This is a beautiful song that I've loved in the past and recently rediscovered. It's sung by one of my favorite groups, Selah. It really helped me put all my worry, stress, and anxiety into perspective. Hope you enjoy it as well!
7.09.2009
7.02.2009
Breaking Point
Reality is starting to sink in and I feel like I need to escape from it all for awhile. I still haven't learned to handle stress and I feel like I'm ready to break. I'm still trying to adjust to grad school and suddenly have the added strain of moving out in the next 15 days. When I first heard the news yesterday that we needed to be out soon I thought of it as an adventure. Since then, my act has failed and I am loosing the superficial confidence I was able to put on earlier.
This quarter is compacted into 8 weeks rather than 10, and is an intensive "review" of gross anatomy complete with a cadaver lab. We also are taking a kinesiology course that has many physics concepts I have never been exposed to. I feel like I've been playing catch up from day one. We're now 1/4 of the way through the quarter. The long days of class and intensive study are wearing me thin and my motivation as well as my concentration are melting away.
Our sudden housing situation is also a great concern to me. We are so blessed that Bob now has a mostly permanent job so we have more options. We'd like to take advantage of the housing market, but are not sure what our options are as far as that goes. So far there are not houses in the area that seem to be just right. At the same time, we're hesitant to rent again, because every monthly payment for rent could be going towards something we own instead that is about the same monthly cost.
Sometimes I long for the simplicity of life I had as a kid. Sure there were worries, but they were insignificant in many ways, especially when compared to the responsibilities I have today. It seems as though those days went by way too fast. I wonder what it would be like to go back just for a day and forget about grad school, bills, health concerns and housing woes.
I need to remember that God is in control. He hasn't let us down, and I'm sure he won't now. I just wish I knew how to trust more. Perhaps He will use this to teach me that lesson. I look forward to when God turns the next page in the chapter of our life and reveals what His plans are for us.
This quarter is compacted into 8 weeks rather than 10, and is an intensive "review" of gross anatomy complete with a cadaver lab. We also are taking a kinesiology course that has many physics concepts I have never been exposed to. I feel like I've been playing catch up from day one. We're now 1/4 of the way through the quarter. The long days of class and intensive study are wearing me thin and my motivation as well as my concentration are melting away.
Our sudden housing situation is also a great concern to me. We are so blessed that Bob now has a mostly permanent job so we have more options. We'd like to take advantage of the housing market, but are not sure what our options are as far as that goes. So far there are not houses in the area that seem to be just right. At the same time, we're hesitant to rent again, because every monthly payment for rent could be going towards something we own instead that is about the same monthly cost.
Sometimes I long for the simplicity of life I had as a kid. Sure there were worries, but they were insignificant in many ways, especially when compared to the responsibilities I have today. It seems as though those days went by way too fast. I wonder what it would be like to go back just for a day and forget about grad school, bills, health concerns and housing woes.
I need to remember that God is in control. He hasn't let us down, and I'm sure he won't now. I just wish I knew how to trust more. Perhaps He will use this to teach me that lesson. I look forward to when God turns the next page in the chapter of our life and reveals what His plans are for us.
5.11.2009
5.08.2009
4.29.2009
New Do?
In less than two months, I'll be starting my Master's Program for Occupational Therapy. I'm wanting to find a new look that for this next step in life. Not that it's that different, but it is a change, and they expect you to look refined and professional, since we'll be training to become OT professionals.
I've slowly collected more professional looking clothes that are modest, and look dressier than most of my school clothes. It's hard finding cheap, modest clothes! Especially when you're 5'12". :) So no more wearing sweats to class, or dashing out the door with my hair still dripping wet. I plan to "dress for success".
Lately I've felt that my hair is unpredictable at best, and often feels unruly and uncooperative. I've been thinking that I should try to find a "new do" that will be easy to maintain and look professional. Should I continue let it grow out, or cut it shorter? Let it have the faded color of once dyed, but going back to natural, or should I dye it. If so, dark brown, reddish brown... too many choices!
So, though it's not a super important decision- there's my dilemma. What to do, what to do.... any suggestions would be welcome!
