12 of each...it'll be a surprise which one you get!

Graduation Stuff

Sweet Corn, Cowpeas, Okra, Cucumbers, and Good Health

My brother's recovery is going well. Today I hear that our parents took him to Olive Garden where he enjoyed a shrimp and pasta plate. So his appetite is good :) The meeting with his teachers went well too - they were concerned about him just as good teachers should be. I'm glad he's feeling better, and I hope his recovery continues to improve. Sunday was so scary! Thank you to all who prayed for him and visited! Truly, the kiddo is so loved and blessed!

Today was a good day for me. First there was the Celebrating our Seniors in the Union...free t-shirt, free lunch, and free career fair junk. I found a service opportunity that might interest my bro. It sounded neat, and they seemed really excited he liked birding (really, really excited). I'm dropping the brochure in the mail tomorrow. I think he should at least email the lady in charge for some more details. Oh, the shirt is pretty neat too. It's gray and says on the front, "U of A Graduate" and on the back, "My name's on Senior Walk 2008" Yeah baby! How cool is that. My class is going to be on the bend of the Greek Theater (look for it in 2 years, George!!). So yay free shirt. Then tonight was the Ag. Senior Dinner. We had the standard tacos, brief speeches...and all received traveling mugs. Fun. But now for the good part! Guess who won the grand door prize of a $100 Visa gift card! That's right! ME! I'm not sure I've ever one a door prize before! So I promptly went out and blew it. I bought 2 books (Marley and Me and The Other End of the Leash), and 3 DVDs. The first one is a triple feature with All Dogs Go to Heaven, Rock-A-Doodle, and The Secret of Nimh. Yes...three classics I grew up watching on TV, daycare, and elementary school. I'm pretty excited about them, because I haven't seen them in ages! Ah, the nostalgic feeling old cartoons bring. Then I also bought Disney's Pocahontas, another cartoon classic. I had a hard time deciding between Pocahontas and Robin Hood. 101 Dalmations is out of the vault too! So many good Disney movies. Yes, I admit...it's a very mature selection. The final DVD I purchased is Cars. I was reluctant to watch this movie at first, but it surpassed my expectations. It's a wonderful movie about the effect of the modern 70 mph freeways on old highways (route 66) and towns. I love Cars. It sort of reminds me of 71 coming up to Fayetteville. This bendy road runs parallel to 540 so most people take 540, but there are some beautiful scenic areas and cool cabins along 71. The road itself is worth the drive it's so crooked and at times steep! I also bought a b-day present for Megann and some stuff for the brother (which will be in the mail soon).

Anyway, I'm very excited about the summer. I bought some seeds I would like to plant when I get back to the house. I bought sweet corn, cowpeas, okra, cucumber, and some more gourd seeds. I'm going to try to plant the corn first and grow the peas on the corn stalks. I can't remember which culture used to do this. I've read though that sweet corn doesn't produce strong enough stalks, but I'm going to try it anyway. I thought about growing a pumpkin too - just one plant. I guess I'll plant some gourds too. Hmm...I might run out of dirt though... Ah. I need my own plot o' dirt.

AAAAAHHHHH!!!!! I'm graduating college!!!! AAAAAH!!!!

Let Us Rejoice.

