Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Volleyball Game

The Color Purple.... Comes To The Cowan Center!!!






I went to see The Color Purple on Broadway in New York a couple of years ago. I enjoyed this so much! Because I enjoy plays, I was amazed how they turn this long movie into a Broadway show. It was interesting. The tickets are on sale now and I suggest everyone see this amazing play.

BJ's Brewhouse.

This restaurant is opening here in Tyler and I am really excited! It's right by On The Border in the mall parking lot. This is one of my favorite restaurants to go to when I'm in the Dallas area. They have a huge selection of food and the atmosphere is really awesome. I went there for the first time on my birthday and have loved it ever since. Everyone should check it out when it opens in February!

Students vs Staff Baseball Game

Here's some footage from the students vs staff baseball game during homecoming week. And in case you're wondering the students blew out the staff.

Gladys Knight "The Need To Be" (2009) .... She Is Coming To Tyler!!!



Gladys Knight is coming to the UT Tyler Cowans Center. Tickets go on sale January 24. Remember students can get a free ticket. You don't want to miss this diva!!

blog #29

Well school is going well. I am eagerly awaiting a couple of movies. One is the sequel to Tron and the other is True Grit. Both movies star Jeff Bridges and I think they'll be pretty decent.

P.S. Just say no to eel.

VLOG: Course Evaluation

Countdown: Day 18

Loved the weather today. I got to wear my brand new black coat and jeans. It finally feels like winter, even though it isn't yet. The break is still a long way off, but with days like this, I don't really mind too much. I'm hoping it'll be cold like this tomorrow so I can spend my day off enjoying the weather... or doing that lab report for Biology that's due on Thursday...

"Snow Flakes in the Air"

"Christmas time is here
Happiness and cheer
Fun for all that children call
Their favorite time of the year

Snowflakes in the air
Carols everywhere
Olden times and ancient rhymes
Of love and dreams to share

Sleigh bells in the air
Beauty everywhere
Yuletide by the fireside
And joyful memories there

Christmas time is here
We'll be drawing near
Oh, that we could always see
Such spirit through the year
Oh, that we could always see
Such spirit through the year... "

I am excited for Christmas! Cant' wait for the winter break! :)
I just LOVE to look at the snow...from inside.
Then I like to bundle up and go out & play in it!
It is so amazing to stand in the white front yard and have heavy snowflakes fall all around you.
Last year everyone I knew, both on campus and off, had build a snowman.
I made a snow woman named "Suuzziiee!!" ^_^

Monday, November 29, 2010

Course Evaluations

Course evaluations are now available online. if you do not do them by December 12, 2010 then you will not receive your course grades early! Here is step-by-step picture instructions to insure you receive your grades December 22, 2010.

I hope these pictures help you to receive your grades faster! If you need help, just comment below and let me know!

Welcome Back!!!!

I hope everyones break was good and everyone had plenty to eat. I guess it's time to return to our workout and burn off that turkey. So today was lets just say... slow for me. The first day back always seems to be a drag. But the most exciting thing is that we only have 3 WEEKS!!!! The break begins on December 20 and ends January 17. A whole month of relaxation!

So what is everyone planning to do for Christmas? As you can see my family decided to do something different this year. Instead of buying a bunch of gifts and dealing with shopping we decided to take our money and go to Disney World. I have been doing some research but I need some help with were to go and things to do....

Magic Kingdom theme park at Walt Disney World Resort. Celebrate A Dream Come True Parade

Christmas.


I cannot wait until Christmas! These next 3 weeks need to go by really fast and after this semester I could really use a break. The studying for finals has already began for me. Luckily for me though I don't have any projects or papers to write, just a one page extra credit paper that won't be hard at all. It will be such a relief to take these finals, so I can head home and spend some time with my family! This time of year is definitely my favorite because I love the cooking, shopping, and just being able to relax. One of my family's Christmas traditions is to watch Christmas Vacation, I love this movie and it just never seems to get old. We also always end up watching the Home Alone movies, which I love and have probably seen about a million times. I also like this time of year because it's cold and my dad always has a fire going, which always makes the house feel cozy. I helped my mom put the tree up Sunday before I headed back to Tyler and it turned out really nice. I love helping her put up the ornaments and looking at all the old ones from when I was little because it brings back a lot of good memories. Only 25 days until Christmas and I have already begun the countdown!

Countdown: Day 19

Now that it's the Monday after Thanksgiving Break, that means it's time to start counting down the days until the big one: Christmas Break. We get to haul back to school stuffed with turkey, mashed potatoes, absurd amounts of pie, and whatever else we could have shoved down our throats and prepare for finals. I think Thanksgiving for college kids is like a bear preparing for winter. You eat and party as much as you can before you have to go back for final exams. Then Christmas Break comes and you get to hibernate. We just have to wait three more weeks before we can get to that though. Good thing I have enough leftovers to last until Christmas.

Upcoming Dates and Events here at UT Tyler this week!!!!

I hope everyone had a fulfilling Thanksgiving. The break was well needed and with two more hard weeks of studying accompanied with finals week, the December break will be here in no time. Addressing the present time, we have a few upcoming dates and events this week which are listed below:

*Nov 30:
Last day to submit completed thesis for Fall of 2010 Graduation.
Art Sale Day 1: 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. in the UC Lobby
Intramural 3 Vs. 3 Basketball Tournament Begins

*Dec 1:
Art Sale Day 2: 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. in the UC Lobby

*Dec 2:
Blacklight Secret Party in the UC, at 8 P.M.
Student Recital at 12:30 P.M. in the Recital Hall

Wii.


