100 Blogs

Today, as you already know, I posted my blog about Fancy Nancy. A few hours ago, I came back online to make sure that my post was published. As soon as I opened "blogger" I saw something awesome right there on my dashboard.

Blog Post: 100

On June 1, 2008, I decided (for some unknown reason) that I wanted to make a blog. It was on that day that "Blog of a not so average, average girl" was born. Till this day, I still can't explain the name. Needless to say, I started writing daily about whatever my little heart desired. After about three months, I gave up on blogging every day, and started blogging at least once a month (if not more often).

Last year, I decided that college like was worth sharing with others. So I began to write every day again. Then summer happened and I slowed down. Recently, I started to try and write at least every other day.

Three years, and 100 blogs later, and I would say that I am still going strong. While, it doesn't seem like a lot because I don't blog every day, its still a memorable moment. At least, I think so.

I did have something awesome and amazing planned for my 100th blog. But Nancy and Tasha took the spot, before I even realized that was already at 100!

Let's do 100 more!

Rachel .

Something A Little Fancy

So a few days ago, as I was sitting around my room in boredom, I received a text informing me that a friend was going to buy a doll to take pictures of during her road trip adventures (if you've ever heard of Flat Stanley, then this concept makes sense).

My first impression was that she was joking. Until I logged on to facebook a few hours later and saw a collection of pictures of "Fancy Nancy" and her adventures. I figured this game would only last a day. Needless to say, Fancy Nancy is currently living up life on day three.

Let me paint a picture of what is going on here:

Tasha is driving around western Nebraska with a doll. Stopping at random tourist attractions to take pictures of Nancy doing varies activities. So far Nancy has enjoyed; feeding ducks, playing on cars, watching videos at a fur museum, playing at parks, sitting in hot-tubs, and climbing trees. Did I mention that Nancy is still a doll?

You're probably wondering what I am getting at here eh? Well, think about it, if you saw a random person walking around and taking pictures with a doll, you would prob. think she was insanely crazy. And that my friend, is exactly what I believe is wrong with the society we live in. What ever happened to creativity? Does it really matter what people think of you? Does it really matter if they judge you, or make fun of you?

We are so stuck up and worried about making sure that we fit in, that sometimes, it feels like we never have time to use our imagination or the creative brain cells that God gave us. Do you think we would have light bulbs, if Thomas Edison was worried about what people thought of him?... I don't think so!

I believe that the best ideas are creative ones! The ones that come from not caring what people think and just wanting to have fun! Life is too short, to waste your time trying to be "normal". I don't want to sound harsh here but the everyday boring events are not the memories we are going to be talking about in fifty years. It's the ideas that come from being creative and taking a chance that will really count in the end!

Life is short, and in the end, no one is going to remember you for fitting into society. So today I'm going to challenge you, do something stupid and spontaneous! Be a Fancy Nancy!

Rachel

Intermission.

As I am braining storming ideas for my next blog, I thought maybe I could get some extra creative cells flowing if I watched a musical. Actually, to be honest, I've just been on this extreme musical kick lately. Within the past four days, I've made an effort to watch; The Lion King, Guys and Dolls, Chicago, A Chorus Line, and Hairspray. So to continue to feed my musical "addiction", I decided that I was going to watch the classic Hello, Dolly this afternoon.

I'm sitting here watching, and singing along, when all of a sudden the screen goes black and in bold red letters reads "Intermission". For 10 minutes, I sat and watched a black screen with background music, waiting for "intermission" to be over. Did I mention that I'm watching the dvd? Last time I checked, if I wanted to take an "intermission" from the movie, I could just pick up my remote and pause the movie.

If Hello, Dolly gets to have a 10 minute intermission then so should everyone else.

Movies that I believe need an intermission:

- Lord of the Rings

- Star Wars

- Harry Potter

- Titanic

- Cast Away

- Ben Button

Fall

One of the biggest "perks" about living in Nebraska, is the experience of watching these things they call "seasons" change. While Florida technically has seasons, they aren't exactly visible or different from one another. Lets be honest, Florida has summer, more summer, a wee bit chill, and a lesser summer, known as spring. Nebraska, on the other hand, seems to have all the seasons covered.

Sitting in my room, (watching nonsense musicals) I have been watching the tree out side of my window change from summer to Fall. Today is the perfect, windy fall day. It's not too hot and not too cold. The leaves are changing colors, and falling off the trees, landing on the ground waiting for me to walk outside and crunch them.

I have to admit, there is something about Fall, that makes me feel all warm and cozy. It's the perfect homey feel. Maybe it is because the colors that are usually associated with fall are dark warm colors. Maybe it is because the coolness in the air, makes for a perfect "hot chocolate" and "warm fire" kind of evenings. Or maybe it is just because it is just such an amazing season.

I am not really sure where I was going with this blog. I just know that the only thing that has been on mind all day has been how it is such a wonderful fall day, and it puts me in an overly happy and good mood (for the most part).

Did I mention I was open to ideas and topics to blog about?

Rachel.

Missing?

Have you ever had one of those days, when you know that you recently came up with an amazing topic to blog about, and then you just can't seem to remember what it was for the life of? Well, I'm having one of those days today.

Just a few nights ago, I was sitting in the car with the wonderful Ryan Durr, and we had an entire conversation about something, and I was getting really into it. I don't remember what we were talking about but I distinctly remember saying "I should blog about that! I have some really good ideas!" I guess it wouldn't be such a great idea if I had remember what it was.

All today, as I've been keeping my eyes open for interesting conversations or tiny things that tick me off, I couldn't help but keep going back to thinking about trying to remember my amazing topic. Let's just face it, the idea is gone and has moved on. Sadly, I haven't.

Seriously, where do theses ideas go? I mean, we've all had those moments where we came up with an amazing idea and then a few hours (or days) later, we just can't seem to remember what it is. I like to think that I am a smart person, and that I have the ability to learn and recall information. If you think about, "this idea" is still in my head. I can recall having an entire conversation about it. The question is: Where in my brian is this valued piece of information stored?

I guess losing information and forgetting things is part of being human. If we could recall and remember every memory and piece of information that we learn, we could all be geniuses. I mean, I don't want to know the answers to the universe! Really. I just want a good topic to blog about.

So if you're walking around campus and stubble upon my lost idea, I would really appreciate it, if you could return it to me. My sanity currently depends on it.

Rachel.

Changes.

If you at all familiar with this wonderful thing we call the internet (which I highly hope you are, because your reading this nonsense), then you are most likely also familiar with the addicting world of Facebook.

Facebook is not only an interactive social network, but it is also a lifestyle for many people. Personally, I live on Facebook. No literally. My socially life would be non-existed if it weren't for Facebook. Honestly, I use my phone for Facebook more then I actually use it to call people. Wait? Call people? You mean like talk to them on the phone? Do people still do that?

Anyway, if you're a Facebook "Fan" then you prob. already know about the recent changes. One day we were all sitting on Facebook enjoying our comments and liking each others postings. The next minute, the page refreshes and BAM! There it is. This new thing, that they call "Facebook".

The Pros to this new Facebook? Easy. It's ridiculously easy to "Facebook creep" on people.

The Cons to this new Facebook? Easy. It's just as ridiculously easy for people to "Facebook creep" on me.