I've slowly collected more professional looking clothes that are modest, and look dressier than most of my school clothes. It's hard finding cheap, modest clothes! Especially when you're 5'12". :) So no more wearing sweats to class, or dashing out the door with my hair still dripping wet. I plan to "dress for success".
Lately I've felt that my hair is unpredictable at best, and often feels unruly and uncooperative. I've been thinking that I should try to find a "new do" that will be easy to maintain and look professional. Should I continue let it grow out, or cut it shorter? Let it have the faded color of once dyed, but going back to natural, or should I dye it. If so, dark brown, reddish brown... too many choices!
So, though it's not a super important decision- there's my dilemma. What to do, what to do.... any suggestions would be welcome!
4.27.2009
progress in the midst of procrastination
Lately I have been really tired and unmotivated. I've managed to not fall behind in my classwork, but the house is starting to show signs of neglect... and I really could put more effort into my school work.
Today I completed the first challenge exam required to fulfill the computer literacy credit I needed in order to move into my grad program. I'd learned way back in September that I would need to study up and challenge this course, and it's been weighing heavy over my head these last months. It feels nice to get the first step done!
This afternoon I was also able to register for my first quarter of EWU's Master of Occupational Therapy Program! This also helped me feel more motivated and accomplished. For years this has been only a distant dream, and now it's actually happening! It's very exciting to me.
There are still things on my long to-do list that I need to complete. They'll come in time. For now I'm just enjoying these feelings of accomplishment before I feel overwhelmed with everything else.
Today I completed the first challenge exam required to fulfill the computer literacy credit I needed in order to move into my grad program. I'd learned way back in September that I would need to study up and challenge this course, and it's been weighing heavy over my head these last months. It feels nice to get the first step done!
This afternoon I was also able to register for my first quarter of EWU's Master of Occupational Therapy Program! This also helped me feel more motivated and accomplished. For years this has been only a distant dream, and now it's actually happening! It's very exciting to me.
There are still things on my long to-do list that I need to complete. They'll come in time. For now I'm just enjoying these feelings of accomplishment before I feel overwhelmed with everything else.
4.22.2009
Bald Eagle in Portland?
Last weekend, Bob and were in Portland visiting my family. As we were packing up and getting ready to drive back home, Nathaniel ran inside and told us that a bald eagle was in our neighbor's tree! Nathaniel, Mom, and I had seen one the day before on a walk, but it had been from somewhat of a distance and we didn't have anything to see it more clearly. This time, we were able to get right under the tree it was in and gaze up at our nation's majestic bird. Here are some pictures of him:
4.20.2009
Liquid Bliss
As many of you probably know... I'm quite the coffee lover. I'm not one of those addicts who can't function if they don't get it, but I enjoy getting it every 2-3 weeks as a treat. My favorite drinks at Starbucks have been decaf soy caramel Macchiato (if I'm in the mood for something warm), or a decaf caramel Frappuccino (if I want something cold). The only problem is that I found that the frappuccinos are SUPER unhealthy. Funny how seeing nutrition facts can make something you once enjoyed sound nasty!
Today I discovered a perfect alternative to the cold icy treat, that also has the bonus of using soy (the frap comes from a mix so they can't substitute) that tastes amazing! It's an iced venti soy decaf caramel macchiato with extra sauce. If you decide to try it you may get a confused or exasperated look from your barista while placing your order, but it's worth it. Oh, and don't forget to stir in the caramel and milk from the top... otherwise you'll get straight coffee until the very end. :P
Today I discovered a perfect alternative to the cold icy treat, that also has the bonus of using soy (the frap comes from a mix so they can't substitute) that tastes amazing! It's an iced venti soy decaf caramel macchiato with extra sauce. If you decide to try it you may get a confused or exasperated look from your barista while placing your order, but it's worth it. Oh, and don't forget to stir in the caramel and milk from the top... otherwise you'll get straight coffee until the very end. :P
4.13.2009
Vegan Stroganoff
Bob and I both enjoy cooking, which has been a lot of fun. It's fun to spend time together while creating a meal that we'll enjoy together. Recently, Bob has been quite busy working for the UCC Office, and so I've done most of the cooking since I get home earlier. I realized I've fallen into a rut and have been repeating several tried and true meals. Bob's been great about it and always appreciates what I make, but I am determined to find new meals that we both like.
