On a new life

We survived the move. But I don’t want to do it again for a long time (I’ve done it 10 times in the last 6 years).

After I got over the initial shock that our new residence seemed reminiscent of the ghetto-meets-the-color-saturated-Sesame-Street-brick-apartments, I am so happy to be in Iowa City – it is a refreshing change of pace. Throughout the move, though, I think there has been some unconscious stress underlying everything, due to the recent life changes. And everyone deals with stress differently. I’ve found that my way of coping is through the making of bread.
LOTS OF BREAD.
I purchased an amazing bread book (Artisan Bread in 5 Minutes a Day) and I’ve made countless recipes from it thus far. I’m sure if I would have glanced in the mirror at some point, I would’ve seen a crazed look and bits of dough stuck amongst my red curls.
No more moving for a while, please. I don’t have much flour left.

And not just my need for moving, but my need for blogging has lessened. I think the reason that I was such a faithful “blogger” before, was because I felt so disconnected from the outside world and this was my only means by which I could communicate with others. Being tucked away in the office for that amount of time with not much to do caused me to go a bit goofy in the head. There were a few things that kept me sane, though. One: I would buy a variety of low-fat pop tarts, take them out of their respective boxes, and place their foil-wrapped goodness in my desk. That way, it was always a surprise when I would grab one for my pick-me-up breakfast/lunch/snack (a surprise in this case meant it was either a brown sugar or strawberry pop tart…note to Pop Tart corporation: you need to make new low-fat flavors). As sad as it sounds now, it was a small delight in my day.

Secondly, writing down my thoughts for the day was another act to keep my mind stimulated.
However, now that I’m actually surrounded by real people and having face-to-face conversations, I crave writing less and less (or frankly, I just don’t have the time to think about it). I feel more alive. I want to continue writing, as it still serves as a great release, but I just know it will happen with less frequency. It is no longer a necessity, but a delicacy.

I’ve filled my life-void with cooking, wandering the city, and running. I run for a couple of reasons. Like most women, I have insecurities about my weight (although I know that rationally, it isn’t necessary). Struggles aside, I run because it is such a spiritual experience for me. There is just something about pushing myself, running just a bit more – to the stop sign, to the next tree, and so on. Once I’ve used up my energy (or until I realize sharing that frozen pizza with Brad an hour ago wasn’t the best idea), I walk the rest of the way home. But unlike other times when I’m walking around (which usually consists of just trying to make it from point A to point B in time), I really relish the moment. As I’m gasping for breath, I no longer just have time to look at my surroundings, I make time. I get caught up noticing the details on the brush beside me, or looking ahead at the water tower tucked behind the hill of trees. IT IS SO BEAUTIFUL. Why am I not taking advantage of this more often?

One reason why a red-head should avoid the outdoors for long periods of time: sunburnnnnnnn. I received my first doozy of the year. I’m used to it, but because of my laziness, I have an extra special sun-kissed look this time. I sometimes don’t have the patience to rub in sunscreen, especially if I’m already heading out the door, so I have bits of bright red streaks and blobs in the places I missed on my shoulders, arms, and chest. AWESOME. I love freakish burns. I’m patiently waiting until it turns into freckles and blends in with the masses…

Speaking of the masses…I’d like to rant about Oprah. She is like the ultimate Queen Bee of the Masses. Like a queen bee, I truly believe she could start killing her “worker bees” and no one would question it. She has become THAT powerful. I don’t get it and most of the time she doesn’t bother me, EXCEPT WHEN I OPENED THE MAILBOX TODAY. I about had a heart attack. There she was, footloose and fancy free, on the cover of the magazine that touts her own name. I thought it was a cruel joke at first, until I realized that I had received four free subscriptions for completing a survey recently. I was so happy that one of them was Time magazine, that I didn’t glance at the others. Apparently, O magazine is one. I briefly leafed through the articles, taking note of everything that the magical Oprah wand touched (subsequently turning it into marketing gold) and then I through it away. I’m now just a little bit scared to open my mailbox, knowing that sometime during the next month her perpetually smiley self will greet me again. I think I’m starting to develop an Oprah-induced mailbox-opening phobia.

on eating our way out of kirksville

We are so blessed.

As our last day in Kirksville is nearing, I've been overcome by the nostalgic lump-in-the-throat. upon leaving this town 2 years ago, I felt genuinely sad to be graduating from Truman and wished that i didn't have to leave K-Vegas. Well, i got my wish about a year later. But surprisingly, i just wasn't all that excited to move back. I had officially gotten over the grieving stage and now, coming back, I thought I would just feel old and out of place. I felt as though all of my friends had left and in my mind I had already moved on. However, even though a lot of my classmates were not around, the families that I had grown to know were still here, and I forgot just how welcoming, kind, and loving they were. I love hanging out with the couples and friends that we have that are our own age, but there is also something special hanging out with older married couples and their families, being surrounded by pure family joy and wisdom is special and I love soaking it up.

It is sad, though, that now that it is our last week here, we are just now trying to get together with all of our friends. I don't know why we didn't realize that we should've taken advantage of the opportunity to hang out all year, but it never really sinks in until the end. So, needless to say, this week has been jam-packed with the great people in our lives and I think I'm still on a friend-high right now.

Saturday, we went out to a potluck at the Mann ranch. The Manns and Magruders have meant so much to my entire family. My mom taught the mom (Laura) piano lessons when she attended school here and Laura was an incredible woman who welcomed my brother and me the minute we started school here. She would invite us into her home for these AMAZING meals and conversation. Her kids were great and I had the opportunity to babysit them several times.