I'm getting a Nintendo Wii for Christmas along with Wii Fit and I'm really excited about this. Maybe a little too excited, because for me it's like getting three gifts in one. First, I can use it with my Netflix to watch movies on my TV. This is what I'm most excited about because after awhile I get tired of watching something that is instant on my laptop. Second, I'm actually looking forward to playing some of the games, like Spyro and some of the sports games. Third, I can use it for excercise by using the Wii Fit. I also want a Kindle but I would feel bad asking for both so I decided on the Wii. I will most likely end up getting the Kindle for myself though because I love reading and it will be neat to have any book that I have ever wanted to read at my fingertips.

Sunday, November 28, 2010

127 Hours.

I saw this on Saturday in Plano at the Angelika Film Center and lets just say it was amazing! It's not a movie you would want to be eating popcorn while watching though because it gets pretty gross. If you haven't heard about this movie, it's about Aron Ralston. In 2003 he was trapped under a rock while hiking. While watching the movie you feel like you are right there with him. To be honest, if I was really in that situation I would probably freak out and have a panic attack. I remember hearing about this on the news when it happened and I'm sure most of you have as well. I knew he ended up having to cut his arm off, but I didn't realize that he was down there for as long as he was. I also didn't realize the stuff he did to survive that long. I think this movie has something for everyone. It has a little action and it's also really artsy. If you ever get a chance to go to the Angelika, which I suggest that you do because they get all the good movies that aren't shown around here.

Thanksgiving Break.

I am so not happy that the break is already over! It went by way too fast and I need another week off before I'm ready to start studying for finals. I did have a wonderful Thanksgiving though, I love having my family down and spending time with them. They came down on Wednesday and my cousin brought his golden retriever which is the sweetest dog. Mr. Tinkles and Runt weren't too happy about him though and they let him know it. I love this time of year, I love the shopping, cold weather, the cooking, having time to read a good book, and spending time with family. Christmas has to be my favorite holiday though, I have such good memories when it comes to Christmas. It's great getting gifts, but most of all I love giving people things. It makes me feel good knowing I got someone something that they have really been wanting or could really use. I just hope these next couple of weeks go by fast because I'm ready to go back home and spend some more time with my family.

Wow.... What A Break....

So this break was short but sweet. I am so stuffed and I can't even stand to look at anything that has to do with Thanksgiving. Even though the family was down, we still got together and had a great time. Thanks to my dad and aunt it turned out to be a tremendous feast after all. We missed my mom and other aunts as well, but overall it was exciting. I did not go shopping. I was not up for the madness. But maybe one of these Thanksgiving holidays I will be a participant of Black Friday. Well I hope that everyone had a great holiday. Three more weeks and counting!!! I know this will go by fast!

Back to Reality...

*Yawn*......
Wow, what a break. If you're like me, then you're not ready for it to end.
I spent my break either doing school work or visiting family for Thanksgiving.
After today, it's back to reality for us all.
But there is good news: my mom & I gave my bathroom a complete make over.
Now my bathroom looks very pleasant and the colors match very well together. ^_^
I actually got to take Sunday to myself! :D I've decided to do NO school work.
Today is a beautiful day...
But tomorrow is back to reality.

Countdown: Day 20

So... I'm not too excited about coming back to Tyler. I like my bed at home and I want to spend some more time in it, but no, three more weeks of school before we get to the big break. It feels like a long time, but I know it won't be. But still.... I don't want to go back. :(

Happy Turkeys

Thanksgiving break is pretty much over. This = :( but you know who's happy? The surviving turkeys! Now to look forward to winter break. Come on guys, we can do this!

Saturday, November 27, 2010

My bad

I ended up not doing any shopping. I got psyched out by the whole thing. I really didn't want to have to fight with the crowds, parking, or anything. Even though I could have walked, I really didn't think it was worth it. What for a 2 minute video footage of crowds? You wouldn't have liked that. Besides when you watch my videos you want to see the gorgeous face, right? Right?... RIGHT?!?!?! Anyhow, I really hope you had a great Thanksgiving. Staying home like this really helped me enjoy my vacation as I didn't have to waste untold hours in the truck driving from place to place. And I didn't have a chance to eat as much junk. In fact, I lost a couple of pounds. That's a win-win-win! Off to play video games, which I also wouldn't do if I had left. =D

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Happy Thanksgiving lovelys!

The Aftermath of Turkey Day

I'm lying in my bed right now. I can feel the tryptophan from the metric ton of turkey I've eaten swallowing my brain. I have no idea how I'm going to eat for the next two days, but I will because it's Thanksgiving. And I have NO IDEA what I'm supposed to do with all that ham and cake. Soooo much cake... It's going to be a long and delicious weekend.

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

The Lovely Bones.

I started reading this book the other day and I have to say it's much better than the movie. I absolutely loved the movie, but the book has gone into much more detail about Susie Salmon, the main character in the story who gets killed. If you haven't read the book or seen the movie, it's about Susie getting murdered and her family trying to solve and deal with her murder. The whole time though, Susie is looking down on them from what she calls "my heaven". The story is told from her perspective. It's really sad because it goes into detail about her being murdered and her going to "heaven", but how the story is told you almost forget that she is dead. While reading or even watching, I thought any moment she was going to come back to her family, but then I would remember that that was never going to happen because she was dead. Here lately I have really gotten back into reading. When I was younger I hated reading, but now I love it. I have about six books right now that I want to read and being on break is a perfect time to read them!

