Katie's Blog

Private Party

2011-02-08T21:29:00.003-06:00

I went for a jog the other day at Cameron Park. I just had to use the bathroom so badly, so I went into the clubhouse. There were people cleaning up after a meal in the next room and I just went straight to the ladies’ room. A man approached me on my way out saying, “This, is a… private party.” His words were laced with condescension and ungraciousness.

I thought later “sorry to trespass on your private party of jackasses!” I know, not a nice thing to think. But what gave this man the right to trespass on my dignity? Suddenly, I knew just an ounce of what it must have felt like for an African American to be asked to sit at the back of the bus in the 60’s.

The truth is much of the world is having a private party. The one screaming at me all the time is the private party of being in a relationship, getting married, and having babies. Biologically, socially, internally; the message is relentless. My friend recently lost a lot of weight (I’m so inspired by her!), and this older woman came up to us and said “she’ll be finding a man in no time, she’s worked so hard, she deserves it!” Like she lost weight not for her own health and well-being but for a future husband to finally appreciate all that is great about her. The message I heard was “if you’re not married, you better be doing your best to snag a man as soon as you can by losing weight and being beautiful, then you’ll come to deserve him.” Even marriage only comes to those who earn it. It’s some sort of club that I’m decidedly unfit for; I’m too independent, too different, too intimidating, too friendly.

I know we all feel the pressure for other sorts of exclusive clubs as well. Clubs set apart for wealth, beauty, success, power.

Even Christianity is accused of being exclusive. But the mystery of the Gospel is that we are adopted. We are grafted in. We didn’t belong, but now we do. And the mystery of the Gospel is available to all who believe through the blood of Christ Jesus. But this message is not easy to swallow. And not all make it in the end. And not all who say ‘Lord, Lord’ will enter the kingdom of heaven.

But our faith is made sure and steadfast. “My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

So this private party, do I need to belong there? No. If it was something I needed I would be there. Instead, I am made full in Christ. Salvation is what I need. Mercy and grace applied to my account is all I need to function in this life and the next. Will God be glorified in my life? Will He find faith on the earth?

Am I responsible for this?

2010-01-25T18:17:00.005-06:00

I've never thought about myself being an angry person, or even an impatient person. But today I'm overwhelmed with a feeling of anger and impatience that is hard for me to even process. Perhaps I judge people too quickly and too much. I'm not always right about people. I have good instincts when it comes to people and whether they're good or honest or content, but sometimes I really can't trust myself. Sometimes they prove me completely wrong and then I'm totally lost. What do I even know about them at all? I ask myself. And who am I to say whether they should be different or not? But what if I care about them and I want to see them living a fulfilled life, but they're sabotaging their chances?

It's funny, because I don't usually feel responsible for other people's choices, but today, I feel a little bit responsible.

Be grateful!

2009-11-13T14:46:00.003-06:00

I'm feeling sad and just the least bit bitter, not to mentioned stressed and confused. But I'm trying to remember all the things that are really very wonderful in my life and to be grateful for them, rather than annoyed that just a few little things aren't different then they are. I need God who is much bigger and better and stronger than me to give me Himself so that I can not drown in my human stupidity. (stupid humanity? no I think human stupidity is more accurate...)

...I need grace to make it...

at work

2009-09-28T07:26:00.003-05:00

Sometimes I am so irresponsible. Then my friends and I all pass the irresponsibility on to each other, the snow-ball effect. I should probably hang around people who are extremely productive and maybe it would rub off. Or people who just sleep 8 hours a night, that would be a good influence too. Sleep is Not Overrated... can I just say that?
Sometimes it's not even the people you hang around. It's the books you read... For instance, I'm reading The Murder of Roger Akroyd. Agatha Christie. She's good. This book is hilarious and fascinating all at once. I love these stupid mysteries and Hercule Poirot. "Hello! Poirot!" he says to answer the phone, in a slightly elevated but delightful tone. (well I know that from the show, not the book)
Sometimes it's not even the books you read, it's the things that come on television. We watched Monk and Psych, (gosh, again with the murder mysteries, I'm beginning to think I need to expand my interests).
And now I'm adult, I have no excuse. When I was a child, I just had to watch Matlock, Murder She Wrote, and Diagnosis Murder with my mom (cause she made me). Well certainly no one forced me to read Nancy Drew. Those mystery writers are so clever to ensnare you when you're young and impressionable...

"I have loved you!"

2009-08-25T07:47:00.004-05:00

"God's gifts now take the place of God, and the whole course of nature is upset by the monstrous substitution." (A.W. Tozer, The Pursuit of God)

I read this quote in a book I'm reading called "Money, Possesions, and Eternity." And as I've been reading this book (I'm still just in the beginning chapters), I'm reminded of how I tend to forget God in the glamour of all His gifts. Sometimes I'm so fascinated by Creation yet I forget the Creator. Or I become so attached to people and things and I forget that all that is good in them is from God alone. Or we start trusting ourselves to "get things done" instead of trusting in God's sovereignty. I have to daily remind myself to trust that He desires to bless me and He's working in me for my good. I struggle to let go of myself everyday, to die to myself.

"He who is holy, who is true, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, and who shuts and no one opens, says this: 'I know your deeds Behold, I have put before you an open door which no one can shut, because you have a little power, and have kept My word, and have not denied My name." Rev. 3:7-8. I have just a "little power" with which I must daily choose to cling to Jesus. He has sovereign power, not just the will to do what He pleases, but the power to do all that He pleases. He pleases to call me His own.

"He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he will not go out from it anymore; and I will write on him the name of My God, and the name of the city of My God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God, and My new name." Rev. 3:12. Why do I worry? His grace and love bewilders me.

In the same letter in Revelation He said "I will make them know that I have loved you." That's just cool.

Hunger

2009-07-06T17:49:00.005-05:00

"Blessed is he who hungers and thirsts for righteousness, for he shall be satisfied."

Sometimes, when you're not listening, God will shout so you can hear.

2008-10-05T14:16:00.005-05:00

I'm thankful that God doesn't shy away from telling me the truth about myself, no matter how hard it is for me to hear. It may be easier for me to close my ears and forget what He has shown me, but then I would just be lying to myself. I think it must be easy for us to believe our own lies. To think for a minute that I'm not as bad as that. But I want to know the truth and see as clearly as I can. Being in the dark spiritually is far too frightening. I'm thankful to God for bringing the truth into my life in the ways that He does, specifically for the people that bless my heart with their honesty and kindness. So if you're not listening to God, be ready to hear a few shouts in your direction to catch your attention and bring you back to a place where you can listen.

My life has become something I don't really recognize anymore, but in a good way.

