July 19, 2013

So tonight begins my reflection on the blogging/journal fluency assignment. In general, I enjoyed this assignment; finding that on days that I was extremely stressed, I was able to use it as an out. It was nice to be able to come to my own little world and just share whatever was on my mind. One of my biggest struggles was finding topics. Yes, I used the resources and the internet but it seemed that even with those I could not spark a flow in my mind to make a large portion of the topics work. There were, however, a few blogs that I felt the topics and the text really worked. One was my description of my grandparent's living room; and another, my I Believe blog. During these, I found it really easy once I got started to go into descriptions and thoughts. I believe by some of my feedback comments that these specific posts drew my audience in. One of my other least favorite things about this assignment was having to blog EVERY day. We had seven blogs due each week so even if you didn't post everyday, you would still have to come up with double posts on another. This seemed a bit daunting to me at times because of the difficulty coming up with subjects. I can't say at this point still that I really approach my blogs in a specific way. I usually just type in my title and begin with whatever comes from my mind and let it develop from there. A lot of free-writing for sure. It is my hopes that maybe as I go forward I can develop more ideas for topics and creativity. I noticed some real creativity in a couple of my classmates' blogs, made me envious.

July 18, 2013

Good late evening cyberworld! Tonight has been a very intense evening of class. Thursdays are one of my 2 Anatomy and Physiology I classes that I have each week. Due to our instructor's wife being in the hospital Tuesday, we did not have class. Therefore tonight was double the lecture, double the lab but in the same amount of time. I thought this unit of the class would be the easiest for me to pick up on but it isn't working out that way. We went over the Axial and Appendicular muscles. Do you have any idea how many muscles our body has? Over 700! That's on top of the 206 bones that we went over last week. I am doing ok in the class because I am carrying a B right now. I am concerned though because the tests are my weak point and next week we have our Unit 4 Exam worth 100 pts, the Lab Practicum worth 100 pts, and the Final Exam with 200 pts. My B could be out the window in a heartbeat with these exams. The other thing that concerns me about that is the Allied Health acceptance. for the nursing programs. It was indicated that basically if you don't get an A or B, you might as well forget about getting in and you only have 2 tries to meet the grade. I thought about dropping the course several times; but at this point it's too late. I couldn't have dropped it anyways because of my financial aide. All I can do at this point is pray and study as much as possible and hope that things will come back to me. I have so much homework in my other 2 courses as well that I feel like I am never going to be able to get ahead and get enough studying in. I am going to finish this post and get my favorite blog of the week turned in and go back to working on my paper that is due tomorrow for English. Then tomorrow I will finish and submit that paper, complete my assignments for my computer class, and begin studying for  A&P. It's going to be a long and stressful 7 days but I can't believe I am almost done with my first semester of college! I hope to hold up both of my A's in English and Computer. This has definitely been a learning experience for me and I will take the things I have learned into next semester which will be a whole new ballgame. This semester I took two online courses and one hybrid course (half online/half seated). Next semester all 13 credits are seated. College has been a brand new experience for me and I hope to learn more tips as I go.

July 17, 2013

So tonight's topic seems to be cartoons. Why? Because that is what my 4-year-old is watching. Have you ever thought of all the generations of cartoons that have been developed. There is no doubt that the cartoons that are out there now are nothing like those when I was growing up. I recall watching Mickey Mouse, Looney tunes and others that just don't seem to exist anymore. Yes, I realize that Mickey Mouse still airs but it is not the same as the originals. Then you have ridiculous cartoons like Sponge Bob Squarepants... this animation drives me insane. The messages that are sent are just distasteful and rude. My children seem to like it and it grates on my nerves. And have you ever noticed the other kids programs like ICarly and Victorious? Where are the parents in these shows. It appears that all of the children just have free run of the world. It's not that there is anything over the top on these shows; it just doesn't seem like there is any authority. Unfortunately this gives a negative impact to our children, in my opinion. There is also the violence that is contained within so many of the cartoons these days. I know times are changing and things just aren't the same but what is wrong with keeping our children in innocence as long as possible? I will get off my soap box for now but there may be more to come on this subject.

July 16, 2013

I seem to be very tired tonight. Scraping my mind to see what might be there to right about but nothing is coming to me so I am just going to free-write. I am sitting here trying to get some homework done while Papa is sleeping. Christian, my 2nd youngest, is chilling in the recliner trying to keep from going to sleep. Sierra, the 2nd oldest, is playing Minecraft. This game is crazy; it amazes me how a 10-year-old can get so involved. I just downloaded it for her yesterday and I am definitely going to need to monitor very closely how much time she spends on there. It does provoke imagination and creativity; which both are a good thing. My mom came out to visit and help me out a little. We have America's Got Talent on and it is crazy what some people will do to get recognized. Christian is out! Knew it wouldn't take long. I don't think I am going to make it long tonight myself. Papa was up before 6 am this morning. I know that is what he is used to but not me. I stay up so late trying to get homework and housework done. I don't know what to type, what to type, what to type. Why is the news so depressing? This is why I choose never to watch it. People are crazy! Nothing but guns today.... I don't have anything against guns but there needs to be some sort of control. Not sure how you do this, or if it is even really possible but we need some type of hope for our children. It is so cold in here. I just want to crank the thermostat up to 80 and snuggle under some blankets. This is when I know I am way too tired. This is all I can type tonight, my eyes are slowly shutting.

