect job - but it works (edit: the spray adhesive does hold it in place, but doesn't seem to be a permanent hold so I am going to use super glue to make sure the fabric doesn't move)
Now all that is left is to add the clock movement and voila! a working one-of-a-kind clock for about...$10 fabric, $8 clock parts, $4 spray adhesive: $22 (priceless)
After about an hour break, we then tackled Michaela's painting project. We had bought wooden circles and some stencils and acrylic paint and each made three backgrounds. Then it took both of us to stencil the letters. but it looks perfect!
Margot will be born in June!
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
MN MSP MPLS MiniApple Minneapolis
I am in (surprisingly) sunny Minneapolis for the week. The highs are in the 50s and the lows are in the 20s and I don't even need to wear a scarf or gloves!!
So far it has been a pretty great trip. I got in on Sunday and got to have dinner with Annie. Then we went downtown for a concert of a couple local bands. It was really fun. The crowd cracked me up. not only where they a mix of hipsters and raggedy andy's (scruffy guys) but no matter what song was playing everyone stood mesmerized nodding their heads with the music. I totally made me think of the 60s and 70s will mellow, groovy music. If only the place had been hazy I would have thought for sure I was transported back in time (some of the people even had some old school haircuts and clothes).
Yesterday and today have been kind of mixed bags. my college fair visits are pretty productive but I have seen almost no students during my high school visits. Thank goodness I bought magazines at the airport. I have had some free time. Yesterday, I got to shop in downtown Edina, and there is an awesome jewelry story there called Fringe that has really cool and very pretty jewelry for under $40 bucks, I got a new necklace and a pair of earrings. Tonight after my fair I got to to to Ciao Bella, the restaurant near my hotel - best italian food I have every had - I eat there every time I am here.
Tomorrow I am going to Keys Cafe with Annie during her lunch break. She got a new job working for an organization that helps people pay their energy bills if they can't afford to do it. she says she gets paid to give people money. Sounds like a good deal to me! Keys is another favorite spot in town. they have cinnimon rolls the size of plates (before you ask dad, I am talking about dinner plates...ok maybe salad plates) and they are soooo good! Also some of the best french toast I have had. I am excited to try it for lunch.
I must come to Minneapolis a lot if I have favorite restaurants and stores already (and none of them are the Mall of America - MOA to the locals).
Three more days and then I fly home to Tempe, then get to go to Tucson on Saturday to see Greg and Tomoko and little ariana! And actually, I will get to see a lot of friends and family since my parents are throwing a bbq that day.
And both of my classes are over!! so this is overall a great week!
So far it has been a pretty great trip. I got in on Sunday and got to have dinner with Annie. Then we went downtown for a concert of a couple local bands. It was really fun. The crowd cracked me up. not only where they a mix of hipsters and raggedy andy's (scruffy guys) but no matter what song was playing everyone stood mesmerized nodding their heads with the music. I totally made me think of the 60s and 70s will mellow, groovy music. If only the place had been hazy I would have thought for sure I was transported back in time (some of the people even had some old school haircuts and clothes).
Yesterday and today have been kind of mixed bags. my college fair visits are pretty productive but I have seen almost no students during my high school visits. Thank goodness I bought magazines at the airport. I have had some free time. Yesterday, I got to shop in downtown Edina, and there is an awesome jewelry story there called Fringe that has really cool and very pretty jewelry for under $40 bucks, I got a new necklace and a pair of earrings. Tonight after my fair I got to to to Ciao Bella, the restaurant near my hotel - best italian food I have every had - I eat there every time I am here.
Tomorrow I am going to Keys Cafe with Annie during her lunch break. She got a new job working for an organization that helps people pay their energy bills if they can't afford to do it. she says she gets paid to give people money. Sounds like a good deal to me! Keys is another favorite spot in town. they have cinnimon rolls the size of plates (before you ask dad, I am talking about dinner plates...ok maybe salad plates) and they are soooo good! Also some of the best french toast I have had. I am excited to try it for lunch.
I must come to Minneapolis a lot if I have favorite restaurants and stores already (and none of them are the Mall of America - MOA to the locals).
Three more days and then I fly home to Tempe, then get to go to Tucson on Saturday to see Greg and Tomoko and little ariana! And actually, I will get to see a lot of friends and family since my parents are throwing a bbq that day.
And both of my classes are over!! so this is overall a great week!
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Decathlon Double or Nothing
So something really cool has happened for Decathlon! We have gotten an anonymous donor to create a challenge grant! Basically all you have to do is make a donation at http://azacadec.org/contribute.php and this donor will DOUBLE your donation!!!!