Monday, November 22, 2010

Did You Know....

Two semesters ago in my Consumer Health class we had the chance of watching this video clip " Did You Know". I never really thought much about it, besides that it could have been a boring video. That is...until I saw it and realized how researchers had made the video into a fun educational clip. You realize so much after watching this clip. TAKE A LOOK!!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gv8pmIr3a7k&feature=related

Harry Potter and the Dealthy Hallows Part 1

I went to the midnight showing and had a lot of emotions run through me while I watched this movie. I would type all of it out, but it's much better in a vlog form. So.... once we get our software up and running be prepared for a great vlog. One that may be able to revive Albus Dumbledore and get rid of Severus Snape.

To be continued....

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Assassin's Creed Brotherhood or Call of Duty?

Psychology.


I'm a psychology major and so far have really enjoyed all of my classes. Some have been easy and some have been really hard, but overall I have really liked them all. My favorite so far has to be Psychopharmacology. Even though it has been one of the hardest classes I have ever taken, I have learned so much. I don't suggest taking it if you're looking for something easy to boost your GPA. None of the tests are multiple choice and you don't get a study guide. This means not only do you have to study all of the information really well, you have to be able to answer the question from memory instead of looking at the choices to trigger your memory. My least favorite class so far has to be Tests and Measurements. The professor is awesome and you can tell he really cares about his students, but the information is just really boring. Now don't get me wrong, I do find learning about the different tests very interesting. Like the Rorschach Inkblot Test or the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory. What I don't find interesting is learning about the validity and reliability of a test and how it is standardized. I also don't find Item Analysis or Factor Analysis interesting either. I think only a select few people would. It's just all really new information because a lot of the psychology classes overlap, but with this class I have never heard or read about any of this stuff. Also, because I find this class in most parts uninteresting, it makes it very hard to study for. I just got done making a study guide for the test that I have after the break and it ended up being 13 pages, which means there is a lot of stuff I need to study. In the end it will be worth it because psychology is my passion and I can't wait to get my degree so I can get out there and make a difference!

Friday, November 19, 2010

When Will the Madness Stop....

We are soon approaching the holidays and so much happens during this time of the year. Today was a very tragic day for me and my family. My cousin was in a head -on collision with an eighteen wheeler. He was the driver and his friend, the passenger died on the scene. My cousin is still in critical condition and is fighting for his life. We are unaware if the driver of the eighteen wheeler was driving while intoxicated, but witnesses that were driving behind him believe that he was. I know many of us often hear about Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and we often are warned to not drink and drive. You never really know what it's like until someone close to you is involved. Last year around this same time my older brother was also in a fatal accident where the driver ran a red light and hit him. He was left him in critical condition. We should take more precaution while driving because you never really know if the other drivers are alert and driving with caution. I am guilty myself of not practicing safe driving. For example, text messaging while driving, which seems to have much higher rates of deaths than drunk driving does. I hope that everyone can still have fun this holiday season, but please do it responsibly. If you know that you are going to be drinking please have a designated driver to get to your destination. I wish everyone a safe and prosperous holiday. If you are interested in the MADD program here is the web page: http://www.madd.org/.

This is a YouTube video that I found which relates to this story. I am sure many of you have seen this, but this video clip is definitely an eye opener that makes you think twice before drinking and driving. This lady also appeared on the Oprah show. Take A Look!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GtXo_usX7Tw&feature=related




Extra clip about Drinking and Driving:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZye89P5sGc

A Quick Snack for a Cold Day


Ahhh.....
NOTHING is more relaxing, quick, or as
delicious on a cold day as chicken flavored Cup of
Noodles. These are my favorite snack dish. They are
affordable at about 3 per dollar and only take
2 minutes to heat up. Just add hot water and then,
Ta-Da! You have yourself a tasty snack break from
your day. They are great when you can find a
microwave on campus, & they are a great conversation starter since many many people admit they love Ramen. I suggest these on long days of studying, doing homework, or just chilling on a budget.

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Whats on my Mind........

Today was one of those days when you get so overwhelmed that all you want to do is hit the sack. Tests... Projects... More tesst.... Bigger projects. When does it ever end or does it? I am looking forward to going to grad school, but I am not looking forward to getting myself into more group projects. I really don't mind doing group projects if everyone can meet the deadline for once. I understand that we are very busy people, but people should know that school is just as important as making money. Sometimes you just have to manage your time a little better. I guess some people manage time more effectively than others. I am not a last minute person, or better yet a procrastinator. I have to set and meet deadlines so that I won't get overwhelmed with so much stuff. How do you feel about group projects and are you a person who likes to stay ahead and make lists of things to do for the day? Or are you a procrastinator and a person who just lives it up and do whatever you can and if it doesn't get done then so be it? Don't get me wrong, I live everyday to the fullest because you never know when it's your last, but I just like a little organization. So I guess what I'm trying to get at is when you are working with others try not to wait until the last minute to get it done!!!!

Let me know how you feel!!!!

Tiger Creek.