Places I'm thinking of

So I am trying to brainstorm some ideas for my paper and having a difficult time... but I am going to come up with what I can.

My grandparents farm
Eiffel Tower
New York City
Grand Ole Opry
The Mansion at Elfindale
Bedrock City
Mount Rushmore
The Bahamas
The Colony Hotel - South Beach Miami, FL
Kansas City, MO
Silver Dollar City
Clearwater, FL

It is amazing with how many places we have in this world and this is all I can think of but I seem to be drawing a blank. I believe I have a couple really good bets with a couple of these locations, so I am going to explore my resources and see what ideas I can come up with. I was wondering, does this blog count as my nightly blog? I think it will, or should. After all, Ms. A did say we could blog about our assignments, course, or anything else we chose. It's probably a good thing because I am not sure that I could come up with a second blog tonight. My mind is floating else where. I'm finding it very difficult to focus this evening. It is so quiet because I have my papa tucked into bed and my kids went home with daddy for the night. Not sure what to do with myself with so much quietness. Wait - yes I do - HOMEWORK! But I don't want to. How is it that this becomes such a battle? Well, I guess this is one assignment down - too many more to count to go.

July 14, 2013

I sit here in my Papa's house, in the living room to be exact. I look all around me at the visuals in the room. Sitting here facing the south wall which has a double window centralized on the wall. The blinds are closed for the evening and the curtains are held back with matching tie-backs. They are white in color with a scalloped edge. Hanging from the wooden valance over the windows are 4 wind chimes and a snowman that our oldest daughter made for Grandma at Christmas time. Sitting on top of the valance are bells; in upwards of 25. Grandma loved bells, and her collection of many of them still sit where they always have been. On the same wall are other various items which include 2 decorative plates and a wooden Nebraska sign. On the south-west corner of the room sits an old grandfathers clock that I don't think has worked for the last 15 years. Looking to my left is the west wall hosting a window and the front door of the house. The window treatment matches those of the south wall. The door is an off-white metal door. It's a large contrast from the dark brown paneled walls that surround the room. The valance above the west window is occupied by more wind chimes and bells. There is a clock that has 12 different birds on it but no longer plays the sound of the birds. The wall behind me is home of the spare bedroom door and a collection of pictures that is approximately 5 foot by 6 foot. The frames are of many different shapes and sizes but all of them are an off-white color. There are pictures of my grandparents, their siblings, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. I still enjoy enjoy this collection, although some of the pictures are quite aged. Such as my senior frame that is now 19 years old! The east wall has a large "archway" that leads into the dining room. There is a weather rock that my dad made more than 25 years ago that still hangs on one side of the trim. Adjacent from it on the other trim hangs a bell along with a wooden wind chime. The trim above has a couple of other decorations hanging from it. Pictures occupy another 3 foot by 4 foot section on one side of the archway and a 2 foot by 3 foot area on the other side of the archway. Sometimes when I look around the room I think about how cluttered it is; then I quickly come back to how much my grandma loved this stuff and how it represents both of my grandparents. It easily comes back to me why I also love this room.

July 13, 2013

As I was trying to decide what to blog about tonight, I got day dreaming about the Bahamas and the Royal Caribbean Cruise my husband and I took for our anniversary. It made me wish I was back there right now. With all the chaos of life that is going on right now and the everyday stress; it would be a great retreat. I can remember walking on that ship for the very first time. It was unbelievable in size and in presence. I had always thought a cruise or trip to an area like the Bahamas would just be a dream for me, but here I actually was. We were really blessed because when we checked in they upgraded us from a state room with a window to a balcony room. It was amazing! I don't know if you have ever been a cruise before but if not, you cannot imagine how much food is there. Everywhere you turn, there is a restaurant or eatery. And the buffets are beyond description. I think one of the most incredible sights was at night when you were out on the balcony and you saw nothing but complete blackness with a glimmer of light from the moon shining on the ocean. We were fortunate to be able to partake in a dolphin adventure in Nassau, Bahamas. It was really neat to be able to touch, feed, and interact with them. We even have a picture with one kissing me on the cheek. They are such intelligent and remarkable animals. I hope to be able to do another adventure with them sometime where I get to swim with them. We had one day that we visited CoCoCay, which was a Royal Caribbean private island. It was so relaxing to just enjoy the beach and crystal clear waters. We floated on rafts for hours. They had the island all set up with BBQ food. The last stop was in Key West, Florida. We took a glass bottom boat tour out to the Coral Reef. The colors of the fish and the details of the coral that lie on the ocean bed were spectacular. The shops were nice and the island tour was pretty cool. Now you can tell why I wish I were back there again. I hope next time to be able to take a full week cruise and take our kids on it with us. The experiences you have are indescribable and leave a lifetime of memories.