It is very exciting :)
It is very exciting :)
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Time to move
So it seems Brett has found us a new roommate. She moved out in October but has been paying rent since she is on the lease. Well, she found us a subletter and now everyone is moving rooms.
Just because she moved out doesn't mean she packed up all her stuff like a normal person would. So first we have to pack up Brett's room - then I am moving into her room and the new guy is moving into my old room.
Now, I know you must be asking yourself "Self, if Casey only has 4 months left on her lease why doesn't she just stay in her room and let the new guy have Brett's room?" Well, that may seem logical but here's the deal, when Brett first talked about moving out I told her I wanted her room because it is the biggest (and I was feeling ready for a change but couldn't actually move out) but because she was still paying rent she thought her stuff should stay where it was...If you could explain the logic to me let me know. And it also meant that when we did find a roommate (now) we would have to pack her stuff...I know! But the good news is that her stuff is going into a storage unit and then I will never have to worry about it again - anything in that unit will be hers and hers alone to take care of! So when it is actually time to move out there will be less stuff I have to deal with.
So now I have the opportunity to have the biggest room, and in the process can do some packing and cleaning of my own so when it really is time to move out I will have a lighter load.
I have lived in the same place for nearly 3 years and have some stuff in my room I haven't touched since I got here.
This isn't the most logical move, but it will get me ready for moving out completely which is a great thing!
Plus - now my portion of the utility bills will be lower!
Just because she moved out doesn't mean she packed up all her stuff like a normal person would. So first we have to pack up Brett's room - then I am moving into her room and the new guy is moving into my old room.
Now, I know you must be asking yourself "Self, if Casey only has 4 months left on her lease why doesn't she just stay in her room and let the new guy have Brett's room?" Well, that may seem logical but here's the deal, when Brett first talked about moving out I told her I wanted her room because it is the biggest (and I was feeling ready for a change but couldn't actually move out) but because she was still paying rent she thought her stuff should stay where it was...If you could explain the logic to me let me know. And it also meant that when we did find a roommate (now) we would have to pack her stuff...I know! But the good news is that her stuff is going into a storage unit and then I will never have to worry about it again - anything in that unit will be hers and hers alone to take care of! So when it is actually time to move out there will be less stuff I have to deal with.
So now I have the opportunity to have the biggest room, and in the process can do some packing and cleaning of my own so when it really is time to move out I will have a lighter load.
I have lived in the same place for nearly 3 years and have some stuff in my room I haven't touched since I got here.
This isn't the most logical move, but it will get me ready for moving out completely which is a great thing!
Plus - now my portion of the utility bills will be lower!
Monday, January 04, 2010
I am so cool I am ice cold!
So I just found out I get to make 2 trips to Minneapolis this spring; my normal trip in mid-March and a shorter trip in 3 weeks!!! February 1st I have to go to MN for one evening event. It is basically a fly-in fly-out dealio but it is in negative temperatures there right now!!
Weather.com tells me the average high in Minneapolis around February 1st is 26 (the record high is 46) degrees. Good thing I asked for gloves for Christmas. I don't know if I have the rest of the outfit to deal with that weather though. At least I won't be there for a whole week.
Weather.com tells me the average high in Minneapolis around February 1st is 26 (the record high is 46) degrees. Good thing I asked for gloves for Christmas. I don't know if I have the rest of the outfit to deal with that weather though. At least I won't be there for a whole week.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Everyone needs a helper!
Tonight Castor decided I needed "help" wrapping Christmas presents. By "helping" I mean he played with ribbon (and ate some off the presents - sorry mom and dad!), attacked scissors and bows, and ate tissue paper.
But look at what a good job he did!
...on second thought maybe he is just looking for a snack.
Merry Christmas!
But look at what a good job he did!
...on second thought maybe he is just looking for a snack.
Merry Christmas!
Monday, December 07, 2009
Give Back without Giving a Dime!
Help Arizona Academic Decathlon receive $25,000 - by voting (up to 20 times)!
I don't know if you have to have a facebook account - if so please pass this on to friends and family you know with an account.
Click the link below and search for Arizona Academic Decathlon
I don't know if you have to have a facebook account - if so please pass this on to friends and family you know with an account.
Click the link below and search for Arizona Academic Decathlon
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
I'm Too Excited to go to Sleep!
I bought a car!!!!!!!!!!!!
After months of comparison shopping and narrowing down my options between a Honda Fit and a Nissan Versa...
I bought a 2010 Honda Fit Sport! (I cannot believe I own a brand new car!).
There was a lot of haggling with the interest rate and the payment, but this finally worked out to = me owning a brand new car!
This is me signing the paperwork
This is me getting the keys!
This is me with my car!
This is proof it was sold to me (it says Ms. C. Thomas on the top line)
This is me in the driver's seat!!!!