This weekend was quite a dramatic weekend for my family and friends. While a storm raged in Fayetteville and woke me up around 3 am, 200 miles away my brother woke up because he felt mucus in his throat. But it wasn't mucus...he was bleeding profusely. He promptly woke up our parents, and they all rushed to the hospital. Miraculously, the blood became thicker and darker and the bleeding stopped as they arrived at the hospital. This rather miraculous clot allowed time for the doctors to prep George for a safe surgery. Mom called me around 6 am to let me know George was going in to surgery at 7. I didn't realize how serious it was, and silently said a prayer for his safety. Mom called again while I was in the shower and Brooke answered and delivered the message to me. I believe she said something like, "Katie you should go call your mom back right now. They said they almost lost him." I grabbed a towel and ran to my phone soaking wet. That was the end of silent, sob free prayers. There were "complications" during the surgery. While they were intubating him, the clot apparently dislodged and the bleeding resumed. I can't imagine how terrifying it must have been for my parents as they waited for news. The doctors said it would only take 15 minutes to intubate him...10 minutes, 15 minutes, 20 minutes...30 minutes passed by before the nurse called and told them of the complications. I was terrified enough sitting in church. The surgery itself was rough as well. After they patched up one side of his throat and stopped the bleeding, other side of his throat started gushing. So the surgeon basically had to undo the incisions etc from the initial surgery and patch him up again. Again, I can't imagine what it must have been like in the waiting room for my family. The nurse came and told them there had been further complications during surgery. His vital signs were stable, but he had lost a lot of blood...they had blood on standby if he needed a transfusion. The doctor estimates he lost 2 units of blood...(1 unit = 450 milliliters). So he probably lost about a liter/ 2 pints of blood. The adult human is believed to have around 10 to 12 units. George is a young adult...two units seems like a lot. Maybe next time I see a blood drive I'll donate. I'm pretty much terrified of needles, but blood donors are really important. After that 9:20 call, I was pretty freaked out.
I cried until Chase picked us up. I cried all the way to church. I cried all the way through church. Brooke joined me in the crying about half way through. We cried as the pastor (guest pastor from Missouri) prayed for George after the service. While sobbing, I called and left a message on Myranda's phone. After the first message, I decided to leave another...I forgot to say he's stable and recovering on the first one. I'm sure that caused a moment of panic on her side. Inspirational Singers at the University of Arkansas prayed for him (Myranda is the chaplain). I called and told Megann. Chase called his church who prayed for George. I told Dr. Rosenkrans that I wasn't going to work on my thesis and make the Discovery deadline, so he prayed for George too. Brooke told one of her friends, who had her church start praying for him. My BSF discussion group was already praying for George this last week, and they'll be praying this week. All of my relatives were praying too. Aunt Pollie's church prayed for George. I would bet Waller's Chapel did too. The Strobels, Eiflings, Rhodes/Wrights, Murphys, Darrs, Hamlins, Hicks, Lochalas, Burks, Weeses, and many more families prayed for George. So I figure that's roughly 6 churches, a good portion of the general population of Arkansas, and a Missouri pastor who prayed for George. Mom and Dad I'm sure prayed unceasingly. So kiddo, if you read this you better be pretty darn sure of the power of prayer. You're a blessing to the world and we're all so glad you are here. God isn't finished with you and certainly has some amazing plan for your life.
I spent the first half of Sunday basically in tears calling my praying friends to pray for George. Since mom said I shouldn't drive home, I decided to enjoy life for the rest of the day. So Brooke, Chase, and I ate pizza and junk food and watched movies. Good stuff. Throughout the day, a particular verse kept ringing in my head:

This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it
Psalm 118:24

So that is what I did. After all, focusing on what could have happened is no good. George is alive, and he is going to recover. What better thing could there possibly be in life? I know we haven't always gotten along, and I've kicked, slapped, bitten, punched, and tackled him at least once during our life, I will always love my brother. Since the first day I held him in my arms - funny looking red thing that he was on day 1 - I knew I would always have my brother. Someday I know I'll have to be without my parents and, if I am blessed to have a normal lifespan, many of my friends as well. But I never want to be without my brother. He's 3 years younger than me, so I expect him to outlive me. These past 4 years of college have really changed our relationship, in a good way. I've seen my brother grow not only physically taller, but also mature into a charming young adult (most of the time). From the distance of F-ville to the Rock, I can see how he's grown and how much he's changing. I'm so proud of him...my brother who perseveres in the face of multiple surgeries, who fixes car, who always catches the most fish, who buys the best, most thoughtful gifts, who has the best laugh and smile, who loves the Razorbacks, who is handsome and intelligent,who is going to grow to do wonderful exciting things. I pretty much think he's awesome. I love George. So I rejoice in the day the Lord has made, because I have a brother and that brother is George.

Thank you merciful, heavenly Father.

Let us all rejoice.

<3

Tonsils and Lovin' Doggies

I'm am very thankful to say George has no more tonsils and is on his way to recovery. As far as tonsils go, George won the prize according to the surgeon. "He had the biggest tonsils I've seen in many, many years." Poor baby...er...younger brother! Hopefully that will be the last surgery. The next couple of days will be filled with jello, pudding, donuts, and other relatively soft food. I'm very, very thankful the surgery part is finished and George is going to be well in a relatively short time ^_^




While I was in the waiting room I read some more of For the Love of A Dog: Understanding Emotion in You and Your Best Friend by Patricia McConnell. It's definitely a worthwhile read for any dog lover.