July 12, 2013

Do you ever wonder what life is all about? I'm pondering this in my mind now. It has been one of those days and tensions are high and my fuse is short. I hear the 2 middle children in the living room at my grandfather's house; they are supposed to be sleeping yet being very noisy. Doesn't seem to matter tonight how many times I tell them, they won't settle down. I am overly tired tonight and ready to go to sleep. I think when I am done with this post, I will. My papa was supposed to come home from the hospital today but they decided he still needed more physical therapy before being released. It wouldn't have been such a big deal had I known upfront. But I had already taken my homework, computer, personal items, and the dog out to his house so I already had things situated when I brought him home. It wasn't until I arrived at the hospital that I was made aware of him not getting to go home. So, this is the reason why we are sleeping at his house tonight. I couldn't leave the dog kenneled for 24 hours and I have a ton of homework. These blogs are getting harder to do so I am just going to practice the freewriting technique. The kids are still carrying on in the other room and my patience is wearing extremely thin. Why is it the days that we feel the weakest, we are pushed to the limits? Tomorrow will be a new day, right? I am so tired right now, and I am struggling to keep my eyes open. I will be glad when the next two weeks are over. Having to be out here with my papa for an entire week is stress in itself with school and everything else. Then the following week is finals week. I am extremely nervous about that. I have never taken a college final and I have no idea what to expect. Then there is the Anatomy & Physiology final. This test has me so stressed. I have to do well in it so I can continue to carry my B. If not, I risk not getting into the nursing program. I just have to continue and pray that God will give me favor and wisdom to get through it. I can hardly keep my eyes open anymore so I am calling it a night. Hopefully tomorrow will bring a more enlightening post.

July 11, 2013

Have you ever thought about the funny things kids say, or the way people in general enunciate words? I got thinking about this today and thought it might be interesting to explore some of these. I'd be curious to hear from others in how your children pronounce certain words or something funny they have come up with. I think about both of my boys and the word "spaghetti". Tony, our 16 year old, used to pronounce it "sabelli" and our 4 year old, Christian, calls it "baschetti". Isn't it interesting how they come up with these cute words? I have several nieces that Christian has "nick-named" because he can't quite get the pronunciation down yet. For example: Tabitha = Tabfa, Mariah = Riah, Alisha = Lisha, and Alea = Lea. The funny thing is that I find these nicknames to catch on and although the rest of us can correctly speak their names, we find ourselves referring back to the nickname. Here recently we had a discussion regarding the word "wash" at my in-laws house. I am sure many of you have heard this discussion before in your own homes. Why is it that so many people say "warsh"? Where did that "r" come from? Yet we seem to so commonly add it. Then there is the old common state of Missouri! Yep, you would think this would be pretty simple to speak; yet how many people say "Missoura"? Last time I checked there was no "a" at the end of it. Now for my word - something. Pretty simple, right? Well somewhere along the line, I have picked up this really bad habit and so when I say the word, it comes out "sunthin"! How much more slang can you get? I just find it interesting in how we all speak differently and the pronunciation of words is so different among us. In searching the website to find some other interesting things regarding word pronunciation, I found the following sites:
http://grammar.yourdictionary.com/style-and-usage/mispron.html
http://english.stackexchange.com/questions/1431/what-words-are-commonly-mispronounced-by-literate-people-who-read-them-before-th
You should check them out; they are kind of interesting. Well, hope you enjoyed this post and I look forward to hearing what funny things your children say or the way you pronounce words.

July 10, 2013

Well, it's been a really long day; I am sitting in a hospital room with my grandfather right now. He came in today for a knee replacement. The morning started pretty early because I had to drive out to Ash Grove to pick him up and get him to the hospital. See, everything kind of falls on me right now because grandma passed away in January, my mom isn't physically able to, and my uncle lives out of town. I don't really mind - I would do it day after day if I had to but it makes life really busy. I got around and left home this morning around 7:15 and took care of my water bill and grabbed a little breakfast. When I arrived at Papa's house, he was eagerly awaiting on his porch. I took care of his prescription refills and then we headed on our way. I stopped by the Dodge dealership so I could drop off the title to the old car. We got him checked in at the hospital around 9:30 this morning, and that began the journey of a long day. They didn't take him back for surgery holding until a little after 12:30pm. Holding and surgery didn't get completed until around 3:30pm. The operation went great, and the doctor said it was much needed. The long wait begins again; we just arrived to his room about 20 minutes ago and he has made it very clear that he is HUNGRY! He has tried to order a steak and potato but I think he is going to have to settle for jello and broth. We will see how well that goes over. He is in great spirit and raring to go; full of pep. He is supposed to be able to go home on Friday afternoon if all goes well. Home therapy will come out and do his physical therapy but they want someone to be with him for at least one week before he is alone. Guess who that goes to? Yep, you got it, me! I am going to have to revise my schedule for the next week and relocate my kiddos so we can get him taken care. As I said, I am glad to do it, because I would do anything for him. Just life is so crazy right now and feels like it just keeps adding up. Anyways, the evening is getting close to wrapping up. I'm just trying to make sure that he has something in his system and is situated. Then it's time to head home and kiss my husband who I haven't seen all day. I'll peak my head in on all the kiddos and whisper "sweet dreams" to them. Tomorrow will start a new day of adventure. Good night to all and I will check in tomorrow.

