Simply

The Good and Bad in Flagstaff

2009-01-07T09:15:00.000-08:00

Some things never change. Despite the fact that Bry and I haven't had our weekly outing to B & N with Rachel and Steve in so long, our visit to B & N for coffee and books last night yielded some familiarity. For example, the "man and his dog" were there, as well as the familiar security guard, and even the familiar father and son couple; if you frequent the Flagstaff B & N (or used to), you know who these faces are. Just seeing the familiarity despite the fact that Steve and Rachel aren't in Flagstaff anymore cheered Bryan and I.

In other news: Flagstaff's complete unfriendliness to eco-friendly travel options in the winter. Right now there are piles and piles of snow heaped up on the sidewalks. Sure, there are some open walking areas, but as my friend Sharon aptly remarked, "you're walking along, just walking... and BAM!" (Her "BAM!" of course referring to the huge pile of snow, which is taller than most people who might try to walk outside in Flagstaff in the winter.) Sure, you might opt to take the bus in favor of eco-friendly mass-transit, but the short amount of walking to and from the bus stops or your destination is likewise limited by the lack of ice and snow-free sidewalk space. And of course, the other eco-friendly option of biking is always available; unless you include the fact that most of the bike lanes are under several feet of plowed snow, and that even the turn lanes for cars are about half covered with snow. Hmmm... let's just cozy up inside, shall we?

Colleen and Bryan's Winter Adventures

2009-01-01T19:48:00.001-08:00

Well, an update from up north, or "the high country," as the Phoenix-based Channel 3 news crew so fondly refers to us backward-folk up in Flagstaff... Bryan and I have braved the snow so far. We had 3 big storms that dumped a total of about 2 feet of the white stuff around Flag. So far, no falls yet, and hopefully none in the future thanks to mom's present of two pairs of crampons for the icy ground around town.

After Christmas, Bryan and I traveled to Alberquerque for Craig and Abby's wedding. The wedding was beautiful and went perfectly. I've never seen Abby and Craig so happy. Bryan and I toyed with the idea of turning North on the interstate, up toward FoCo (maybe sometime in the spring), but for the meantime are back in Flagstaff. Bryan's back to work at TGC and I've got my 3rd internship coming up and graduation around the corner. We'd both like to wish everyone a happy and safe New Year in 2009!

Tuesday

2008-12-09T04:52:00.000-08:00

Four days until Bryan and I are reunited... I can't wait.

Impossible Task?

2008-12-07T09:40:00.000-08:00

After watching the new James Bond 007 movie, Quantum of Solace a few weeks ago, I decided I would forever more swear off of movies portraying excessive use of firearms. At the end of the first 10 minutes of the movie, dozens of people (all the "bad guys" of course) had been killed by Bond, and I realized as I looked around the theater that this type of entertainment is so pervasive and accepted by society, that no one was even bothered by the mass violence. In fact, we were all eating our popcorn and drinking our sodas with little concern at all. So, I decided to try an experiment and not watch any more media portraying guns. Little did I know what a tough challenge this would be. Here is a short list of shows I like and gray areas where media portrays gun use but maybe it's ok?...

1. Family Guy - excessive use of violence (i.e. Stewie beating up Brian "where's my money?!) for the purpose of biting social commentary
2. "Australia" - movie seen last night set in the 1940's when rough times and dangerous living required protection via firearms
3. Funny movies/spoofs that incidentally have firearm use/killing: "Get Smart" with Steve Carrell

Maybe I won't be able to wholly eliminate watching media without firearm use, but at least I can limit the amount I watch and be more aware of how guns are portrayed versus the stark reality of gun-related violence.

Sunrise

2008-12-07T07:10:00.000-08:00

What I will miss about Prescott Valley: the gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. This morning was almost a cathartic experience writing in my journal as the orange-yellow sun rose over the mingus mountains, sending waves of pink and purple out before it. I hope the sunsets and sunrises in Colorado compare...

Not Helpful

2008-11-18T05:49:00.000-08:00

Ok, starting to become very unhelpful: people who like to predict the end of the world. A few weeks ago at the Unitarian Universalist church in Prescott, the topic of interest was the situation in Columbia with the civil war and human rights violations. The story that was told by a man who travels to Columbia often to protest the human rights violations was very troubling and sickening. What's worse is that the United States hosts "schools" used to train military activists responsible for these human rights violations. But that's a topic for another discussion. At the end of this man's speech at the church, a question and answer session ensued. The first comment was by a seemingly frustrated woman in the front row: "this just proves what we have known all along. Our country is not a democracy anymore; whatever the people have to say doesn't make a bit of difference. I believe and have always believed, along with my friends, that the world is going to end on... [insert your favorite predictive date here] and there's just nothing we can do anymore. There's just nothing we can do."

Second instance: during the previews for "Quantum of Solace," the new James Bond movie, audiences were shown an image of a Tibetan monk in the Himalayas frantically sounding a huge gong as a massive tidal wave swept over the Himalayas. The ad line goes something like: "what will the governments of our world do when the end comes? [Pause] Nothing." Which is followed up by the date of the movie release and encouragement to google "end of the world [insert favorite date here]."

First off, an ocean over the Himalayas? Really? We are talking about the highest point on Earth. Global warming will indeed increase the levels of our oceans, catastrophically reducing inhabitable land along our nations' coastlines. This type of logic, plus the womans' from the UU church are based on fear, catastrophizing and unsupported attitudes of helplessness. And what is the use of this type of thinking? That we shouldn't mobilize our humanitarian aid power to protect the people in Columbia because there's no use? That we shouldn't do everything in our power to protect the Earth and the delicate atmosphere because a huge tidal wave is going to sweep over on us and destroy everything anyway? What is the use of such fatalistic thinking besides a morbid interest in an unpredictable future? Such thinking only promotes helpless attitudes that what we say and do has no effect on the behavior of others or our environment.