Sunday night, Jamie and his wife Karen took us out to eat at La Pachanga and they are SO FREAKING COOL (they both have a double-doctorate - one in poetry and the other one in awesomeness). I want to be them when I grow up: down to earth, funny, and extremely nice. Ps. Thanks, Google Images, for helping me find these profile shots. You're the best.



Last Friday's dinner, Monday lunch, and Thursday dinner was spent with Dr. Jesse and John and well...I can't even sum up what they mean to us. Brad and I experienced heaven whenever we'd go there.

They would fix us these elaborate, delicious meals (steaks, salmon, sushi, etc.) and I would have to hold back my groans of delight whenever I took a bite. This, coupled with the fact that some of the best conversations I've ever heard happened at their house, makes me miss being in their presence already.








The past Monday my boss, Nancy, hosted a going away party for me at her home where we ate BBQ, yummy cake, and played Quiddler (I am in love with word games). I will definitely miss my co-workers.

Tuesday night consisted of a large gathering of fellow Truman students/friends: The Jones', Jared, J-Mo, and Mike. It was great to be gathered around the table with them at Il Spazio, discussing everything from politics to puke. This is why I love these people.

Wednesday night we were treated to an amazing home-cooked meal by our newlywed friends, Chris and Marie. Chris used to work on the Hill in St. Louis, so you can only imagine the Italian goodness that we experienced that night. We loved their company and I'm pretty sad that we're leaving, just as we're getting to know them better.

on some food for thought

on getting a cat

I have been an avid fan of dogs* my entire life. Not only did I subscribe to "Dog Fancy" magazine at the age of 11, I would also look in the back of said magazine and order all of the free catalogs I could (the catalogs would range from gourmet doggie treats to hand carved urns for your beloved pooch).

But, as much as I was a dog-lover, I was an even bigger cat-hater. Equating the feline species to Satan's helpers was so natural and I used to say that if I was old and unmarried, I would be a "dog lady" - never a "cat lady". Cats seemed spoiled, sassy, and conniving. I felt as though when they rubbed your leg, it was never a sign of affection, but a sign that "you should feed and/or pay attention to me right now or else I will claw your furniture and your eyes to shreds". Dogs, on the other hand, would do anything for you and ask nothing in return. They are not out to get you or your family members (Lady and the Tramp, anyone?).

So what happened? I found a cat I liked** and there was a warming of my heart similar to that of when the Grinch feels the Christmas spirit. In a split second, I was transformed into this giddy little girl with my old speech impediment, wooing ovew the wittle gwey kitty.

So needless to say, Brad and I are considering getting a kitty (specifications must include: 1. girl, 2. de-clawed). We are unsure as to what we'd name it, but here is the result of my brainstorming:

Matisse, Elle, Bella, Principessa, Frida, Amelie, Sasha, Mia, Simone, or Cat Stevens

I think Cat Stevens is winning right now.

*When I mention dogs, I mean a real-sized dog. None of these "toy" sized things...I file those in the same category as cats. Basically, if I could accidentally step on it and kill it, I don't consider it a dog.

**I also found this, which sealed the deal:

on the creepiest ice cream truck i've ever seen

I usually find ice cream trucks a bit shady, but this one took the cake, so I grabbed my camera to document it. The video doesn't quite capture the music as well as I had hoped (they obviously had speakers that were too small to pump out the music at the seller's desired volume, resulting in a very scratchy, distorted 'It's a Small World'). It did, however, do a great job of showing off how we have to use duct tape to keep the screen door together. Awesome.

This video cracks me up because we went from being totally scared of it, to Brad at the end saying "Stop it! Go stop it!". hahaha. Well played, ice cream man, well played. Your creepy tactics brainwashed us just like you wanted.



After taking the following footage, we ran outside like a pair of sugar-deprived 5 year olds. Once outside, I could see the neighbor kids pouring out of their houses with a look of pure joy on their faces. It kind of melted your heart to see it.
I guess ice cream trucks aren't all bad (but my voice on-camera is. yucky).

on a video that's loud, fast, and 68% funny

pretty entertaining...

on utilizing redbox

For those of you who have not yet heard or taken advantage of the magical redbox, just call me your savior (in a non-blasphemous kind of way). Redbox is a machine located in selected businesses that dispenses new rentals at the low price of $1 per day! It's really great (and 3 dollars cheaper than Movie Gallery).

Disclaimer: If you have a local movie business in town, please support them. However, we are only surrounded by movie rental chains and I have no qualms about not stepping foot in their store.

Pros:

1. You can look up your local redbox online and reserve your movie, therefore guaranteeing the movie of your choice upon pick-up.

2. It's mega-cheap.

3. They provide you with free codes via email and text message if you sign up for the newsletter online. I honestly can't remember the last time I paid for a movie.

A few free codes for you (click on the 'promo code' option before check-out):

FLAGIT

DVDONME

BREAKROOM

BIGMAC508 (McDonald’s location)

GIFT2GO

6TK2A3

REDBOX (New customers)

SMITHS16

MILLER

MEMORIAL

HYVEE (HyVee location only)

JM17RS

Cons:

1. If you don't reserve your movie online, it might be slim-pickins once you arrive. They usually don't have mass quantities of the popular ones, but Waterhorse seems to be readily available each time...weird. I guess people don't like fantasy lake monsters like they used to.

2. The wait in line can sometimes be long (especially on the weekend). But the process is pretty slick (push of a button and a swipe of a credit card), so hopefully the people in front of you know what they want ahead of time.