July 9, 2013

I have to be very honest right this minute. I am stressed trying to get this post in before midnight so it counts for my blog of the day. But I have pushed myself to the limit on time and energy and have over-extended myself. Why is it that I am pushing myself beyond the edge to try and get a post done that is worth a measly 3 points? Yet I am! Even though as I review Ms. A's website and look through several of the class blogs and find more people than not - not blogging everyday. So why is it that 3 points is so important to me? I don't know that I can even answer that at this point. I am tired and ready to go to bed and have more homework that I have to get done. I will be spending the entire day at the hospital tomorrow for my grandfather's knee replacement. DANG IT! And it just turned midnight - so here I am stressing myself for these 3 crazy points and now I don't get them anyways. Oh well, I am sure life will continue. I guess I can happily relax a little now since it won't really matter anyways. As I spoke on yesterday, I have officially entered the mini-van world! We picked up our Dodge Grand Caravan this afternoon. It is awesome and the kids love it. I guess it's not going to be so bad driving on after all! Well, I am extremely tired, and short on thoughts so I am going to call it a night and report back in tomorrow.

July 8, 2013

The Minivan Stage! Yep, I am about to officially enter it. My husband and I should be completing the paper work tomorrow on a minivan. Oh my goodness - I can't believe I am saying that! There is just some type of stereotype that seems to be put on those who drive one. Personally, I like them - look at all the room you have. There is space so the children can't fight near as much, yelling "he touched me", "she's in my space". I know, wishful thinking, right? They will still find a way to get in each others space. With four children in the home, there aren't many options for six plus passenger vehicles. We have looked at a few options but it seems as though the minivan has the best fuel mileage with the most room; a win-win situation. How will I look driving a minivan? I almost feel like I am too young to drive one - even though I am 37. But it's all about practicality and affordability. So when I get that call tomorrow that it is ready for us to pick up, I will cheer and jump up and down and be excited that I have enough space in one vehicle for the kiddos and they won't have to be sitting right on top of each other. The next trip to Silver Dollar City will be exciting because everyone will have their own space and I will still have enough room in the back to put the strollers and other things we have. Entering the minivan stage is going to be a good thing. So what if I am typed as a "soccer" mom - although for me it is tot-ball, volleyball, basketball; I will gladly be marked with that title. It represents my children and who wouldn't be proud of that. So I will try to get some rest tonight even though the anticipation of the phone call will be driving me crazy. Only about 12 more hours!

July 7, 2013

I can't seem to think of anything tonight so I am going to list all the words I can think of that start with the letter M ...

mouse                           
mickey
mirror
mower
merry
mint
much
more
mine
mobil
man
macho
miraculous
miracle
moon
monkey
movie
montage
misty
mucle
mustard
mayonaise
molasis
mule
munchies
mussle
mango
master
mellow
morsile
music
motorcycle
maragoulds

You wouldn't think it would be that hard to come up with, but I am already drawing a blank! Maybe better luck tomorrow night.  Maybe I should trying blogging in the morning? Is there a possibility that would work? We'll see when the day is new... I have so much to do and I'll have stuff I want to talk about and so will you.

July 6, 2013

What a crazy day it has been! Not that it has been anything spectacular or anything but I am warn out. My day started out by the puppy waking me up at 6:00am to go outside. He is making a really bad habit of getting up early! While I was trying to do some homework and get caught up; he pushed open the door to the baby's room and woke her up at 6:50. Then she was up! We got around and test drove a couple of cars, which ended up not panning out due to some issues with our current car. After that, we drove back to Republic just to turn around and drive BACK to Marionville to help pack and load more stuff for my in-laws who are moving. I really dislike moving and when someone has been in a home for 17 plus years, it is amazing how much stuff you find stored away. Returning to Republic, my husband and I got around to go work a Springfield Cardinals game. Went really well, and we did almost $5700.00 in our stand tonight. Not bad for about 5 hours work. Here it is bed time now but I can't sleep because I have homework to do. So I will pray that I can keep my eyes open long enough to get something done! Well, I have blogged about all I can tonight because I am finding myself falling asleep as I type. I will return tomorrow.