Like Christmas, But Not Quite

2008-11-05T19:48:00.000-08:00

This morning as I woke, I had the distinct sensation of impending joyfulness, like the day was full of promise of great things to come, like Christmas morning as a kid. Then it dawned on me: "Barack Obama has been elected our next president!" It was and is indeed Christmas. Obama represents a new chance and a new hope for our nation, an unblemished fresh start. I remember now last night when the news was announced: I had been watching the results for so long at that time that I was barely focused on the television anymore. My mind was numb with the pundits' guesses as to outcomes for this battleground state and that controversial county and this prediction made in such and such month, and so on and so on.... and then... beneath the captions, I read "Obama elected president!" I sat with my mouth agape; my mom walking in the house at that moment didn't believe it was real. She cried. We hugged. We called relatives. We listened to one of the most real and convincing and heartfelt speeches I feel that I will ever hear a politician make.

On the other hand, this morning I read in the Prescott Courier that the "same sex" marriage proposition passed in Arizona. PASSED? A proposition amending our constitution to define marriage as only an institution between a man and a woman!? I couldn't think of a better example of NOT separating church and state. If this definition of marriage is not fully and 100 percent supported by secular organizations, then by reasonable argument, it is being pushed as an agenda of faith organizations! Then how, HOW can it be written in our Arizona constitution that we ALL must follow the mandate of a faith that is not neccessarily ours? This is NOT separation of church and state. This is lobbying by religious organizations that controls the lives of citizens that such organizations can't control any other way (not by scare tactics, or door to door evangelizing). This proposition is unconstitutional and un-American. Isn't it ironic that the faith-based organizations that pushed this amendment through are the same ones that are against what they call "government-controlled health-care?" Why is it ok for faith-based organizations to control our right to marry whom we want, but it isn't ok for the government to create a socially responsible universal health care system?

Goings On in Flagstaff

2008-07-24T16:21:00.000-07:00

The last "summer break" of my life is drawing rapidly to an end. I realize that by this time next summer I will have already taken the board exams, hopefully passed, and be working full or at least part time as a full-fledged physical therapist. Colleen Gest, PT. At times I'm really excited and feel like I'm so ready for this change. At other times, panic sets in at the thought of having to bear so much responsibility.

For those of you unfamiliar with the politics of the profession, physical therapists are currently lobbying for direct access in all states (we already have it in AZ). What this means is you can see a physical therapist for rehabilitation after an injury without first having to see a primary care physician. And... it will be reimbursed by insurance! The challenge lies in the fact that now PTs will have more responsibility than ever. Because we are not seeing our patients after they've seen the doctor, it is our responsibility to catch any signs or symptoms that point to a disease/pathology that needs attention other than physical therapy (scary thoughts are cancers, blood clots, numb limbs, all of which can have musculoskeletal symptoms like any other issue seen in therapy). My classes at NAU have really emphasized this responsibility, and I have learned a lot; at the same time, prospects of the future are still quite scary.

On a similar note: internships! This next year is the "year of internships" (not unlike the Chinese "year of the boar...") for both Bryan and I. I am starting mine on August 4th in Flagstaff. Bryan has been (thankfully) at his internship at the Guidance Center in Flag for many weeks now. He is coming very close to finishing the first set of required hours to become a Licensed Associate Counselor. I am so proud of him as he has had to face a lot of adversity, and overcome many challenges to get where he is today.

Yesterday gave way to some reminiscing as Bryan and I walked accros Forest Meadows street at one end of our apartment complex, over to Dipping Dots. I remember going there when they first opened with Steve and Rachel. Did we go 2 or 3 times that night? The managers were having a great time laughing at our insatiable craving for the frozen treat...

Tragedy in the Pines

2008-06-30T08:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday while I was at work, 2 helicopters crashed just about 1/2 mile east of the hospital over McMillan Mesa. Luckily the crash did not happen over any homes, and no pedestrians/drivers on the ground were injured. Reports say that 6 people died in the crash and 4 were transported to the hospital. The crash was so loud that our therapists in our office on the 3rd floor of FMC thought it happened on the helipad outside our office. A lot of smoke could be seen from our third floor windows here, but no fire. Names are to be released at the Flagstaff City Hall at 9:00 this morning. Whatever your method of good wishes may be (thoughts, prayers), please send them over this way, to the friends and families of the victims. Hopefully I will write again soon, and the message will be more uplifting...

The Story of Stuff

2008-02-19T15:22:00.000-08:00

My dad just sent me a link to what I would claim is one of the most motivating short films I've ever seen. "The Story of Stuff" with Annie Leonard (http://www.storyofstuff.com/index.html) is a 20 minute film that tracks how our consumeristic economy works, from gathering resources for our stuff to its creation in factories, marketing and selling in big-box stores, and finally disposal in land-fills or incinerators. Annie speaks simply and convincingly, such that by the 3rd step in the 5 step process she outlines, I was already silently wondering "what can I do to help? What can I do to stop this process?" Replete with cartoon illustrations, this short film definitely "got the point accross." It also contained some interesting facts I never knew, like how during the post-WWII economic boom the government actually designed the system to run on an increasingly rapid use of resources for consumerism. I also learned that during this time, researchers actually wrote very openly in scholarly articles about just how cheaply/inefficiently/easily they could make a product (that was designed to be thrown away in as little time as possible) while still maintaining the consumers' faith in the market! I'd definitely recommend this short film to everyone.