3. For some redbox renting, you have to step just inside Satan's Palace (McDonald's), so please do not be tempted by the pictures of sundaes and the smile of Ronny D. IT IS EVIL. JUST RENT YOUR DVD AND RUN.

ps. Today is free float day at the Kirksville A&W!!! Go between 2-8 to get yours...we plan to!

on the flooding of iowa

Recently, there has been some nasty flooding happening near my hometown. Some of the footage is so surreal, that I can't quite grasp it. MY stomping grounds is on the news, MY friends, family, and community members are and will continue to be affected by this. Mom just emailed to say that dad's office is being evacuated, as they think it will be taken over by the flooding, soon.
I really wish we were already moved into our Iowa City apartment, helping with the sandbagging. I feel so helplessly stuck down here...


(You can see the music building in which I attend classes, is in the right of very last shot on the video, across from the bridge)

on office productivity

this is what i do at work.

if you are one of the lucky 2500 selected Truman alums who will receive one of these surveys, pleeeeeeease fill it out. if not for truman, then do it for me. i really don't want to have this mind and hand-numbing activity end up in 2500 trashcans.

on selling our amp

If you're interested in buying a large amp, let me know!

We're downsizing.

on giving my husband his yearly buzz

those clippers were one of the best investments we've ever made...

on denying that i have a problem

Thanks to the confrontation/intervention from a concerned relative (who was afraid I was waking up at ungodly hours to get my "blog fix")*, I have found where I can change my time zone preference from pacific to central. This correct time shout-out is for you, Morgan :).
Hopefully, it will no longer look like I'm getting up at 6:00am**.

*I'm thinking an A&E "Intervention" episode about a maniac blogger may not bring in the ratings like the crack addicts do....

**There is NO WAY I would have the ability to type and/or think that early. The "blogging" comes after sufficient amounts of coffee and boredom.

on the worst part of getting your eyes checked

having to look into the machine, knowing you will receive a puff of air into your eye. I HATE IT.

Seriously, I had THE worst time yesterday. At my hometown opthamologist, I at least got to look at a lovely hot air balloon; however, Kirksville plays the game differently. They are so hard core that they make you just stare at a piercing green light, telling you not to blink while they take their sweet time with whatever they are doing. You never know when the puff is coming, but you still have to "open your eyes as wide as you can". I've seen the tv show "24" and I feel like this is some kind of torture that they could use in future shows.

My eye would start twitching in anticipation and each time she'd send the puff-of-death, I'd completely jump out of my seat, getting just a bit more embarrassed each time. I finally had to hold onto the bottom of the chair (no joke) and have her countdown before she did it (which worked better than the sneak attack, but also made me feel like I was 5). I think I only jumped a little and she got her awful glaucoma test in.

And then I had to do the other eye.

On a happier note, we watched "Ghostbusters" last night. GHOSTBUSTERS = CINEMA GOLD.

on appreciating art

During my 1 year hiatus from school, I've taken about 1-2 classes each semester to keep up with my music therapy program. For the summer, I've signed up for an online course -- Art Appreciation. After getting over my initial frustration at having to take a humanities course (apparently going to a liberal arts and science university didn't help me out with this requirement), I've come to realize that I truly enjoy studying art history -- especially modern pieces. I've been googling a few artists and found some pretty entertaining stuff. If you'd like to know what I've wasted my time on for the last 5 minutes, click here: http://www.jacksonpollock.org/ and create your own jackson pollock-esque work, via computer mouse!

It is my goal to finish the course before I have to return the textbook on the 10th (not having to pay $90 for a huge artbook is a really, really good incentive to get things finished early). Since the end of May I've completed the reading assignments for the entire book, wrote a paper, and I took 4 tests in a row yesterday (including the final). Now I just have to finish my scrapbook assignment over van Gogh and I'll be officially appreciative of art!

ps. a quick shout out to Amy and her mom for finishing the dam-to-dam half marathon this past weekend! Brad and I had a great time watching the race and then eating our way through the weekend with her amazing family!

on using my tax refund

Last week, the government returned the money they had borrowed from me, so I decided to take the plunge...and buy a freaking laminator!!! YEAH!

My nerdy obsession with office supplies first came into existence around sixth grade. While most girls my age were buying make-up for the first time, I was strolling amongst the aisles at Office Max, deciding which Rolodex would work best for my card catalog system. For my birthday that year, I received a language translator. Soon thereafter, I purchased an electronic diary (that doubled as a calculator...thus making it the ultimate combination: "Dear Diary, Did you know that 99 divided by 55 is 1.8? Did you also know that I have no friends?" ). My love affair with pens and useless electronics is still going strong to this day.

Hence, my excitement with the laminator.

However, I feel like I'm going to have an actual use for it, as I can laminate the music therapy visuals I have created thus far. Last night, I unwrapped the electronic goodness and promptly started feeding it one page after another. At one point I exclaimed, "This is the coolest thing I've ever seen!" And I heard Brad respond, "The COOLEST thing ever? C'mon, Rachel". I didn't have the guts to tell him that for that split second, it really was.

Completely unrelated story: Watch the show, "30 Days". It's well done and covers really important issues (well, all except for the "Binge Drinking Mom" episode about a mom trying to drink as much as her college-aged daughter. this one isn't screaming "important" to me like the "Muslims and America" or "Minimum Wage" episodes). http://tv.msn.com/tv/episode-guide/30-days_1?si=11

Disclaimer: Not an actual picture from the show. I entered "30 Days" into the google image search, found this one and it was so cracked out, I couldn't pass it up.

on memorial day weekend

Last weekend was full of laughing, great food, and big projects. I love being around my family (even if we were painting rooms and shingling the roof)!

on finding out what religion I align with, according to the Belief-O-Matic

After taking the Beliefnet quiz, here are my results:

"The top score on the list below represents the faith that Belief-O-Matic, in its less than infinite wisdom, thinks most closely matches your beliefs. However, even a score of 100% does not mean that your views are all shared by this faith, or vice versa.Belief-O-Matic then lists another 26 faiths in order of how much they have in common with your professed beliefs. The higher a faith appears on this list, the more closely it aligns with your thinking."