July 5, 2013

Is it morning time already? The dog woke me up barking this morning to go outside, long before I was ready to get up. Guess that is the nature of having an indoor pet. He's a lot of fun but some days I wonder if I lost my mind by getting another animal. Especially with my schedule right now. Oh well, it will work out and all will be ok.

This is going to be another action packed weekend because my in-laws are moving so we will be helping get that process completed. We will be able to help out with dad more and maybe give mom a break from time to time. I'm not real sure how the entire transition is going to go with his Alzheimer's but I can only pray that he will handle it well. It's one of those things that they can't really stay where they are and mom be able to continue with everything but at the same time what kind of affect will this move have on dad? Time will tell.

I have so much homework to get done today. I'm having a hard time getting started though. I just want to crawl back into bed under those warms covers and sleep! Guess I can't do that though. I need to use as much time before the kiddos get up to work on my paper and get it posted.

I have to start coming up with some topics to blog about because this blogging project is supposed to be about fluency and yet I feel like it is getting harder by the day! My life is really crazy right now and so it seems as though, if I write about my days and life, I am complaining. I don't want to! I want to share positiveness, laughter, and excitement with my words.

I am sitting here with nothing else coming to mind right now so I guess this would be a good time to close. I am going to research some topics for blogging today to hopefully bring some interest tomorrow.

July 3, 2013

Here I am for my nightly blog! What will tonight's topic be? Hmmm, maybe the loud fireworks going off all around. I enjoy the 4th of July and all that it represents. It is the freedom of our country ... this great land we call home. When you think about it, we truly are blessed to live in this country. Yes, it has it's issues - many of them, if I do say so myself. But look at some of the other countries we could be living in. There are people in Israel that have to take shelter on a daily basis, children missing school, etc. just to survive the constant air-raids. I couldn't imagine what a life would be like having to take constant shelter. We do face terrorism here and it can be extremely tragic; such as 9-11 or the Boston Marathon Bombing but fortunately it isn't an every day thing. We have our spouses, children, brothers, sisters, family, and friends who fight each and every day in war zones to defend and protect our freedom. Please let us not forget the price that so many have paid for us. Think of the choices we have in this great place! There are so many opportunities set before us and all we have to do is go for it. As I sit tonight counting my blessings and eagerly wait family time tomorrow on the 4th; I pray for the safety of those who are in the battlefields of gunfire and bombings. I pray that they make it home very soon to their loved ones. So tomorrow brings out the fireworks and all the festivities. I enjoy this time. I like being with my family and celebrating all that this Independence Day represents. It is so much fun to watch the children running around, laughing and playing. And the fun little "fireworks" for them... like the snakes! Why is it that these have fascinated children for years. Even myself as a child, and now grown, love them! Why? Who knows - maybe just the fascination of setting them on fire and watching them grow. Then you have the "snappers". I loved these as a child and guess I still do - but now being a parent, they are a pain to clean up after! My favorite are the fountains. I like feeling like we are under control with them; unlike those that go up in the air and land who knows where. They were grandma's favorite too - so you can bet I will be doing plenty this year just so she can watch from Heaven. I hope everyone has a safe and Happy 4th of July! Good night.

July 2, 2013

So my mind has been provoked by a topic list that I was reading through tonight. The question was: If you are an only child, how would life be different if you had siblings? Or vice-versa. This makes me happy and sad all in one. I fall in both categories. I know, you're asking, how is that possible? Well you see, I have 3 brothers - all older, but all are deceased. They passed away in a fire in 1976, when I was 9 months old. So that is how I am an "only child" or at least raised as one. I was so young when they passed away. There really aren't any stories that I personally am able to recall of them; but I love hearing the stories my mom tells me. I think life would have been extremely different on so many levels had the boys still been here. I dream about being spoiled rotten by all three; after all, how wouldn't I be being the only girl! Recalling the stories mom tells me about them treating me like a little baby doll. Oh, I am sure there would have been fights and challenges - but I would give anything to have those fights. Could you imagine how different dating might be? Would I have ever got out of the house without 3 bodyguards being in the car with me? It may have changed the way my life turned out though regarding my romantic life! I picture myself being extremely close to them. I think Dale, who would be 8 years older than me, and I might not have been quite as close just because of age difference but I see a strong relationship there as we gained in years. Rodney, he would have been my protector. He would be 6 years older. Still a little age difference but close enough that I think he would have made sure no one got within hands reach of me! LOL  Then there is Chris, with an age gap of 3 years. No doubt we would have been the 2 to have the most battles, but I think resulting in a friendship that could never be broken! Yes, I sit here heart-broken right now - why does life work the way it does? Why is it that they were taken from our family way too soon? I know they have watched over me every single day and I know there will be a day that we meet in Heaven but oh how I wished that we had time on earth together as well. I love you big brothers - you baby sis.