I believe dogs experience emotion. Yes, our furry companions feel an assortment of emotions, although they lack words to express them. Dogs express their emotions quite differently than humans. A dog shows no deceit, no trickery, no secrets - but wears his emotions openly. Take a good look at the picture below. Not all dogs enjoy a good snuggle, but Luigi gains evident enjoyment from a good hug. Notice how the corner of his mouth curves upward in a gentle smile, his eyes are closed and relaxed. Yup...this is a happy, comfortable dog if I do say so myself. Patricia McConnell's book explains this so well and gives signals to look for, basically a lesson in how to speak Dog. ... Not everyone is meant to have a dog. If you are too busy to take your dogs on walks or even to pet your dog once per day... why don't you just get a lawn ornament that doesn't feel sadness, pain, frustration, or loneliness? A lawn ornament would be a much better fit for your lifestyle. You see, one reason dogs are expressive...one reason they display emotions through visual cues and facial expressions is because dogs are pack animals. Being able to understand how other animals in the pack are feeling is critical for the survival and peace of the pack. Therefore, you better be ready to provide companionship and a "pack" to your dog if you decide to get one. It's very cruel to neglect a dog and deprive him of attention. For heaven's sake...one 10 minute walk would be a great start. I also believe in most cases, dogs should go in the house. That's right, your smelly, just at the neighbor's dog's poop, rolled in the dead squirrel, butt licking dog should go in the house. If you go in the house, that means the pack in is in the house and that's where the dog should be! If you aren't ready for muddy pawprints in the kitchen, you're probably not ready for a dog. It's too easy to neglect and forget about a dog left outside. Dogs are NOT lawn ornaments. They require a daily dose of TLC in addition to exercise, water, and food. Dogs are blessing. If you choose to have one remember that God loves the little animals too. When you place a living creature in your care, you become responsible for it. Its welfare (not necessarily rights...but I'll save that for another rant) should be kept in mind. Responsibility not negligence, compassion not cruelly. Owning a dog a privilege not your right.


A semi related rant...

With everything I just wrote, I believe in euthanasia of suffering animals, but never for humans. When God created mankind, he gave mankind dominion over all animals. He and Adam walked through the garden naming every animal. I imagine being a caretaker of the Garden of Eden or naming every animal were no small tasks. Surely, Adam developed a sense of respect and awe for God's critters. What God has created...man should not torture and neglect, but treat with compassion. Therefore when our beloved, four legged friend life draws close to the end and suffers, I believe it is morally acceptable to humanely euthanize a suffering animal. However, dominion of animals does not warrant unnecessary violence to animals or cruel deaths. It is a matter responsibility. If I'm blessed enough to be allowed to become a veterinarian, I will take my Veterinarian's Oath very seriously indeed. Notice that God did not give man dominion over themselves...God Himself is the caretaker of man. Ultimately, our lives are completely in His hands. We should trust Him completely in the matters of human life and deathorigin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial" alt="Posted by Picasa" src. He will determine the appropriate time for a human to come to His judgement seat. So while God placed man as the caretaker of animal, God Himself is the caretaker of man.

End Rant.

Family Adventures

This layout is for my brother of whom I am so proud! He's going to go on to do awesome things! I'm so honored to have him as my brother. He should keep a blog of all of his adventures! <3
(Layout credits: CT appreciation kit, Tara Dunstan frame, my doodles)

Wood duck

Barred Owl

Red Headed Woodpecker

Credits on DST. Here's more of the family photos Gradpa Burt took of us on the beach.

Sun Beams and Thunderstorms

I'm sitting in the student union now drinking a cup of cappuccino and working up the energy to begin work on my thesis, but I really don't feel like it. I wish Brooke or Chase would come join me ^_^ I went to BSF yesterday after missing last week because of the now and the week before because I was going crazy. It was much needed, and I feel refocused and centered. I can be such a selfish creature during test weeks. If I could just think about God 24/7 I'd be so much happier. Apathy has permeated this entire semester, but I'm going to turn that around. I don't feel very Katie-ish. Isn't it strange that when you focus on God you know yourself better. Or at least that's how I feel. I don't feel like myself when I'm not square with God. Anyway, I have about 3 weeks worth of BSF lessons to do now! I started with the earliest notes. Since discussion group won't cover them, I'll just have to talk now. A couple of statements stood out to me in particular.

You sin against God when you refuse to tell your fellow Christian what has offended or wounded you, and you sin against that person.

I'm certainly guilty of that! Life would be so much easier if we could respectfully and gently tell others when they do something to upset us instead of letting anger and negativity fester inside...or gossiping about it to others. I know relationships in the past have suffered because I lacked the courage to voice my feelings until they exploded. :( I'm sorry if I've done this to you...

When the Cross means nothing to you because you are blind and indifferent to your inner and outer sins against God, other people's offenses against you seem great.

With great ease, I can forget what it means to be forgiven and redeemed. When this happens, minor annoyances seem like personal affronts, and my feelings get hurt over such silly matters. Love keeps no record of wrongs. Well, those are my thoughts.

In other news, I think I'm finished with the lab work on my thesis! I caught myself messing up while setting up my sequencing reaction... I had to repeat about six samples, and I and ran out of DNA. Hopefully the sequencing will still work ^_^ I really don't feel like doing another PCR! Now I just have to write my lit review...yeesh.

In other news, I brought my grade up in Cell Bio. I still didn't quite make an A, but a B is certainly nothing to be ashamed of. I don't need that class for vet school or for graduation... that must mean I'm simply a glutton for punishment. Speaking of vet school the final tally is in!