2008-09-02T18:54:00.002-05:00

My life as a GA (graduate assistant) at Baylor is very exciting, rewarding, and challanging. I am involved in so many activities it's kinda nuts. For instance tomorrow, I'm going to get up early and do a kickboxing class at the SLC (if I don't oversleep), I will teach a Musikgarten class, go to Pedagogy and turn in my teaching philosophy (I should post that on my blog someday), co-teach our 1125 group piano class, skip piano ensemble because Holly and I aren't ready for a lesson yet, teach private lessons, and go to the Student Organization Summit (which is kind of a waste of time because our organization doesn't really get into most of those issues anyway). And in between I have to practice as much as possible, because every minute is important and can not be wasted. So in this way, I don't really recognize my life anymore, because I used to have time to think through every little thing, and now I just have to do everything without thinking too hard about it. And I used to have time to kind of sit and be still, and now I can do that but only while I'm eating or writing an email, or sleeping. Everyone goes through this I think. So it's good I'm not alone. The encouraging thing is that I like everything that I do a whole lot. I am grateful to be doing all these things and I can only imagine all that I will learn in the process.

His love surprises me.

2008-08-09T18:15:00.003-05:00

My friend Jenny just got engaged! I'm so excited for her. Holly has been engaged for seven months, and that's just as awesome. Kristen is pert'near, well she's very serious about Jose anyway, and Sharon we like to say will be married in one with babies in two (that's cutting it close, but you never know with Sharon). A small part of me is sad. It's hard, really hard, not to realize that you're alone when your closest friends are so in love and so happy with their fiances/boyfriends. I do not resent any of them at all, in fact I really couldn't be happier for each of them. But it's true part of me would just like to cry. Once they are married, it will never be the same. Actually, things are already changing. Suddenly you realize that now, you can't be as important to them. I kind of feel like the odd one out, being single. Yet I know all through my heart and soul that God has an incredible, magnificent, beyond imagination, spectacular plan for me. There may be some naysayers out there, who think I'm a hopeless case, doomed to be an old maid with no family of my own. Let me just tell you all now, shove it. You of little faith, God has worked many much more challanging miracles. Not a flower or bird is out of His care, much more will He look after me! I can't say what His plan is, or why I'm here now. Only that when I abide in His love, I can not be sad or alone. He fills me up, and overflows. He leads me by hand, through every hard spot, bringing me through much stronger, much more joyful and surprised in His faithfulness. I pray that my heart finds love renewed everyday. I pray that all of my friends find in their hearts the same. Love given by God in His far-reaching, lovely faithfulness.

Making a Journey

2008-07-27T19:06:00.003-05:00

I was reading Oswald Chambers "My Utmost for His Highest" today, but I read July 28. He was talking about how our journey, every day, every step, is where God is glorified, not necessarily the goal or outcome of our efforts. He says, "God is not working toward a particular finish-His purpose is the process itself... It is the process, not the outcome, that is glorfifying to God. God's training is for now, not later." It just reminded me how life is a journey, I know it's cliche. But each day I have to make choices, and by God's grace I can make good ones that give me hope and a future. It's all in the details. Each day is an opportunity for new discoveries. Am I open to them? I had a teacher tell me once that the opportunity to learn is presented with every breath. I hope that as I walk through my daily routine, I find out new things about God and myself and this little sphere I live on.

Good Morning!

2008-07-25T07:58:00.003-05:00

I am working very early in the morning. It wouldn't be so bad if I hadn't closed last night at midnight. And you can't just fall asleep after work, so it was past 1:00 am before I fell asleep.

I can't believe how much I have on my mind right now.
~wanting to exercise more
~trying to follow a really tight budget (it stinks being a grown up)
~working and teaching
~practice, practice, practice
~studying for graduate entrance exams, I've barely started, grrr
~weddings for everyone

a lot of trying, some doing. I've been on a sort-of vacation. I went home for a week and got absolutely nothing accomplished. And now I know it's time to get back into the swing of things. But first, a nap. No! Resist! Procrastination does not pay off in the end! Just do it! (Nike?)

There is a time in every man’s education when he arrives at the conviction that envy is ignorance; that imitation is suicide; that he must take himself for better for worse as his portion; that though the wide universe is full of good, no kernel of nourishing corn can come to him but through his toil bestowed on that plot of ground which is given to him to till. The power which resides in him is new in nature, and none but he knows what that is which he can do, nor does he know until he has tried. . . . A man is relieved and gay when he has put his heart into his work and done his best; but what he has said or done otherwise shall give him no peace. “Self Reliance,” Ralph Waldo Emerson

A Little Note

2008-06-20T18:28:00.000-05:00

Thank you Lord for making me perfect and whole through your Son. No matter how hard I try I could never make myself perfect. I try everyday to be a better person and to work hard and to do my best, but I know it's not possible for me to have it all figured out. But because of you I can always be a work in progress. I am your beloved. Thank you for that assurance.

Isaiah 40:31
Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary.

2 Timothy 2:11-13
For if we died with Him, we will also live with Him; If we endure, we will also reign with Him; If we deny Him, He will deny us; If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.

The Adventures of Holly and Katie

2008-06-15T18:50:00.001-05:00

Holly and I had quite an adventure Friday, even though most don't find our stories as adventurous and hilarious as we do. We were both in Houston for the TMTA (Texas Music Teacher's Association) convention. I drove down Thursday night right after I finished all my piano lessons. I had a car full of laundry and a couple of books for reading in dull moments, which really didn't happen. Friday, my dad wanted to take my car to work so that he could be there when my windshield was replaced. It had a very nasty crack right in the driver's line of sight. But I paid for it. 275 dollars! grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.

Anyway. I had to drive my dad's Buick Le Sabre. Holly didn't mind when I picked her up because that's what her mom drives and once you experience the Le Sabre you'll understand that it's a great source of happiness. Mainly because it's really funny looking, especially when it's old and faded, with cracked leather seats in which the foam stuffing peeps through (however, these seats are also very comfortable). Holly's mom says it's wonderful because when you drive the Le Sabre, everybody gets out of your way because they assume you must not have insurance. hehehe. So I maybe took that to heart and was more daring than usual on 59. It's been awhile since I went driving anywhere in Houston, and I forgot how terrifying it is. So Holly spent a good deal of time laughing at me while I was complaining about how crazy everyone else was, driving along, cutting me off, or slamming on their breaks, or running stop signs. Sometimes you can hear me mumble for a few minutes "crazy! all these people, where did they get their licences! all nuts, all of them..." One time, it was a really close call. There is a lot of construction on Kirby over by the Rice Village. And everyone knows how narrow all those lanes are anyway, and to have a giant crane taking up four it feels like at any second you might be kicked off the earth. So we were driving down, Holly waving at all the construction guard men because they are probably a foot away from her face, and one of the cranes has it's arm swinging full circle to my car. Oh boy, both Holly and I yelped like scared puppies. And then we both cracked up. It was very funny too, because we had just bought these big white sunglasses, matching, at White House Black Market (and Kendra, you weren't there!), and we couldn't take each other seriously in them.

But before that we showed up at the Hyatt Regencey in downtown off of Lousiana at 8 am, and we were very impressed with the four elevators which were exposed all the way up to the top level, 30. We go down to the exhibit hall, check out the schedule, see that we really only want to see one session, and figure it's not worth 50 dollars, plus 30 for the parking. So we go out to the lobby with the extremely high elevator view, look at some jewelry in a shop, buy some coffee at a different shop (where ladies were laughting at us because neither of us could find where the coffee dispensers were), ate an apple tart making a mess at the table, and finally worked up the courage to ride the elevators.