As a result, everyone seems to be switching over to "Google Plus". Which is pretty much the old Facebook. Woah! Back up! I feel like I've heard this story before! Oh wait, thats right! I have! Something about Myspace and people switching over to Facebook. Maybe it's me, but I feel as if I just got over that change?!?! .... While I have nothing against "Google Plus"... I'd prefer to stay on Facebook. Life is too short to keep changing social networks.

I guess this means that its time to start making "real" friends.

Rachel.

The Life of a Blogger: in One Act.

I've said it a million times before, and I feel like I am always saying it. So I'm just not going to say. I'm just going to start blogging and skip all this nonsense about why I haven't been blogging and how I am going to start blogging again. So heres the deal: Lately, I feel like everyone I talk to brings up my stupid blog and how I should really start doing that again. The amount of people who have claimed to read my blog, is kind of creepy.

Not only have I recently gotten a job, in which I get to talk to people and they tell me funny stories, which make me want to blog because somethings are just so awesome, I can't help but make witty comments. But also because I have been doing a lot of theatre lately, and there is nothing like art and theatre to get your creative brain cells moving.

Recently, I have been searching for a one act that I can direct in the spring. I have been sitting around in my room, spending endless hours sitting around reading one act after one acts. I hate to admit it, but its kind of become an addiction. I have read so many one acts this past week, that its kind of scary. I've read some good ones and I've read some bad ones. I've read some creepy ones and I've read some ones that I just couldn't read, because ... well.. they sucked.

My favorite is a one act by David Ives. It is entitled "The Philadelphian" and is part of the "It's All in the Timing" series. Personally, I think that it is the most genius and amazing one act to ever be written. Unfortunately, I live and go to school in Nebraska. While I think the play is funny and perfectly well written. Someone who isn't from the Philly area, wouldn't understand or feel the same way. David Ives does an amazing job of capturing the culture and lifestyle of Philadelphia. But as I started before, I live in Nebraska.

And so the search for the perfect one act continues.

You know when you have an idea for a blog and it's just so perfect, but then you forget what it is by the time you actually sit down and decide to blog. Yeah. I hate that feeling. Thats kind of how I have been feeling all day. And then I decided that its time to just get over myself, and blog already.

So heres a tip: If you want witty amazing blogs. Send me funny, pointless, yet meaningful ideas. Facebook. Just do it. Kind of like Nike.

Rachel :)

The Start of Something New?

I haven't been around for a while. I know. I don't have an explanation, and so I'm not going to waste my time, trying to make some crap up about how I haven't had time to blog because of everything else in life.

So every time I sign on to Facebook, I feel like I see more and more post from friends about their blogs or blogs they have been reading. Now, when I was in fourth grade, blogging was the thing to do. But now, that I am in college, I didn't suspect to see blogs making a coming back.

I would first like to state, that I started this blogging business long before it began to make its come back. I have been around for a few months now. So people, stop copying me. But at the same time, blog away, because its cool and it makes me feel like that much less of a loser when I see that other people are wasting their time sitting around and blogging.

Maybe, I am wrong. Blogs could have always been popular and I am just to foolish and stuck up in my own little world to pay attention. It makes sense. I would also like to point out, that blogs about college students are about a thousands time more interesting and educational, then those crappy blogs I used to write when I was in fourth grade.

And so, because I am not originally and feel the need to follow the coward (even if, they are following me)... I will be back to blogging regularly.

Keep up the blogging!

Rachel.

Life of a Pup.

Today, I offered to help my friend Ashley Joy babysit and entertain her grandmother. Turns out, she did most of the entertaining, or her dog did. Today I decided that I was going to follow her dog, Max, around and see life from the view of a dog.

Here are a list of things I learned:

1. Playing all the time make you very tried.

2. Pooping in the grass is gross.

3. You have to wait to go potty until someone takes you.

4. My knees hurt.

5. Dogs don't get to brush their teeth, and smelly breath is gross.

Needless to say, I am happy that I am human.

Rachel.

Late night adventures.

Lately, I have learned that I do mostly nothing but sleep and be bored during the day. Until about 9 or 10pm. Thats when the adventures start. Some day, I go to the park and swing, and some times I go to perkins for a midnight snack.

Last night was of the more adventureous tonight. Around nine, Ashley Joy and I left to go to the movies in Sanford. First we had to stop for gas, and Swedish Fish. But then, Ashley Joy decided that she wanted a slushi, so we stopped at another gas station. We got there, and drove around like idiots because we couldn't find the movies.

When I see "idiots" I mean, we pretty much looked like idiots. Driving around the parking lot of the dead malls. Driving down one way streets, and jumping over curbs instead of turning around. After some reckless driving, we finally found the movies.

We saw. Braidmaids.. which had to be one of the worst movies I ever saw. Luckily, we were the only people in the movies, and so we weren't bothering anyone with our laughing during the "sad" and "meaningful" parts. Not to mention, we talked most of the time. Actually, we had some good conversations. Mostly about cops and their sexy cars.

Overall, it was a good night.

A simple space.

When I moved away to college, my brother decided that he was going to turn my old bedroom into his "man cave". After moving all of his clothes, "toys", and tv over to my room, it went from "girly beach room" to "manly dark room" in a matter of seconds.

While I was at college, this didn't really matter all that much to me, because I wasn't home to see it happening. Coming home for breaks was a little odd, because it didn't quite feel like "my space" anymore. While planning my stay for the summer, we realized that I wasn't going to be sharing a room with my brother and his stuff. Everything he owned was pretty much in my room, except his bed. He used his old room as a sleeping space. So it was decided that we would switch the furniture around, and I would have his old room while he had my old room.

His room is smaller then my old room, and so everything doesn't seem to fit the same way. The walls are also white, while in my old room I had painted the walls blue and sandy white to match my decor. After a few hard days of moving stuff around, I think I final settled into my new room.

Its the same though. I realized while I was moving my stuff out of the old room, how much I had moved into such a small room over three years. Everything was organized, but yet I still found stuff in place I would of never thought to look in years. For example: the back of my closet!

For three months, my new room will work fine. But there is still apart of me, that thinks every time I walk by my old room, "thats my room". And I think it always will be. The wall color is mine. The stains on the floor are mine. The curtain rod was picked out my me. The flower light switch plates are mine. It was my space, and I am just living in a temporary space that isn't mine. Almost like its being, rented to me. Free of charge of course.

It's just a thought. A house is just a bunch of wood and nails. And a room is just a blank space that we fill. What we fill it with is what makes it our own. But, for some reason, we still consider those wood, nails, and space to be apart of who we are. Which they are, in many ways. But in the large outlook of life... a room is just that.. a space.

Rachel.

Write Me!

Since I started, I learned that most of my friends live on all different sides of the country. The mid-west really does bring people together! I have friends who live in Nebraska, Kansas, Illinois, Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, North Carolina, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Oklahoma, Texas... the list could go on and on. Thanks to the lovely world of Facebook and Skype it isn't very hard to contact and keep in touch with most of my friends. But, as you get older, you learn that talking to someone the internet isn't the same.

Over the past few weeks, I have been mailing and receiving letters from school friends from all over the place, through this system some would call "snail mail". Not only is getting a letter in the mail exciting, it also carries a special meaning to it. Not only can one say to themselves "hey! this person likes me enough to spend a full 40 cents on me" ... but they also decided to take the time to get out paper, find a pen, sit down, and write you a letter. When in reality, they could of emailed you in about five times less time.