CSU- rejected
KSU - Alternate list
Mizzou - Accepted + contract
MSU - withdrew my application
LSU - Accepted + contract
OSU - alternate list

So 2/6. Lol I'm just so relieved I made it in at all! How funny is it that the 2 schools I was accepted also offered me contracts, but no other schools even accepted me! Lol, I'm actually relieved I didn't get accepted to many...it makes my path pretty clear. I loved Missouri and I can't wait to go there. After my interview, it rose to my top choice...and I guess they liked me too! I've mailed in my acceptance form and prepayment, and I'm not anxiously awaiting confirmation they received it. I'm so excited to be accepted there! I really felt like it was a good "fit" for me. I suppose it's where I'm meant to be. God made my path clear.

In other news, I've felt inexplicably anxious the last 2 days. So many changes are approaching. I'll be moving farther away than I've ever been from my family and friends. I was happy to leave NLR for Fayetteville and make new friends...a fresh start. But I'm not really ready this time. My baby brother will be heading up to Fayetteville. I'm so proud of him and almost jealous he'll be here without me. I've made so many wonderful friends here...and most of them will be here next year. I don't want a roommate next year and I'm nervous about that too. I think I'm ready to live by myself. I've never had the opportunity to arrange my house just the way I want it and I'll be glad for the chance. My kitchen is going to be Florida themed...green and turquoise dishes, blue casserole dishes, decorative fish wall hangings... I've also ordered an 8x10 of the family photo on the beach as well as smaller prints of the pic of George and me and another of mom and dad. Maybe I'l finsh the painting of mom and George on the beach over the summer too! As for my sitting area...i don't know what I'm going to do with it. My bead room will stay red and white... and my bathroom will maintain its girly pinks and purples.

Well studying is unavoidable now...no more stalling! End of book... Peace and love to all! <3

LSU

I'm in a hotel in Baton Rouge now. Here's a pic of my room. I like the modern, Asian style. Each floor has a different theme so it's a rather interesting hotel. My second impression of Baton Rouge is little better than my first. Poor Louisiana.

I have an interview tomorrow. I'm not particularly worried because I think I've made up my mind about where I want to be next year. To be honest, I simply don't like Baton Rouge. The drive is long and desolate...I'd much rather drive north. More updates tomorrow I suppose...

In other news, I'm completely stressed out because I'm so busy. I bombed a test in Cell bio. I really wasn't too concerned though because he drops the lowest test. That was a bad day. I'm sure I'll do better on the next one. Unfortunately, I had to schedule an appointment with my scholarship advisor to discuss if I'm "getting the support you need." Geeze...I made a bad grade...it's not that big of a deal. It was only one test. Clearly I'm not in the habit of making bad grades, can't they just let one slide? That situation is now more stressful than it would have been if they had just let me alone. To make matters worse, the meeting is the day before the next test in that class so it will cut out of study time. Next week I also have a genetics test. I made an A easily on the first test, so I'm not too stressed about the second. ALSO, my thesis advisor wants a rough draft of my lit review and all my lab work to be finished next week. I'm leaving next Friday for Pre-vet Symposium...which I wish I hadn't signed up for. GAH...So much to do! I think I'm going to just have to tell me lab prof. that the lit review just isn't going to happen next week without me wanting to jump off a building. Maybe the week after. C = vet school...C = vet school....39 more days of class (68 days until graduation).

Hope all are well and happy!

Workout info

Miniskirt Workout (2/5)

• Warmup 5-10 minutes
• Freemotion Squat (entire leg)
• Seated Leg Curl (Hamstrings)
• Leg extension (quadriceps)
• Glute press (gluteal group)
• Inner Thigh
• Outer Thigh (or hip abduction with red band)
• Calf Rasies

Strapless Dress Workout (2/7)

• Wam Up
• Chest press/freemotion chest press/inclune press (pectorals)
• Pec Fly (Pectorals)
• Lat Pulldown (back)
• Military Press w/ Free weights (shoulders)
• Front raise w/ free weights (shoulders)
• Lateral Raise w/ free weights (shoulders)
• Bicep Curl
• Overhead Tricep Press
  

Senior

I finally finished a layout for pure fun!
Kit is by Melissa Bennett (Stupid Cupid) and Oh My Mats. Photo mat by Traci Ann.

I have been steadily researching literature for my thesis. So far, an outline is all that I have finished, but it's a start. Dr. R provided some particularly useful sources I will incorporate into my outline tomorrow. As for research, 30 samples remain that need to be sequenced before I can call the research portion completed. How exciting!

I applied for graduation yesterday. The nostalgia of leaving here is already setting in. Less than 50 days of class remain before graduation. This semester has seemingly flown by at a record speed. I find it hard to believe that I will soon be a college graduate. It's too close to "adult" than I care to think about. Today I filed my FAFSA...as an independent. It feels so strange to be considered an adult...