We planned to pick a floor near the top and pretend to look for the ice machine. So we headed over to the elevators, where a ton of people were waiting, one slightly creepy guy stared Holly down (she really got this a lot on Friday, probably three of four times), and an elevator arrived and the crowd got on, and Holly and I hung back not wanting to squeeze in for our ride, stopping on every floor. We caught the next one and just had a couple of convention ladies with us then. We arrived at 27 and stepped out and decided to go to the end of the hall and look out the window at the neighboring skyscraper which is probably five levels higher than the Hyatt. We peeked over the edge of the shoulder high wall down in to the lobby. We could see all thirty levels of rooms, a few had cleaning ladies working and so we went down to peek at a few of the rooms. I guessed they were on level 24. But when we got in the elevator again and nearly stopped at 24, I realized that it was 23. "oh, I mean, we need to go to 23!" It was fairly obvious by this point that we were aimlessly wondering and didn't really belong on this elevator at all, but our fellow riders just smiled and pressed button 23. Holly thought it would be good to ask the cleaning lady where the restrooms were. So we peeked in the rooms, (they were pretty nice, not spectacular or anything) and Holly asked the lady, who responed "I don't speak English."
"el baño?"
"o, lobby? on lobby..." So then we escaped to the elevators, but to ride down the side that is exposed to the street, so the people watchers in the Lobby who had been tracking our adventure would lose our trail. Another thing that happened a lot on Friday was that Holly had to use the restroom all the time. :)

When we left the hotel we wondered through downtown and found ourselves visiting the Houston Public Library. Here we thought for a split second that we locked ourselves into one room, and tried to log on the computers in the main building but couldn't of course, because we're not HPL card holders. Well I am, but I didn't have mine with me and didn't want to sign up for a new one. When we finally left downtown, we had only spent 13.50 on parking. Better than 30, that's for sure. Driving back was an adventure all it's own. We visited Rice University, and stopped in the Village for some sunglasses. Around 11:30 we went to the Phonecia market for lunch and had delicious hummus and spinach pies and falafel and baklava and Turkish coffee. Then I had to take Holly back to Stan and Tiffany's to clean bathrooms. Poor Holly. And I took a nap. I've been taking a lot of naps lately. I must still be recovering from senior year. I wonder when I'll be back to normal. ;)

It was a fun adventure, but I'm sure nobody will find it nearly as funny as Holly and I did at the time.

Will my patience run out?

2008-06-08T19:11:00.000-05:00

I've always been very patient. But I wonder if God really wants me to wait around for good things to come my way, or does He want me to actively pursue those good things? Or is He asking me to simply like what I have, since I can't have what I'd like?

Who knows the answers to these questions? I figure He must have had a good plan in mind for me, when He gave me my family and teachers and friends. And the amount of money we had for our needs. And the experiences I've had. And all those things that make a person who they are. I'm not going to change really. Not drastically. All of the sudden I'm not going to turn around and love to party and stay out until four. I'm not going to begin to hate music. And I'm not going to stop wishing I was a better pianist and a more beautiful girl. But sometimes I do think about being someone else, with different experiences to define me. How would I be changed? Which friends would want to hang around, and who would rather be somewhere else? But I have to say again, God must know what I don't. I belong here for some reason and I'd like to figure it out. I'm sure I never will.

I'd like to think that it will all become clear to me and all the pieces will fall into place like a funny puzzle. And I'll laugh and say "see, it all turned out right in the end!" But of course I constantly doubt this conclusion. What if there are pieces missing? Even just one piece missing? What will happen to me? Sometimes I think I'm so sure about something and then it turns out to be a complete farce. Ha! Isn't that everyone's story?

Okay, I'm not going to quit piano.

2008-05-25T18:31:00.001-05:00

I've definitely thought about it. However, my perpetual optimism and work ethic have won out. Surely if I work very hard this summer and find inspiration in the right places I shall find success down a long, hard road. Hey, it's kind of like an adventure, right? That's all life is anyway. Some people take years to figure out what they want to do with their lives. I knew a long time ago. It will just take years for me to be any good at it. Evens out in the end, then.

For now, I practice, teach, and work, and hope it all pays off. I suppose God new I would be a very patient person, because I have to wait for lots of things most of the time. Like I have to wait for this headache to go away, or wait for appreciation for my hours of toil, or for lunch, or everything.

So I am going to keep practicing my Prokofiev Sonata and Chopin Ballade, waiting for a good opportunity to try them out again, and play them giving due justice to the composers, and my hard work of course.

Happy Memorial Day to all. Thanks muchly to all you troops, past and present (and future).

Katie Thompson, BM Piano Performance

2008-05-18T17:44:00.000-05:00

Just trying it out. I have a degree. That's pretty cool, I guess. In the past four days I have taught, worked at the library, graduated from Baylor, moved apartments, driven six hours in a car, was master of ceremony for the English portion of a Buddhist scholarship ceremony, went to many stores with my mother, bought furniture, put some of it together, seen family and friends, done luandry, eaten, slept, played on the computer... okay things aren't as important to mention anymore (I shouldn't list all the way down to using the bathroom and brushing teeth and saying hello to pet fish, poor Herby, he's not doing well.) All that's left to do is fall in love or something like it, oh and practice, I haven't done any of that recently.

I should probably mention my senior recital. But I wasn't terribly happy with it so I won't say much. My master's recital should be much better, because I can start now and have lots of time to get it together.

I notice this about my family, they really like to eat, and I always feel like it's a lost cause if you're trying to avoid fast food or cheese. I was trying to not eat cheese for awhile and it's a duanting task, especially if you're like Wallace and really like cheese. And especially if you're family are all like Wallace too, and eat cheesy foods. Or go to cheesy restaurants. Perhaps living alone will give me the opportunity to not buy food that I shouldn't eat like cheese.

I am very excited about my new apartment. It will be just me and my stuff. I can keep it as clean or as messy as I like. I can leave a book there or a shoe there, depending on if I like it there or there. I can jump on the bed, but I won't do that. (my dad just asked what we should have for dinner "eggs, with cheese maybe?" and I stood firm! no cheese thank you, salt and pepper will be fine for me.) I can open a window, I can rearrange all the furniture. I can hide a cat (or a fish) in there somewhere. I can swing on my very own swing.

Even though I have a degree, it doesn't mean that my thoughts will all be profound from now on. Oh well.

Oatmeal

2008-01-11T07:57:00.000-06:00

I had a very big bowl of oatmeal with apples in it this morning. I am very full of oatmeal. I'm thinking I may visit my grandparents soon. I wish Jamie would post our work schedule already. I'm sure it won't work, whichever hours he's given me, and then I'll have to quit or something. I am very anxious about many things. I hope I can know what is the best thing to do in all these anxiety causing situations, which I fail to mention specifically at the moment. Nobody is here at the library this morning, no staff, no patrons, no visiting friends. It's very sad indeed. I wish I had somebody else's thinking mind this morning instead of my own. It's too full right now.

Ready for the New Year

2008-01-07T08:40:00.001-06:00

I am very nervous, excited, and impatient for this semester to begin. I have so many various jobs to do now. The library, playing for church, teaching lessons, and teaching a musikgarten class (maybe two, we're waiting for more kids to sign up). I really need to practice because this holiday has been very busy and I haven't had a chance to really get good note-learning done yet.