July 1, 2013

Do you ever wonder what tomorrow will bring? This is what comes to mind as I was attempting to come up with a subject for today's blog and seem to run into a wall. Even using the resources from my class, I couldn't find an eye-catching, mind-provoking topic. How hard could this possibly be? As I flipped over to this screen the question came to mind "What will tomorrow bring?". Will it be a new beginning? Another day full of homework? Kids running around laughing, screaming, and doing what kids do best? What if tomorrow were the last day we had on this earth? I ponder what I would do. This leaves me wondering what I need to do to make the most out of every day. I am stuck! I don't know where else I am going with this question and these thoughts. The distractions around me pull my eyes away from this screen and onto those objects around me. I catch myself watching Oreo, the new puppy, staring out the window. Now he is gone... what could he possibly be getting into. Then there is the baby; so contently playing with her toys. It amazes me how well she plays and to just silently sit and watch her brings a smile to my face. My husband is doing dishes. I feel like I should be helping him and not sitting here with this computer, that is so extremely hot on my legs. It is a continuous battle - do my homework or help everyone else out? I need to do BOTH. Does anyone have an extra set of hands and feet I can borrow for a little while? I haven't called to check on my Papa today. The guilt is bugging me, I  need to stop and call but I need to finish this blog. I have called him everyday since my grandma's passing (except the days I am out at his house each week); and I missed calling him yesterday! The minutes, hours, and days are getting away from me. I guess this leads back to my initial question "what will tomorrow bring?". Only the morning light will tell, and I will take it one minute at a time and do what has to be done to carry on.

Know Your Audience

This was one of the most exciting discussion boards thus far. It is very interesting to me to hear where everyone comes from along with their like and dislikes; what makes them tick. The wide span of questions were very intriguing. I think that probably one of the most expected questions was about "favorite food". What was even more interesting about this question was how many people seemed to like mexican food. I love it too - although not my top pick; but out of all of the food that this country and world offers and so many had the same tastes. Probably one of the least expected, and yet relatively humorous questions was regarding your plans for today if you had to go to prison tomorrow. Hadn't much thought about that before but you really start thinking about all of the possibilities. A lot of people would choose to spend it with family and make the most out of that day. I do recall though, one response I read talked about robbing a bank and such. This really is quite hilarious - what a creative response. When you stop to think about it, as Lauren said, you are going to jail anyways! I think so many in our class have so much in common without completely realizing it. When you read through the responses; so many are completely family-oriented and that is what their life's dreams and ambitions revolve around. There was one more thing that caught my attention, although I can't really explain why. The "birth order" question. As I looked back through these responses, it appears that no one in our class is an only child! Why this is so fascinating is beyond me, but what is the likely hood of 18 people in a class all having siblings? This discussion really let us into each others lives and made me really even think back to some of my responses as I read others. That leads back to maybe that is exactly what this class, or at least the interaction part is all about; getting everyone to provoke their inner thoughts and portray them on a screen for others to interpret.

June 30, 2013

Another day: this is a good thing, right? It was going really good until I just realized that I missed another deadline for my English assignments! REALLY? This is just frustrating. I have to find a way to get my self under control and to keep better track of all of my assignments. Sitting here complaining about it though is not going to change anything so I am going to continue this blog with my day and then proceed to my missed assignment and my assignment that is due today. Had a wonderful morning at church and teaching our little babies about Noah and the Ark. It puts such a smile on my face to see them light up. Then we took the 2 middle kiddos to get their hair cut. My daughter had hair down to the end of her back, now it is SUPER short - and SUPER cute! I can't believe she did it though. We are donating her hair to Locks of Love; so I think it was a very rewarding day. The house is clean, and the family is hanging out while I proceed with my homework. I really am blessed! They are so patient and supportive of my schooling - although not always easy for them, they really do try. One day it will be a very good payoff - and my whole family will be rewarded! I didn't know how well I could get into this whole blogging thing, but I really do enjoy it. It's not always easy to decide what to write about - I don't feel like I should always be talking about my school or about my home life. Maybe tomorrow I will check out the Writing Resources for suggested topics. It's time to continue on to another blog, so I can complete yesterday's assignment that I missed.

June 29, 2013

Well here is another day! The weekend has been fairly well so far... with one exception! I have yet to get used to the fact that I am supposed to be blogging EVERY day. This being said - I missed blogging yesterday. Sigh.  Guess all I can do is go forward from today and do my best and hope that missing one blog won't mess up my grade to bad. I am so agitated with myself. I go back to feeling like I have WAY TOO MUCH on my plate right now. We had a great family night last night as we enjoyed the fireworks display and activities in our hometown. The kids had so much fun; the 3 youngest did pony rides, some got their faces painted, and others jumped in the bouncy houses. It was just fun hanging out with my family, my best friend, and her family. I did have one REALLY scary incident thought. Our 10-year-old daughter went missing after dark. She was supposed to be sitting with a friend and her mother. The mother comes up to me at 10pm and asks me if my daughter is with me! Talk about panic mode... I went to the police immediately and reported all of her information. They said they couldn't make any announcements until after the fireworks were over but they would dispatch it to all of the officers. Fortunately, about 10 minutes later she showed up at our location. I don't think I have ever been so scared in my life. Have you ever lost sight of a child? Needless to say, she will not be away from me for a long time. My frustration is so unbelievable with this mother. I do understand that children "wonder" a little but how to you just all of the sudden realize a child is missing!? I have so much homework to get down and I still have a discussion board post to do. This assignment is really difficult for me for some reason. Posting on a reading from my Power of Language book. I know I can do this; I just need to get away from all of the distractions. I also had a great opportunity today to meet some extended family that I have never met. It fascinates me to learn about my family history and to try and put the pieces of "puzzle" together. Guess it's about time for me to start focusing on my other assignment, so that I can post an intelligent and meaning discussion board post.