A couple of weeks ago I went to Tiger Creek for my Animal Behavior class and loved it. I'm a huge animal lover so this was a big deal for me. Alot of the cats that are there have been rescued or they use to be performance cats and are now retired. They target train the cats because they don't want to get in the cages with them because that's too dangerous. Basically target training is where they put some meat at the end of this stick and get them to come to a certain part of the cage, after awhile they don't even need the meat. By the end of their training they learn to back their tail up to the cage so they can give them their shots. They also squirt "sour water" into their mouths to get them use to taking medicine. They don't only have tigers though, they also have lions, a jaguar, a puma, bobcats, and they even have a white tiger. Tiger Creek is located in Tyler and is right down the road from the state park. I suggest everyone go because it's a really neat experience. Also if you're interested in things like this they are always looking for volunteers! Check them out: http://www.tigercreek.org/

Little Did I Know

Little did i know that the police at the school actually give out tickets for moving violations. I have seen them write tickets before and put them on cars for people parking in the wrong spot or people parking in a certain area without them have there parking permit but today was the first time I actually saw them give someone a ticket. Most students and even some faculty just yield to a stop sign not fully stopping. I, myself has even done it before and for the most part its okay in my book as long as you look both ways, make sure no one is coming, and have the right away, I do not really see it being a problem. BUT MY OPINION DOES NOT MATTER. To anybody that's nodding their head right now in agreement, you should stop. Today, when I was riding with a roommate (I wont say his name for further embarrassment) he did what we *cough cough I mean he usually do, he just yielded at a stop sign and kept going. But soon as he made a left a cop saw him and stop him. So lets this be a lesson to everyone. Well, maybe you don't have to worry about it that much because it seems like the cops don't have a lot of experience giving out tickets for this violation because he gave him a ticket for and I quote "disregarding a stop sign" LOL, never heard that one before. Everyone have a good and ticket-free day. Talk to you all soon!!!!

First Thanksgiving (Away)

This year marks the first time I'll be spending Thanksgiving away from home and family. Unfortunately the hotel industry is wide open for business on the holidays, and unless I feel like walking out stating whatever (which I don't), I will be here in Tyler a week from today. Fortunately, my roommates will be in town along with a few other of our friends. More fortunately we all cook and enjoy drinking in groups. Potluck Thanksgiving sounds like a fine substitution for quality time with the fam.

The pilgrims would have had turducken and wine, right?

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Whats happening at UT Tyler this week!

Hey UT fam if you are wondering about some of the events that will be occurring Tyler this week take a look at this web page..... here are just a few of the events occurring this week http://www.uttyler.edu/news/default.php

If there are any other events that are going on this week that you would like to comment on please do!!! Lets all get involve!!!



  • Nov. 16, 2010
A movie night hosted by CAB



  • Nov. 17, 2010

Intramurals Bowling Tournament TBA
Tunes at Noon Featuring Nathan Angelo Noon Sports Café



  • Nov. 18, 2010
Rec Sports/Wellness Education
Lunch Great American Smokeout Noon HPC
Student Recital 12:30 p.m. Recital Hall
Study Abroad Program
Info Meeting Open to all students 2 – 3:30 p.m. RBS 2019
Jazz Ensemble Concert
7:30 p.m. Cowan Center

The Best Time of the Year!!! (For Sports Fans at Least)

With NCAA basketball kicking off today, my favorite sports' calendar season its starting to crank up. It is week 10 in the NFL, just getting good with teams starting to distance theirself from the others and starting to establish positions and outlooks for the playoffs. With NCAA Football, the rankings of the teams continue to change weekly with some of the top teams falling to superior opponents. The start of the NBA two weeks ago also generated some excitement from me. To me, this is the best time to be a sports fan with the different sports starting up and the competition starting get intense. God, Family, and Sports= MY LIFE at this time of the year.....oh yeah than there's school and other stuff LOL.

The squirrels are ready for Thanksgiving and so am I! Ready to eat all that good food and watch football, even though both of my football teams aren't doing great this year. Oh well there is always next year. Plus I like having a break from school, but really I won't get a break because I will still be studying and reading over stuff. Who said senior year was going to be easy? I'm ready to graduate!






If you have ever, EVER wanted the opportunity to travel around the world, study abroad might be a possibility. I try to check my Patriot E-mail daily, but you know how easy it is to forget to check ALL your different e-mail accounts. But on Monday I received one of those university e-mails sent to the masses & I actually read this one to the end. It was entitled: STUDY ABROAD INFORMATION SESSION. When I read the simple name, "Japan", I was hooked.

On Thursday Afternoon from 2 - 3:30 in the RBS 2019 there will be an information
meeting about different study abroad trips for the 2011 Spring & Summer semesters. A question and answer session will be held by the Director of International Programs, Robert Sterken. Also, you are welcome to e-mail him with any questions, comments: rsterken@uttyler.edu

Oh, they are also giving out free Pizza & drinks.

Coming from a member of the 2010 UT Japanese study abroad group, I HIGHLY encourage you to try to make a go for the meeting and the opportunity to study abroad. I've wanted to go to Japan since I was in the 6th grade. I NEVER thought I'd make it to Japan at age 21 & stay for two weeks. But UT made it possible. :)

Monday, November 15, 2010

Sylvia Ji.

good-morning-fire-eater:

what i was going for friday.


