Marymere Falls (much more majestic in person)
Myself, Hannah, and Emily at the top of the hike
The girls enjoyed the slanted log bridge :)
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Hiking!
This past Sunday I took the youth group on a hike up to Marymere Falls. Unfortunately, in true Washington style it was a drizzly day and we ended up with a group of only 4 of us :( Oh well, us brave ones trudged through the drizzle up to the falls, and it was beautiful! Here are a few pics...(I finally remembered to bring my camera to a youth event, I always seem to forget!)
Marymere Falls (much more majestic in person)
Myself, Hannah, and Emily at the top of the hike
The girls enjoyed the slanted log bridge :)
Marymere Falls (much more majestic in person)
Myself, Hannah, and Emily at the top of the hike
The girls enjoyed the slanted log bridge :)
Little Boys
These two observations come from my experiences in a first grade classroom yesterday. They can summarized by a combination of these two statements: 1). Kids are funny and 2). Little boys (ok, all boys) are gross.
The teacher was leading a discussion about the differences between inside and outside rules...
Teacher: "What are some inside rules that your mom and dad have at your house?"
Kid A: "No running."
Kid B: "No throwing things."
Kid C: "No coloring on the walls."
Kid D: "No farting on your brothers!"
Gross.
The other interaction I witnessed as a kid who came up the teacher looking absolutely forlorn, this is how that conversation went:
Teacher: "What's wrong? Are you ok?"
Kid: "I need to go to the nurse."
Teacher: "Ok, what's wrong?"
Kid: "Well, I keep burping and it smells really bad."
Little boys...eeshk.
The teacher was leading a discussion about the differences between inside and outside rules...
Teacher: "What are some inside rules that your mom and dad have at your house?"
Kid A: "No running."
Kid B: "No throwing things."
Kid C: "No coloring on the walls."
Kid D: "No farting on your brothers!"
Gross.
The other interaction I witnessed as a kid who came up the teacher looking absolutely forlorn, this is how that conversation went:
Teacher: "What's wrong? Are you ok?"
Kid: "I need to go to the nurse."
Teacher: "Ok, what's wrong?"
Kid: "Well, I keep burping and it smells really bad."
Little boys...eeshk.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Media Reviews
First of all, I feel I am obliged to start off with the most current of films: Alice in Wonderland.
Was it weird? YES. Was it creepy? Somewhat. Was it enjoyable? Mostly. Was all of that to be expected? YES. When you take a book based on an acid trip, add Johnny Depp - the only man who can pull off eyeliner and still be attractice, and the direction of Tim Burton - OF COURSE it's gonna be weird! Needless to say, I enjoyed the movie because of, not despite, all of its weirdness. Really, that's all there is to say - watch it for yourself if you really want to know. There is the classic battle between good and evil, and the sending of one to save the rest - does that story remind you of ANYONE ELSE? I'll let you think long and hard on that one...
*The movie was my first move in 3D. Yes I know, I'm way behind, but truly, I don't think I'm a huge fan. First of all, my glasses were way too big and didn't want to stay on my face. Second of all, when I got out of the movie, I was sooooo tired and my eyes definitely did not want to be driving home. Not sure what that was all about, but I'm pretty sure it had to do with the 3D because we saw the movie in the middle of the day.*
Prince Caspian - I finally saw the second Chronicles of Narnia movie. I enjoyed it. The scenery and imagery in those movies is incredible. However, it mostly just makes me want to read the books again. I haven't read them in ages. As with most great books that become movies, the movies are simply too condensed! They leave out the details that make the stories so good in the first place.
Up In the Air - Why the heck did this movie get so many award nominations? I thought it was absolutely terrible. Let's see, there's adultery, lust, suicide, pain, etc. Sometimes I can sit through a movie that's got that bad stuff if, in the end, there is some redemption. This movie never redeemed itself. The end message was all about betrayal and pain instead of love and happiness. Yes, you make a good point that that may be more realistic as to what love is all about. But come on people, I don't go to the movies for the painful reality of life, I have ENOUGH experience with that in my own life! Either way, I don't recommend this movie. You keep waiting for something good to happen, for the main character to make a good choice, and you are thoroughly let down in the end.