I really felt kind of like a gypsy this holiday. I had my suitcase and shampoo, and travelled to all these different homes to eat and sleep. I even mopped the floor at a complete strangers house! I've been to two weddings. I saw the Houston Ballet. I loved their choreography and costumes for the Nutcracker, it was just beautiful.

Now it's back to work and busyness. My main concern for now is finishing up grad school applications and practice. I'm praying that I can stay confident and calm in the peace of Christ.

I am praying for all my family and friends that you all find wonderful blessings in the Lord for this new year!

Mu Phi Madness!

2007-10-08T07:41:00.000-05:00

Yesterday we had what I would like to call Mu Phi Madness. And it continues today with Crush, a big water fight/party thingy. Rush just finished last night. We all went to Rachel's recital, had Formal Tea right after that, and our meeting right after that. So we've had a lot of Mu Phi for a while. But it's been fun so I can't complain.

I have a lot going on this semester but I'm doing my best to stay calm about it all. I know that God is taking care of everything and that there is no need for me to waste time worrying and stressing out for no benefit. I am praying that I can really follow his guidance as far as grad school goes, I know what I want to do, I just need to find where I can do it and how I can make it work.

We all miss Jenny. Baylor isn't the same without you!!!

I am going to have the biggest t-shirt collection of anyone with all these Mu Phi events/activities/thingies.

That's all.

Busy Semester

2007-09-29T19:06:00.000-05:00

Only 12 hours. You'd think this semester I would have nothing to do! Yet I am extremely busy. I guess I technically have three jobs (but as a musician that's pretty typical). It's the teaching that keeps me really busy, but it's wonderful fun.

I'm in the process of looking into graduate programs, which is exciting and nerve-racking. I'm trying to learn a bunch of music and it's hard music for me so that has been a challenge, but also fun (mostly).

I saw Miss Potter during my Saturday shift last week, it was really sad and wonderful. I haven't had time for fun reading and that is sad. I guess my life is pretty calm and boring right now. But I am very happy and content with that.

Back to School

2007-08-22T07:56:00.001-05:00

I threw a party for Cleyera on Sunday. It was very stressful, exhausting, and super fun! I was so happy to see Jenny too. And I made delicious enchiladas and rice, and people brought all this great food.

The teaching job is shaping up nicely. I am very excited!! I can't wait to start my lessons.

Classes won't be too hard this semester.

MTNA and Mu Phi are going to keep me really really busy. But it will be great fun, I think.

And I'm going to graduate in one year! Yay!

Evening in the Palace of Reason

2007-08-15T09:22:00.000-05:00

I finished reading this book a couple of days ago. It was very interesting. I don't usually read a lot of biographical books, but this one didn't feel like dry history. Evening in the Palace of Reason is the story of Bach and Frederic the Great during the Enlightenment. Read it if you get a chance. Maybe I don't dislike history as much as I thought...

I am very excited about the coming semester. I am possibly going to be starting a teaching job (5 hours a week) under the guidance of a studio teacher here in the area. I am hoping that it turns out to be a very positive experience for me and the students I take on.

An update on my repertoire (feel free to skip this paragraph): Parts of the Chopin Ballade are memorized (toward the end, I started with this section because it is significantly more demanding technically), memory in the Chopin Etude is becoming more solid, the first half of mvt. III in the Beethoven is memorized (that one is really not difficult, so don't be impressed, not that you were), and mvt. II of the Prokofiev is coming, slowly, but it is coming. I think that is pretty good progress for this summer! I hope Dr. Marks thinks so.

My roomate is most likely moving in tomorrow. Yay!
Cleyera will be in Waco in three days. Yay!
Jenny will most likely come down to visit Cleyera. Yay! All will be right with the world very soon.

Now I have to decide what to read next...

All moved in

2007-07-31T17:11:00.000-05:00

I have finally unpacked everything in the new apartment. It's shaping up quite nicely. It's interesting living alone, but that will only be for a few more weeks.

I miss having Jenny in the next room. But I love the bigger kitchen and the washer and drier in the unit.

I also think my room is nice and cozy.

The cable guy comes tomorrow, that will be nice. I still have so much music to learn with in the next two and a half weeks. Ahh! Pray for me!

2007-07-18T11:01:00.000-05:00

Shouldn't I have something to do?

2007-07-12T21:29:00.001-05:00

I'm a little bored right now. I am baking cookies. Nothing special, just the Pillsbury place and bake stuff. They're still delicious though. I am also watching TV. Nothing is on. I am wondering when Jenny will get back so she can entertain me. It's poker night so I don't know where she could be if she's not with Stephen.

I should be practicing. But I've been having one of those weeks where nothing really cheers me up and practicing is great effort, especially past the first hour or two.

I bought two new books yesterday. One I've already finished. It's called How to be Cool and it wasn't really the greatest book or anything except it was like I was reading pages from inside my own head. All the same insecurity and wanting people to accept you and feeling like you'll never be good enough no matter what you do. Though I'll admit I'm not quite as bad as the character in the book. She lies like the dickens to impress men and old highschool meanies. But most of it I have definately thought to myself. I am learning though. Always learning that I don't have to be what everyone else wants me to be. I can be beautiful and fun and some people will think I am completly nuts and a select few will love me that way. No worries. Easier said than done.

The other book is about the Planets. It's very good and it's by Dava Sobel (Isn't that such a good name for someone writing about the Planets?). I recommend it, though I haven't finished or even gotten close. Still, I bet my Dad would like it.

Mmmmm... the cookies are delicious.

Our trip to Kansas, no, Missouri, no, Arkansas!

2007-06-28T14:09:00.000-05:00

So my dear friend Ashley, graduated senior of Baylor, Fulbright scholar to France in the fall, and twin sister in Mu Phi Epsilon, invited a bunch of her friends to the Lake in Missouri. I'm not sure of the name of the lake, but the place was Holiday Island, Arkansas. It's right on the boder, hence all the confusion. Her parents rented two lake houses and her whole family, a group of one of her sister's friends, and the rest of us (Ashley's friends) all met up there for an awesome little vacation.

The drive up was a bunch of fun. And I learned that Dina and Sharon are not only terrific drivers, but really fun in the car! We laughd about goofy names of creeks (such as Dirty Creek, Muddy Boggy Creek, and a bunch of others I can't remember now), goofy names of cities and lakes, such as Eufaula (to which Dina replied "I lead, and Eufaula"), and the goofy music we all liked to listen to. We each made a choice of different music to be played, including Rascal Flatts, The Police, U2, mix cds, and Bach. The best part was the tail end through Northern Arkansas. It was high up in the mountains, really curvy, and truly breathtaking. Sharon was terrified, and we played Bach to sooth her. It didn't really work. She got used to the height after a couple of days though.

The morning after we arrived we went straight to the lake for skiing, tubing, swimming, and sun burning. Surprisingly, I managed not to get burned at all except for my scalp right above my forhead, where I guess my hair is too thin to block the UV rays. Oh well. I tried skiing but didn't really get a chance to perfect my technique and actually get up on the skis. It was time for lunch and everybody was waiting for me to be done. By the late afternoon, we were full of sun and lake water and ready for a nice nap. I had to get rid of a mean headache before joining the others for some pre-dinner discussions.