Really love these. Would love to get something like this as a tattoo. What do you think about tattoos?

A Dream of Mine

My dream is to be governor of the great state of Texas and Friday, November 12, 2010 I met the Texas Governor, Rick Perry. He was just re-elected for an unprecedented third term. I went to the Lone Star Event Center (http://www.lonestareventcenter.org/) where Governor Rick Perry spoke about his book entitled "Fed Up!". While there, I was able to get my book signed and while he was signing it I told him, "Thank for for being a God loving and a God fearing Christian conservative leader and one day I hope to be where you are as the governor of the greatest state in the Nation!" He looked up at me and shook my hand. He then told me that he can see me there and hopes the best for me. Here is a picture of my book that he signed to me. Also, be looking for a vlog here in the next couple of days on his speech!!



THEY'RE TAKING OVER!!!!!!!!!! I see them EVERYWHERE on campus. Good thing they're cute.

Thanksgiving Is Near.... What does Thanksgiving really mean to you?

Growing up you made this really cute little turkey or you had the picture with all the vegetables attached in the basket. So you automatically thought that Thanksgiving is about food. Or you colored the pictures with the Pilgrims and the Indians all at the table having dinner all together. Or school plays you were participating in to show the true meaning of Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving begin in 1621, the Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians shared an autumn harvest feast that is acknowledged today as one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations in the colonies. For more than two centuries, days of thanksgiving were celebrated by individual colonies and states. It wasn't until 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, that President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day to be held each November. Well I experienced all these events as well. But as you gather around you table to share dinner with your family you may be asked “What does Thanksgiving mean to you? “ I begin to think and I immediately eliminated the food and the history to which Thanksgiving was founded on. I thought more of family and how grateful I am to be in a house with family and friend to share this special day with. Most of all I really am grateful for my life and how much I over came so far during the year. I wonder what answer I will give this year. I really haven’t thought much about it but I begin to wonder is there anything else to be Thankful for that I haven’t already said Thank You for. I don’t believe you should wait until the day of Thanksgiving to share how gratefully you are. Every day that you make it through without being harmed or ill is something to be Thankful for. I challenge everyone to express how grateful they are now instead of waiting until Thanksgiving Day around the dinner table to express how they feel. This is a great way to acknowledge those people that may feel like they are over looked. If you would like to share what you are grateful for leave a comment…. Or if you want tell someone “Thank You” for something that they have done for you and they just don’t hear it enough please share.

I think we should have a ugly Christmas sweater party on campus.
Since I posted something about my cat I figured I should post something about my dog, Mr. Tinkles. He is the cutest thing and has such an awesome personality. The things he does are funny, he has all these chew toys that he likes to "kill."  He thinks he is tough and barks at any little noise he hears. He is scared of my cat though, he will get close to her but the second she moves he jumps back. He hates being by himself, anytime you leave for awhile and come back he gets really excited and won't stop jumping up and down until you pick him up and love on him. He is also really spoiled, if you're rubbing on his chest and stop, he will scratch your hand until you start rubbing again. Also anytime something comes out of the dryer that is warm he wants to get in it and sleep. He also has been enjoying my new electric blanket.

Busy Week, Slow Monday!!!!

I have a very busy week coming up. I have three test and two lab reports due by Friday also with a side of homework and I also have to work. I feel a little overwhelmed but I tend to work alot better under pressure so I am kind of looking forward towards the challenge. Also, knowing that Thanksgiving is right around the corner is a little more extra motivation to finish out the week strong. With that said, everyone have a good start to their week and I will talk to you all later!!!!!

Insert more interesting title here...


Thanksgiving isn't here yet. I want the food. It's cold outside, and apparently no one has a sweater. Movies are out, but I'm too poor to go out and see them. It's not Thanksgiving yet. Caitlin's squirrel blog is really distracting. There, I just pulled that out of nowhere for all of you. That's my week so far. And Thanksgiving isn't here yet. Here's a frightened turkey for your amusement.

blog #28

I got a good grade on my test today, it was awesome.

Clinicals are about to be over, yay.

Nursing's hard and life is way to short to spend on blogs no one reads.

Although it is kinda fun to entertain no one. ;)

Not really.

Syrupppp!

Saturday, I went to my very first syrup festival in Henderson Texas! I've got to say, I was pretty impressed. Turkey legs, cotton candy, funnel cake and a lot of syrup!!! I even enjoyed a hay ride and got to pet some goats and turkeys in a petting zoo. Really wish I could've brought back one of the rabbits on sale there though, but I don't think that would've been a good investment lol If you get the chance, you should definitely go next year and check it out! Plus long sugar canes for a dollar!

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Cats vs. Dogs

This is my sweet, precious and adorable cat named Runt, who I love dearly. I bought this electric blanket yesterday and she has fell in love with it. I have always been a huge animal person, I love both cats and dogs. I know a lot of people though only like one or the other which is crazy to me because both my cat and my two dogs bring a lot of joy to my life. People think cats are mean and that they don't like people, but really cats are just independent and don't need us like dogs do. Dogs out in the wild live in packs, so to them we are the pack leader, that's why they're easier to train because they want to please us. In turn we take that as love, but just because a cat doesn't need us in that way doesn't mean they don't want our affection or to be around us. Everytime I come home and sit down my cat is in my lap within about 5 minutes, wanting my love and attention. Also, research has shown that owning a cat can lower your blood pressure because it's very relaxing to have a cat sit in your lap and pet them. Just looking at that picture of my cat is soothing because it's cute. Don't get me wrong though I absolutely love my dogs and any dog in general, I just don't think cats deserve the bad reputation they get.