1. Liberal Quakers (100%)
2. Unitarian Universalism (93%)
3. Taoism (92%)
4. Mahayana Buddhism (91%)
5. Neo-Pagan (86%)
6. New Age (86%)
7. Theravada Buddhism (83%)
8. Mainline to Liberal Christian Protestants (77%)
9. Orthodox Quaker (76%)
10. Scientology (70%)
11. Secular Humanism (69%)
12. Jainism (65%)
13. New Thought (63%)
14. Hinduism (61%)
15. Christian Science (Church of Christ, Scientist) (60%)
16. Sikhism (59%)
17. Reform Judaism (50%)
18. Bahá'í Faith (44%)
19. Seventh Day Adventist (35%)
20. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) (31%)
21. Nontheist (29%)
22. Jehovah's Witness (23%)
23. Mainline to Conservative Christian/Protestant (20%)
24. Eastern Orthodox (18%)
25. Islam (18%)
26. Orthodox Judaism (18%)
27. Roman Catholic (18%)


It looks like I won't be converting to Catholicism any time soon....

Liberal Quaker:

•Belief in Deity: Diverse beliefs, from belief in a personal God as an incorporeal spirit to questioning belief in a personal God.

•Incarnations: Beliefs vary from the literal to the symbolic belief in Jesus Christ as God's incarnation. Most believe we are all sons and daughters of God, with the main focus on experiencing and listening to God, the Light within, accessible to all.

•Origin of Universe and Life: Emphasis is placed on spiritual truths as revealed to each individual. Many believe that God created/controls all events/processes that modern scientists are uncovering about origins. Many believe in scientific accounts alone or don't profess to know.

•After Death: Few liberal Quakers believe in direct reward and punishment, heaven and hell, or second coming of Christ. The primary focus is nondogmatic: God is love, love is eternal, and our actions in life should reflect love for all of humanity.

•Why Evil?: Beliefs vary, as the focus is not on why, but how to eliminate wrongs, especially violence. Many believe that violence against another human is violence against God. Many Quakers believe that lack of awareness of God's divine Light within all may result in wrongdoing. Many believe that evil is simply an unfortunate part of human nature that we all must work to eliminate.

•Salvation: Beliefs are diverse, as dogma is de-emphasized. Most believe that all will be saved because God is good and forgiving, and the divine Light of God is available to all. Good works, especially social work and peace efforts, are viewed as integral to the salvation of humanity, regardless of belief or nonbelief in an afterlife.

•Undeserving Suffering: Liberal Quakers do not believe that Satan causes suffering. Some believe suffering is part of God's plan, will, or design, even if we don't immediately understand it. Some don't believe in any spiritual reasons for suffering. Quakers focus on reducing human suffering, especially that which is caused by social injustice or violence.

•Contemporary Issues: Views vary, some maintaining that abortion violates Quaker commitment to nonviolence, but some view the right to choose abortion as an aspect of equal rights for women and/or as a personal matter between the woman and God. The American Friends Service Committee (an independent Quaker organization with participants of many faiths, which provides international programs for economic and social justice, peace, humanitarian aid) supports the woman’s right to choose abortion according to her own conscience.

on the death of our refrigerator

In honor of the third member of our family, I've written a haiku:

Rest in peace, dear 'fridge
Your loud whirring ceased last night
No more groceries

on office exercise

While I sit here, eating my twizzlers and drinking cherry coke, I can't help but feeling like my body hates me for being so immobile all of the time. So, I thought about creating office olympics, as seen on The Office. But then I quickly realized I am the only one here...and winning all the gold just wouldn't be that satisfying.

I've since googled office exercises and I've come up with a few doozies. Feel free to try this in your cubicle! You won't look goofy at all if someone walks in!

I really don't think I could get away with an exercise ball, though (see below). Not that it doesn't look professional or anything. Come to think of it, it would be super handy just to roll everywhere in the office -- to the fax, the phone, the printer....













This one looks like fun (and upon further inspection, I hear they are exercising to 'my humps', which is apparently way too popular over there):













Ok, so I actually liked this one and it felt like it did something:











The dramatization in the beginning was my favorite part of the whole thing (although the techno music was a close second):

on being married one year

In honor of our first anniversary, a list of our relationship firsts:

First sighting: the SUB down under. We were introduced by a mutual friend (Jon Courtney) and then we kept running into each other at our favorite Mexican restaurant.

First conversation location: the world wide web (yes, we got to know each other first through AIM and the use of emoticons….so awesome)

First known mutual interests (besides our obvious love of Mexican food): Iowa Hawkeye sports, God, and music

First date: La Pachanga, then to see Lewis Black. Brad wanted to hang out afterwards, however, I misunderstood his question of "Where do we go from here?" to be of a directional nature -- so I told him to turn left. I later realized he had really asked to continue our date, but I was too embarrassed to say anything. Brad took this as a complete rejection...until I called him later that weekend.