With both of our unique tummy needs (I already feel sorry for our future children!) it's difficult to find new meals that we can both enjoy. Yesterday as I should have been reading for class, I was thinking about what I might make for supper tonight.
One of Bob's favorite meals that his mom makes is Stroganoff made from mushroom soup, sour cream, Lipton's onion soup mix, onion, mushrooms, and dinnercuts. I felt bad because I hadn't made it for him, since I can't eat several of those ingredients. As I thought about it, I realized that I could make several substitutions and come up with something that was pretty close to his childhood favorite. Here's what I came up with. I think next time I will add a few cloves of garlic, but other than that, it was great!
Vegan Stroganoff
• 3 cups hot water
• 4 tablespoons Chef Bonneaus Instant Brown Gravy
• 1 tablespoon corn starch
• 3 packets George Washington’s Rich Brown Seasoning and Broth
• 1 block of tofu
Whiz these ingredients in a blender until smooth. Meanwhile.... sauté the following:
• 1 8-ounce package of sliced white mushrooms
• 1 sliced Portobello mushroom
• ½ onion, sliced in thin strips
When the mushrooms are soft and the onions translucent, add the liquid mixture from the blender into the sauté pan. Stir constantly until mixture begins to boil. Finally, add about 1/3 of a 12 ounce container of Toffuti sour cream and mix until it’s evened out.
Tonight we had it over rice, but it's also good over potatoes or your favorite pasta. Would also probably be good with other spices, or with your favorite veggie meat. :)
With both of our unique tummy needs (I already feel sorry for our future children!) it's difficult to find new meals that we can both enjoy. Yesterday as I should have been reading for class, I was thinking about what I might make for supper tonight.
One of Bob's favorite meals that his mom makes is Stroganoff made from mushroom soup, sour cream, Lipton's onion soup mix, onion, mushrooms, and dinnercuts. I felt bad because I hadn't made it for him, since I can't eat several of those ingredients. As I thought about it, I realized that I could make several substitutions and come up with something that was pretty close to his childhood favorite. Here's what I came up with. I think next time I will add a few cloves of garlic, but other than that, it was great!
Vegan Stroganoff
• 3 cups hot water
• 4 tablespoons Chef Bonneaus Instant Brown Gravy
• 1 tablespoon corn starch
• 3 packets George Washington’s Rich Brown Seasoning and Broth
• 1 block of tofu
Whiz these ingredients in a blender until smooth. Meanwhile.... sauté the following:
• 1 8-ounce package of sliced white mushrooms
• 1 sliced Portobello mushroom
• ½ onion, sliced in thin strips
When the mushrooms are soft and the onions translucent, add the liquid mixture from the blender into the sauté pan. Stir constantly until mixture begins to boil. Finally, add about 1/3 of a 12 ounce container of Toffuti sour cream and mix until it’s evened out.
Tonight we had it over rice, but it's also good over potatoes or your favorite pasta. Would also probably be good with other spices, or with your favorite veggie meat. :)
3.24.2009
Another Open Door
God has been so good to us! This past year we've faced lots of unknowns- getting married (a good thing, but definitely an adventure!), finding a home, getting settled in a new town, and discovering what God has in store for us as far as work and school.
I have been going to school here since September, aiming at starting the OT program this summer. There are typically 60-70 applicants each year, and 30 are accepted. We have been waiting since the first of February to hear whether or not I got in, and today we got the letter- I'm in! I am ecstatic about this opportunity and truly feel that it is where God is leading me. This career will let me help others lead more fulfilling lives, and let me use the talents God has given me.