Plus, it is kind of cool to open a letter, and think about where the letter came from. My friend actually touched this paper, folded it up, put it in the envelop, and then some random mail man took this letter from the other side of the country, and put it in my mail box. Pretty neat stuff.

The idea of writing (using your own handwriting instead of a key board) also adds a lot of personally touch. It makes everything seem so much more real and personal.

Clearly, I love getting letters. And I love writing them, because I know they will make my friends feel special and know that I am thinking about them. Today, technology has defiantly changed the way we think about communication. We take it for gradated every day. I think that the true challenge, is to ask ourselves "does this person mean enough to me, for me to sit down and take those extra ten minutes and do something different and special?"

And that is my challenge to you for today. Sit down and write a friend a letter. Even if they live down the street, or you see them every day. Because I can promise you, no matter how far they live, getting a letter (instead of a bill) in the mail will brighten their day. And if you don't have anyone to write to, you are always more then welcome to write to me.

Rachel.

My bad.

Oh my goodness. Oh my goodness. What have I done? Always getting myself into a mess and waiting way to long to clean it back up. Oppies.

In case you haven't noticed, I've been gone for a few weeks. I hate to say that May was pretty much a fail. I realized once I got home, and summer started it was going to be harder to keep my blog up and running. At first, I thought it would be easier because I would have a lot more time to write and such. But of course, as soon as I got home, any kind of writing was the last thing that I wanted to do. Except, writing letters to friends. (which I hope will be tomorrows topic).'

Anyways. I am at home and summer as started. I am all moved into my new room (another topic for the future). After about two weeks, of staying at home and doing nothing I realized a few things...

1. I am so ready to work, its not even funny. I would rather would for 12 hours a day and make money.. then sit around doing nothing, because right now.. I am not getting anywhere in life.

2. I miss my friends from Concordia. I realize that I don't have many friends at all at home, because I choose to go to a college so far away, and only came home twice all year. At school, I am almost never alone... but now, I am alone all the time. I also learned that I have changed A LOT over the past year. There is such a fine line between college and high school it is incredible. I don't care about my high school friend's silly drama... and I guess, its just a different world.

3. I miss Nebraska. I never thought I would say this. But I miss the life style. I actually miss being surrounded by nothing. I miss the dirt roads and the fields of grass and corn. The snow. The wind. Oh My Golly Gosh, I miss the wind. Most importantly, I miss having to travel to get somewhere you want to go. Everything here is to close, that it makes the simple things (like going to Target) less special and exciting.

Oh dear! What is happening to me.

Rachel.

There's a difference between forgetting and being lazy.

Oppies.

In case you haven't noticed, I haven't blogged for a few a days.

The past few days, have been very busy and stressful.

I finally made it home to Florida. Ashley Joy and I drove the entire 27 hours, over a course of two days! It was a long drive, but it was more then fun!

I'll have pictures up soon!

Rachel.

Summer.

Summer is official here! My favorite time of year! And not just because school is out, but because I love the warm weather, long days on the beach, and the happy mood that fills everyones day for the next few months!

This summer, I don't have as many exciting plans, as I have in the past. Other then, driving home from Nebraska, with the fabulous Ashley Joy, I don't have any exciting plans this summer. Which is depressing, because the past few summers have been packed full of traveling excitement!

This summer, I'll be working at home and doing the normal Florida thing. Of course, I will be spending the majority of my free time at the beach! After all, what is super without the beach? Fact: I have never spent an entire summer away from the beach! I don't ever plan to either!

Nebraska isn't as hot as Florida or New Jersey, so I'm having a harder time getting into the "summer mood". I also feel awkward, not being near a beach! It isn't the same. So I am more then excited to go home! Well, home to Florida anyways. During the summertime, my home and heart will always and forever be at the Jersey shore! (And NOT the TV show!)

Rachel.

Philosophy isn't really my thing.

If living life is about learning, when do we learn to live life?

Before I begin to answer this question, I would like to state that I am in no way shape or form any kind of philosopher or life genius. I am just an average girl, writing in a stupid silly kind of blog because I clearly don't have much of a real life. So if you feel the need to give me grief, go read a book or something more interesting.

Life is very much about learning. As a “hopes to be one day teacher”, I believe that learning is one of the most important elements in being successful in life. We learn, so that we can grow and become the people that we want to be. We learn to live. We learn to succeed.

To answer this silly question more directly, I am just going to say, that we are always learning about life and how to live. As we grew, we are learning how to live life. We learn about life through our every day mistakes and experiences. After all, isn’t that what growing and living is? Learning.

Frankly, I think that the entire point of life is to learn and grow. Life is kind of like a game. Sadly, everyone kind of loses. Unless you want to get religious, and then everyone wins. Which is kind of nice to think about. Personally, I believe that everyone will eventually win in heaven. But that is another topic completely.

We play the game of “life” for years and years. We play by constantly growing and learning. Even when, you become the person that you want to be, you are still trying to learn and continue to grow. I can't tell you how many times, I thought I knew who I wanted to be...only to find out that I was wrong once again. Which makes it feel like we can never be satisfied. Naturally, we always want to do more. But, after all, isn’t that life’s purpose? To succeed in the game of life.

Yeah, I just went all-philosophical on you. It’s my blog, isn’t it?

Rachel.

"Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass,

It's about dancing in the rain."

Hitting the books!

Finals week is finally here! Which means, that it is almost summer! It also means, however, that I have to study like crazy! And I am not a study-kind-of-person. So today, I have been locked in the library with nothing but books and notes!

Apart from studying, something pretty big in history happened last night. If your reading this future, you already know, and if your reading it in the more present time, then you probably already know. But for those of you, who are not in the communication circle of the world, then I guess I'll tell you.

Lastly night, at about 10:00 PM, the tv and facebook were taken over with the news of Osama bin Laden's death. According to facebook and the rest of the world, the world's most wanted terrorist was shot in the head or found dead or something. He's dead. That's all that really matters.

Judging by the endless news cast and facebook post, I believe that this is going to be the next "Where were you when..." topic in a few weeks. So this is my story. I was sitting boredly at a hall meeting (NE TOP), because Concordia decided that they needed to have a campus wide hall meeting party. After the hall meeting, I walked back to my room to play Apples to Apples with Sydney, Jade, and Bethany. But as soon as I walked into my room, Sydney was sitting in her chair, holding my computer. She looked up and asked me, "did you hear" ... I responded with "old people are going to stay in our dorm next summer" ... "yes, but no. Osama bin Laden is died" .... My thoughts: its about time, and then I went on to ask where the hell they found him.

A little while later, Bethany pointed out that people in Lincoln were sending off fireworks in celebration. About five minutes later, we could hear fireworks being shot off from behind the dorm. Because, I like in Seward Nebraska, and in case you didn't know... its the fourth of july city... and so, people have random fire works laying around their house. Pretty fancy stuff.

I would however like to congratulate Osama, for being part of the worlds best game of hide and seek.

What does all this mean for our future? I don't really know. Maybe, you kids in the future can tell me. Personally, I hope it means that we can finish up and end this war. But, who knows. I'm not a politician. I'm just an average college girl, trying to get through finals week alive.