No Shave November

Ending the Semester...

Now that finals are just around the corner, right after the Thanksgiving break, I am already at peace. True, I do have massive amounts papers due at the end of the month; but I am at ease because somehow, they always get finished and Christmas break always comes. So why am I at peace?
Since starting here at UT, I have had great teachers who have been understanding about the pressures of finals week. Believe it or not, the teachers hate finals too. This semester is my busiest yet; and I am actually looking forward to finals so I can wrap up this semester. & nothing eases my mind during finals, (except for maybe knowing my stuff), than having a good teacher who is on my side. Finals week here at UT is nothing compared to the hustle & bustle of finals across the street at the junior college. I am very glad to be taking finals here at UT where everyone goes into a state of quiet time & everyone supports the person next to them since we’re all in this together. It just makes the final not seem so deadly when I have a teacher that is supportive of me & my classmates.

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Woo test days!

I have two tests tomorrow, and I'm excited! Idk why but I thrive on test days/weeks, I get a nice little surge of power, I'm not really good at studying, I'll look over the terms and words just so they're there in my mind, but I usually rely on brute force memory retention and word association to get me through it. It doesn't work for every subject, subjects like Accounting and Calculus and Statistics I HAVE to study, but for the subjects for tomorrow I know a lot about both. So I'm hoping that I'll be able to pull this off, but I still have a few hours left today and my classes are in the afternoon so I'll more than likely give an hour of my mind to each of them.... I know what you're thinking, whats this blog about? Idk... but hey if you're looking for a good movie to see, go check out Megamind, it blew me away, I had a lot of fun watching it, and I went into the movie thinking I would hate it so it totally won me over. Only bad thing is that it was in 3d... which meant the ticket was 9.50! That is WAY too much to charge for a single ticket! Thats more than renting the movie at redbox 9 different times, or 3 times depending on your rental store. To me thats just too much, 3d has overstayed its welcome, its costly, and does nothing.

Special Thanks!!!!!

The simple things in life such as, protection, security, and a peace of mind, sometimes get overlooked and disregarded as we engage in grueling daily life activities. It's easy to point the finger, but I myself am also included in this group. But no worries or malicious intent, it's human nature to overlook and take for granted things that we do not have to usually worry about or things that do not really effect us in a negative manner. Looking back on the past, I kind of feel dreadful that it took for tragedies and thousand of people to pass away to feel remorseful and to actually recognize the importance of our troops and protectors and to commend them. While thanking those who served in the military, I would also like to thank the families of those serving. The sacrifice and the troublesome worries that you all go through often times get overlooked. Me, personally I only know one person that is serving in the military, navy to be exact. He is not currently in war or anything at the time so any uncertainties usually do not cross my mind about his safety and whereabouts. But on this day I would like to just recognize each of you for your pride, security, humility, and the love that you show us everyday. THANK YOU for everything and I wish everyone a safe and successful return back home to your families hopefully in the near future!!!!

One Night Without a Home ... Have You Every Experienced This???





Hey guys have you ever experienced a night without a home? Have you every experienced what it would be like to walk the streets a night knowing that you do not have a warm and comfortable bed to return to? Well if not ... this is your chance to experience this. " One Night Without A Home" . On Friday November 12 the Gateway to Hope (formerly the Smith County Coalition for the Homeless) will be sponsoring this event. The event is in recognition of National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week. The Black Student Association here at UTT has attended this event for the past 2 years and I have enjoyed this experience every time that I have attended. This is the third year that they are having this event and I invite several organizations, students, faculty, and staff to join in to experience this night. It is a great way to get community service hours and meet people in the Smith County network. Although we have never spent the night outside you still have a great deal of gratitude in your heart after listening to people's testimony's.

The event begins at 5pm with registration and dinner sponsored by the Salvation Army. A Homeless walk from the Salvation Army to Bergfield Park. Finally closing with a Faces of Homelessness Forum, a candlelight vigil and sleep at the park. I have never done this before until I came to Tyler,TX but when I did I have never taken for granted the blessing of having a warm home and bed to go to at night. I feel that everyone should experience this and I feel that you will learn to have a different attitude toward homeless people. If you want to learn more about this event I have copied a google link of all the results of this event and information that pertains to this event as well.
http://www.google.com/#hl=en&&sa=X&ei=K3vcTNzVNoT6lwfvxJDdBQ&ved=0CBMQvwUoAQ&q=a+night+without+a+home+salvation+army+tyler+tx&spell=1&fp=a172e782197305bd

Here is a video clip from CBS 19 last year's news broadcasting of this event:



http://www.cbs19.tv/Global/story.asp?S=11525769#

How Do You Know Whether That Mirror in Front of You is Not a Two-Way Glass?