That evening we had a little devotional. Ashley and Katie played violin and guitar to lead us in a couple of worship songs. And Dr. Peterson gave us a nice talk about leadership. Later we all played a game of charades. Some good ones were Edelweiss, Fergalicious, and Where's Waldo. The Peterson's are really good at Charades.

Tuesday morning a bunch of us worked on eggs, waffles, and pancakes to say thank you to the Peterson's for hosting us for such a fun vacation. I worked on waffles, and I've never been more inconsistent with anything! They enjoyed the breakfast. Ashley's group went in the afternoon for more skiing and tubing. This was one of the best parts for me. There were two tubes behind the boat. Two girls on each. Dina and I hangin on for dar life on the left tube, and Katie and Megan on the right tube. I was doing great until Katie decided to hop on my and Dina's tube, commanding Dina to hop over on the other tube. Don't get me wrong, it was absolutely hilarious! Then we all sat up on the tubes, did a good loud "sic'em bears!" and rolled off the back for a nice finale. It was a blast!

After our shift on the boat, Sharon, Ashley, Katie, Randy, and I all wanted to stay out in the sun so we went to the pool. We had fun just floating in the water, relaxing our muscles from all the work and having good girl chat, which Randy didn't mind at all.

That evening we went to dinner, out on the town, in Eureka Springs. Eureka Springs was a beautifully historic and charming town. The restaurant was Sparkies, and most of us got hamburgers or salads. Here too, in addition to every dock we ever stopped at on the lake, all the girls gathered in a line outside the Ladies Restroom. With 15 girls, it always took forever to get through all of us. But everybody was very patient.

That night we played pictionary, peanuts or nerds (like double or triple solitaire), and had a pretty deep and truly encouraging and enlightening conversation (well Sharon, Dina, Ashley and I had the good talk). Oh, Apples to Apples was also a game frequented on this trip. The Bible edition of course. Also we put in The Baby Sitter's Club, which I had never seen before, and was greatful to not have, after watching the first half or so.

Wednesday morning Sharon and I decided to head out a little earlier so we could explore Eureka Springs a little more, and head home to battle the rough weather with plenty of time to spare. The town was still very charming on closer inspection. Sharon and I both bought earrings, chocolate, and candy. I bought coffee at a starbucks (it's hard to get away from all your urban conveniences) and we took some good pictures of the train depot there.

The drive back was not nearly as fun as the trip up. Though all the more exciting, considering the heavy rain we couldn't seem to escape in any state. In Oklahoma we missed a pretty important exit, but we caught ourselves only 10 miles past and got on track immediately.

I feel as if I wouldn't need to drive ever again to be happy!

TMTA Convention

2007-06-11T17:35:00.001-05:00

This past weekend I went to the Texas Music Teacher's Association convention at DFW Airport. I drove up with Sharon and Meredith. And Leah and Holly followed behind. We made the trip with no problems. The convention was at the Hyatt Regency and we had a room there on the second floor. The hotel was in the middle of renovations but unfortunately our room hadn't been renovated yet. But it was still really fun. I enjoyed staying with Sharon, Holly, and Holly's sister, Hailey (I'm not sure if that's how she spells it). Holly and Hailey are really funny sisters. There was never a dull moment. My favorite part was watching them play a game on their bed. They each lie down on the edge of their own side, hands tucked to their sides. Then Holly shouted "GO!" and they both roll over at each other trying to get to the other side before the other sister. It was hilarious and it may be something you just have to see. Friday night we went shopping at Grapevine Mills Mall, ate at Panda Express, and ran into Dr. Marks on our way down to the bar, where we had a drink (well, Sharon had two) and an appetizer and desert. Saturday was a busy convention day. I heard Dr. Marks' presentations which was very interesting and felt like a bonus piano lit. class. I also went to a session about teaching duets. The reason I had to come to the convention was for the opportunity to judge an festival. It was really neat to offer critiques to young students of piano. I enoyed fulfilling my duty! Also our chapter of MTNA at Baylor will get money for the three of us that volunteered to adjudicate. Yay for BUMTNA!

The least exciting thing for me was going to the ensemble concert. It was very long and very boring. I enjoyed seeing our group go up though and I felt their piece was one of the better ones. Not only was it lovely, it wasn't long at all.

I also had a little chat with my pedagogy professor. It was nice to get to know her a little better and to talk with her about my options after graduation. She was very encouraging and gave me a few good ideas.

Finally I went to Cracker Barrel with Holly and Hayley. I had yummy macaroni and cheese. Then I drove back home by myself.

I talked to Jenny for a bit and collapsed into bed to get up early for church the next morning. I played from one of the books of church music I purchased at the convention. I got lots of great music while I was there.

It was fun, though I spent a lot more money than I had planned on. I ended up having to pay for the hotel room quite unexpectedly. I'll get paid back soon though. No worries.

Today I went to work, read some books, and went swimming with Holly. Now I think I'll go practice. Hooray!

Back in the Swing of Things

2007-05-30T07:53:00.000-05:00

Started work again today. My hands are dusty from shelf-reading the cd's. I have three more hours of defensive driving tonight and that will be over, and my driving record will be sparkling clean again.

I need to start practicing seriously again but the weather has been so horrible and wet and lazy, and it makes me lazy and quite inefficient. But perhaps this afternoon I'll go in for a couple of hours. perhaps...

Overall, I'm glad to be back in Waco because I can do my own thing and focus on what needs to be done without too many distractions.

I think Sha is about to put me to some de-sensitizing work. If not, I still have to shelve at 8:00 am.

At home enjoying summer break

2007-05-16T09:19:00.000-05:00

The last time I posted I guess was when I finished with finals. Since then I've visited my grandparents for a few days. My Grandfather is going into surgery on the 23rd and we're all praying for him. I had so much fun hanging out with them! They were really funny. And also my mom is exactly like Grandmother, it's pretty funny. Then I came back to Waco for graduation. I went to Jenny's in the morning, it was sooooo long. Then I had lunch with her family which was fun, but I eventually left because Jenny looked really tired. Then I went to Holly's graduation party. And then I went to Jenny's graduation party. Aren't I a nice friend? Yes, I think so.

Then Sunday morning I played for the church and drove straight home for mother's day. Yay! We had a really late lunch at Saltgrass. Eric and Mariela were there. It was very busy there.

This week I haven't been up to much. I did paint ceramics with my friends Jenna and Sejal. We had so much fun on Monday! I painted a round box and it looks pretty goofy but I still like it. They both painted piggy banks. I got new music yesterday. I have been practicing a little bit, but I bet my family thinks it's a lot. I mainly forget to practice until they get home! ;)

I am really glad to be home. I feel like a kid on summer break again and I'm going to enjoy until I have to go back to work!

All Done!

2007-05-05T12:36:00.000-05:00

I am finished with Junior Year! I am so very happy and relieved and happy. I think I may even have a 4.0 this semester. We'll see how nice my violin teacher is this semester...

And the race begins. I mean finals.