On the 1st day of May.

As you can see, we are all moved out and packed to move home. For the first time all year, our dorm room actually looks like a dorm room! I have some great friends to help me move all my "stuff" out and over to a storage unit. Did I ever mention, that I hate moving?

Last night, I went with Sydney to York to deliver a cake that we made for a fourteen year old's birthday party. The cake was princess themed and super cute. The fourteen year olds, however, were not so cute. If I remember correctly, I was thinking about who was going to be my first kiss when I was fourteen, not who was sleeping with who. Seriously! I couldn't believe it. They didn't seem to bad girls or anything... they were good Lutheran girls. But the content and their interest in things that I didn't even think about to high school, was incredible!

I don't understand the rush to grow up. Why do girls in middle school, feel the need to be like high school students now a days. While high school students, feel the need to pretend they are in college! Life is about having fun and enjoying it while you can. Why would anyone want to rush that? Maybe, I'm insane and crazy. But, personally, I just don't think it makes any sense.

Rachel

S-u-c-c-e-s-s, thats the way we spell SUCCESS!

What's todays date? Oh, thats right.. April 30th 2011. Now, your probably confused, as to what that means... So I am going to tell you. I have official blogged for every single day in the month of April! Which, if you have been following me, you know that, that was my goal for the month! :D

Today I had to take the PPST, which is some government mandated test, that is required for education students to take and pass, before they take other education subject area and state test to be certified as a teacher. Now, doesn't that sound fun?

I am confident that I did well on the reading and writing sections of the test. Actually, I felt that they were too easy. The FCAT was harder then the PPST was! Not to mention, the PPST was about 100 times better written! However, I am not so sure about the math. I did study for the past few weeks, but as soon as the test was handed out, I started to feel nervous and very rushed and overwhelmed. By the time I could calm myself down and clear my mind, so that I could think clearly... I realized that I just wasted a ton of time and I needed to hurry. And so the process started over again! I hate math test epically!

But its done and over with, and I can forget about it for a few weeks or at least until I get my scores!

Apart from celebrating my success of actually completing a goal, I'm actually writing this blog to talk about my new goal for next month. I have decided that not only am I going to blog for every day of next month... I am going to try my hardest to post a picture every day for the month of May. But this time, I'm going to loosen the rules.

1) I must post a picture every day, with the exception of 3 days.(It's going to be summer!) Which means, I can miss or skip 3 days. But this DOES NOT include days that I am on the road traveling.

2) For days that I am on the road traveling, I still must take a picture each day... but I will excused if I can not uploaded it the same day, because I may or may not have internet access.

3) No exceptions for not blogging every day!

Wish me luck!

Rachel.

It's Friday, Friday, Friday!

Not only is it Friday!

But I am official done with classes!

I have three finals next week, and then... its

SUMMER!

Rachel.

Good byes.

Today was my last day of student aiding with the lovely 7th grade English class.

I didn't think that it was going to be a real special event or anything, because I didn't really feel like I got to spend that much time in the classroom. I mean, 25 hours worth, but still. So, I went in today, thinking it was just going to be a normal day.

I guess I had myself fooled. At the beginning of class today, the students told me that they had a special treat for me. It turns out, that they had made me a good bye cake. And I will always love me some cake! Yummy! I was always lectured and informed of all the reason why I should come back to their classroom next year.

As we were eating, the students had a chance to learn more about me, and asking questions. We spent most of the time, talking about the beach and the ocean. I learned that most of time haven't really been to a beach before... but I was surprised at the few who did.

At the end of class, I was surprised at how many of the students had come back to say goodbye, or tell me that they would miss me. I'd even had one kid, thank me for helping him understand the difference between plural and singular and when and when not to use an "s", because he felt like theres less red marks on his paper now. Which made me laugh... because that was something that I had helped him with during the first week or so!

As a result, I left today with a smile on my face. Of course I was sad to go. But I was overwhelmed, by how much the students appreciated me! And here, I thought that I didn't have much impact on their learning or class.

Just another reason, to become a teacher!

Rachel.

You're going to miss this.

Yesterday, Bethany and I took a rather large load of boxes and such over to the storage unit to put away from the summer. However, after we took everything out of the room, it began to look very empty and sad. So we un lofted our beds, since it needed to be done before we can move out anyways. Even though, it makes our room like more livable and less empty... it is just as sad as an empty room.

All this non sense and moving , has made me realize that I am going to really miss school and Nebraska and the midwest and even Seward over the summer! Yes, I am excited to go home to see my friends and be back on the coast! I hate being so far away from the ocean and the beach, but Nebraska has definitely grown on me.

After about an hour of sitting in my room, and staring at the sadness. I decided that a Perkins run was in order. Except, driving to Perkins with my favorite friends and making fun of the corn fields along the way, didn't help to much.

So I will admit. I like Nebraska. It has grown to become a part of me. It's just like mom said, "from palm trees to corn fields"!

Rachel.

Haiti.

A few days ago, I said that I was going to blog about my trip to Haiti last year. And so, today I shall do just that!

Last year, I took a trip with my church over Easter break to Haiti. Our church works with a sister church there, and helps run and maintain an orphanage there. Through out the week, I helped to build beds (or watch), run a drama workshop at the church for the children who lived there, but mostly it was my job to take pictures and document the entire trip, so that we could share our experiences with our friends and family at home.

For some reason, my church believes that I am good at that kind of stuff, and so every mission trip that I go on, I always get roped into being the "documentary". Which, I may point out, always works out in my favor, because I basically just stand around taking pictures and video. But, I also get to see the mission work at hand! Especially, because we usually break into groups... so I'm not stuck in one place all week.. I get to move around!

My trip to Haiti was pretty amazing. Not only did we have a great group/team, but the people there were just so welcoming and nice! It was pretty awesome, to see there love and passion for Jesus Christ and the church! They have so little, but at the same time, they have so much more than anyone else I know, because they have a faith that is stronger than any other! You would never believe that a country, that has been through so much... and is basically ran and dedicated to the devil... could have a congregation of people who are so faithful in their love for God!

Rachel.

Camping.

Last night, I decided that I wanted to sleep inside of a pop up camper/trailer inside of a garage, because... well, whats cooler then sleeping in a pop up camper parked in garage? Nothing. Thats what.

I did, however, get kind of scared of the idea of being outside in the garage alone... even though, the door was locked and I should be a big girl. But, thats ok, because I convinced Michael that it was a good idea and he should join me. And so... I went camping last night for the first time in Minnesota (sort of...).

Anyway, this weekend was a lot of fun! I really enjoyed seeing everyone, even if moving was kind of on the stressful side. But none the less... I love going to Minnesota to visit my friends!

Rachel.

Happy Easter.

Happy Easter everyone!

I'm going to celebrate Jesus today and do church like things!

Therefore, I won't really blog.

But this time last year, I was in Haiti on a mission trip... and so tomorrow, I will blog all about my trip and some of the memories I have from the trip.

Happy Easter!

Rachel.

Missing in action?

Things that I wish I could find or still had from my childhood/growing up years:

1. My Anne of Green Gables tshirt from the Sea Isle City Players summer workshop! It was one of my favorite shirts ever... until it went missing!