“When we visit toilets, bathrooms, hotel rooms, changing rooms, etc., how many of you know for sure that the seemingly ordinary mirror hanging on the wall is a real mirror, or [not] actually a 2-way mirror (i.e., they can see you but you can’t see them)? There have been many cases of people installing 2-way mirrors in female changing rooms. It is very difficult to positively identify the surface by looking at it.”
-MIRROR IMAGE e-mail
While visiting a friend the other day, she showed me a printout detailing how to tell the difference between a common mirror and a two-way glass. Turns out this e-mail was a forward and was inspired by the efforts of a police woman who travels around and delivers speeches to business women on ways to protect themselves and be alert in seemingly private “public” rooms and facilities.
Apparently, you can check whether the glass is legit or ‘fake’ simply by placing your fingernail on the glass. If there is a space, or “gap” between your fingernail and its reflection, then the glass is a regular, legit mirror. “However, if your fingernail DIRECTLY TOUCHES the image of your nail, then BEWARE! IT IS A 2-WAY MIRROR!”
Naturally, I went into the nearest bathroom & tried the test. I’m safe; it was a legit, one-way mirror. I hope to take this information away with me and remember to use it for my safety. The e-mail closed with a little rhyme to help in remembering: “No Space, Leave the Place”

Squirrels!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Love the squirrels on campus! I want to pick them up and rub their bellies!!!! One ran past me the other day and I was really close to catching it but they are too quick. If I could catch one and keep it as a pet that would be awesome. Also the other day I was wondering since they hibernate if this weather throws them off any? It's November and it's not cold at all. Maybe that means we will have more time with the squirrels, which would be awesome!

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Feeding Ducks

Yesterday, I fed a duck on campus for the first time. After enjoying a meal in the University Center, my friends and I proceeded to feed the wonderful ducks on campus. They immediately rushed towards us as we walked towards them with food. They were pretty well behaved ducks as they didn't bite or attack us. We gave them food and I even directly fed one out of my hand. Thankfully it didn't bite my finger off. Surprisingly, after feeding them they didn't rush after us and proceeded to go back to the lake. Pretty cool ducks I might say.

Monday, November 8, 2010

A gallon of ice cream and chick flicks

After an intense month of deliberations, tears, painful truths my best friend broke up with her boyfriend, well now ex-BF. I walked her through this painful expertise, and this is my conclusions/ advice to her…you …me…the dumped…and the dumper:

DISCLAIMER: The forthcoming advice “Take it at your own risk.” These words are meant to help you, but use them according to you own case. Bold and capitalized statements are meant to be accentuated aka PAY attention. Finally this advice is common sense, I think…I am not trying to explain the meaning of life

1. The gallon of ice cream and chick flicks, or the 3 bottles of Cuervo are good for the day of the break up; after that STOP torturing yourself and all those around you by listening to every sad song, going to your “favorite restaurants” and mentioning your ex-significant other in every other conversation. STOP reading every note, and thinking of every conversation…STOP over analyzing, and wishing you had a time machine.

2. Is it over? YES!!!!! You must accept the fact that it’s over. Don’t hope for re-kindling the relationship. Don’t play the light switch game. Life tends to resolve itself… whether or not he/she is in the picture. You will be happy if you chose…YOU do not need anybody to make you happy.

3. Stalking is usually illegal, and even though FaceBook stalking is not…still is pretty creepy. Don’t ask don’t tell. Don’t go prying into their personal details and Don’t reveal your personal life either. Don’t use your friends or his/her friends like message on a bottle…hoping they will tell him/her you are “over them.”
4. Don’t burn bridges. Stay calm, cool and compose with your ex and his/her friends. YOU and THE EX are the ones who broke up, no one else had anything to do with it and let’s keep it that way. Have ONE confidant.

5. NOW your ex is your acquaintance!! Keep it friendly, nice and light (If you so happen to be on speaking terms) Only do the small-talk…with time MAYBE you will be able to philosophy with him/her about “what happened to us?” in a civilized manner.

6. Move on by keeping the good memories sweet. Always the break up is sour…don’t let that poison the “good old times.” Crack a smile or two remembering them.

7. Single life!!! Just because you’re newly single doesn’t mean you have to immediately start dating or hook up with everything that moves; surround yourself with great friends and good times. Don’t try to amp your “game.” Have fun and it is really true ”Great things happen when you least expect them.” Go do what YOU want to do.

8. Stop looking for Mr./Ms. Right… enjoy life and youth. You’re in college, try things you never would’ve tried, travel, kiss a person with a weird accent, read a book, listen to music with a glass of wine, do something creative, exercise... do what makes you happy.

Hope this helps!!!

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Gottman’s SIX Signs to Predicting a Divorce

Here again I was reading my Intimate Relationships book written by Erber and Erber and I came across a chapter on the dissolution of relationships. One part I came across had me start to think that if this was actually true would it then help the divorce rate go down in America? Well, in this book I came across Six signs to help predict divorce years before there could even be a divorce. In 1994 a man by the name of John Gottman developed these signs after studying many couples in his research lab. Here they are:

1. Harsh start up – disagreements that start with negativity will likely end in greater negativity.
2. The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse – Criticism, Contempt, Defensiveness, Stonewalling
3. Flooding – occurs when one partner’s criticism, contempt, or defensiveness becomes overwhelming to the point of being overbearing.
4. Body language – physiological arousal that makes rational discussion and problem solving impossible.
5. Failed repair attempts – when repair attempts that were once used successfully, such as an apology, joke, smile, or laugh, now fail.
6. Bad memories – the history of the relationship is now recalled with a negative cast.

Do you think that by learning these tell tale signs that a divorce will never be in your future? Let me know what you think!

Shows.