BOS Update
My weekend plans consisted of eating and eating more. Therefore, Kung Fu yesterday nearly brought tears to my eyes. As it turns out, being a bum has repercussions. My legs and abs still hurt. Yes, I feel the burn. Today we worked shoulders and back muscles on the weight machines. I suppose my arms were feeling a bit left out following Kung Fu, but now they feel quite like the rest of my weakling body...sore! Although, I am unsure wether or not I look different, I feel stronger. Today I touched my toes. I am proud.

Peace and health to all!

Girl, Put your records on!

Flowers( Bunches o Floral V2), frame(Bendy Frames 1), journal mat (Note it Down) from Tara Dunstan at Pickleberrypop.
Shoot the Moon Word art by Kate Pertiet at DesignerDigitals

It's Official. I'm going to be a Vet! ACCEPTED

Ok! So this week have been dramatic! BUT I have some good news.

"Congratulations! The Admissions and Scholarship Committee has recommended your accpetance into the veterinary professional curriculum at the University of Missouri!"

YEAAAAH!!!! I'm going be a vet!!!! I'm going to be a vet!!

I'm just so relieved...even if I didn't get the Arkansas contract!

**Edit**
At mom's urging I called to check on the contract. I GOT THE CONTRACT!!!!!!!!!!!! I cried for about 10 minutes! I'm so happy!!

More Valentine's Day

The roses go with my girly-girl room. Haha. I got Chase an Apologetics Bible. I think he liked it ^_^ He also got us both webcams so we can see each other when I have to move away. Lol, my fitness trainer gave me 2 fiber bars.

Cheerio! Happy Valentine's Day.

Happy Valentines

Chase bought me chocolates!

and roses...

We waited 50 minutes to get a table at Olive Garden.

The roses are really pretty..

BoS

Hot Pants Workout (2/12)
Bosu Squats
Walking Lunges
Freemotion Hamstring
Freemotion Quad
Cardio.
Cardio.
Cardio.


Bikini Top Workout (2/14)
Basic Push-up
(or Pec Fly Machine)
Lat Pulldown
Tricep Kickback (remember, bend at the elbow!)
Bicep Curl
Back Extension
Crunch (shoulder blades should remain off floor)
Crossover Crunch
Leg Raises on Roman Chair (over there by the leg machines)

Japanese Immersion - Summer Festival

How cute is this! They dressed us up in real kimonos! Haha...and I mean it! Japanese girls helped us put them on and tied the bow etc.

Japanese Summer festival drum dance.

Okonomiyaki booth. It was definitely a strange food to us! It was like an egg pancake with ketchup, mayo, veggies, and shrimp....

The bottles were awesome. You have to use the blue plastic lid to push down a marble in the neck of the bottle! I kept mine ^_^ Ramune = soda!

AAAH!

I just sent my stress level through the roof. First of all, Cell bio's test grade was posted today. It sucked. It really sucked. I guess it will provide the necessary motivation to study for the next one. I got a bunch of stuff confused...and with multiple choice that's bad. Option E always gets me (all of the above, none of the above, A & D etc). I especially hate it when I'm sure about answer A but not sure if it's both A and D (option E). Genetics was a short answer test...Hopefully I did better on it. Cell Bio takes best 3 out of 4 tests, but Genetics doesn't drop a test grade. Not too stressed out about Cell Bio, but I hate making bad grades.

The other thing that I almost flipped out about is replying to my invitation to interview at LSU. I was so excited about getting it I forgot to reply! Today I remembered and spazzed out as I couldn't find the email. Thank goodness for Gmail and its search feature! Luckily I found it and responded before the February 15 deadline. How awful would it have been if I forgot!!!! Talk about setting myself up for failure.

Considering past years of college, I've really been pretty laid back about this year. I think it helps I have my own place away from a dorm. I can escape the insanity every night. I'm anxious about next year, but all in all I think it's going to be OK. Haha, I just have to make it through this last semester. So I guess I should occasionally study...

Keep Your Carcinogens to Yourself.

Seniorosis - condition of the senior
Senioritis - inflammation of the senior....

I'm definitely suffering from seniorosis this year. The fact that my classes are completely boring doesn't really facilitate learning either. Cell Bio. and Genetics are filled with just enough new material that I should study, but filled with so much review they bore the heck out of me. So I didn't do so hot on the exams today...I forgot some basic stuff. Oh well.

Megann and I moved into the new apartment this weekend (probably where my study time went). I like being upstairs, but overall their are some things that really bug me about it. First of all, the stench of smokers still lingers. The carpet is pretty dirty too. Megann says they're a different color than our old apartment...but I have to wonder if it's just a disgusting film of cigarette smoke that coats the carpet....and walls and ceilings. SO GROSS. Smokers should be flogged everytime they lite up (for their own good and for . It's one thing to slowly kill yourself, but another to cause everyone around you to inhale your carcinogens and stench. Keep your Carcinogens to yourself, please. I have a strategy to remove the stench though.