2007-05-03T07:45:00.000-05:00

Music History, today at 9 am. Voice juries all afternoon.
Piano Jury tomorrow at 10 am. Piano Lit. at 2 pm. Relaxation at 4:30 (but that's not an exam, just a yoga class).
Theory, Saturday at 9 am.

Then I am finished with junior year!!

I am sick. I finally caught the disease everybody had, well, most everyone I know. It was only a matter of time. I'm just ready for the next few days to be over. I can not wait.

Only one more week!

2007-04-30T12:14:00.000-05:00

This was the busiest and most fun weekend in a long time and I am so tired. Fortunately I remembered that I was working today from 11-1. A good thing because last week I kept having "freshman moments" even though I am not allowed to as a junior, and forgetting to go to work and do projects and go to meetings. I would get to everything eventually but not until I had remembered or been reminded of them at the very last minute and not until I'd be a good hour and 15 minutes late.

Now it's Monday and a new week. I had so much fun this weekend participating in Drew and Michelle's wedding. I nearly forgot that I was doing the scripture reading. Actually I did forget until the pastor said, "and now Drew and Michelle have requested a scripture and poetry reading." I look over at Sharon and thought to myself "I don't have my paper, it's in my purse way down on the second row. Do I have it memorized??? A reading from Song Of Solomon chapter 7, or was it 8? verses... no I don't have it memorized..." Then I had to motion to Meredith and Lindsay on the second row to get my purse for me and then I had to dig the paper out of my wallet. whew. A reading from song of song solomon, chapter 6, verses 7 and 8. Only 30 seconds or so was lost, thankfully. My duties as part of the Houst Party were fun. Sharon and I cut the groom's cake. We cut the slices too big and didn't get to have a piece for ourselves.

Yesterday I had to get up and play for church and I was so tired from the night before. I spent most of Sunday making masks for our Midnight Masquerade for Mu Phi. I made four Sharon and I and our dates. They were very feathery. Formal was really fun. I am glad to say that it was a successful blind date for Sharon, Ashley, and I. Our dates were easygoing and interesting and very good sports. I am so tired from this weekend!

This week will be busy, but no more busy then any other week this semester. I think I'm getting used to the stress and am not so frustrated by it anymore. That in itself is a success for me.

Now, I am ready for some lunch!

Winding Down

2007-04-27T22:12:00.000-05:00

I had my recital last Saturday and it was so very awesome and wonderful to play for so many of my friends and family. I was so glad to see everybody and to hear such positive feedback. Thanks to everyone who was there!

This week has been really busy. Lots of Mu Phi, last minute assignments, learning a new piece for my jury (it's a really easy and short piece but it's still something), and preparing to participate in my good friends Drew and Michelle's wedding. I LOVE the piece I am playing for their prelude, it's the Schumann Romance op. 28, no. 2. It's gorgeous, if I do say so myself. I hope I don't screw it up.

I've talked to Dr. Marks about new repertoire. I am very excited, though a little bit disappointed because he basically said I don't learn music fast enough to do a concerto in addition to a 50 min+ recital by February. He's completely right and being very practical, but at the same time I wish I was a miraculous learner of notes and that it wouldn't matter about time limits. But I'll still have the opportunity to learn some amazing rep so I am really excited about learning new stuff. I just have to make it to next Saturday and I will be home free! I am looking forward to a break like no other break yet in my college experience.

For all my family and friendsl: I am praying for you guys and I love you so very much!

At Work

2007-04-13T16:47:00.000-05:00

So I am at work. I was 10 minutes late because I played in a music hour this afternoon that got started a little late and then I needed to change after because there is a big hole in my foot from these shoes Kristen practically forced me to buy at Target and that I wore for half a day so any of my dress shoes were just killing me because of that hole (which is not really a hole just a really tender wound that is very red and looks like a little heart tatoo).

I played fairly well today! I am actually pleased. It was far from perfect and I even had a few memory blips but I recovered and ended quite nicely I felt. So now I am really looking forward to my recital! Yay!

Jenny is really sick and whiney at work today.

It's been a really emotional week for everybody. Of me, Jenny, Kristen, and Holly, all of us have cried about one thing or the other... so that was fun...

I think Kristen may be getting sick too. Cleyera, are you getting sick? I hope I don't get sick, not the week before my recital!

I have a lot to do this weekend. Work, homework, my program notes, a make up violin lesson, a couple of Mu Phi things, a wedding shower... all should be fun though. I am really excited about Drew's wedding and I am so glad to be a part of it. I am playing one piece during their prelude and also reading a scripture during their ceremony! I think that is so cool.

We had a nutrition lecture this week in Relaxation and Fitness. It was very interesting. I like my teacher because she is good at explaining things.

My arm hurts. Too much practicing maybe?

Two people waved at me today at different times today and I couldn't tell who they were.

Jenny's lips hurt real bad.

Okay this means I have nothing left to say for now!

What's college about anyway?

2007-04-06T10:37:00.000-05:00

It's been over a week, I know and I'm sorry. But I'm just really really busy. Today I get to practice a little and then drive home and eat dinner with my friends from Houston. Then tomorrow it's shopping with Mom and a scholarship interview. I am supposed to be getting really good practicing in this weekend so I hope I don't get too busy hanging out with family and friends. But I want to catch up with everyone! My recital hearing was yesterday. I did fine, but it really showed me how much work I have left to do in the next two weeks. I also had a test in piano lit, which was a horribly stressful thing to have them both on the same day, but actually I think I did reasonably well on both things, so that was a relief. I went to my first Mu Phi meeting this week, it was really nice, but I think that I should try to reschedule my lessons for a day other than the day right after one of those meetings because they go sooo late. Other than practicing and studying I haven't been up to much. It's very sad, I know. But what's college about anyway?

2007-03-29T12:39:00.000-05:00

I just got out of my piano lesson, I spent all morning with Dr. Marks! Well I had Piano Lit, and then a piano lesson right after, and I have studio later today. That's a lot of Dr. Marks.

He doesn't seem the least bit worried about my recital which is really freaking me out. Because I know I should be a lot farther along than I am. That's not to say he didn't have this sort of urgent "this is the efficient type of practice you need to be doing" message throughout the lesson.

Anyway, I have a test tomorrow and a special scholarship dinner where scholarship recipients have dinner with their donors. So I will get to meet my donors for my music scholarship! It should be fun.

Next weekend I am going home for Easter and an interview for the Bodhi scholarship. It will be the last year I can apply for it (I think) and I am going to sort of miss the process. I am looking forward to going home though.

I have my wisdom teeth growing in and they haven't been giving me problems until two days ago. But it's only the bottom right one that hurts really badly.

Mu Phi is having an Easter Egg Hunt on Sunday. It's going to be really fun.

I am feeling much better these days, which is such a relief. I've just come to accept that I am doing really well in all my classes, and I have no reason to worry anymore if I can't get all the studying done. Because actually I am remarkably on top of things and I get the important stuff done and make good grades so stress is really unnecessary. (except for my recital... that's always going to be a little scary.

Hooray for good moods!

I found out my friend Kenneth won a really important scholarship/award. I was so proud of him when I found out. He's so responsible and good about managing lots of different things at once.