I'm such a huge fan of good TV shows but it seems like they are hard to find these days. It seems like every show that comes out is some stupid cop show or some sort of reality show. Some shows that I really enjoy watching are The Office, Dexter, and Big Love. One of my favorite shows is Six Feet Under but sadly it doesn't come on anymore. I watched all five seasons in about a month and was really sad when I watched the last episode because I didn't want it to end. The Walking Dead is something that I haven't had a chance to watch yet but it looks amazing and will definitely try and watch the first two episodes sometime this week. Everyone have a great week and watch some good TV shows, quit watching reality!

We're nearing the holidays...

It's the second week in November already... It's time for some turkey. Well, not really, but it's getting there. Who here isn't ready for Thanksgiving? Yeah, I know, everyone's rooting for Christmas, but hey, I'm willing to wait for another two weeks for a break. I'm not greedy. I just want things to get a little less busy in life. It would be awesome if we could just go to class and nap. If that could happen for the next two weeks, I'd be great. But alas, daydreaming is for class time. We'll just have to bear with it all and enjoy the cold weather.

Alpha Chi Honors Society

I checked through my Patriot e-mail a few weeks ago & found a membership request from the Alpha Chi Honors Society. I've never been in an honors society before. I read through the e-mail and found appeal in that I would be one of those students who will graduate in the top 10% of their class. I've always believed the top 10% was comprised of REALLY smart, social, wealthy, organizational driven students. I don't really fit into these categories, but at the same time, I feel a sense of accomplishment that such a society made up of honors would extend an invite to me. I read on further and the e-mail basically promised me that all my dreams will come true, and that I will never go jobless or want for anything ever again. SOUNDS GOOD. Even the fee to join wasn't as bad as I imagined. Only $55. This goes towards a few extra honorary items such as a certifacate, a gold seal on my diploma, a lapel pin, and a ceremony where I get to have my name and major put into a news release. :) My family is proud of my joining the society. I am too. And Dad said he was about to cry on the phone when I called to tell him.

Thursday, November 4, 2010

A Sociology Article Summary....chilling.

I must say that today in one of my sociology classes I've learned something very interesting. Our teacher had printed up an article, from a long while ago, and brought it into class today and lectured over it. The article was from a Journal called Violence and Victims and was written in 2004.
The article summerized FBI statistics regarding the death of children at the hands of their parents and concluded that step-parents & biological parents kill differently.
The results showed that step-parents more commonly slay a child by beating or bludgeoning them to death, and usually there is an emotion of anger, resentmen, bitterness, or rage experienced by the step-parent.
Biological parents, on the other hand, commonly use methods of shooting or aphixiation, in which the death is quicker and not as painful. The emotion attached to these killings are usually ones of trying to rescue their child from certain pains and experiences later on in life. In other words, a "mercy killing."

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Voting

I still cannot bring myself to vote, and I'm not sure why. It's not an unpatriotic thing, and it's not even being lazy, but I just haven't had the desire yet. I realize that there are issues out there that do effect me, but until I am personally affected by these things I just assume not waste the vote on someone I'm not too sure about.

Go controversy go.

Trying to blog @ work

I am trying very hard to Blog @ work!!!!

Monday, November 1, 2010

Registration Begins Today... What A Head Ache!!!

I was in the computer lab today with several other seniors today and today is the official day to register. Well I am a Kinesiology major and I was there doing other work and I happen to listen to many other students who begin to complain and get upset about classes needed for graduating are not being offered in the Spring. I don't understand why this semester is offering less classes...I am wondering is it due to faculty or just because. I was just wondering is any other department having this problem? I really don't have an explanation but I would like to know whats up with that.


If you have any concerns feel free to share or if you can explain this to me more please do.

November is here :D

I'm so glad that we're in the middle of Fall. Halloween was okay; I went to a party in Dallas which was pretty fun with the candy and junk food and whatnot. But what I'm really excited for is Thanksgiving. What is not to be excited about? The turkey, stuffing, pie, cakes, banana pudding, ham, the football? I mean, really? The only thing better is Christmas, which is a close second to New Years. After all of that, we get to start the new semester with new classes and such. The whole change in this part of the year is exciting to me. The old stuff withers way and after the cold comes and freezes everything, you get to start over.

Too old to trick or treat?

Yes! Finally I'm able to log in. Meaning I'm baaaaaaaaack! so since today was Halloween, I've got a question. When are you too old to trick or treat? This year all I did was go to a costume party and didn't even think about trick or treating. Later, I found out some of my friends, college students, still went. Surprisingly, they still got candy. This then made me wonder if there was an age limit on trick or treating. What do y'all think? All I know is I've decided there isn't and I plan on trick or treating next year! or maybe even as a grandpa with my grandkids. All I know is I want my candy!

3 for 1

Sweating hands, breathing heavy, heart racing…the fear was suffocating. In the most critical moment he falls down to his knee. This is not a Halloween scary story; this is a true story. He was Einstein and she was Rosie the Riveter; at the Skateplex he dropped the atomic bomb question:
Will You Marry me?
We all gathered at the Skateplex wearing costumes because my friend Justin was going to ask his girlfriend to marry him on Halloween, and on her birthday. She said YES and their nightmare begins.
No just kidding...I am happy for them and I know they will be super happy.
It was a great idea in every single way…He will not have to complicate himself on remembering her B-day or anniversary, and he can give her a present for both of the occasions.