Huh. Brooke says it doesn't smell like regular cigarette smoke. Great....some other type of smoke. Oh well. Currently, I have sprinkled the floors with baking soda and placed bowls of vinegar in every room. I believe it's helping. I'll vacuum up the soda in a couple of days. Then, I will us the carpet power stuff. Then use the carpet steamer a couple of times. Sometime this week, I'm hoping to scrub the walls with pinesol or bleach. I'm hoping at that will help ^_^

My (girly) room

My teacups look adorable on their little shelf!

Southern Section Pictures

Tomorrow

Tomorrow, Megann and I are switching apartments. I'm really dreading it...such a pain. I'll enjoy being in the new one though where I don't have to hear the club and can open my window more often. There's more available parking down there too. I just dread the whole moving part. What a pain in the butt it's going to be! I'm not sure it's worth the trouble when I'm only going to be living here for 3 more months. Sheesh...then I'm going to have to move the couch and my bedroom stuff again. AND then again when I find out where I'll be next year. How inconvenient -_- too late to back out now. All our utilities have been transferred... Moving all of our stuff is not going to be an easy undertaking. *dread, dread, dread*

In other news, I've been invited to interview at LSU. I'm very relieved to hear from them. Haha, I guess all my frustration with them is fading although I still don't like Baton Rouge.

Buns of Steel Day 3 - Feb. 7
We worked out the upper body today. I'm definitely feeling it today.

BoSD 4
30 minutes of cardio
10 stretching with a balance ball.

Here is a layout of my family. I used a Digital Scrapbooking TV tutorial to blend the background ^_^ Hehe, I also put my family walking in the background and the bird above the y.
The background paper and alpha are from Tara Dunstan at Pickleberry pop

My Delinquency & Buns of Steel. Days 1 and 2.

I just got back from the American Society of Animal Science Southern Section meeting in Dallas. It was a mighty enjoyable trip. I spent some time with Christine and got to know my lab group a little better on Sunday night. Saturday I won 3rd at the undergraduate presentation competition. My thesis project is just that cool. Well maybe not...I'm one of the only undergrads who spoke loudly. Haha! My presentation was not top notch, but I think speaking loudly really helped. $50 prize money and a plaque. Holly and I left as soon as the awards assembly was finished. Here's the down side...I accidentally took the wrong exit (I was lost) off the freeway and make it about a block before pulling into a parking lot to turn around. Well a cop followed me in and gave me a speeding ticket (54 in a 45). My vehicle insurance paper was 4 days expired....So he gave me a choice: a speeding ticket or driving without insurance ticket. Of course, the cheaper one is the better option... So he merrily skips off to his car to write the ticket saying, "I'm going to go write your ticket now, and then I'll come back and give you directions." Skip-a-dee-do-dah. I'll bet he was just waiting for the out of towner to drive by! What's ironic is that it's a running joke in my family how slow I drive! I'm not even sure I saw a speed limit sign within the block or so I drove. *sigh* so $50 prize money minus an $87 ticket. yeah...doesn't really pay. At least it's the little type of ticket that doesn't go on your record. Basically it was a way for a little town in OK to make some money. Cheers. I hope it sends some kid to college. So I'm now a delinquent.

Buns of Steel Day 1
Early Tuesday morning began my first day of "Women on Weights" It was rough getting out of bed after getting in so late from Dallas, but I made it on time. We worked on legs on Tuesday. The weight machines are all new to me, but I'm learning how to use them! I got really nauseated, but hopefully it'll get better the more I work out...
Homework: 30 minutes of cardio and drink more water every day this week!

Buns of Steel Day 2
I worked hard to drink a lot of water today. I probably still don't drink as much as I should, but I had over a liter today. I also ate oatmeal for breakfast along with a glass of orange juice. Megann and I worked out around 8:00pm today for about 20 minutes (on the stationary bikes). I'm a little nauseated, but not bad. I don't even want to know what my legs are going to feel like tomorrow! They already felt sore today before getting on the bike! At least tomorrow I'm going to work on arms...Lol. I bet on Friday my whole body will be sore! Yikes.

A fancy way of saying r.e.j.e.c.t.e.d.

This one's not really as surprise either.

"Thank you for participating in the interview process for the College of Veterinary Medicine at Kansas State University. This is to notify you that you have been selected for the alternate list. If you are selected to fill a position, further information will be sent to you."