I look gooooood
Mom and Dad drove up from Tucson to celebrate! (That is my car salesman with them)
My best friend Michaela came to document everything - even the first drive!
Daylight pictures to come so you can see that beautiful blue color!
After months of comparison shopping and narrowing down my options between a Honda Fit and a Nissan Versa...
I bought a 2010 Honda Fit Sport! (I cannot believe I own a brand new car!).
There was a lot of haggling with the interest rate and the payment, but this finally worked out to = me owning a brand new car!
This is me signing the paperwork
This is me getting the keys!
This is me with my car!
This is proof it was sold to me (it says Ms. C. Thomas on the top line)
This is me in the driver's seat!!!!
I look gooooood
Mom and Dad drove up from Tucson to celebrate! (That is my car salesman with them)
My best friend Michaela came to document everything - even the first drive!
Daylight pictures to come so you can see that beautiful blue color!
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
Fall Recruitment Trips!
Here are some photos from my Minneapolis and Salt Lake trips this last month.
Minneapolis!
Annie and me!
Mississippi River
Salt Lake City Fall Colors
Minneapolis!
Annie and me!
Mississippi River
Salt Lake City Fall Colors
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Tyrone Wells part 2
Guess who saw Tyrone Wells in concert again?
This past Sunday my coworker (who I got hooked on Tyrone's music) and I went to Tyrone Wells' concert up in Scottsdale.
Remember him? - he serenaded me down in Tucson last time he performed in Arizona.
Anyhoodle, THIS time I remembered a camera!!
I got up to him and he asked if we had met before. I reminded him of the Tucson moment and he remembered and said it had been really fun (and since I am a crazed fan, I TOTALLY BELIEVE HIM, so don't tell me otherwise). He also said that song was going to be on his next album coming out in December! yay!
In other news a few of my coworkers and I tried to buy Garth Brooks tickets this weekend. It didn't work out, but since we know he is performing in Vegas for the next 5 years, I am sure we will get the opportunity.
This past Sunday my coworker (who I got hooked on Tyrone's music) and I went to Tyrone Wells' concert up in Scottsdale.
Remember him? - he serenaded me down in Tucson last time he performed in Arizona.
Anyhoodle, THIS time I remembered a camera!!
I got up to him and he asked if we had met before. I reminded him of the Tucson moment and he remembered and said it had been really fun (and since I am a crazed fan, I TOTALLY BELIEVE HIM, so don't tell me otherwise). He also said that song was going to be on his next album coming out in December! yay!
In other news a few of my coworkers and I tried to buy Garth Brooks tickets this weekend. It didn't work out, but since we know he is performing in Vegas for the next 5 years, I am sure we will get the opportunity.
Good ole' SLC
So I guess I should have updated a couple of weeks ago, but I just get so darn busy.
A week and a half ago (it wasn't longer than that?!) I flew to Salt Lake City to attend the same college fair I went to last year, only this time I made sure to spend the night so that I could get per diem (aka, my food paid for!).
The night I flew in I went to the Red Iguana. It was recommended to me by a SLC native and I had remembered that it was featured in an episode of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives on the Food Network. Well it is known for its mole sauce (no, not the rodent, the Mexican savory chocolate sauce). This will come as a shock but it turns out mole is not my favorite flavor. So I chose to go with the classic enchiladas. They were definitely worth the 50 minute wait to get in the door.
Then I found my hotel and got my room, I found an awesome deal and got a suite with a kitchen, fire place and master suite! The next day I got ready to use my GPS to get to a well known breakfast spot in town when the battery died! I probably would have panicked if I hadn't been so well prepared. I had printed out 3 maps before I left town. 1) from Red Iguana to my hotel 2)from the hotel to the college fair 3)from the African restaurant I planned to have dinner at, back to the airport.
I had to scratch going to the breakfast joint since now i had no way of knowing how to get there. I decided to drive to the school and found an IHOP near by. After the fair I had to figure out how to get from the school to the Africa Restaurant (yes, that is the actual name) to meet one of my high school friends for dinner. He attends BYU and oddly enough, did his mission in South Africa. In order to figure out which highway was going to get me up the the restaurant I had to piece together my maps like a puzzle to see where they overlapped (luckily they did!). But as usual my friend was running late and I had to cancel my plans in order to get back to the airport in time for my flight.
It was a pretty fun turn around trip. of course, I had to have little adventures!
A week and a half ago (it wasn't longer than that?!) I flew to Salt Lake City to attend the same college fair I went to last year, only this time I made sure to spend the night so that I could get per diem (aka, my food paid for!).