In other news, my post-surgical rehabilitation is going well. It is slow right now because motion and resistance exercises must be limited to protect the surgical repair. I have 3 sutures inside my shoulder joint capsule, which will stay with me the rest of my life. The pictures of them from during the surgery made them look like teeny, cable ropes; they look strong, so hopefully they will do their job well. I have a home exercise program where I basically stand against a wall at different orientations and push on it with my arm; I also use a pulley system to assist my arm with movement and range of motion. I don't have to wear my sling as much; only outside of the house. In general, things are on the upswing. Thanks to everyone who sent good thoughts and well-wishes my way during this tough time.

Winter Wonderland

2007-12-11T09:31:00.000-08:00

I'm sure almost every Flagstaff blog must have the same title right about now. I don't know exactly how many inches it's snowed these last few days, but it is a LOT (and still snowing)!

After Bryan and I decided not to drive to school,

we walked instead. The normally short (20 minutes at the most) walk to school took a little over 30 mins. The walk was definitely worth it, despite being a little late for my second to last final exam. Although I will always dream of Monet's Plage (right), I always have a special place in my heart for snow. It reminds me of (here I go again) a simpler time and place; or at least my schema of a simpler time and place. I can't wait until my last final exam is over (tommorrow) so I can relax and enjoy the white stuff with Bryan. Snowmen, hot chocolate, and knitting in our cozy apartment are pretty high up on the list. Who knows? Maybe we'll even finally go cross-country skiing up at the Nordic Center like I've always wanted.

Bryan walking to school

Today the prefered ecofriendly mode of transportation is walking

Our street (Forest Meadows)

Watch out for falling snow!

Constitutional Confusion

2007-11-05T19:10:00.000-08:00

As I sit in the classroom waiting for Bryan to be done with his Monday evening class so we can go home for the day, I stare blankly at the decorations that have recently been surreptitiously added to the wall next to the doorway. Beginning this fall semester, NAU (or is it the state of Arizona?) has mandated that every classroom must display an American flag and a copy of the United States Constitution on the wall for all to see.

What does this mean? Are we to somehow feel a sudden swelling of love for America, a nation that is a hostile presence in other countries? A nation about which I can't even begin to list all the reasons why I'm embarrassed to call myself by its nationality? What were the people who decided all classrooms needed this American "paraphanilia" thinking? Is it some Big Brother type tactic to remind us all of our patriotic duties? Because it sure doesn't remind me of my rights as an American citizen (the Bill of Rights is proudly emblazoned in the centre of the copy of the Constitution); rather it reminds me of the rigidity of the original structure of our government.

These symbols do not fill me with pride for our country. Placed in our classroom passively and aggressively, they are a not-so-friendly reminder that dissent against the government, against the war, against President Bush's will that the poorer children of this nation not recieve health care at reasonable costs is ill-advised.

When It's Good, It's Good

2007-10-01T15:43:00.000-07:00

Working at the hospital is tough work. There's a lot of lifting to do, convincing people to get up who don't want to, cleaning up messes that most of us take for granted with a quick swipe of toilet paper a couple times a day. And I probably complain a fair amount about having to go to work on the weekend. But when it's good, it's good. Though those special moments may be few and far in between the less pleasant clean up moments, when the special moments happen, they can bring tears to my eyes. I can't really describe what makes these moments so great. Maybe it's the sheer simplicity of a patient being able to accomplish some of the most ordinary tasks that many of us take for granted: being able to feel the cool fall air on their skin, being able to stand up for the first time after a car accident, or even being able to roll in bed and scoot around.

I do a lot of passive range of motion on patients in the intensive care unit, and I often wonder what that patient is really like as a person. Who's hiding inside that outer shell of a person? What did they do in life? What were their hopes and dreams? Do they know what's happening to them? And then I may be able to get something as simple as a voluntary hand squeeze or toe wiggle, and this is such a huge accomplishment for them. So, even though I do more than my fair share of complaining, I think deep down I really do appreciate the opportunity to center myself, and re-calibrate my views on how amazing simple accomplishments can be if we take the time to appreciate them.

Maybe It's Not So Bad After All

2007-08-31T10:31:00.000-07:00

Yes, the week started out on a rather unenthusiastic note, but I have to say that today I'm more encouraged about the rest of the semester (there I go thinking about the future again. Or does this mean that our happiness in the present is somewhat dependent on our perceptions of the future?).

Today for cardiopulmonary therapeutics, our assignment before we came to class was to review the basic anatomy and physiology of those systems. Then our "class" consisted of 3 rounds of trivia questions we had to answer. Prizes were given out to the groups with the most "right" answers, and our homework for the weekend is to find out more information on those questions we got wrong. In short, today was a fun way to learn about some really important stuff.

I'm describing this whole learning process for a reason; last night Rachel and Steve told us about the public elementary school system in Fort Collins. They described several different learning environments that in their non-traditional approach to learning sounded really cool. After having this experience today, I'm thinking there may be something to non-traditional education (i.e. Montessori schools, etc.) after all. I mean really, besides learning basic math, reading, and writing skills in elementary school, what did we learn to prepare us to problem solve in the real world? In a way, we need to let our kids experience what failure is, and then how to best react to it; instead of letting failure completely paralyze us, we need to learn how to effectively learn from our mistakes and better ourselves in the future. What better place to start doing this than school through creative learning processes? Ok there's my soap-box for the week.

The next time I post, I will probably have lots to say about Fort Collins, since we are leaving at noon today with Steve and Rachel for our road trip!