My first impression of Brad: mature, kind eyes, confident, and extremely nice hair
(seriously, brad has the hair of a greek god)

The first time we said “I love you”: We went to Wal-Mart to buy IBC cream soda and soft batch cookies and went to sit on adjacent lawn chairs in the furniture/garden section. We stayed there, munching on our newly purchased treats and listening to ACDC’s “T.N.T” over the loud speaker, until the manager told us we had to leave. Upon pulling into my driveway, we realized after a night like that, how could we NOT fall in love with each other?

First “home”: Living in the dorms with 38 Taiwanese girls, serving as co-directors for the Taiwan at Truman program.

First hug: Before Brad went on the CCF spring break trip. We had only been dating about a week, so we really didn’t know how to say goodbye to each other. (I know most couples don’t remember their first hug, but this one was so awkward that it will be forever ingrained in my memory)

First string of facebook messages before things were "official" (with some in-between-the-lines commentary/interpretation):

Rachel See wrote at 8:09pm on February 3rd, 2006
i was MUY impressed with your guitar skills...actually more like guitar skillz. your playing + the bueno food of la pachanga = the best friday in a long time!!

I had seriously written this the moment I got home after eating. Brad told me later that he was prepared to write me a message and was surprised that I had already beaten him to the punch!

Brad Smith wrote at 8:29pm on February 3rd, 2006

Hey Rachel- it constantly amazes me that every time I go to La Pachanga you are there. And as much as that sounds like an exageration, it's really not! To be honest with you, earlier today I actually thought to myself "I bet I'll see Rachel See tonight" Crazy huh? I'm glad you enjoyed the music- and thanks for the tip- I really wish that I knew you a little better, but if we keep meeting at La Pachanga then maybe that will happen! Until then... I had arrived at Pachanga while Brad was playing, but because of the large crowds and the fact that brad had a harmonica up to his mouth, we were unable to make any kind of conversation (except a head nod from Brad when I dropped some money in his basket)

Rachel See wrote at 3:09pm on February 4th, 2006

haha, i know. la pachanga is like a sick addiction. i just cant get enough! mas, mas, i say. ;)anyway, i think it's pretty fantastic that we have this pachanga relationship -- if you ever need a violin for any of your songs, let me know!

Brad Smith wrote at 12:28am on February 18th, 2006

Hey- went to La Pachanga on Tuesday and was dissapointed not to see you there...it was late-ish though, so I guess it'll be alright! Anyway- I'm part of a group on campus here called Students Advocating Justice (I'd love to tell you more about it sometime) and we're going to show a video on Thursday night (2-23) in MG1000 at 8:00 and I really think you would enjoy it. It's called "Advertising and the End of the World" I could tell you more about it if you wanted me to, but you should really consider showing up! It's really well done and I think you'd like it. Let me know what you're thinking!

Brad told me that he had just invited me to this as an "in" to seeing me again. I found this out after I suggested renting it (a while after we had started dating, because I was unable to see it the first time) and he explained that he was not that interested in seeing it with me -- just desperate to invite me somewhere. too funny.

Rachel See wrote at 12:52am on February 18th, 2006

i was definitely there at 5 on tuesday. it just wasnt the same w/o seeing you! i think my current project is la pach patch. we'll see how it goes ;). Im interested in the movie...i have sign language until 9, though. how late do you think it will go?

Rachel See wrote at 9:29pm on March 1st, 2006

Good luck with your game tonight -- i would give you pointers, but my skills are limited to a womens ball...;)postscript: looks like our beloved hawks won tonight, thus strengthening the case against us...

This is right after our first date. Brad thought I wasn't into him (I tend to be a bit reserved at first), but after a phone call and another message, I was bound to show him that I was indeed interested :).

Brad Smith wrote at 1:27am on March 2nd, 2006

What a wonderful day! The weather was perfect, worship is over, I got assigned to co-lead a small group on Spring Break w/ one of my favorite people on the planet (the one and only Lauren Hamilton), my basketball team won (and played an amazing game...that you missed!), the hawks dominated (although the strengthened fact that they hate playing when I'm watching is a bit depressing), and to finish it all off: I got a message on my facebook from the most popular addict on the site! I swear Miss See- it doesn't get much better than that! ...but then again, taking that addict to a movie doesn't sound too bad either!

Brad, the smooooth talker!

Rachel See wrote at 1:33pm on March 2nd, 2006

ok, so facebook may be the 7th most popular site, but no amount of cyber-famedome can compare to the mass circulation of an actual, tangible, newspaper. are we going to have to invest in some bodyguards tonight to fend off those vying for your autograph? i must say, it's going to be an honor just to be seen with you.

First picture together: Brad at the far left, me at the far right and halfway hidden

on the freakish event of the weekend

When we had a cookout with Jared and Amy, the knob on the grill just completed melted before our eyes.

I think we were in shock for a good five minutes.

on why today was perfect

I feel like there are those few days a year when everything feels completely right. The stars align or mercury isn't in retrograde...or something.
Today will definitely be marked on my calendar as a special day. (no, not really. today will just have a huge X in it once it is finished. just like all the other days in my weekly planner. there is something about scratching off another day that is completely satisfying and quite cleansing. AND it means i'm one day closer to going back to school).
The best part about today was that there were no plans. no events. no meetings. no national tests to administer.
which means i slept in.
a rare gem and one of the most luxurious activities i could think of.

After waking up at the crack of 10, i strapped on my running shoes and threw (what is left of) my hair into a ponytail. I recently chopped off about 8 inches (the equivalent of a small vermin) and i swear, i feel 5 lbs. lighter. However, it is a bit annoying to have to sport the 'halfie' pony tail. I will never get used to those small hairs tickling my neck.