What else? That's all for now.

Busy Busy

2007-03-26T17:34:00.000-05:00

So I've been really busy every day since I got back from spring break. I am also really depressed and tired and sad most of the time. I hope I get out of this slump because it totally sucks...

Some good news: I did perfectly fine on my theory test which I couldn't really study for because I was busy writing my research paper the night before it was due. The paper is probably really terrible but I don't want to look at it anymore to make sure. Also tonight I will be initiated as a Mu Phi! I am very excited about that. But it will mean less sleep for me tonight. Also I found out my Big is Melissa, who I was really hoping was my Big, and she is! Yay! Now I'm baking her cookies, I hope she likes them.

Taking a Break

2007-03-19T16:47:00.000-05:00

I am in the middle of practicing. I think I'm probably going to be at McCrary and the library for several hours this evening working on all the junk I have to do. I am really tired of school work and not having enough time to get everything done to my satisfaction. I'm not even taking that many hours. I am accompanying a lot more than I usually do so that makes a difference I guess. Also Mu Phi takes up a little bit of time, but mostly that's not stressful. Though we have to do these pledge pages for every member and I am a little stressed about that since I only see maybe 5 out of the 18 on a regular basis.

I've already forgotton that advisement is tomorrow. At least I already have everything for that done. I figured out my schedule a couple of weeks ago. Music History, Applied Piano, Piano Pedagogy, choir, and either voice or harpsichord or something. Only 12 hours, yay! And no recital credit!

Cleyera needs to update her blog now!

Busch Gardens

2007-03-18T22:16:00.000-05:00

Saturday we went to Busch Gardens. I loved it! I liked that we could ride a roller coaster and then look at the animals and then ride a roller coaster and then look at animals. My favorite ride is the SheiKra. I think it is the best ride I have ever ridden and a master piece of roller coaster design. I should be a roller coaster critic. It was so smooth, the view was amazing, and it was very exciting. It was soooo cold whenever we were not in the sun. By the end of the day, us girls were shivering in our sandals.

We stopped by a birthday party at Jenny's friend Theresa's apartment. I really enjoyed meeting Theresa.

Then we ended up going the The World of Beer and had our St. Patrick's day beer. Mine was Blue Moon. No green beer for me, which made me sad. But I still had a really good time.

Our flight left early this morning and I took a nap in my mom's bed while Jenny took a nap in my bed, and then we drove back to Waco. Now I am back and very sad that I have so much work to do!

Laura's Secret Beach

2007-03-18T21:42:00.000-05:00

We woke up Friday to pouring rain. We had been planning to go to Busch Gardens. We hung around the apartment all morning, I even did laundry. Then we went to this awesome restaurant called Nikki's which had wonderful omelette's and biscuits and gravy. Jenny wasn't feeling well after so Laura took me and Mike to her secret beach while Jenny took a nap and rested up. It was about a 30 minute walk from Laura's apartment so we took Melvin along. There was a door left on the side of the path which I thought was very interesting. We saw probably a hundred horseshoe crabs, which are very ugly and fascinating creatures. Melvin thought so too. The tide was in so that the end of the trail where the beach would normally be was under water. We waded in and took pictures of a bridge and the view. Laura tossed Melvin in the water to wash him off. On the way up to the beach he found a pile of poo and decided to roll around in it. Dogs are so gross. But I still love Melvin!! Also we got some pretty good video of the dog feeling out those horseshoe crabs. He'd stick his nose out to sniff and one of the crabs would flare up his tail and Melvin would run away. We tried picking them up (the crabs) but they have an iron grip on the sand or something. My favorite part was where the mangrove trees were growing in a smallish sort of covered area. It felt like a little shelter or fort or something.

Afterward we went back to the apartment and decided to go swimming in the pool. Jenny and Laura reminisced about the pool games they would play as children. I knew some of them like Sharks and Minnows and Marco Polo, but there were a few that they had invented like Two Knees Strong. Laura also demonstrated some very cool synchro moves. I was totally impressed. It was also extremely cold even though we stayed mainly in the hot tub.

Afterward we all took showers and went down to Ybor City where there is so much fun to be had. Restaurants, shopping, a movie theatre, all sort of clubs and bars, and this arcade place called Game Works. We went to the Spaghetti Warehouse for dinner and the most interesting thing that happened there was that Mike ate this huge plate of meat, garlic bread, and lasagna. Laura kept giving him this look like "what in the world are you doing?" And it was so hilarious. She would just watch him cut his lasagna in these perfectly equal portions and eat them in one gulp like he was from another planet. Anyone who can eat that much meat probably is from another planet. Or I guess he is just a big guy.

Then we went into this really cool store that sold a bunch of imported products like jewelry, hats and bags, clothes, furniture, incense, good luck objects, musical instruments. So much stuff. I bought some chopsticks to put in my hair. Yes I can wear my hair in a chopstick.

Then we went to Game Works where we played arcade games for hours. Games played include: Ms. PacMan, Ocean Hunters (or something), a horse racing game, ski ball (where we earned the most tickets), and this bowling game where you spin this bowling ball and the ball on the screen rolls around and you try to knock down the pins with it. It was a really physical game and really fun! I actually won by one point, though Mike sort of took turns for playing for Jenny, Laura, and me. We had like 500 points to spend on prizes so we bought play dough, fans, army men, and fun dip.

Another very exciting day! Whew! I am tired just remembering it.

Howl at the Moon

2007-03-18T21:22:00.000-05:00

Thursday evening we went to Howl at the Moon, a dueling piano bar. It was really fun, especially after a few beers. They had four pianists that would alternate and they played and sang popular songs and took requests from the rowdy crowd. We requested "Walking in Memphis (not Cher)." I don't know why Laura and Heather put "not Cher" since they are all pretty much the same on piano. They also did "Yellow Submarine," "Family Tradition," and "I will Survive," which was accompanied by a bachelorette party. It was super funny and it was the most silly Jenny and I were all week. We also sang "Friends in Low Places" which is Jenny's favorite song ever. Laura thought I should open up a piano bar and I though that it would be sooo easy to do what those guys did, but I think I'll take it back now.

Also on Wednesday we went to Channelside hoping to see the dueling pianos but it was closed. We went to Margarita Mama's instead. (I think that was what it was called). I had a Mango Margarita and it was pretty discusting. Afterward, we saw a real live wild dolphinin the bay! Jenny was very excited and had to call Stephen who thought she was really drunk, but she really wasn't.

That was our experience of Channelside.

More Fun Stuff

2007-03-15T18:09:00.000-05:00

Today we went to Honeymoon Island. And it was really fun. But Really Windy. Mike dug a really big hole, it was quite beautiful. Jenny helped him a little. Also we brought back a ton of seashells that are very pretty. We still haven't had our beers on the beach yet. I think we are always just thirsty for water when we're out getting toasted by the sun. I don't think my back pack will ever be the same, with all the sand everywhere. I got a lot of water in my ears. I took pictures of strangers and even stranger birds and of Mike and Jenny and myself of course. We played punch buggy in the car and the Team thinks they are always winning, but I think I hold my own pretty well, thank you. I loved watching the waves and I loved swimming in the frigid bay waters. I wish I could stay on a beach forever!