In A Strange Place

2007-08-27T21:18:00.000-07:00

Today was the first day of classes, and for some strange reason, I wasn't as psyched as I usually am. Am I hitting a slump? In a way, I'm completely ready to be done with school, and I'm just not all that excited about this school year. But then I get to thinking... what is it that I'd rather be doing? Would I rather be living in a house, pregnant, having a job... being a "grown-up?" But then I realize that when I've got all of those things, I'll be wanting something else; probably wanting to be able to take more vacations, visit family more often, and so on. So what is it I/we really want out of life? How can I figure out how to find happiness in current situations instead of always hoping the future will get here quicker? I feel like I'm in such a strange place right now. I'm burnt out with school, but know that I shouldn't always be looking to the future. I've always thought one should strive to be more in sync with the present. Maybe this is just a response to the first day of classes, what with going over the syllabi and learning about all the projects in store for us for the semester. Let's see how the rest of the week unfolds. (There's those thoughts about the future again!)

Child-Like

2007-06-28T17:25:00.001-07:00

Lately, I've been exposed to many opportunities that remind me of how truly valuable it is to see the world through a child's eyes. Kids seem to have this wonderful personna that throws all cares to the wind. Kids aren't afraid to dance in public, or hum loudly along to a song that's playing on their toy piano, even if they are completely off-key. Kids feel free to laugh, cry spontaneously, yell loudly, and to forgive, apologize, and forget easily. Babysitting has helped me remember all these aspects about being a kid, and this has renewed the vow I made for my 23rd birthday: to live as child-like as possible. Of course, rather than implying immaturity, this means seeing the world with open eyes (cliche of the day) and not getting hung up by all the little stressors that seem to accompany the tasks of young adulthood.

Along the same line, one of the most exciting evenings I've had in a long time was last Saturday. Bryan, Rachel, Steve, and I went out to downtown Flagstaff. I love trying out local restaurants that I've never been to before; this time it was the tasty Flagstaff Brewing Company near Black Bean Burrito (also very excellent). After grilled pizzas and Porter Ale, we were off to Rendezvous for pomegranate mojitos. Then, my favorite part of the night, spontaneous dancing at the square to a reggae-sounding group we had never heard of before. Allowing myself to get completely into the music, uninhibited, and free was exhilarating. Rachel and I had a great time dancing... and I can't wait to go again (thanks Bry and Steve for putting up with us... but I know you guys had a lot of fun too)!

A Day to Remember

2007-06-20T15:23:00.000-07:00

Today is a day I'll never forget. Early this morning saw me in O.R. 15 at the Mayo Hospital in Phoenix. Wearing teal scrubs, foot wraps, and a hairnet, I stood nervously next to a wall watching doctors and nurses prepare a patient for a total hip surgery. Soon, I was positioned in a prime spot at the patient's head to watch the surgery. The surgery was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. Everything that was done seemed to make perfect sense; and it went off without a hitch; only 2 hours until everything was completely sewn up. I'll never be jealous of doctors' salaries again... they totally earn it.

On another note, I'm super excited to return to Flagstaff this coming Saturday. It's been pretty busy here trying to tie up loose ends and finish my evaluations at the clerkship site. I can't say it will be any less busy in Flagstaff, what with working 3 jobs this summer. Yet, being with Bryan and friends will make the hectic work-life fade in comparison.

Thumbs up to: Surgery! No doubt it will be the coolest experience by far I will have this summer.

Give the axe to: As much as I miss the Lumberjack "giving the axe" to something every week, I can't seem to think of much to give the axe to. Therefore, in keeping with the optimistic and happy attitude of the blog as I originally intended, the axe will not be given out except on rare occasions truly deserving of the Lumberjack's memoir.

Reving up for National Physical Therapy Month

2007-06-17T17:51:00.000-07:00

Okay, time for another plug for the PT program at NAU, and physical therapy in general. I hope to see lots of people (that includes those preparing for half marathons next year in Phoenix... hint, hint) come out for the 5k walk/run our program is organizing this October. The idea is to raise money that will be funneled into a scholarship fund to help those with Parkinson Disease (PD) participate in physical therapy.

Did you know that regular exercise and physical therapy can actually help neurons (nerve cells) build more connections? This helps a lot for those with PD, especially in allowing them to move with less limitations. Historically the role of exercise has been downplayed in slowing the progression of PD, in favor of pharmaceuticals, but recently we have learned that exercise can be extremely beneficial in preserving quality of life for those with PD. The walk/run will be a ton of fun; there will be race t-shirts, snacks, and even prizes for more serious competitors.

Keep those eyes and ears open for more as October draws nearer; suggestions to make the event a success are always appreciated! For more information on Parkinson Disease, check out the National Parkinson Foundation website at www.parkinson.org.

Prescott's Growing on Me

2007-06-14T11:32:00.000-07:00

Ultraconservatives mixed with Prescott College hippies aside, Prescott's beginning to grow on me. Although the tricity area is in serious need of efficient mass transportation, it has its perks. A dream come true would be to live in a little cottage near downtown, being able to walk to summer concerts at the square and the small boutiques in Bashford Courts.

The second weekend after my clerkship started, Bryan, Jeff and I were meandering downtown with full stomachs after a Friday night dinner of sesame chicken and mixed veggies. A band was playing at the courthouse square reminiscent of those bands that played at Buffy, Xander, and Willow's hangout. We sat and watched the band as hippie children danced around like little freeform spirits and Bill came over from Bill's Pizza to serve out free slices of pizza. Lounging on the warm steps of the courthouse that were begining to cool from the sunny day was so relaxing and calm. Maybe Bry, Rachel, Steve and I will find a similar scene in Fort Collins. Whatever city we finally settle in, I know it will be quaint, centered around an old fashioned downtown, friendly, not require long distances to drive, and be moderately liberal. So for now, here's the top 10 reasons why I love Prescott:

10. The Dinner Bell Diner followed by Coffee Roasters

9. Canton Dragon/Monsoon/Fujiyama (all great Asian food!)

8. Mild weather. About 10 degrees warmer than Flagstaff year-round.

7. Prescott College; a model of sustainability.

6. Snap Snap. Need I say more? Probably the best thrift store hands down... but that cute one by the Prescott Pantry is catching up quickly.