I was able to jog around downtown just in time to see the farmer's market selling their last fresh veggies and pies and packing up for the day. Note to self: wake up earlier next week.

Upon arriving home, I took one of the longest showers ever (sorry, Earth) and I felt like a hundred dollars (my reference to Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close -- read this book if you haven't).

Because the sun was perfect, the wind was perfect, and the bugs were non-existent, I took a book on the lawn and basked in its goodness. until i felt my sensitive, prone-to-burning-which-isn't-fair-because-i-don't-even-go-tanning-and-i'll-probably-get-skin-cancer-before-those-who-fake-bake skin cry out.

After savoring a leftover grilled hot dog from last night (Jared and Amy came over, which is always a good time), I went out on a bike ride (thanks to Jerry and Michelle for generously passing this onto me). I rode past children playing in the street, an elderly woman trying to get in her car, various trash left behind by truman students who have left for the summer, and my old places of residence. Whenever I would coast down a big hill, I would take a deep breath, close my eyes in the sun and try to take in as much of that moment as I could. I wish I could bottle it up and take it to work, sneakily taking a sniff of it whenever I need it most.

Brad and I watched the current episode of The Office (hilarious) and a few of 30 Rock (also hilarious). While we watched, we chewed on fruity tooties and laughed at the tv with our strawberry and banana-split stained tongues visible.

Dinner is always a concern in our house. No one really likes to buy groceries (everything is too expensive, except for the stuff that is awful for you). Neither of us is a chef at heart (although i do appreciate good food). And we are both lazy when the big hand reaches 6 and the small hand reaches 6. HOWEVER. Tonight, I printed 2 free coupons online (go to tacobell.com and click on their new fruity drinks) and brad and i ate our feast of mango fruity things, cheesy tortillas, and a fresco chicken something or other. All for 3.18. We visited an equally evil fast food chain (McDonald's) to purchase The Orphanage from Redbox. It was an intense movie and we both really liked it. Which means a lot -- we're really picky.

To end the night, we made a fort from couch cushions. It really doesn't get better than that.

on future purchases

I believe in being frugal.
As the daughter of an accountant/auditor, I was given a Quicken account on our computer in fourth grade and here is where I learned to reconcile my checking account and save, save, save. Most of my babysitting money and my paycheck from the public library was tucked away, only being tapped into in desperate situations (minus the time i spent a lot at the coffee corner...until my doctor said my heart was in danger).

5 examples of my frugality:

1. I religiously sign up for Wal-Mart's free samples each week. If you don't know what I'm talking about, go here: http://walmart.triaddigital.com/In-Stores-Now-free-samples.aspx and experience the glory. Because of this, I did not have to buy shampoo for two weeks and toothpaste for a month. I've also received: eye drops, eye solution, numerous perfume samples, lotion, goldbond cream, cereal, snack bars, and nighttime huggies.

2. I break out a calculator at least 3 times during each grocery store visit

3. I never, EVER waste leftovers. It is a sin that is basically right behind murder.

4. When staying at a hotel, I take all of the free samples provided, from coffee filters to shampoo/conditioner. Where I see a chance to save money, Brad sees an opportunity to shake his head.

5. I purchase clothes (maybe) twice a year when I receive Target gift cards for Christmas or my birthday.

This being said, it doesn't mean I don't think about purchasing nice items to fix up our house, or spending a little extra cash on a nice meal. The problem is, I feel so convicted when I do so. I don't believe we "deserve" to treat ourselves when so many are living in absolute poverty. But what is the correct spending balance?

I have a few items in mind that I would like to purchase someday. If I save enough money on shampoo and toothpaste, perhaps I justify spending the money on them:

1. a professional camera. I want nothing more than to teach myself the art of photography, as it is a medium that takes my breath away. Sidenote: you should look at one of my favorite photographer's blogs and her website...and maybe i'll save up to buy these someday.
2. new running shoes. i've beaten my old ones up like a....hmm. probably shouldn't start a phrase like that.
3. a laminator. I could really use one to preserve the visual aids (or is it aides? because I do not want to keep a visual of a deadly disease around) I make for music therapy
4. a macbook. i've heard these are best for photos, and I would like to use GarageBand for creating music therapy arrangements. plus, i am now able to use my old laptop as a personal warmer, as it generates an incredible amount of heat from working so hard (that, coupled with the fact that I used to have limewire and the numerous viruses have eaten away at its motherboard). Sidenote: if you are interested in why the plural of virus is not viri, look here: http://linuxmafia.com/~rick/faq/plural-of-virus.html

on my favorite tv show ever

Arrested Development

If you haven't seen this show, watch it from the pilot through season 3 (don't cheat/skip)!

Best.Show.Ever.

Watch all 3 seasons here: http://arresteddevelopment.msn.com/

on what makes me feel more alive on a gloomy morning

on past truman articles

I wanted to keep a database of truman articles I was in that will be considered a poorman's scrapbook of sorts. This is more or less for my own personal memory bank.....

Who's Who 2005: http://saffairs.truman.edu/WhosWho/whos_who_2005.asp

United Way: http://trumantoday.truman.edu/pdf/pdf051004.pdf

Adopt-a-Grandparent: http://index.truman.edu/PDF/2004-2005/November4/Page%2014.pdf

In Joel's column: http://index.truman.edu/pdf/2005-2006/september15/page%205.pdf

United Way: http://index.truman.edu/pdf/2005-2006/october20/page%2010.pdf

United Way: http://newsletter.truman.edu/article.aspx?id=824&command=NthArticle=1,2

The Child Development Center: http://media.www.trumanindex.com/media/storage/paper607/news/2004/02/19/News/Kids-Grow.At.Learning.Center-611463.shtml

on past musical experiences

I spent some time reminiscing about my past violin/piano experiences and quickly realized that, although they may have not seemed so amazing at the time, each and every one of these musical stepping stones were extremely special to me and to who I am today. Every group, every teacher, has brought me to this point in my life and I am forever grateful.