Love Happens - Again, a depressing movie. While I liked this one better than Up In the Air, it still doesn't come with a high recommendation from me. There is so much pain in the movie as the man works through his issues with his wife's death, it seems to be dragging along the entire time. Second of all, the let a parrot go in the mountains in the Northwest. Hello?? There's no way a parrot could survive, that was just stupid!
All About Steve - A dumb movie. I'm disappointed is Sandra Bullock. She is truly one of my favorite actresses. But put this movie side by side with The Proposal and you could barely realize it's the same actress! All About Steve is about how she is a competent and capable woman until one day she gets a crush on a man and becomes a stalker. Not amusing. I'm pretty sure I didn't laugh once in the entire movie! Come on Sandra, you're killing me!
Benjamin's Box - a children's book - now you may wonder why I'm mentioning a children's book, but I have recently been reacquainted with this book and just think it's worth mentioning - especially for Easter! We will be using this book at the church for our Easter event and I think it's a very powerful story for kids. The book essentially tells the story of Easter (Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection) from the perspective of a little boy and the "treasures" he puts in his treasure box. If you have kids or grandkids, or you babsit - it's worth sharing with them.
Lifehouse - new cd Smoke & Mirrors. I love Lifehouse. Some of their music is some of my all-time favorite stuff. This cd is not my favorite, however there is still some quality music on it. There's also some good crying music, which I've unfortunately been doing a lot of lately. Perhaps I'll enjoy the other songs more when I move past this season of life in which I cry often. "From Where You Are" is worth a listen, along with others. Listen to the words...as is my exhortation with all music...some music lyrics really create incredible pictures for you as you listen.
I'm currently reading: The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo - so far, I'm not wildly impressed. In part, because the book uses a lot of names I can't pronounce and I stumble over them in my head as I read - either that, or I step to contemplate the word and lose my train of thought in the story. And in part, because so far it simply has yet to really capture my attention- however, I'll give it at least a few more chapters. I'm also reading Knowledge of the Holy for the third time. It's good. Read it.
That's where I'll leave you all for today. Most of these have probaly already been viewed by you, I tend to be a little late on the uptake for current media. What can I say, I'm a busy gal! But hey, if anyone has any recommendations for me, I'm all ears. Enjoy your rainy Fridays everyone :)
Was it weird? YES. Was it creepy? Somewhat. Was it enjoyable? Mostly. Was all of that to be expected? YES. When you take a book based on an acid trip, add Johnny Depp - the only man who can pull off eyeliner and still be attractice, and the direction of Tim Burton - OF COURSE it's gonna be weird! Needless to say, I enjoyed the movie because of, not despite, all of its weirdness. Really, that's all there is to say - watch it for yourself if you really want to know. There is the classic battle between good and evil, and the sending of one to save the rest - does that story remind you of ANYONE ELSE? I'll let you think long and hard on that one...
*The movie was my first move in 3D. Yes I know, I'm way behind, but truly, I don't think I'm a huge fan. First of all, my glasses were way too big and didn't want to stay on my face. Second of all, when I got out of the movie, I was sooooo tired and my eyes definitely did not want to be driving home. Not sure what that was all about, but I'm pretty sure it had to do with the 3D because we saw the movie in the middle of the day.*
Prince Caspian - I finally saw the second Chronicles of Narnia movie. I enjoyed it. The scenery and imagery in those movies is incredible. However, it mostly just makes me want to read the books again. I haven't read them in ages. As with most great books that become movies, the movies are simply too condensed! They leave out the details that make the stories so good in the first place.
Up In the Air - Why the heck did this movie get so many award nominations? I thought it was absolutely terrible. Let's see, there's adultery, lust, suicide, pain, etc. Sometimes I can sit through a movie that's got that bad stuff if, in the end, there is some redemption. This movie never redeemed itself. The end message was all about betrayal and pain instead of love and happiness. Yes, you make a good point that that may be more realistic as to what love is all about. But come on people, I don't go to the movies for the painful reality of life, I have ENOUGH experience with that in my own life! Either way, I don't recommend this movie. You keep waiting for something good to happen, for the main character to make a good choice, and you are thoroughly let down in the end.