5. The Prescott Pantry. Where else can you feel like you've just made a meal in your own kitchen on your lunch break in Prescott?

4. The Prescott Public Library. Now complete with cafe and internet access (the only computers available when I was a kid were to search for books).

3. The Courthouse Square

2. Quaint Vintage Era houses near downtown

1. Family close by

Needless to say, Prescott is not the same without Bryan, Steve, and Rachel, frisbee in the parks, or outings at Barnes and Nobles. Looking forward to coming back to Flagstaff to enjoy all that despite my memorable stay in Prescott.

Thumbs up to: Appreciating what's in front of you.

Give the ax to: Let's spare the ax today.

Why I Love Bryan

2007-04-26T12:12:00.000-07:00

The subtitle to this blog should also read: and why I haven't been blogging in quite some time! This is because I've been studying for our Grand Poobah PT final, which I took yesterday. And now to one of the many reasons why I love Bryan. He was able to hypnotize me for the first time yesterday to help me relax before the big test, and it couldn't have been better timing. He took me through a script specifically designed for test anxiety, which let's just say I don't lack.

Some of the ideas in the session really got me to thinking. The script was about how sometimes we loose sight of how we used to be as kids: wondering and marveling at newfound knowledge, and reveling in the possibility to use that knowledge. It's far too easy at this point in my life to view knowledge as a burden, just something I need to cram into my head at the last minute for yet another midterm or practical exam. So as much as I can, I'm going to try to hang on to my inner child, espcially since I turn 23 on Saturday.

Thumbs up to: Bryan and inner children. (Also the Sun's smackdown of the Lakers on Tuesday night!)

Thumbs down to: Even THINKING about relaxing gun laws in the wake of Virginia Tech.

PT Interviews (Is it that time of year again?)

2007-03-08T21:25:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow are the PT applicant interviews for NAU. I can hardly believe that it's been an entire year since I was in the applicant position. I've come up with my questions that I will ask the students, and hopefully they work out well. I was never too fond of those "if you could be a type of (fill in the blank), what would you be and why?" Those questions are designed to test stress, but I think they are still irrelevant.

I rember being so nervous for my interviews. The (then) first year students kept encouraging us to relax, that everything would be low key. NAU did manage to pull off low-key interviews, but it was still almost impossible to relax. That's why I'm glad I'm not an usher tomorrow. I don't think I'd be able to tell the applicants anything else but to "relax." I guess somehow, you just have to put your best face forward and know that everything will turn out fine.

It is surreal to me that I will be meeting some of next year's potential PT students. These students are such a great group and will really be able to help people someday, as will my class. I'm so glad this is the profession I chose in life. I couldn't think of a more useful job that contributes to society more (for me).

Thumbs up to: People who find their jobs/careers rewarding and whose jobs have aspects of altruism to them.

Double thumbs up to: American Idol producers, who announced their intent to use American Idol as a fundraising tool to help decrease poverty in Africa and the United States.

Give the ax to: Not much. Another great day in Flagstaff, where average temperatures in the mid 40's really makes you appreciate those 60 degree days like today.

de novo

2007-03-05T19:25:00.000-08:00

Among some of the slightly bookwormish things I do, one of them is recieving a word of the day in my daily e-mail. Today's word of the day struck me: de novo. It's latin and means anew, or from the beginning. I'm realizing that being able to start each day anew is more important than what I once thought.

For example, I find myself carrying increasingly larger loads of emotional baggage as I progress through the PT program at NAU. There are so many seemingly impossible hurdles: passing my classes, passing the big exam at the end of the year, passing the boards, being able to properly diagnose, develop a plan of care, coordinate therapy services to name a few. I've noticed that I tend to carry over this emotional baggage from day to day, instead of letting go of it at night and starting each day de novo. So, in the future, I will try to start each day de novo, in hopes of decreasing my time spent worrying about what could possibly go wrong.

Thumbs up to: The beautiful, temperate day we just had in Flagstaff (nice break from the wind).

Give the ax to: Overcommitting (saying I would help with new PT applicant interviews and work at the hospital on the same day).

For Her Information

2007-03-02T14:24:00.000-08:00

This virtual magazine is just too cool to pass up telling anyone about. It's message is to "inform, inspire, and empower conscious-minded women," and can be found at: http://www.forherinformation.com/index.php.

Roses

2007-02-26T23:10:00.000-08:00

So I'm trying out a new template. It's not quite what I'd hoped for, but will do for now as I am beyond technically challenged and it took me 45 minutes today to figure out how to make the top blue and put a picture on the side of the page. Definitely not simple.

So often we hear the phrase, "stop and smell the roses." If we're the one saying it, chances are we probably aren't all that stressed. On the other hand, if it's being cheerily said to us by someone who seems to have all aspects of their lives in order, we're much less receptive to the idea. I started thinking today of all the things I enjoy, so here are a few of the current roses that I'd like to stop and smell if only I can make some time for them.

Claude Monet: Chemin dans les bles a pourville is gracing the right hand side of my poor mangled template. I've realized I love a lot of Monet's work recently, especially the seaside images (they remind me of vacations at the Cape when I was younger and future escapes to France with Bryan).

Knitting/Crocheting Baby Blankets: Whether for Project Linus, or my pregnant classmate, I'll never grow tired of it. There's just something so soothing about relaxing on the couch and making something by hand.