2. My picture books!

3. My fancy glass tea sets from my Uncle Bill.

4. My EasyBake Oven! Just because, it was the shiz! And I could have a lot of fun with it in College.

5. AND MOST IMPORTANTLY! My Tiffany heart charm from my Grandmom. That went missing last week. And thanks to the lovely cleaning lady, is no where to be found :(

Rachel.

Moving. Moving. Moving.

Today when I woke up, I was very happy to remember that I was in Minnesota. It was forsure a good start to the day!

We spent most of the day packing boxes, putting them in a truck, and moving them into a new house. Because, when you want to move to a new house, thats what your suppose to do! Even though, you would think... it would a lot easier minus the boxes. But, I guess thats not always logically. But really... think about it... why do we use boxes.

But that the question that has really began to make me ponder about life and the life meaning behind it (sort of) Is who the heck made up or invented the idea of boxes?!?!? I mean, really, did someone get bored one day and while they were sitting around with their friends, say to themselves.. HEY! Lets create something square round, and brown that we could put stuff in! And then make them appear everywhere, except when people want to move! Then we will hind them, so that they can never be found!

Oh! And then, once we decided to create boxes... we can sell them to hobo as homes! Because, boxes are so well decorated and spacey! But most of all, they will be free! (most of the time). So even though, we came up with this great idea... we aren't going to copyright or trade mark it! We'll just give them away, via trash!

Just a thought.

Rachel.

List. List. And more list.

So today was the lsat day of class before Easter break... and I decided that I wanted to go Minnesota to visit my favorite Polzin family for Easter. Luckily, one of my wonderful hall mates Becca, lived in the area and decided to that she would join me on the 6 hour ride.

While in the car, we were began to get rather bored. So just like all normal college students, we decided that we wanted to try and list all 50 states. Naming the states, slowly turned into naming the capitals. Then on too naming stores that you would find in mall, and eventually naming types of car.

All of the listing, got my thinking. It's a great game to play not only to pass time, but to actually use your brain cells. It might should mindless, but it actually gets you thinking and connected things that you already know to something else.

So I've decided, that from now on... when I'm sitting in Kathy Millers Soc101 class...inside of doodling.. I'm going to make a book of list, and see if I become a smarter person!

Rachel.

Pshhh. I haven't forgotten about uploading the photos from the Drippy the Rain Drop project.

Jesus Loves You.

So a few days ago, while I was at my meeting with the dean of education, as part of the interview process to get into the college of education, I was asked a rather interest question. It was the last questions of the interview, and you think that I would have nailed it. But, of course, my catholic background came out and I failed completely.

The question: If you were to die tomorrow, would you go to heaven?

My Answer: Yeah, I think so.

"Are you sure"

"Yeah, I'm pretty sure"

"But your not positive"

"I'm pretty positive"

"You should be very positive... the answer was just yes"

"ok"

"do you know why?"

"because Jesus died for me"

"took you long enough..."

Now, here I am thinking to myself.. OH CRAP! DUH! Whats wrong with me. But I was nervous, and wasn't really thinking clearly. Of course, I believe I would go to heaven! Jesus died for me and I believe that! We're saved by Grace.

Unless, your Catholic, then theres all this stuff about getting to heaven through your good deeds. Not that I have anything against Catholics, but it wasn't exactly the answer the dean of education at a lutheran university wanted to hear.

None the less, I was accepted into the program. (Thus far). But that doesn't make me feel any more like a complete idiot. One word: YES. That is all I need to say. But that would be to simple for me. Good job Rachel!

Rachel.

Fire.

Today, was our last day at the City Mission. The children did an excellent job preforming their puppet show. Minus our little distraction.

Right after the children finished their performance, the fire alarms began to go off. As my began to leave the building (not knowing if it was a real fire or not), I realized that I had left my bag with my wallet and only set of car keys.

We stood outside for about a half an hour, while we waited for the firemen to come and find the source of the fire. We still don't do know what the cause of the fire was, but I can promise you that it was probably one of the scariest experiences of my life. As I stood there, waiting and watching and hoping that my car keys wouldn't get destroyed.

I also realized, that the mission was most of the children's we were with home. Which made it seem way to real. Everything they owned was in the building. Many of them, didn't even have coats. Which was a problem because it was so cold outside.

It was for sure an eye opening experience. Something, that I would be happy if I never saw again. Luckily, however, the building and my keys were fine.

Rachel.

Creative Drama.

Today for creative drama, I had to present a group presentation on a lesson plan that my group and I prepared that uses creative drama. For our project, my group decided to work with the most amazing story book ever, Drippy the Rain Drop.

In class today, we had planned to help the "students" (aka our other class mates) to create a puppet based on their favorite character from the story of Drippy or a character that they would like to see in the story of Drippy.

After handing out art supplies and directing the students in what to do, they began to get creative. I was shocked at some of the ideas that they had come up with. I never that a group of college students could have so much fun doing a project that was designed for a 3rd grade classroom.

Maybe I was wrong all this time. College students and adult can have fun doing simple art projects. We all think that the older we get the more complicated arts and crafts have to be. But give us a paper plate, a few markers, and some colored paper and you might be surprised of the creations that we can make.

Rachel.

Everything Happens for a Reason?

I've heard it said over and over again that everything happens for a reason. If you really want to think about it, yeah sure it does... but its not very often that you realize it right before your eyes. Usually, it takes months, or time to think before you realize how your life events line up.

Today, while I was walking around Walmart, I noticed an aisle that I never noticed before. The world's smallest Walmart, has an entire aisle of cake baking tools. Fondant. Food coloring. Rollers. Smoothers. Icing mixs. Everything that you would need to bake an awesome cake.

Friday night and then again Saturday, I got in the car and drove 30 minutes to the nearest Hobby Lobby to buy supplies to bake my ultimate cake creation. Today, I found out, that I could of gotten everything I need and cheaper 5 miles down the road.

But now, lets think about this. If I didn't drive the extra 30 minutes to buy cake supplies, I would of finished the cake creation a lot earlier. If I had finished earlier, I wouldn't be in the kitchen when Amanda and Allen came around. I would of never met Allen the awesome security guard. I would of never talked to Amanda and agree to bake her another cake on Saturday. Therefore, I would of been bored all day Saturday and Friday night. But I guess, that means, that I could of also went to Spring weekend.

I also would of never been watching infomercials at two in the morning, to learn that you can buy a sports bra for 60$. Because, everyone needs a 60$ sports bra!

Dear Walmart.

You disappoint me with great joy.

Love Rachel.

The People You Meet.

I swear, you can meet the coolest people at one in the morning! People just seem to be so much nicer and more friendly at those crazy hours of the night!

Last night, while we were baking our cake, Allen the security guard came wondering about making sure that everything was safe and secure. Because, well that is his job! And I think he was doing a rather good job of it.

So we started talking to Allen. Allen is a nice man from Seward, who has been to college and has gotten his masters times three. He has a horse and lives on a farm. He likes Seward and thinks it is a nice place to live. (Crazy people, I'd tell you). Allen also read my blog, or I read it him. But he actually laughed which made me happy because people don't think I'm funny. Heck! I don't even think I'm funny. OH! And Allen doesn't like American Cheese. He prefers pepper jack!