Love Happens - Again, a depressing movie. While I liked this one better than Up In the Air, it still doesn't come with a high recommendation from me. There is so much pain in the movie as the man works through his issues with his wife's death, it seems to be dragging along the entire time. Second of all, the let a parrot go in the mountains in the Northwest. Hello?? There's no way a parrot could survive, that was just stupid!
All About Steve - A dumb movie. I'm disappointed is Sandra Bullock. She is truly one of my favorite actresses. But put this movie side by side with The Proposal and you could barely realize it's the same actress! All About Steve is about how she is a competent and capable woman until one day she gets a crush on a man and becomes a stalker. Not amusing. I'm pretty sure I didn't laugh once in the entire movie! Come on Sandra, you're killing me!
Benjamin's Box - a children's book - now you may wonder why I'm mentioning a children's book, but I have recently been reacquainted with this book and just think it's worth mentioning - especially for Easter! We will be using this book at the church for our Easter event and I think it's a very powerful story for kids. The book essentially tells the story of Easter (Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection) from the perspective of a little boy and the "treasures" he puts in his treasure box. If you have kids or grandkids, or you babsit - it's worth sharing with them.
Lifehouse - new cd Smoke & Mirrors. I love Lifehouse. Some of their music is some of my all-time favorite stuff. This cd is not my favorite, however there is still some quality music on it. There's also some good crying music, which I've unfortunately been doing a lot of lately. Perhaps I'll enjoy the other songs more when I move past this season of life in which I cry often. "From Where You Are" is worth a listen, along with others. Listen to the words...as is my exhortation with all music...some music lyrics really create incredible pictures for you as you listen.
I'm currently reading: The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo - so far, I'm not wildly impressed. In part, because the book uses a lot of names I can't pronounce and I stumble over them in my head as I read - either that, or I step to contemplate the word and lose my train of thought in the story. And in part, because so far it simply has yet to really capture my attention- however, I'll give it at least a few more chapters. I'm also reading Knowledge of the Holy for the third time. It's good. Read it.
That's where I'll leave you all for today. Most of these have probaly already been viewed by you, I tend to be a little late on the uptake for current media. What can I say, I'm a busy gal! But hey, if anyone has any recommendations for me, I'm all ears. Enjoy your rainy Fridays everyone :)
No, YOUR hair is brown :(
As this winter quarter winds itself down to a close, I find myself less and less able to complete anything! I have only two assignments and one project left to go, all due by Monday, and yet somehow my brain has already given in and wants to simply plant myself in front of Paula Dean and learn how to make every food covered in butter imaginable. I suppose that is to be expected after an exhausting quarter, but it rather frustrates my type-A personality, that wants to do the best I can all the time! 3 assignments to go, I keep telling myself and yet somehow that is no longer motivating me. Someone come give me a shoulder rub and the will to go on? Alright, enough drama....
First things first, I need some donkey fur. No, I'm not kidding. I'm looking for some donkey fur for an Easter illustration so if anyone has some let me know.
Second, I spoke too soon a few weeks ago when introducing you all to the new man in my life. Alas, as quickly as he came, he is now gone and taken a piece of my heart with him. I won't bore you all with the gory details, but I will state this for the record: He is an incredible person, we had a great friendship that simply didn't work romantically. I sincerely hope we can regain that friendship someday and I wish him the absolute best.
Third, I got a letter from AARP the other day. No, I'm not kidding about this one either. It wasn't just a letter, it was a card, and an invitation to join. REALLY??? I mean, I know my social life is lacking and I may not wear the hippest clothes, but COME ON! I'm 24 years old for Pete's sake (ever wonder who Pete is?), why am I being invited to join AARP? That's what I get for living in Sequim I suppose.