Fun in Florida

2007-03-14T09:44:00.000-05:00

Jenny and I drove to Houston on Sunday and spent the night at my parents house and played with my brother James. Well all we did was watch Jim Gaffikin (I think that's how you spell it). Then on Monday we flew into Tampa. And the plane absolutely killed my ears. That pressure things causes immense pain, and I don't think it's normal. But it felt like my head would explode. But then we were in Tampa and it was worth it.

I really like Florida and Tampa. We have already gone to the beach, a kickball game, and a bar. And we have played Karaoke on Laura's TV and have walked the dog Melvin who is the best dog in the world because he is really more like a cat, and we have tried to get the cat interested in being petted but she is just paranoid or something.

Yesterday when we were trying to go to the beach we got a little bit lost (not really). And so we had to change our plans and go to a different beach. The weather was gorgeous and perfect. The water was cool and their was such a nice breeze.

Today I think we are going on a picnic and we may eat pie at 1:59, because it is 3/14. (or pi day).

Yay!

Something New

2007-03-08T19:42:00.000-06:00

So I have yet another project due the Tuesday we get back!! Yay! (I mean, NOOOOOOOO!) I worked out at the SLC today. Our yoga instructor couldn't teach this week because of an injury so she just let us do whatever we wanted to do at the SLC. It was fun and I think I should start going on a regular basis again when we get back from Florida. I wish I didn't have so much homework to do the next two days. Oh well.

I think I found the most beautiful French song in existance (well at least of the ones I know). It is called Esclave by Edouard Lalo. It is sooo gorgeous. I'm thinking about taking voice lessons next semester just so I can sing this song. Well, and also because I like to sing. I think I'm going to be in choir again too so I can have 12 hours.

Okay, well I better stop blogging now and get to work.

I never know what to title these things...

2007-03-07T17:14:00.000-06:00

So I got the written portion back, and with the curve I got a 93! Hooray!

Also I survived all the little performing things I had yesterday and today. Actually music hour went really well. Dr. Marks was very happy with the progress. Even Dr. DeVries said it was excellent!

Unlike Jenny, I had taco bell for dinner last night.

And I practiced from 8-12 and got sooo much done, but Stephen thinks that's 'Ewww.'

We have two Mu Phi meetings, one tonight and one tomorrow. I wonder if Sharon is spending the night.

I am going to go to Cricket's now with Stephen and Jenny.

Eating a Banana

2007-03-06T11:39:00.000-06:00

So I got my listening test back yesterday, 57/60! Yay! Not as bad as I thought. But we're still waiting for the written test, which was the one that was really bad...

I have to play today. I am slightly nervous, but I have so much to think about I can't get too nervous about anything really. And I am eating a banana which supposedly helps calm your nerves. I have a long day ahead of practice and performance and more practice after that. At least I don't have any homework for the rest of the week pretty much. Just getting ahead on my paper, listening journals, and theory project. Doesn't sound so overwhelming anymore.

The piano lit. test this morning wasn't too bad thanks to my studying two hours before. I made it to the library by 7:30 this morning. I am so thankful I didn't have to work this morning.

I am really happy to hear about Cleyera's adventures in Germany! I hope one day I can experience another country. But I am really excited about going to Florida. I am not going to worry about one thing while I am there. I am going to sleep, and get sun, and visit cool places, and play games probably, and read for fun, and celebrate St. Patrick's Day (I am looking forward to trying a green beer). If I can get all this work done this week, spring break will be such a refreshing change of pace. Too bad it's not time for summer.

A Very Busy Week Ahead

2007-03-04T19:21:00.000-06:00

I have a theory project due tomorrow (that's almost finished), I am playing in Music Hour on Tuesday, I am playing in two studio classes and three lessons and my own accompanying class (I need to make copies of the music!) and my own studio class, I have a piano literature exam Tuesday morning, I have to finish my term paper for music history, I have to finish memorizing my music, I have to get ahead on my listening journals for history b/c they are due the Monday we get back, and I have to go to class and my lessons and work and rehearse and eat and sleep, (probably prioritized in that order). Will I make it??? We shall see.

I got paid today! February was such a short month.

Ummm...

2007-03-03T13:15:00.000-06:00

I am bored, at work, working on my paper... blah...

Only 2 hours and 13 minutes more.

All that Paino Jazz

2007-03-01T17:07:00.000-06:00

Kristen made a blog on Tuesday and it is pretty cute and hilarious; she mispelled piano as paino... which is how all of us piano majors feel sometimes. I had an exam today of course. It was not terribly difficult but I should have prepared a little more for it. But I decided practice was a tad more important, so I practiced. I am playing on Music Hour on Tuesday. Get exited! I know I am soooo excited... (she said with a slight hint of sarcasm in her voice... but only a slight).

Today is a busy day of recital attending. I am very glad because I need the recital credit. It is my last semester for getting recital credit and I am farther behind then ever before. I can not wait for when I don't have to get recital credit. RECITAL CREDIT! Grrrr...

I don't think I have any HW for tomorrow. That is Really Wierd. Maybe I can actually practice for real for once this week. I had lunch with Jenny today and it was lovely. Also yoga was fun, our quiz was super easy. The best poses for helping with upper back pain are turtle and thread the needle. I like those poses a lot because they're 'relaxing poses.'

Ummm...I just remembered I should probably start working on my paper tonight. That would be very beneficial indeed.

Okay time for recital credit.

An early morning post

2007-02-27T07:24:00.000-06:00

-I am at work and I need coffee!
-I am tremendously excited to be pledging Mu Phi with Sharon! We are having a blast! She spent the night last night, and we had a lot of fun just being 'cool' together.
-Everybody else has an exam this morning, but not me! Yay! Good luck everybody else...
-What else can I write with an exclamation point? We're going to Tampa for spring break!! Although that means that the next two weeks I have a ton of work to finish so that I don't have to worry about it in Florida. I refuse to worry about anything in Florida. This is what I have to do: *finish memorizing my Schumann piece and finish up the Schubert, *play the Scarlatti sonatas in Music Hour (I forgot about that up until yesterday and I am playing on Tuesday, fun!), *study and take my Piano Lit exams, *and probably most time consuming, finish up my major project for music history; well get started on it as well as finish it. I just keep reminding myself about Florida...

Taking a Nap

2007-02-26T11:01:00.000-06:00

I am about to take a nap. It should be nice. I stayed up late working on a theory project and studying for a listening exam. The test wasn't as hard as I thought it would be but I am still feeling the effects of little sleep. I always think tests will be a lot worse than they are. I had fun this weekend visiting with Cleyera. We were all very sad to see her go last night. We drove all around Cameron Park and nearly got lost if it had not been for my excellent since of direction. I guess the others didn't really feel lost. But really, we were only a few wrong turns away from complete confusion. Okay, not really. I was sad we didn't actually get out of the car. But we still had a good time.

Time for zzzzing.

My New Blog

2007-02-25T11:41:00.000-06:00

I created a blog today! I am very excited about it. Now when Cleyera is in Germany she can still know all about my life and anybody else who wants to can too. But that's about two other people.