Sophia Coppola: Despite scarily slow-paced Lost in Translation, I loved Marie Antoinette.

Ben and Jerry's Oatmeal Cookie Dough Ice Cream: Delicious alternate to traditional cookie dough, and there can never be too many chunks of dough in the ice cream.

So that's a small list anyway.

Thumbs up to: Bryan for agreeing to go to Late for the Train with me more times than we should.

Give the ax to: water polo team members who swim in your lane with bad lane etiquette. (Off topic? Yes, but it's on my mind since I was just swimming with the pesky rascals a few hours ago.)

Is It Really Worth It?

2007-02-23T15:53:00.000-08:00

I'm going to take a rare moment for cynycism here. I'm finding out that I simply can't do everything I need to or want to anymore; there is just too much to do. What are my priorities? Do I really care so much about getting an A on a test versus having no social life? But then I think, if I don't study as hard as I can, I won't be the best PT I can be, and I could end up seriously injuring someone. So how do I study like a crazy madwoman and still maintain my ideal simplistic lifestyle?

Here is a website I came across recently that deals about what is called the quarter-life crisis: http://www.quarterlifecrisis.com/. It's a site for recent graduates/grad students about dealing with the pressures of work, a socail life, and money concerns. Other things I'm doing (besides studying neuro on a Friday afternoon - I swear I'm not!) are knitting/crocheting for project Linus (check it out at www.projectlinus.org), indulging by watching American Idol (maybe 3 days a week is a little too indulgent), and fantasizing about playing flute again.

Thumbs up to: mantaining sanity as I study for the 1st year comprehensive exam at the end of this semester.

Thumbs down to: Starbucks in the South Union running out of soymilk and chai at the same time (a valuable study aid).

Late Nite Study Break

2006-10-17T00:01:00.000-07:00

Because I (once agian) fell asleep reading pathophysiology earlier this evening, I am up late studying for my video practical in clinical anatomy. Today in my clinical communications class, we talked about assertiveness vs. agression. In today's agressive and violent society, it is often too easy to forget what true assertiveness means.

Assertiveness means being able to state one's feelings about a situation or event in a respectful way. This way, neither of the parties involved in the situation feel hurt or belittled. Assertiveness is definitely a difficult task for me, and our assignment for this week is to be assertive in at least one situation, no matter how small. Is anyone thinking "School for Scoundrels?"

On a completely different track, I am recalling the original reason I began this blog - to highlight the simple things in life, and their importance in keeping our sanity in today's bustling world. I realize that my life right now is nothing short of complex... here's a list of simple things I enjoy vs. complex stuff that's not so hot.

Simple:

1. Riding my new cruiser bike to school every day.
2. Knitting
3. Studying in small amounts every day (no cramming).
4. Reading the weekly NAU paper
5. Coffee at Late for the Train with Bryan, Rachel, and Steve

Complex:

1. Cramming for school exams
2. Group presentations (although my group's presentation this morning turned out stellar)
3. Deciding whom to stay with when visiting Prescott/Prescott Valley
4. Balancing school, work, and family
5. Laundry (if it weren't for the Flagstaff cold, clothes should definitely be optional)

Recently at NAU

2006-10-09T16:11:00.000-07:00

Being in the PT program at NAU is like being a passenger on a bullet train. Everything is moving so fast, too fast to jump off but too fast to keep up with everything. Ok so there was my metaphor for the week. Seriously, I've never had to juggle so many things at once. I am beginning to realize that all I can do is study as hard as I can (while still being able to focus) and stay optimistic and energized in the meantime.

What's great about the program, is all the students seem to really be on the same page. Classes are definitely interactive and not boring (although my bad habit of falling asleep in class after lunch would suggest otherwise).

This past weekend, Bryan and I went to Phoenix so I could attend the state meeting of the American Physical Therapy Association, and to see Steve and Rachel. The meeting was a lot of fun, and I definitely felt that I was in the right place. My favorite seminar was on pilates as a method of strengthening, and my least favorite seminar was on vocational rehabilitation and worker's compensation (yuk). The most exciting part about the conference was being involved in the general meeting where the AzAPTA officially endorsed prop 201 (smoking ban). We had a lot of fun with Steve and Rachel too....

Thumbs up to: Bryan for being able to study at Barnes and Nobles for 8 hours on Friday during my conference and staying sane.

Thumbs down to: Rising prices of organic foods - remember, the more people support organic, the less expensive it is for everyone! (Yes, that was random, but so was the exorbitant price of groceries this week.)

Also, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MOM!!! I hope your day is going great!

The Buck Stops Here (Apparently)

2006-09-16T10:29:00.000-07:00

1. One book that changed your life? Last Hours of Ancient Sunlight by Thom Hartmann

2. One book you have read more than once? Skull Mantra (can't remember the author).

3. One book you would want on a desert island? Worst Case Survival Handbook: Desert Island. Although I also like Rachel's answer - sort of a la Captain Jack Sparrow roping together a couple of sea turtles to escape being marooned on a desert island.

4. One book that made you laugh? I can't remember what books have made me laugh, but I'm sure if there was a book version of "Little Miss Sunshine," I would have fallen off my seat laughing.

5. One book that made you cry? Redemption by Leon Uris (and also my Pathophysiology text).

6. One book you wish had been written? This is a tough one. "How to survive pathophysiology."

7. One book you wish had never been written? My pathopysiology text.

8. One book you are currently reading? Since I don't have any free time to read books I'd like to read (vs assigned reading), the book I just began to re-read before school started was 1984.