Bob has been blessed with a job at the UCC Office off and on for the past 8 months. He was first hired for 3, then for an extra month, and after the December fire, was hired back on. During the months he was not working for the conference, he has had side jobs where people have needed computer help, and God has provided for us. Bob has been promised work at the office through the end of this month. We pray that God will give us the patience to wait on Him and the wisdom to follow His will. It will be interesting to see where God leads him in his work next. :)
I have been going to school here since September, aiming at starting the OT program this summer. There are typically 60-70 applicants each year, and 30 are accepted. We have been waiting since the first of February to hear whether or not I got in, and today we got the letter- I'm in! I am ecstatic about this opportunity and truly feel that it is where God is leading me. This career will let me help others lead more fulfilling lives, and let me use the talents God has given me.
Bob has been blessed with a job at the UCC Office off and on for the past 8 months. He was first hired for 3, then for an extra month, and after the December fire, was hired back on. During the months he was not working for the conference, he has had side jobs where people have needed computer help, and God has provided for us. Bob has been promised work at the office through the end of this month. We pray that God will give us the patience to wait on Him and the wisdom to follow His will. It will be interesting to see where God leads him in his work next. :)
3.22.2009
3.20.2009
Celebrating Spring
I don't know about everyone else, but I know this is the longest winter I've ever dealt with. It's the first I've spent this far north, and it's quite different from the usually mild winters I grew up with. I am ecstatic that spring is finally here, and look forward to warmer days ahead!
3.19.2009
Our Newest Addition!
Bob finished repairing our Durango on Monday night, so we were able to have it inspected and licensed Tuesday morning. We're quite excited about this, and look for every opportunity to go driving, as if we're teenagers again who've just gotten their licenses. :) Hopefully this will be a good vehicle for us that will last a long time! 
22
Well, I have reached another landmark. Last Sabbath I turned 22. A lot has happened in the last year- getting married, moving to a new town, and starting classes at a new school. It will be fun to see what this year holds!
My birthday was very special. Bob brought me a beautiful bouquet of two-dozen mixed roses on Thursday as an early birthday/get-well soon gift. Aren't they gorgeous?
After church, we spent the day at Bob's parents. We celebrated both of Bob's grandmother's birthdays last weekend too, which was very special. I felt very loved and remembered. Mom even made pumpkin pie for me (since my birthday is on National Pi day and pumpkin is my favorite!).
My birthday was very special. Bob brought me a beautiful bouquet of two-dozen mixed roses on Thursday as an early birthday/get-well soon gift. Aren't they gorgeous?
After church, we spent the day at Bob's parents. We celebrated both of Bob's grandmother's birthdays last weekend too, which was very special. I felt very loved and remembered. Mom even made pumpkin pie for me (since my birthday is on National Pi day and pumpkin is my favorite!).
Double Dates
It's been hard adjusting to a new town where we do not know as many people as we did in Walla Walla. We keep ourselves busy with work and school, but it's always fun to go out with friends. In January, started a tradition of having monthly double dates with our friends Michael and Tonia. Last month we went to Triple Play and bowled, finishing the evening at Sharis with milk shakes and coffee. It's been wonderful having such good friends nearby, and we look forward to having more of these double dates (and soon to be double +1!!) in the future. :)
Pizza!
Pizza has always been one of my weaknesses. For the past several years I've been morphing my pizza recipe from a book I got. It's changed a lot and now it is almost perfect- complete with spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, onions, olives, and pineapple. I'm still working on the perfect crust- let me know if you have a favorite recipe for it!
2.11.2009
Our Home
I think the first time I promised this blog was sometime back in August. I've finally gotten around to it! Yesterday I took a bunch of pictures, and now I get to share them with you! We recently purchased a couch from craigslist.com and it completes our living room nicely!
We used our entertainment center to divide the kitchen from the rest of the living area. We have a projector connected to the computer so we can watch movies our our "big screen". :)
Our walls may appear a bit sparse, but what can you do in a rental that doesn't put any holes in the wall??
Our kitchen. The front door is to the left. This last picture is of the hallway leading to the two bedrooms, the laundry closet, the bathroom, and the garage. But that's for another time. ;)
We used our entertainment center to divide the kitchen from the rest of the living area. We have a projector connected to the computer so we can watch movies our our "big screen". :)
Our walls may appear a bit sparse, but what can you do in a rental that doesn't put any holes in the wall??