Fourth, next quarter I get to start spending my first significant amounts of time in the classroom. I already volunteer in the elementary science lab currently, but next quarter I need to actually complete 40 hours of observation, and I'm excited! Mrs. Marcy, first grade teacher at Helen Haller, has graciously agreed to allow me in her classroom and I can't wait.
-One the other hand, next quarter will be insane. I'm taking 3 classes. I need to be in Seattle 2 days a week instead of 1. So that means I need to do my 20 hours a week at the church the other 3 days a week....AND find the daylight hours to be in the classroom! YIKES. Someone get me a brown paper bag?
Fifth, I love my job. I absolutely do. I love the kids most of all. However, a week or so ago I had this very disheartening conversation with one of the little boys.
*The girls were teasing him about his very red hair*
Me: "You know Joe, when I was born, I had red hair just like you! And then when I started to grow up, it got blonde like it is now."
Joe: "Really? But now your hair's brown. ??!"
Oh Joe, way to cut me to the quick, and yet do it so innocently. Apparently my hair is now brown. I blame Washington.
Finally, can anyone think of any good kids Easter songs? I've got plenty for Christmas or even Thanksgiving, but can't seem to come up with any for Easter. Help me out folks!
Another blog is in the work shortly - I'm going back to my media reviews for the few pieces of media I've consumed lately. Besides, what else would I be doing right now? Oh yeah...working on that huge presentation? Nah...
First things first, I need some donkey fur. No, I'm not kidding. I'm looking for some donkey fur for an Easter illustration so if anyone has some let me know.
Second, I spoke too soon a few weeks ago when introducing you all to the new man in my life. Alas, as quickly as he came, he is now gone and taken a piece of my heart with him. I won't bore you all with the gory details, but I will state this for the record: He is an incredible person, we had a great friendship that simply didn't work romantically. I sincerely hope we can regain that friendship someday and I wish him the absolute best.
Third, I got a letter from AARP the other day. No, I'm not kidding about this one either. It wasn't just a letter, it was a card, and an invitation to join. REALLY??? I mean, I know my social life is lacking and I may not wear the hippest clothes, but COME ON! I'm 24 years old for Pete's sake (ever wonder who Pete is?), why am I being invited to join AARP? That's what I get for living in Sequim I suppose.
Fourth, next quarter I get to start spending my first significant amounts of time in the classroom. I already volunteer in the elementary science lab currently, but next quarter I need to actually complete 40 hours of observation, and I'm excited! Mrs. Marcy, first grade teacher at Helen Haller, has graciously agreed to allow me in her classroom and I can't wait.
-One the other hand, next quarter will be insane. I'm taking 3 classes. I need to be in Seattle 2 days a week instead of 1. So that means I need to do my 20 hours a week at the church the other 3 days a week....AND find the daylight hours to be in the classroom! YIKES. Someone get me a brown paper bag?
Fifth, I love my job. I absolutely do. I love the kids most of all. However, a week or so ago I had this very disheartening conversation with one of the little boys.
*The girls were teasing him about his very red hair*
Me: "You know Joe, when I was born, I had red hair just like you! And then when I started to grow up, it got blonde like it is now."
Joe: "Really? But now your hair's brown. ??!"
Oh Joe, way to cut me to the quick, and yet do it so innocently. Apparently my hair is now brown. I blame Washington.
Finally, can anyone think of any good kids Easter songs? I've got plenty for Christmas or even Thanksgiving, but can't seem to come up with any for Easter. Help me out folks!
Another blog is in the work shortly - I'm going back to my media reviews for the few pieces of media I've consumed lately. Besides, what else would I be doing right now? Oh yeah...working on that huge presentation? Nah...
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Haiti Relief
So with my youth group here at the church we have been working on putting together emergency relief kits for Haiti. Finally, last weekend we were able to get them all bagged, boxed, and taped up in order to get them sent out. It was a TON of work, but we're very excited to send 6 boxes full of the most basic supplies to those still in need down in Haiti. For those of you who know me well, as you can imagine the missionary heart inside of me is wishing I was able to GO to Haiti and not just mail stuff...alas, at this time in my life it doesn't seem feasible, and yet, I still say, if you need me Lord, let me know!! ;)
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