That is pretty much another, fancier way of saying....rejected. Have a nice life. I'm still hopeful about the other 4, but I have to admit getting 2 rejection letters within 2 days is disheartening. I really didn't feel it "click" with KSU. I didn't get the feeling I would fit in there very well. The interview didn't really go well either. Haha, I'm almost starting to wish I had gone into debt and went to Mississippi State! MSU has a really nice vet school.

rejected

As usual, I've been lazy about updating my blog, but much has happened.

First of all, I finished another vet school interview at Kansas State University. It was pretty much a long boring drive that progressively got colder. I just got an iPod so we listened to PodCasts the entire drive. Pretty cool stuff...I have one about training dogs! Manhattan certainly wasn't as pretty as Columbia, although my opinion may be skewed because of how cold it was in Kansas. The vet school itself was standard in appearance: cynderblock and brick without to much fancy architecture. As for my interview, I don't think it went near as well as Mizzou's interview. Friends of mine who had previously interviewed told me KSU's interviews were even more relaxed than Mizzou's interviews. Well, my KSU interview was definitely knowledge based as opposed to a relaxed get-to-know you type interview. I knew most of the answers, but I'm afraid I said the kidney when I meant liver. SO if any KSU people read this... The liver plays a primary role in the breakdown of toxins, although the kidneys also play a role. For example, the cytochrome p450s that I'm studying have a role in toxin breakdown and are found in the kidneys. *sigh* Is that cause for rejection? Do the interviewers take into account the differences between interviewers? No one else I know got drilled on knowledge based stuff. Is the gene you're sequencing mitochondrial or nuclear DNA? What are the CYP450s? What organ breaks down toxins? What important equine law issue occured during last semester? What do you think about horse slaughter? (I answered this one poorly as well) What are the implications of banning horse slaughter? What the is the coggins test? What spreads equine infectious anemia? Where do Brahman cattle come from? How do you display leadership? As prevet president, have you faced conflict and how did you deal with it? What are you going to do if you don't make it? Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I just didn't get a happy feeling after this interview. I'll hear back from them within 2 weeks. Yikes

In other news, I received a letter from CSU today. r.e.j.e.c.t.e.d. I'm pretty bummed about it. My first letter from a vet school is a rejection letter. Hopefully I get accepted somewhere although I'm starting to feel a bit anxious about it. I'll just try not to stalk the mail man. -_-

Back at school

Well I am officially back at school. I've finished my first week of class. So far my classes aren't covering any new material so they're pretty boring. In other news, I bought an iPod. This was probably very foolish, a waste of money, as well as selfish, but I'm really enjoying it so far. The funny part is ...the main reason I bought it was because of Podcasts...really dorky ones...like NPR shows and dog training advice. Yeah, I bought an iPod so I could listen to the news while walking to/during class. I have to say...it's pretty cool! There are so many cool Podcasts...I just love them.

One thing I wanted to tell my blog readers (if I have any) is you guys should consider adopting a soldier. I adopted one from Soldier's Angels http://soldiersangels.org. Our poor troops are out there fighting for our country (if you agree with the war or not. I personally support the soldiers, but not the war). Anyway, it's not too much trouble to adopt one: 1 letter per week, 1 package per month. You can totally do it! It doesn't take that much money ($0.41 per week + $9.00 to mail a flat rate priority mail package + however much you spend on stuff in the package which can be as simple as chips and candy or more expensive like handheld games) Anything at all makes a difference to someone...even if they don't ever respond to you, soldiers say it made a difference. So please think about it!

layouts

Paper, flowers, swirls by Traci Ann.Frames by Tara DunstanFont = DJBKatieM

Missouri and other adventures

Wow! Christmas break zipped by with the usual speed of events you don't want to end. We went to Florida and saw my grandpa. My life list reached over 100 in birding. I got lots of kitchen stuff for Christmas. I cleaned my room.

Most importantly, I completed my first vet school admission interview. University of Missouri was the first vet school to invite me to interview. The interview went very well and I LOVE the city of Columbia, the college, and the people there. I suppose if they offer the contract I will immediately accept. I just really loved the school. Anyway if feels good having my first interview over and done with. I hope everyone else is doing well!

Random things...

This is the first page I've completed for my EOL project... OK. I know that the doggie picture is not Corky, but I have to go home and scan a Corky picture. Lovable Mr. Bailey will have his own entry later.

My fishy's name is Bori. I couln't think of anything better...so Bori it is.

Tomorrow I'm going home. Lol... I paid for my fall transcripts to be mailed off once my grades are posted. ^_^ In other news..the DrainPro or whatever didnt' work...My tub drain still isn't working. Sheesh....So I dumped another 1/4 of the bottle down the drain and I think I'll let it sit for a little while (think hours). I can't keep my tub clean if it doesn't drain well! It's driving me nuts...well i'm off to Brooke's for craft night. Tomorrow I'm going to thoroughly clean my apartment!! Now I'm vacating...the drain stuff stinks. :(

YEAH

I just finished my very last final this semester...and the last animal science class I will take at the University of Arkansas!