"Are you Lutheran or are you just a Security guard"

"I think your nice, but I wouldn't date you. I'm not really into the surff... I think of you more as a Security guard then a lover"

I meet a new friend last night. Plus, its always good to have connections right?!?!?!... Anywho. The cake turned out AMAZING. 8 hours of hard work!

Cake. Cake. Cake.

So today, Sydney and I went on an adventure to the library. And we decided that want to bake a cake. But not just any old cake. An awesome cake.

And so, we got a book about making cake and fondant. It came with a DVD! So we've spent the lsat thirty minutes learning about making fondant and decorating cakes.

And now, we're going to Michael's to buy supplies.

I'll let you know how my cake turn out.

FREAKING AWESOMELY EXCITED!

Rachel.

Two friends. Chocolate. World Travel Desires.

I have been challenged to blog about Megan, Keegan, chocolate, and my world travel desires. Since I'm an over achiever I feel the need to attempt and accomplish the request.

Frist, I want to tell you about one of my best friends in the world, Megan. Actually, I'm not really going to do that.. because in the grand scheme of things.. I've mentioned her before in my blog. But for those of you, who don't read regularly.. Megan is one of my good friends. Whom of which has always been there to make me laugh. I love her. in a non creepy way.

Chocolate. I am actually not really a fan of chocolate I would rather have vanilla if given a choice. Every once in a while I will get a craving for something chocolate. But for the most part, I'm more of a vanilla person.

Keegan is another good friend of mine. I met Keegan through one of my good friends Jessica. I remember the first time I met Keegan, we were in Target. He was wearing the cutest stripped sweater... and he let me wear it and I tried to steal it. We walked around Target singing around American Pie.

Lastly, world travel desires. If I could go anywhere in the world it would be Rome. I love Italy and the culture. I've been to the Rome airport before... but never to the actual city.

Rachel.

Let's get creative!

Today, was our second day workshopping with the local mission. In order to prepare for our "production" of Noah's Ark on Friday, we had the children make puppets and mask to use for the play today!

We decided that we wanted to the children to be creative. So we started them off with a paper plate, crayons, markers, and colored paper. As time went on students began to get more ideas for their puppets. As they came up with ideas, we pulled out more and more art supplies.

It didn't take long for me to realize, that most of these children, don't usually get the opportunity to do these kind of art projects. Simply, because they can't afford the supplies.

Growing up, I used to LOVE to do art projects. It was one of my favorite "hobbies". As a teacher to be, I LOVE doing art projects with children and students of all ages! It's a great way to learn to express yourself and be creative. It's a way to make the impossible, possible.

Sadly, for these children, its not an every day occurrence. Painting and glueing isn't something that can be done all the time. And so, when they get the chance to be creative, they take full advantage of it!

I was shocked by the creative and thought that went into the puppets and animals that the children made today! I could never be that creative! So I wondered on the way home: Do we take advantage of our ability to be creative when ever we want?

Rachel.

Packing. Packing. Packing.

The number one down fall of moving to college, so far away from home is packing! It feels like just yesterday, that I was packing to move out and come to Nebraska. Today, I am already being forced to start thinking about packing to move out!

I never realized the amount of STUFF a person can accumulate in one year. Seriously. Packing to come to Nebraska, was easy! Anything that I could buy when I got here, I didn't have to bring. I didn't have very many winter clothes, so it was pretty easy.

Going home. Now, that is a different story. Not only do I have to decided what is worth taking home and hauling across the country, but I have to decided what I am willing to leave in Nebraska, miles away.

I hate packing. I hate packing. I hate packing. And as a result, I have decided.. that after college... I will not be moving again for a LONG time.

Rachel.

New views.

So for the past few weeks in several of my classes, we have been talking about poverty and different life styles. Isn't it funny, how the things that you talk about in class always seem to connect with your real life? ....

Today, MaryRose, Cindy and I started a project for Creative Drama (only of the few classes that we haven't been talking about poverty in) at the City Mission in Lincoln. We plan to work with children who come to the after school program there, to create a play about the Bible story of Noah and the flood.

The children there, come from families, who are not as wealthily and blessed as most. It is truly amazing to see, the different life styles of people and all the bagage that comes with it. This isn't the first time I have worked in an environment like such. But all the walk and lessons in my class, has really got me thinking about how blessed and lucky I truly am.

So I would like to take this blog... to say Thank you. Thank you to my parents, who raised and took care of me, and always giving me everything I both needed and wanted. But most importantly, I would like to say Thank you God. Thank you for blessing me, and giving me the lifestyle that you did. Sometimes, it is so easy to get caught up in the material things, that it is hard to remember how lucky you are. We forgot, that there are so many people, out there who are not as lucky.

Rachel.

Philosophy.

I've finally finished and created my philosophy of education. Of course, it is way to long to write into one blog. So today, I picked my top three.

I believe that every student has the ability to learn. All students are children of God, and have been created in his imagine. God has given us all gifts and talents, to help us fill-full his plan for us. Every student has the ability to learn, and should be given equality opportunities to use their gifts. As a teacher, it is my job to work with my students and find ways to help them learn and be successful. Just like God loves all His children equality, I should care and help my students learn equality. “Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth.” (Psalms 127: 3-4)

I believe that as a teacher, I need to be a role model for my students. As a Christian and called-worker, it is my responsibility to encourage my students to grow in faith and live according to God’s word. In today’s world, children are always being exposed to “role models” and adults in the media and news that do not show them a positive and/or healthy life style. I want my students to be able to think of me a positive role model and strong Christian. All students should feel important, cared about, and know that their thoughts and feelings are important.

I believe that school should be preparation for life. As a teacher, I want to help my students learn the skills that they will need throughout their life. I want to not only help my students to develop social skills and good citizenship, but also give them the gift of faith and understanding of God’s love. “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6)

Rachel.

Hot. Hot. Hot.

It's hot outside. 90 degrees. (I'm sorry... 89 degrees).

I'm in Nebraska. About 2000 miles from the coast.

We don't have air conditioning in our room. Or at least, it's not turned on.

I'm miserable.

The end.

Rachel

Surveys.

For a sociology project, me and my group are interviewing and surveying students about what they look for in future spouses.

Today, while I was asking people to fill out surveys, I came to a realization. Concordia students are always surveying each other about their relationship statues and feelings. I have realized that I must of filled out 5 different surveys about my dating life. Most of those surveys, asked similar, if not the same questions.

For those of you, who do not go to Concordia. You need to know that we are known for our relationship "trends". Most people get married while in college, and many people come to Concordia just to get their "Mrs." degree. When you put people who share the same religion and beliefs together, its bound to happen.

But why are Concordia so obsessed with studying relationships. And why do I have to continue to answer the same questions over and over again.

This is my purposely: Concordia, will you PLEASE just organize an all school research project on relationships. Publish the results in some kind of book, and discourage students from doing the same research project over and over again.

I will not fill out any more relationship surveys.

Rachel.

Cake.

Five hours of hard work.

4 pounds of sugar.

And a lot of cake mix.

Happy Birthday MaryRose!

Rachel

Reading Books.

The weather is wonderful again, and it is finally warm outside. The only thing more amazing then warm weather, is half price books at the book fair. Gosh, I love going to a college that is primarily education majors. Nerds we are.

All of this talk of books and reading, has really gotten me thinking about the importance of reading. If you don't know me, then I should warn you that I LOVE to read and am obsessed with books! So my opinion might be slightly bias.