Credo of mine

I really had not thought about having a credo before now; but as I reflect on my life I would have to say it's pretty clear. If you want something, make it happen! This used to be a hard concept for me to follow through but over the last 3 years, this has become my life. You can have and do anything you want, if you are willing to put the equivalent work into it. If you aren't willing to work for it; then you can't sit around and complain about what you will not change. We have countless opportunities put in front of us through our lives; some easier than others to see and some you really have to be paying attention. It is up to each one of us to go after it and take the bull by the horns!

Frustration Overload!

So you will have to bear with me tonight! I am not one who typically spends a lot of time complaining or being negative; I just don't feel like it is productive in most cases; but tonight might be a little different for me. It has been a day full of frustration. I had my unit 2 test in Anatomy & Physiology tonight; and although I have spent all day studying - I don't think the results are going to be good. It makes me wonder if I should go ahead and drop the class. I need this specific course for my degree but if I don't carry an A or B in it, it won't matter because the nursing program is so tight. I guess the next day or 2 will tell how I really did. It's going to be really hard to wait.  Then I feel like, because of all of the studying I am having to do for that class, it is making it hard to get my other two course assignments completed. I am far from getting sleep, going to bed at 2 every morning and starting again by 6. I feel myself burning out fast. Then you add people that continual complain. Wait, how ironic, that's exactly what I am doing! I am making a decision to reverse this conversation into constructive writing. We got a new puppy yesterday - his name is Oreo! He is a Yorkie/Bichon mix and he is so darn cute. My husband doesn't fully agree with me and tonight made that situation a little more frustrating. Oreo has done really well for me going outside and not tearing up things in the house. While I was at class tonight though, he had 2 accidents in the house and was chewing on the back of the couch. Needless to say, my husband is not happy with the dog! He has become my homework buddy though, he just sits at my feet with his toy or up on the couch next to me. I am getting so tired and not really sure where I should be going with this whole journal project. Honestly, the whole lesson 4 is confusing me! (Other than the reading assignments.) Probably the lack of sleep is not making things any easier to comprehend. I just have to remember to take it one step at a time and I will get through it. I am really hungry right now - or am I? Maybe I just want something to comfort my frustrations and fatigue. I don't even feel like I am being a good mom right now. With everything I am having to try to get done with school - I feel like I am spread as thin as a sheet of tissue paper. Much more weight and I am liable to just completely disintegrate. God is on my  side and i will get through this - I just have to remember, He is my strength even  when I can't be. My weekends are being completely taken over by family - and that would normally be the best thing ever! I love family reunions and spending time with those that I don't get to see often but right now it is just too much. I don't feel like I can say "no" because they are all pertaining to my grandfather in some way or another. See, he lost my grandmother on January 2nd of this year after 63 years of marriage. So how can I expect him to tackle these reunions and other events on his own. I know in the future, it will get a little easier. I miss her so much and these past few weeks of get-together's have been rough. She really was an amazing woman. I knew that she was always there for me no matter what. When no one else "got it", she did. Grandma always seemed to have the right words to make everything better. Grandma, why can't you still be here? I could really use your ear right now. I know she can still hear me and that she watches over me, but I miss her. I think this night is going to have to come to an end soon because I am emotionally spent. I thought by writing out this blog, maybe I would feel a little better - but instead I sit here in my own tears wondering where I am going and what I am doing!