9. One book you have been meaning to read? Pathophysiology (is my procrastination obvious here?)

10. Now tag five people: I think I'm so late at answering this that everyone else is all tagged out.

Raven Rant Part II

2006-07-21T13:51:00.000-07:00

After being flown at the third time by ravens (and two of them at that) today, I started realizing something. As a species on earth (Homo sapiens) we are governed by our tend toward natural selection. That is, just like any other species, we will protect our territory, fend for our young, and do just about anything to increase the numbers of our species. This is what natural selection is all about: survival of the fittest so that the fit can reproduce for the ultimate survival of the species.

As humans, however, we have super-species capabilities. We have the ability to reason about the state of our species in concert with the state of all other species and our biosphere: Earth. Whether you believe in some interpretations of the Bible that we are "stewards of the Earth," or in natural selection and evolution, at some point, we have to consider the consequences of our wasteful actions as a species. Such actions mean both that we are bad stewards and that we are not acting in the best interests of our species.

Say we go the natural selection route. If we acted in the best interests of our species, we would understand that the small things we do today that harm the environment are not worth the ultimate consequences we will reap in the future. We would realize that sustainable living is the only solution to the survival of our species.

Something to ponder: What is “sustainability?” Living in balance and interacting with our communities and our planet in ways that will sustain all forms of life now and in the future. (from Yes! magazine's FAQ page on their website, www.yesmagazine.org)

In other related musings, how ironic is it to create 1,000 (disposable) stickers for the Kids for Conservation program at the Coconino Community Fair coming up this September? Ah, the clash of the office place and personal beliefs.

"Quoth the Raven, Nevermore"

2006-07-20T08:08:00.000-07:00

Walking to school this morning I came up to the Forestry building through the closed down fire lane between the old business building and the city bus barn, like I do every day I come to work. Suddenly I felt a slight brush on my head and a second later I saw a large black raven fly upward and land on a nearby pine bough. The raven hunched over, bristling its feathers at me, silently inquiring about my presence.

A few weeks earlier I had a similar encounter with a much noisier relative of today's raven. The raven a few weeks earlier flew at me several times, squawking in protest of my invasion of its territory, but never touched me like today's raven.

My first thoughts about these ravens were ones of protest. Crazy birds... what's their problem? Then I realized, their problem is plainly me. So often I think we take an anthropocentric approach to living. We'll say "when's it going to rain? We really need it by now," instead of "the earth could really do with some fresh moisture right about now."

Bryan and I watched a show on the National Geographic channel a few days ago, "Mega Structures." The show chronicled the story of the Chinese struggle in building bridges to "span the rivers that divide the country." This is clearly not a chicken and the egg scenario. The rivers came first and then the Chinese. It is people who have settled themselves along the banks of life-giving rivers and then turn their backs on the continually giving Earth and state that it is "dividing the people."

Even though the School of Forestry building at NAU is one of the most remote buildings, set more within the pines than any other building on campus, it is still intruding on the earth and the life processes of many species. Until the end of the ravens' nesting season at least, I will keep my distance from the footpaths that wind through the forest to my work.

Challenge Your Thinking

2006-06-21T08:34:00.000-07:00

I believe that on a more frequent basis, we need to challenge our current paradigms of thinking. This concept is also heralded by authors Neale Donald Walsh (Conversations With God) and Thom Hartmann (Last Hours of Ancient Sunlight, and others). Living our lives according to old and stagnant ways of thinking is one of the larger reasons for the poor state of current human affairs. For an example of fresh thinking, check out this link to one of Thom's articles on commondreams.org: http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0619-22.htm.

Office Space

2006-05-25T10:04:00.000-07:00

So now that the majority of my mornings will be spent at my new office assistant job in the School of Forestry, I might have a little more time (than during the school year) to blog. Not to complain or anything, but this job has given me visions of long days of work stretched out before me for the rest of my life. But since the aim of this site is to see the good in the bad, I am realizing that all I need to do is find the balance between work and play. Plus, there are other advantages to an office job. For example, I am learning to appreciate and be entertained by the very small things in life. Like walking to the staff room for a cup of coffee. Or reorganizing the storage room. You know, stopping to smell the roses and all that.

Ok, sarcasm aside, these past few weeks have been rather enjoyable. It was so exciting traveling to Las Vegas with Bryan for Steve and Rachel's wedding. Despite one minor setback trying to find I-95 South to return to Flagstaff, we did awesome for our first time driving in a big city. The wedding was the most beautiful wedding I have ever seen. Everything seemed to go perfectly, and I am so excited for Steve and Rachel to finally be married.

Thumbs up to: the perfect match of Steve and Rachel.

Thumbs down to: nothing. The sun is warm and the grass is green. (Karate Kid)

Nice Hippie, Bad Hippie

2006-04-12T21:08:00.000-07:00

So maybe those of you who read this will know the specific people I'm talking about. I mentioned in one of my earlier posts that there seem to be two classes of people who love Mama Earth and believe in sustainable living: nice hippies and bad hippies. I think that every little thing someone does to lessen their negative impact on the environment is a positive thing. Why are some people so bent on criticizing those who don't "do enough" in their eyes? These "bad hippies" seem to look down their noses at the rest of us who happen to use a credit card every once in a while, or drink at a Starbucks here and there. Granted, getting your perk at a local coffee shop may have some more positive impacts on the local economy and fair trade practices, but Starbucks is doing some pretty interesting things too (fair trade coffee, promoting compositng), for such a business giant.

Bad hippies seem to forget the hippie golden rule, the golden rule that should govern everyone: do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Or in non biblical diction: treat everyone how you would like to be treated. Being nasty to someone because they may have different values is forgetting the hippie golden rule. We all have different values (and life would be pretty boring if we didn't), but we also all have something in common. Each of us is a human being at our root. By this I mean that each of us is vulnerable at times. We all value appreciation of who we are; no one likes to be degraded.