We all know that reading is the best form of learning about new things. Reading opens minds and can relate almost anything to real life. Reading is good for you. It makes you smarter. We all have heard these things of things from our teachers over and over again.

My favorite part of reading is the connection that it creates between two people. Today at lunch, Andrew and I spent at least a half an hour talking about books that we have read. Books are some of the best conversation topics ever! Everyone reads differently, and so one book can be seen in a thousand different ways and can be concluded differently by everyone. Being able to read a book, and then talk about it, is an amazing feeling.

For every book that you read, that is just one more educated conversation you can have. People can have nothing in common, but having read the same book... and that is something that they can talk about and connect to each other with.

Every book is a different story. Each story is just one more thing that you can use to connect your life too. That's one more story that you can use to compare and contrast different issues. Reading is valuable both inside and outside of the classroom.

Go read a book!

Rachel

P.S... This blog is not on my list of best writings. But it is really nice outside, and I really just want to go outside and read all my new books!

Fall 2010

Today was registration for Freshman standings. At Concordia, registration means waking up at 5:30, and wait around on your computer till 6:00 AM exactly. Then at 6:00 (or 5:59:99) you log onto the registration page. Type in your CRN numbers as FAST as you can. Hit submit. Panic. And by 6:02, your done registration and back in bed. It's really a fun process. Not.

Luckily, I got into everything that I needed/wanted without any problems! So heres what I'm taking next semester:

Scenery, Lighting, and Sound

Lifetime Wellness

World Civilization I

Concepts of Math I

Child Development and Psychology

Faith and Life

A whooping 16 credit hours! Plus the two classes I'm taking this summer online (Intro to Literature & Theatre History). Was it worth getting up at 5:30 AM for? Nope. Negative. Not uh.

I'm going to take a nap.

Rachel.

Blahhhhhhhh.

I have a headache, and I'm kind of blanking out right now. I had a really good topic to blog about, and then I forgot. Agh! How annoying is that?!?!

It's Monday. Mondays are always long and tiring. Except, I don't have night class or rehearsal anymore, so I actually have a lot of free time! Which, is something that I am not used too.

I actually enjoy being busy. I'm not sure why, but I do. I enjoy feeling like I don't even have time to breathe, because I know that I am being productive with my time. After all, every second counts, right?

Rachel.

Past, Present, and Future Theatre

Well, it has been a long weekend... but it is all over! I've finally finished my last productions for the school year (or so I hope).

I am so very proud of both of my cast, and I think they did an awesome job! Theatre isn't always easy and can sometimes be over baring, but if you can keep your head up and remember that it is all for the love of the arts, then it can be an amazing experience! I have been blessed to be able to work with so many wonderful people!

And so, I present a list of shows and "notes" of some of my favorite shows I have worked on, to date:

To be or Not to be a Lion King: As an actor, this was my first show ever. I remember I was so nervous to audition and I had no idea what I was getting into. Needless to say, it was a start to a wonderful career. (Directors: Lisa DiBurno)

Anne of Green Gables: My first show, that involved me learning lines and having to repeat them! (Director: MaryBeth Thiesse)

Honk!: Such a good show! A fun story and colorful plot! I learned so much about add living during my rehearsal time for this show! (DiBurno)

Peter Pan: If there is anything, I remember from this show, it is sitting around backstage talking and my camera breaking the night of the show! (MaryBeth)

Dear Edwina: I still think that I made the worlds best girl scout! (Pat Winnens)

Cindrella: Actors are not always right, and it is super important to RESPECT your director! (MaryBeth)

Annie: Some of the best costumes, I ever made! (Harrison)

Joseph & the Amazing Techni-Color Dream Coat: There is nothing wrong with girls playing boys! (Walls)

Oklahoma!: The farmer and the cowman can be friends! One of my favorite directors of all time, B.J. Harrison! I wish that I could of done more with her! (Harrison)

Animal Farm: If your going to be in a show, do it! The importance of team work among a cast is RIDICULOUSLY important!

Wizard of Oz: If your an actor on Sex and the City... you shouldn't be directing a children's show. The end. (Thomas)

The Nutcracker: I hate angels. (Errico)

Crinsinder's Christmas: One word: Characterization! (Errico)

Holka Polka: My first ever show as a director! I could go and go, but nothing will EVER give justices to everything I learned from this show! I learned that I can stage mange, direct and play two different characters... and be on stage.. all at the same time! OMGOSH FAIRY GOD MOTHER! (Polzin & Myself)

Fly: My first ever dance recital (That I danced in) (Errico)

Ornaments: Costume changes.... I had A LOT of those! (Errico)

Around the World: I learned how to Irish Step dance! (Errico and Kinnson)

Little Women: Set! Set! Set! Costume! I learned so much about building and preparing a set! Even how to make a two story set! (Polzin & Myself)

Star Wars: The importance of dedication... Don't forget where your heart is!

The End: My first show as a director! I learned so much and was blessed with such a great cast! I will never forget the memories! (Rachel Davis <---- That's me!)

Folk Tales for Fun: My first college theatre production. I even got to assistant direct! And then later, act out scenes in Creative Drama class! (Emily Schultz)

The Murderous Mystery of Mr. Uno: Don't let your rehearsals run to late, because eventually your actors will fall asleep on stage. Stage manger (Moore)

Tartuffe: There is so much to say! So instead of saying it, I'm going to direct you to my previous blog! (Moore)

Cinderstein: I love those middle schoolers! (Olp)

Arena: I learned a lot, and I hope to see Dan add on and make the show even better! (Dan Miller)

I could go on and on, but I have homework.

Now, to start looking for a summer project!

Rachel.

Play Ball.

Today is opening game day for the NBL! And just like every other year, I will supporting my favorite Phillies.

Unfortunately, I am at slight disadvantage this year because the only teams that people at school care about our the Cardinals, Twins, and Royals. Not to mention, the only games that are EVER on TV. But my goal for the year, is to watch every Phillies game that I can.

I remember a few summers ago, while I was in New Jersey, we watched all the games. It felt like there was always a game on the TV and someone was always watching! I used to get really involved and I was always sure to be watching the game and know the scores!

So this year, my goal is to get my head back into the game and support my phillies to the fullest!

Rachel

Mount TLEC.

Happy April Fools Day!

This year for April fools, my roommate and I decided to take a different approach in our celebration. Instead of actual "fooling" people, because that involves too much energy, time, and planning, we decided to take a popular school joke, to a new extreme.

At our school, one of the biggest buildings, is our education building (TLEC). Don't ask what it stands for, I don't know and don't care. Anyway, in this building, the stair case to get to the top floor begins at the basement and goes all the way up to the second level. The problem is that the staircase, is in a closed off hallway, and is VERY steep. So no matter what kind of shape you are in, most people are out of breathe by the time they get to the top floor. The worst part? Some of us, have to climb "Mount TLEC" every day to get to class!

So today, before class Bethany and I stood at the top of the stairs and gave encouragement and high-fives, as students reached the top. And just to take our joke, one step (literally) further, we made and wore tshirts that said "I climb Mt. TLEC".

This has been a school joke for a while now. So as people reached the top, they either thought it was hilarious and precipitated in our cheering, or looked at us as if we were freaks. Some people, will never understand the joy of April fools! But for the most part, we got positive fed back! Next year, we are making buttons to hand out!