Our kitchen. The front door is to the left. This last picture is of the hallway leading to the two bedrooms, the laundry closet, the bathroom, and the garage. But that's for another time. ;)
We got a Durango!
This morning, Bob watched the Insurance Auto Auction online that was taking place in Seattle. We've been watching for reasonably-priced vehicles on craigslist.com and at the auction to get a feel for what we're looking for.
When Bob picked me up from class this afternoon, he surprised me by telling me that we were the owners of a 2000 Dodge Durango! It will require some minor body work, but Bob is already figuring out what it will take to fix it. It's just what we've been looking for! We're very excited. Here is a picture of a durango that is the same year and color:
When Bob picked me up from class this afternoon, he surprised me by telling me that we were the owners of a 2000 Dodge Durango! It will require some minor body work, but Bob is already figuring out what it will take to fix it. It's just what we've been looking for! We're very excited. Here is a picture of a durango that is the same year and color:
2.06.2009
Eating Healthy
One of my goals for the new year has been to make a greater effort to make healthy, tasty meals. I had a blast over the summer finding new recipes and trying them out. Since school has started, my enthusiasm has wavered a bit. I still love cooking- it's actually a stress reliving, relaxing activity to me when I'm not rushed.
One of my favorite recipes I've found is for these burgers. It comes from a recipe book called The Candle Cafe Cookbook. These burgers are oat and veggie-meat free, so my poor tummy likes them. The could also be made to be gluten-free if you don't put in the flour/bread crumbs.
Brown Rice and Lentil Burgers:
One of my favorite recipes I've found is for these burgers. It comes from a recipe book called The Candle Cafe Cookbook. These burgers are oat and veggie-meat free, so my poor tummy likes them. The could also be made to be gluten-free if you don't put in the flour/bread crumbs. Brown Rice and Lentil Burgers:
- 1/2 cup lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup brown rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- bread crumbs or white flour (for helping it stick together if needed)
- In a medium sauce pan, bring 1 1/2 cups of water to a boil. Add the lentils, reduce the heat, and cook until softened, about 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in another medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil, add the rice, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the rice is just tender, about 40 minutes.
- In a saute pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat and saute the garlic, and onion until lightly browned.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a large bowl, combine lentils, rice, and sauted items. Add some bread crumbs/flour to hold the mixture together, if needed. Make into burger-sized patties and place on a baking sheet. Bake until firm, about 15 minutes.
2.05.2009
An Update
Wow, the last few weeks have been flying by so quickly! It is hard for me to believe that we're nearing the end of the first week of February already!
With the new year, I decided that my blog needed a face lift. Maybe this look will go better with the title too. :)
This quarter has been quite busy for me. I was able to sign up for 19 credits instead of the intimidating 20 that I had anticipated. I am taking Theories of Personality, Intro to Literature, Global Issues, and Art in the Humanities. My homework seems to come in waves, and thankfully I'm at a low for now- hence the time for this blog!
Bob has been working hard with his dad setting up the new UCC Office. He's already put in a day of overtime this week, so he gets today off. He is such a dedicated worker, and I'm very proud of him. :)
Last Friday, I submitted my application to EWU's OT program. I should be hearing back from them in the next few weeks. Hopefully I'll get in! But God knows what is best. :)
Well... it's about time for me to run for my 1pm class. Hope all of you are doing well.
With the new year, I decided that my blog needed a face lift. Maybe this look will go better with the title too. :)
This quarter has been quite busy for me. I was able to sign up for 19 credits instead of the intimidating 20 that I had anticipated. I am taking Theories of Personality, Intro to Literature, Global Issues, and Art in the Humanities. My homework seems to come in waves, and thankfully I'm at a low for now- hence the time for this blog!
Bob has been working hard with his dad setting up the new UCC Office. He's already put in a day of overtime this week, so he gets today off. He is such a dedicated worker, and I'm very proud of him. :)
Last Friday, I submitted my application to EWU's OT program. I should be hearing back from them in the next few weeks. Hopefully I'll get in! But God knows what is best. :)
Well... it's about time for me to run for my 1pm class. Hope all of you are doing well.
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