The night I flew in I went to the Red Iguana. It was recommended to me by a SLC native and I had remembered that it was featured in an episode of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives on the Food Network. Well it is known for its mole sauce (no, not the rodent, the Mexican savory chocolate sauce). This will come as a shock but it turns out mole is not my favorite flavor. So I chose to go with the classic enchiladas. They were definitely worth the 50 minute wait to get in the door.
Then I found my hotel and got my room, I found an awesome deal and got a suite with a kitchen, fire place and master suite! The next day I got ready to use my GPS to get to a well known breakfast spot in town when the battery died! I probably would have panicked if I hadn't been so well prepared. I had printed out 3 maps before I left town. 1) from Red Iguana to my hotel 2)from the hotel to the college fair 3)from the African restaurant I planned to have dinner at, back to the airport.
I had to scratch going to the breakfast joint since now i had no way of knowing how to get there. I decided to drive to the school and found an IHOP near by. After the fair I had to figure out how to get from the school to the Africa Restaurant (yes, that is the actual name) to meet one of my high school friends for dinner. He attends BYU and oddly enough, did his mission in South Africa. In order to figure out which highway was going to get me up the the restaurant I had to piece together my maps like a puzzle to see where they overlapped (luckily they did!). But as usual my friend was running late and I had to cancel my plans in order to get back to the airport in time for my flight.
It was a pretty fun turn around trip. of course, I had to have little adventures!
Friday, October 02, 2009
Done!
Today was my last day of work in Minneapolis! I went to 5 different schools, and luckily wasn't RAINING! anymore, it was just misty (talk about 100% humidity) so I am hopeful that my flight will leave on time.
I spent my afternoon at the Mall of America, didn't really buy much but winded down and saw a movie, it was nice to kn longer be on a schedule.
I tomorrow I might go tour the U of M, we will see if I want to wake up early.
Edit: I just went to the UM website and the visit must be full because it can no longer be selected. Maybe next time.
I spent my afternoon at the Mall of America, didn't really buy much but winded down and saw a movie, it was nice to kn longer be on a schedule.
I tomorrow I might go tour the U of M, we will see if I want to wake up early.
Edit: I just went to the UM website and the visit must be full because it can no longer be selected. Maybe next time.
Thursday, October 01, 2009
rain rain...go away?
Today was RAINING! not rainy, RAINING! I drove on a highway in a torrential downpour! it was nearly a whiteout, it was like driving in a haboob but with water so the windshield was never easy to see out of. crazy. Oh yeah, and you can't just pull over and wait 10 minutes for it to pass - torrential rain for hours! It was scary and cool. Scary for not being able to see well, but cool because well, it is rain!
Luckily I am in the land of 10,000 lakes (now we know where the come from) so there is not actually much flooding. I didn't have to look for potential deep spots or flash floods as I drove. But it is supposed to be rainy (potentially RAINING!) through saturday - which could be ok or bad. Coincidently, Brett got laid over in Minneapolis tonight on her way to Des Moines, to visit her boyfriend at Drake, because of the rain so I hope that it lets up a little bit before my flight home on Saturday. I am ready to come home.
In other news the rest of the college fair went well, and I did not run out of any materials, although I did pretty much use up my contact cards so I am glad that I made copies of them to take to my high schools tomorrow.
Tonight was also my Sneak Preview event. that was fun! I got to do a 2 hour long presentation for students and parents (about 60 people total) with a powerpoint and dvd and everything. Even better, all the evaluations about the event were really positive. I also met a MN ASU alumni who was really nice and knows some of the same people I do.
Tomorrow is my last day (whew!) and I think I will head to the Mall of America afterwards. Do a little shopping and maybe see a movie and veg out. Anything to stay out of the rain :)
Luckily I am in the land of 10,000 lakes (now we know where the come from) so there is not actually much flooding. I didn't have to look for potential deep spots or flash floods as I drove. But it is supposed to be rainy (potentially RAINING!) through saturday - which could be ok or bad. Coincidently, Brett got laid over in Minneapolis tonight on her way to Des Moines, to visit her boyfriend at Drake, because of the rain so I hope that it lets up a little bit before my flight home on Saturday. I am ready to come home.
In other news the rest of the college fair went well, and I did not run out of any materials, although I did pretty much use up my contact cards so I am glad that I made copies of them to take to my high schools tomorrow.
Tonight was also my Sneak Preview event. that was fun! I got to do a 2 hour long presentation for students and parents (about 60 people total) with a powerpoint and dvd and everything. Even better, all the evaluations about the event were really positive. I also met a MN ASU alumni who was really nice and knows some of the same people I do.
Tomorrow is my last day (whew!) and I think I will head to the Mall of America afterwards. Do a little shopping and maybe see a movie and veg out. Anything to stay out of the rain :)
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