So for the first April fools day ever, I have successful, made people laugh!

Rachel

Yesterdays Blog is published Today?

It is 12:12 AM and I am not too happy with my self. If I would of starting blogging about 12 minutes ago, it would be published with yesterdays date. Darn you midnight! Oh well.

So to clarify. I haven't gone to bed yet, so it is still Thursday in my world of happiness.

Bethany believes that I should blog about Birthday Sex. But I'm going to opt out and talk about something different.

Today, I went to teacher aiding like always. But something was slightly different. A large percentage of my students, were not in class due to a track meet. (Congrats Lincoln Lutheran girls on taking first place... Although I feel bad my student aiding school didn't do so well). Anyways, it just so happened that the four or five students that I was left with, where the ones who had a harder time learning, and especially reading.

So we sat down, and began to read our story for the day from the textbook. I knew that my "normal" readers were not in class, so I would have to push to get someone to volunteer to read. So instead, I decided that we would go in a circle and take turns. As the students started to read, I felt bad because I knew that they knew and I knew that they were not the strongest readers and they were embarrassed. I didn't want them to feel that way, but I knew it was going to happen no matter what I said or did. They needed the practice reading. Which was most of the problem, they needed practice. They weren't stronger readers, and they weren't getting better because they don't practice.

So as an education major, I have to ask myself... How can I make sure that my students don't feel like they are being judged? Which, brings about the even bigger question: How can I make sure my student's don't jude on another? Because we all do it. Naturally, we judge one another, and we especially judge those who struggle in certain areas. Like reading. No one likes to admit that they judge one another... but we all do it, even when we don't mean too.

This is a HUGE problem. Not just in the classroom, but in the world in generally. We fight in wars because we judge. We create stereotypes by judging. Sometimes, we can give lose focus on who we really are because we are always being judged by others. We want to live up to their exceptions. Which sometimes, can mean failing.

So the ultimate question is: Why do we judge others? And how can we prevent it from happening?

And unlike most of my blog questions. I can't honestly answer this one. I'm not even sure, there is an answer.

Rachel.

I would like to give a special GOOD LUCK to our middle schoolers at Lincoln Lutheran and Concordia students acting and directing in the One Acts this weekend! Break a leg!

A weekend of Acts.

So as I mentioned in my previous post, this week is tech week. I'm currently working on helping out with two different shows, and it just so happens that they both open at the same time. Literally.

The first show I am helping assistant direct is a one act, written and directed by the wonderful Dan Miller. The show is about two girls. One who was created to be a mirror image of the other. Or what, she thought others wanted of her. It's complicated to put into words, but it is hands down worth seeing!

The one act is part of our one act festival here at Concordia. The festival is held every year and for two weekends, students preform one acts that have been directed and/or written by students! This weekend, some of the one acts include: a story of a group of preschool children who decide to kill their teacher, and two may fairies who have sex. Yes, quite literally. On stage. I'm not too sure that Concordia is ready for this... but its going to happen!

The other show that I am working on this at the local middle school. The show is called Cinderstein. It's basically a children's show that is a cross over between Cinderella and Frankstein. The cast is made up of 60 middle school students, who literally make me want to pull my hair out every Tuesday and Thursday night. Except this week. They just want to kill me, EVERY NIGHT! But I love them anyways!

Rachel

Lady Gaga.

Today is one of my favorite artist birthday, Lady Gaga. Now, I know what your thinking... why in the word do you admire Lady Gaga? She is a complete freak! Which, I will not argue with. But that is exactly it, Lady Gaga is different.

What interest me the most about Lady Gaga, is that she does things that most of us are too scared to even think about. I highly doubt, a majority of Americans have enough courage to get on stage wearing a bubble outfit, or hair shaped like a bow in front of millions of people? Lady Gaga isn't afraid one bit to be herself.

If you look at most of the popular artist today, they are all the same! They all sing about the same things, dress the same way, and use the same styles of music. And then there is Lady Gaga. She's different and she's proud of it! She is not only a singer, but an actual artist. That is not something you find everyday. People tend to get so caught up, in worrying about what others think and fitting this idea society has set as "normal", we forget to be ourselves! And in reality, the question that bugs me the most... WHAT IS NORMAL!

Lady Gaga uses those creative brain cells that God gave her and she uses ALL of them! Even if sometimes, we wish she wouldn't, and I'm sure God isn't always proud of her... but she doesn't give a care in the world what people think! Most of us, can't do that!

Of course, Lady Gaga has her many downfalls. But doesn't everyone? I mean, I wouldn't let my children listen to her or dress like her? Heck! I wouldn't even let myself act like Lady Gaga. But for the most part, she's differently making an impression on people! I dare you, tomorrow when your sitting around the lunch table at Janzow (or where ever you get your gross school food), ask around... see how many people know who Lady Gaga is. I bet more then half of the people around you (unless they live under a rock or in Nebraska.. JustKIDDING) know who Lady Gaga is! Now, ask them how many of them have heard of your Grandmother?... Unless your Grandmother is Brittany Spears... I highly doubt you'll get the same response!

Happy Birthday Lady Gaga!

Rachel

PS. I promise I'll get back on my blogging track soon! It's tech week right now, and I'm working on two different shows! Both happening at the same time! Literally! AH!

Life.

Ah! I can't believe its really been since Wednesday that I blogged? That's crazy! So I guess, I should start explaining and giving you my excuses...

Well, I woke up on Tuesday morning with an extremely sore throat! It continued onto Wednesday and then Thursday, I decided to see the school nurse. So on Friday morning, I went in and she gave me a prescription. But just like, every other medicine in the world, I was allergic. So Friday night I had my reaction.

So I was on benedryl, all day thursday and friday. Slept for about 14 hours straight! Took some more and slept for another 12!

Today I went to urgent care to get my reaction taken care of! Needless to say, I'm doing MUCH better now! And hey! look! I'm awake!

This week I'll make sure my blogs are extra good!

Rachel.

This is Why Your Not.

So while I was getting dressed this morning, one of my favorite songs to bash came on the radio. This is Why I'm Hot, was on the most popular radio songs during my freshman year. When it first came out, everyone thought it was one of the coolest songs ever.

"This is why I'm hot, this is why I'm hot, I'm hot cause I'm fly, you ain't cause you not"

I'm sure most people have heard it before. But it wasn't till a few weeks ago, that I realized the stupidity of the song. The entire song is about the singer telling us why he is hot. Verse after verse we hear "this is why I'm hot". But in reality, the singer never actually tells us why he believes he is hot. "I'm hot cuz I'm fly, you ain't cause you not". Over and over again. There's no logic what so ever.

I'm hot because I just am and your not because you just aren't. We already knew that! Instead of repeating what we all ready know, why don't you just answer your own question and tell what makes you hot.

Personally, I think its a great song. One of those songs that are always fun to sing along and act stupid too. But probably one of the most idiotic songs ever. Don't sing to us about telling us why your hot if your never going to actually explain why your hot. You might as well, tell us your going to give us a million dollars too. Because, it's never going to happen.

As a listener, I just want to know. WHY ARE YOU HOT!?!? .

Rachel.

I'm currently taking benedryl. So I'll come back and fix this later. Because, I keep forgetting what I was talking about.