Ages conception - present: My mom, piano teacher extraordinaire

My mom has been there from the beginning (obviously) and it was because of her - her mentoring, her cheerleading, her gentle pushing, that kept my caboose on the musical track. I owe her everything. It was a bit rough living with a piano teacher (I would always dread Christmas time, as I knew I would have to endure Carol of the Bells 8.9 billion times), but I was so fortunate to have free piano lessons from one of the best teachers I have EVER encountered. Hands down.

My mom is one of the most creative people you will ever meet. She comes up with these incredible ideas on how to better motivate her students. The cupboards and closets in our house are full of music games, instruments, pig snouts (don't ask), prizes, stickers, game shows, visuals, etc. etc. -- the amount of time and effort she puts into her job is astouding. It has been amazing to watch the number of lives she touches - they all love and respect her.

She kept me tickling those ivories until I graduated and I owe so much to her.

About my mom:

(besides the fact that she is awesome)

Ms. Susan See -- Susan has over 25 years of teaching experience and was Director of the Piano Preparatory Program at Truman State University before moving to Iowa. She currently teaches 70 students in two studios, one in her home and the other at Iowa Mennonite School near Kalona. During July she joins the faculty at the Goshen College Piano Workshop. She holds degrees from Truman State University and the University of Iowa. She appears as soloist, accompanist, and adjudicator and has contributed articles to Keyboard Companion and Pan Pipes.She performed as a soloist with the Southeast Iowa Symphony in October 2003.

http://www.francesclarkcenter.org/NationalConferencePages/2007/NCKP2007PreConferenceSeminars.html

http://spanky.thehawkeye.com/columns/Wilson/Wilson_0226.html

Ages 5 - 18: Gwen Ying, Washington Iowa

Bio: Gwen received her Bachelor of Music Education from Northwestern University. She studied Suzuki Pedagogy with Rebecca Fitz Sandrok, Doris Preucil, John Kendall and Shinichi Suzuki. From 1972-88 she was Director of the Suzuki Program at Elmhurst College (Illinois), and at Christ Church of Oakbrook, Illinois. She introduced the Suzuki Method in Russia in 1995. The two principal features that distinguishes this method from traditional string education are the participation of parents in their child's music lessons, along with the emphasis on establishing playing technique prior to note reading.Currently Gwen teaches in Washington, Iowa and at the Preucil School of Music in Iowa City.

My personal experience with Gwen was truly life-changing. She played a very inspirational role in my formative years and I definitely attribute the feeling I put into my music to her teaching style. Using a wide variety of incentives and methods, there was never a dull moment with Gwen (lots of tears, lots of laughs). My biggest regret is not keeping in better contact with her; however, I hope she knows how special she is to me.

Ages 10-17: Preucil School of Music

Although I always felt like an outsider at Preucil (due to the fact I was one of the only participants NOT from Iowa City), I was constantly amazed at the talent in this program. It felt like an honor to be surrounded by such wonderful musicians at a young age and I believe that it really pushed me to keep up with my playing. I was able to go on an 2 week tour to Italy with the 80-member orchestra in 2001 (think 80 blue shirts wandering Rome, Florence, Milan, etc...exhausting, but worthwhile).

About Preucil: http://www.preucil.org/

The Preucil School of Music is a non-profit and a member of the National Guild of Community Schools of the Arts. It serves 750 students with a 26 member faculty. Founded in 1975, the Preucil School evolved from a Suzuki Method violin program established in 1963 by Doris Preucil. The curriculum now includes lessons in strings, piano, voice, flute, harp, theory, pedagogy, ensembles and an early childhood education program. The school is housed in two locations. The Main Campus, an Iowa City landmark, occupies a historic Czechoslovakian Hall built in 1900. The Preucil School of Music North Campus and Morris Early Childhood Education Center is a new facility built in 2002. The Preucil School String Orchestra, numbering 70 students ages 13-18, is the most advanced of five training orchestras at the School. It has performed extensively in the Midwestern United States and has been featured at international teacher conferences and on public television. In 1991, on a tour of Germany, Czechoslovakia, Hungary and Austria, the orchestra won the first prize for String Orchestra at the Vienna International Festival for Music and Youth. On succeeding concert tours, the orchestra has traveled to England in 1994, Germany in 1997, Italy in 2001 and the Czech Republic in 2005.

Ages 15 - 22: Southeast Iowa Symphony Orchestra

About SEISO: http://www.seiso.us/
The mission of the Southeast Iowa Symphony Orchestra is to promote quality orchestral experiences for our regional community and musicians by providing live performances, educational opportunities and rural outreach programs for all ages.
Objectives include cultural enrichment and delivery of its services for a minimal fee or free of charge so that it remains accessible to everyone in Southeast Iowa. The SEISO, organized in 1950, is recognized as one of Iowa's most prominent community-based orchestras.
The service area of the SEISO includes the following Iowa counties: Appanoose, Davis, Des Moines, Henry, Jefferson, Keokuk, Lee, Louisa, Mahaska, Monroe, Muscatine, Wapello, Washington and Van Buren. Students, who reside in these counties, are eligible to participate in the annual Youth String Festival and Young Artist Competition.
SEISO is centered at Iowa Wesleyan College and supported with boards of directors in 3 cities: Burlington, Mt. Pleasant and Ottumwa. It reaches 12,000 people every year, has over 70 board members, 100+ volunteers and 65 musicians.