AND I won a SURF grant for my research!!!! YEAH! I'm so excited!!! Wahoo...wahoo wahoo!

I'm going to go scrap now... No distractions...no homework. Sweet.

Free time

I haven't had free time in awhile. Pure, free time. So I'm bundled up in my rocking chair, scrapping, and watching The Secret Garden. It was a toss up between Cinderella and The Secret Garden. I've decided to start a new scrapping project... There's a thread on DST about The Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life. It was inspired by a book of the same title. The point of the project is to make an encyclopedia of sorts of your life A-Z. Like for A...I could say Ambition, Autumn, Anxiety...

I think it's a great idea...but I don't know what letter I would even start with! Should I use a template...or make every page different and unique? So much to think about! The original book looks interesting.

Stupidity

Examples of Stupidity in F-ville

1. Saturday finals at 7:30 AM
2. Closing the breakfast supplying units (aka fast food joints) in the Union during Example 1.
3. Opening a bar in close proximity to apartments known to have students preparing for Example 1.
4. Booking a band at the bar in Example 3 during the night preceding Example 1.
5. Building a outside patio to the bar in Examples 3 and 4.
6. Owning an apartment complex and building a bar in its already too small parking lot.

Well...I suppose you can guess what happened last night. The bar next door to my apartment opened up the patio area they've been building with a noisy band. I marched over twice in my pajamas to tell them to turn it down. It lasted until 1 AM... BAD IDEA. The owners of our apartment built a freaking bar instead of an office/clubhouse for the residents. Our apartment is less than 4 yards away from the bar. So it's really noisy. For heaven's sake, why did they book a band the night before 7:30 a.m. Saturday finals???? Sheesh. I signed the lease on my apartment before they built the bar. I'm really going to cause some trouble if this keeps up night after night. STUPID OWNERS!!! This apartment was great until they built that stupid bar. They should have kept it a parking lot.

The Dreaded Finals

Actually, I'm not highly concerned about finals now. I am taking two tomorrow, but I'm not very worried. I have a 98% in Anthropology and a really high A in Physics too. They shouldn't be too bad. Neither one is cumulative. That being said...it's 8 p.m. and I'm still goofing off in whatever way I can. I cooked dinner, took a shower, baked cookies...and now I'm updating my blog. I really just want to scrap and watch movies with friends. ^_^

In other news my thesis research is coming along nicely. I'm quite please with my progress this semester. The cattle DNA I'm using in my research is over ten years old... that's some old DNA! So my graphs don't look as pretty as the newer samples, but I'm simply happy I can decipher them at all! I should have around 80 samples sequenced by the time I go home for Christmas...if all of them work. I only have 15 more samples!! I'm down to the moldy stuff now... I diluted them from the stock in the deep freeze. Literally...it might be moldy DNA. If any sequences don't quite look like the others...it might actually be because I inadvertently sequenced the mold's DNA as opposed to cattle DNA. Sheesh! I normally work in sets of 8 samples at a time, which means 16 per week. But since these last samples are questionable...I think I'm going to just do the last 15 all at once on Monday/Tuesday...and then repeat whatever doesn't work on Wednesday/Thursday. I hate doing that many at once, but I realllly want to get finished and go home!!

I'm really excited to wrap up this semester. It was my last semester of Animal Science classes. Goodbye Bumpers and hello Fulbright! I'm only taking 16 hours next semester...only 3 classes. AWESOME I took 5 (18 hours) this semester. It's probably good though...because seniorosis is kicking in. I'm seriously apathetic about classes now (hence I'm still not studying - maybe after this post I will). I would be perfectly content working on my research during the day and not having homework or studying in the afternoon. Research is fun. I'm always going, going, going...so busy...I really enjoy the silence and order of the lab. Plus I feel like I get something tangible accomplished every week.

Well, I just have a few really random thoughts left.

Congratulations to Brooke for passing Chemistry! WOOOOOOO!
Happy birthday to Heather and Myranda (not that they check my blog).
Goodluck on finals to everyone!
Finally, does anyone know of cookie recipes that travel well? I'm looking for recipes that would make it to Iraq (for my soldier penpal).

Peace and joy to all!

Semester 7 drawing to an end

My second to last semester at the UA is drawing to an end. It's scary to think I'll be some where completely different next year and I probably won't know anyone... I applied to LSU, KSU, OSU, CSU, Mizzou, and Mississippi State U. So far I've been invited to interviews at KSU and Mizzou. The days are set! Mizzou's interview is on the 5th of January and KSU is the 20th. Looks like I'll be practicing interviewing over Christmas break in addition to working on my thesis. Sheesh. I'm still going to spend some time being a bum though.

I still haven't decided on my new fishie's name