I took too many credit hours this summer - This I believe

I believe I took too many credit hours this summer. I loaded myself with 9 credit hours. This is my first semester of college and I am taking 2 online courses and 1 hybrid course. I originally was only going to take 2 classes, with 6 credit hours but with the way financial aide works I decided to add the extra course. I should have listened to everyone that warned me how heavy a load this would be. I guess I thought I could be super woman. I didn't give full thought to having 4 children, a husband, and a house to take care of. I also didn't take into consideration that I spend atleast 1 day a week at my grandfather's house in Ash Grove helping with his financial and administrative matters. It seems as though everyone else needs my time and i don't have anytime to focus on what I need. Like studying as much as I would like and especially not at one or two in the morning. I have learned that getting 3 or 4 hours of sleep wears on me. I just got my blood work back from my yearly exam and my B12 is extremely low. Now I get to go through a series of shots for the next year to try and get the levels back up. I asked her what caused this level to be low and she says fatigue! You think I could possibly be suffering from fatigue? How? I can do it all, right? Appearantly not since I have 2 loads of laundry sitting on the couch next to me and a list a mile long of what I need to get done tomorrow. Will I be able to have enough time to study for my Anatomy and Physiology class? Will I ever even "get" that class? I have to succeed with my courses to be able to fulfill my dreams of being a nurse. But am I trying to do too much at once? I am extremely hot right now and the baby is crying. At 1am! Lord help me... I need longer days and need the time to go much slower than what it currently does. I am not sure what to type right now. I feel like my mind is trying to go off course. I need to get back to reflecting on the fact that I believe I took too many credit hours this summer. I debate whether I should drop a class. But this makes me feel like a failure inside. I keep telling myself I have made it through 3 weeks - only 5 more to go. Will I make it? Will I pass? I don't know, I honestly don't know. Has it been 10 minutes yet? I feel like I need to crank the air conditioner down. I am burning up. I guess I will keep typing and thinking. Maybe I can do this. After all, how are my children supposed to learn what hard work can do for you if I don't stick with it. I am going to make it through this - dead or alive. I have finally hit ten minutes!
Total words: 531

This I Believe Statements

I believe that I am a loyal friend.
I believe that life is way too short.
I believe there are a lot of people who do not think before they speak.
I believe I love my husband with all my heart.
I believe that my children are my first priority.
I believe that I took too many credit hours this summer.
I believe that I will do my best in my classes.
I believe that it is extremely late.
I believe God is the creator of all.
I believe time goes by fast.
I believe this weekend is going to be a great reflection with family.
I believe there is not enough time in my days.
I believe my youngest child has the most pure heart.
I believe my son is very intelligent.
I believe my oldest daughter has a heart of gold and would help anyone.
I believe my stepson really does love me.
I believe that life will get better.
I believe that this computer is very hot sitting on my lap.
I believe the color lime green is the best color ever.
I believe that tv's can be a distraction to life.
I believe that I have a lot of housework to catch up on.
I believe my mother did the very best she possibly could raising me.
I believe my dad watches over me from heaven.
I believe that it would be wonderful to be in the Bahamas right now.
I believe that my children will grow up way too fast.
I believe I will live a long life.
I believe that everything happens for a reason.
I believe that forgiveness is the key to love.
I believe that we need to laugh more.
I believe we all could help someone else.
I believe that my grandmother knew how much I really loved her.
I believe roller coasters are a really exciting past time.
I believe that food can be evil.
I believe my weight loss has been a success.
I believe that I will be a nurse within a few years.
I believe that I am getting really tired.
I believe that we should give 100% in all that we do.
I believe in equality.
I believe it's ok to cry.

Jung Typology Reflection

So I not so long ago I completed the Jung Typology test... what an interesting tool this is!  As I went through the questions, I was amazed at how I had to really reflect on my daily life and how I handle different things. But even more interesting and enlightening - the typology indicator! At the conclusion of my test, I was typed as ESFJ (Extraversion, Sensing, Feeling, Judging). Reading over the indicator report, it is intriguing how this nailed me to a tee!

Myself as a student find it, when distracted, very hard to focus on my schooling and homework. This becomes very challenging around my house - being a stay-at-home mom of 4. It's a constant obstacle as I begin this first semester of college. It seems as though someone else always in need of something. Everyone always comes before me - or at least it seems that way. It's always been a down-fall of mine to be a people-pleaser. The typology indicator pinned this one! I have to find a way to put myself first, so that I can more efficiently and with less stress complete my assignments. I do not like to procrastinate and yet find myself doing homework assignments on the day they are due - it is more than my brain can handle at times. Very interesting to me is the fact that my typology indicates that I like to discuss and work in groups; which should may my English course a success, if I take full advantage of my resources. The discussions make me feel involved and with an online course, I think this is going to be key! One of the other areas regarding me being a student that I really could learn from is that I require structure for my learning - especially to be able to process. If only I could find structure so there is adequate time for me to focus on nothing but my school work.

After evaluating the writing segment of my indicator - I have a lot to learn that could be essential to my writing. I do prefer to write (and read) on personal experiences as opposed to specific topics. I am very opinionated and emotional so it can be difficult not to reflect this in the little bit of writing that I do. The previous work that I have done in my composition class (which consists of about 2 weeks) is wanting to hold me back because I haven't seen the results of them yet. I find myself wanting to reflect back on my previous work as an indication of how I am doing. Am I communicating properly? Are there things that I am reflecting on that I shouldn't be? Is my time being well-used in forming my thoughts and feelings onto a page? This blog is probably a real good reflection in how I could better learn from the concept of needing to review my writings and editing them of useless personal information and feelings and making sure I am including proper elements.

I think I am going to have to spend a lot more time really reviewing my typology indicator to better myself as a person, a student, and a writer.