I used to feel quite overwhelmed, playing in a symphony orchestra that was comprised of seasoned, adult musicians. The last few years, though, proved to be a much more relaxed and enjoyable experience. Because I have known Bob (the conductor and a family friend) since I was born, I always enjoyed playing under his direction (and his sense of humor). The pieces we played always required LOTS of practice, but the end result was phenomenal. Pictured below is from the annual July 4 concert in Burlington, Iowa.

Ages 18 - 22: Truman State University Orchestra

I had such a blast in the Truman orchestra. The conductor was great, as were my fellow classmates. I had the opportunity to meet some wonderful people and play great music (although it was sometimes hard to fit everything into my already packed schedule).

http://music.truman.edu/strings/#orchestra

My violin professor, Dr. McClure, is one of my favorite people. ever.

About Dr. McClure:
B.M., Eastman School of Music; M.M., Ohio University School of Music; D.M.A., Michigan State University
Dr. Sam J. McClure is Associate Professor of Violin/Viola, Music Theory, and Director of Orchestras at Truman State University, having joined the faculty in August 1998. Previously, Dr. McClure taught at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and Hillsdale College in Michigan, where he was music director of the Whitewater Symphony and Hillsdale College-Community Orchestras, respectively. He has also served on the conducting and violin faculties of the New England Music Camp in Sidney, Maine. Dr. McClure earned the Doctor of Musical Arts Degree in orchestral conducting from Michigan State University, where he studied with Leon Gregorian. McClure has recently collaborated as conductor and performer with several nationally and internationally recognized musicians, including violinists , Ruben Gonzalez (Chicago Symphony co-concertmaster), Geoffrey Michaels, Giora Schmidt, Alberto Bologni, Gregory Sandomirsky and Elizabeth Holowell, horn virtuoso and composer Sharon Moe-Miranda, and composer Menachem Wiesenberg Dr. McClure earned degrees in violin performance from the Eastman School of Music and Ohio University. He has studied with many nationally recognized performers and teachers, including violinists, Oliver Steiner, Paul Statsky, Howard Beebe, Walter Verdehr, David Taylor and Alberto Lysy. Dr. McClure is featured frequently in recital and has presented visiting artist recitals in Wisconsin, Illinois, Georgia, Iowa, Michigan,and Maine. He has also been active in the area of contemporary music as a performer at composer's festivals in Missouri, Arkansas and New York. Dr. McClure recently completed visiting artist residencies at the Conservatorium of Music in Newcastle, Australia and the Boccherini Conservatory in Lucca, Italy, where he presented master classes and recitals. Dr. McClure is also co-founder and artistic director of the Festival Musicale della Toscana, a summer music festival for string players in Montaione Italy administered through Truman State University.

Ages 22-26: University of Iowa, Master's in Music Therapy

My passion!

I have discovered a field in which I can use all of the above experience in a meaningful way! This program is such a spiritual thing for me - I really cannot express the constant inspiration I receive from the people I encounter in music therapy, the clients I work with, and the pure joy I feel from learning and practicing. This year has been incredibly hard for me, as I had to take 2 semesters off to come back to Kirksville until my husband graduated. However, I feel as though the passion has burned further, deeper, wider (and in too many dimensions to mention)...I am bursting to start up again!

The national music therapy website: http://www.musictherapy.org/

My professors at Iowa: Music therapy ballerz

http://www.uiowa.edu/~music/bios/THPYadamek.htm

http://www.uiowa.edu/~music/bios/THPYgfeller.htm

on (my husband) graduating

My husband is an official Truman graduate! He received a BA in both English and Philosophy/Religion ---plus that little stinker was cum laude AND had departmental honors!!! I am a proud wife of my smarty pants husband. After the ceremony, we celebrated with family, friends, and an array of amazing foods!

on the weepies

One of my favorite bands, The Weepies, recently released a new album on April 22. Even though I have yet to hear it, there is no doubt in my mind that it will be supreme. I will definitely head to: http://www.ilike.com/artist/The+Weepies/album/Hideaway to check it out, once the 5 bells toll today.

on where to get the best haircut

on cinco de mayo

Yesterday, Brad and I celebrated Cinco de Mayo with a few of our amigos. I would say Mexican food is probably one of my favorite cuisines, so last night was a great excuse to cook quesadillas, taquitos, chips/7-layer dip, as well as a Cinco de Mayo cake! We all had a muy bueno time-o.

on office music

who knew this machine that i stare at all day could be so musical? (ps. give it about 30 sec.)

on summer

With the rise (slowly, but surely) in temperature, it reminded me of a poem Brad wrote called, "Summa" :

http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dhfbtjf4_13gmccnddf

I am always so proud of Brad and his writing ability.

on pickle popsicles

A story I wrote for my children's literature class:

on being married

1. It's wonderful.
2. It's hard.
3. It makes you gain weight.

on politics

I had a blog during the 2004 election and, after many hours/days/months of typing articles of persuasion, it turned out that all of my efforts were for nothing. So, I've decided to take a more light-hearted and less time-consuming approach for 2008.
I've viewed countless high-quality YouTube videos and my decision is pending on the following:

1. the baller:



2. the jokester (bombing is apparently hilarious to this guy):



3. the entertainer:

on blogging

I'm not really sure what I'm trying to accomplish with starting a blog: sharing revolutionary ideas? random thoughts? updating my family on current happenings?
I think it's because I'm bored at work.