If we want to affect change for the good of the environment, the best way to do so is through caring and compassion. SUV drivers who get the bird during an NAU mass of bikes event are even less likely than before to consider checking out an awesome Prius or Civic hybrid. We all make many choices everyday that affect how much longer Mama Earth will let us stay, so let's choose to be nice hippies and maybe she'll let us stay a little longer.

Give the ax to: bad hippies (obviously).

Thumbs up to: strip-aerobics classes being offered at the NAU rec center, which promote women's love for their own bodies, no matter what shape, size, or level of coordination.

Cooling Down In Flagstaff

2006-03-10T13:35:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know the title is redundant, but that's basically how it is in Flagstaff. Right now, as I sit in the south LAC I'm watching the weather out of the glass doors and every five minutes or so it is completely white outside, furiously snowing, followed by no snow at all for another five minutes. It seems as if to make up for a lack of moisture this winter Mother Nature decided to let all hell loose this weekend. The snow is amazing and beautiful, but sometimes frightening at times. Everyone seems to be in a great agreeance that finally having a good winter snowstorm is awesome for Flag.

Today I had my interviews for the physical therapy program at NAU. I have to say, they were MUCH less stressful than I thought they would be. Before going to the interviews, I saw my classmates that had also been accepted as potential threats to getting into PT school (as ashamed as I am to say this, entering such an altruistic profession). But in retrospect, once we went into the interviews together, we were all in the same boat. Everyone was so encouraging and positive, and I hope that I will always remember that. Medical oriented schools are so competetive already, and I don't need to add to the stress of the whole process.

Thumbs up to: long-needed moisture in Flag.

Give the ax to: The Lumberjack for still not posting any thumbs up to/give the ax to columns. (And on a more entertainment oriented note, to American Idol voters for voting off Gideon last night.)

Warming Up in Flagstaff

2006-02-12T09:27:00.000-08:00

So one great thing about Flagstaff this winter is that it doesn't seem like Flagstaff at all. With the exception of yesterday, the days have been mild with hardly any wind at all. Enough to get me to start watering the outdoor flower beds again. Although it is always hard to place the events of one year in the broader context of global weather patterns, a part of me can't help but wonder about global warming. Is this just a singular event this year or part of a much larger trend?

Great movie must see: The Skeleton Key. Maybe I liked it because I only screamed a few times (much less than normal for a scary movie), but it also had a really cool plot. The movie's all about Hoodoo in the New Orleans Bayou district and has a great twist near the end.

There is a type of person I usually like to identify myself as, but yesterday I realized some aspects of this type of person that I would rather not be. For example, it is one thing to love Mother Earth and live your life in a way that has the least negative impact on the natural environment. It is another thing to treat other human beings negatively because they could have a potentially negative impact on the environment. All humans have sprung from the earth too. I believe that all people should be treated fairly and equally, because just as all people have the potential to harm Mother Earth, all people also have a fairly large potential of protecting her and living life in the most sustainable way possible. The only way to show people this potential is through openness and love, not by showing distain for their way of life because they don't eat enought tofu... for example, some of the most "hippie" people I see around town are also the meanest to others.

Thumbs up to: Bryan for being awesome.

Give the ax to: mean "hippies."

Random

2006-02-04T09:12:00.000-08:00

So it is true. Senioritis. I swore it wouldn't happen to me, and I swore that I would be on top of all my work this semester. Ha ha. I've realized that the only way to stay sane is to simply not worry about it all. I just have to realize that with a little work (but not by overworking), everything that needs to get done this semester will get done without so many worries.

A few days ago in my history class (Medicine and Society), we were discussing AIDS. I've always understood that it is a huge problem faced by millions of people, a great majority of whom have never understood how the HIV virus is transmitted, and who've never had access to life-saving drugs. Commercials on TV urge us to "help join the fight against AIDS." But I've never understood quite what it is that I as an individual could do to help fight such a huge pandemic. Then at class last Thursday, a student guest came in - she's only my age, but has had a ton of experience volunteering with AIDS prevention programs in South America and Africa - she's even been to the US Capitol to help introduce legislation! This student has motivated and inspired me. I've realized there are things I can do to help. There are groups all over the country that help increase awareness about how HIV is transmitted and help introduce legislation to help those in countries hit hardest by AIDS (legislation that doesn't only give money to "faith-based" groups teaching abstinence only).

In other news, check out "Incite," a blog by Rachel's dad. It's always interesting to read and provides unique views on topics we rarely think about but are important parts of our lives, such as how each of us is a living, breathing miracle.

Since the Lumberjack is no longer posting it's "Give the Ax to..." section, I've decided to create my own:

Thumbs up: For those who are fighting to end inequalities against women in poorer countries, since in these countries women have some of the highest rates of being infected with HIV.

Give the ax to: President Bush for being "addicted to oil."

Day at Home From School

2006-01-26T09:19:00.000-08:00

Day one post surgery: I'm feeling much better today after having arthroscopic surgery on my wrist yesterday. The worst part is over and now I just have to concentrate on feeling better and staying positive.

As for other news, way to go, Mom and Dad! I think it's awesome that you flew all the way out to Boston to suprise Evan at his swim meet. I can't even imagine how surprised Evan must have been!

My very first quilt is all finished, 6 months after its beginning. I would definitely recommend the Quilting I class at Pine Country Quilts near the Campus Coffee Bean. The class is pretty fun, but expect a big time commitment and to shell out a pretty penny for all the start up supplies. But hey, at least you're all set up for your next fabulous quilting project! When I have time to quilt again and maybe a little more room to quilt in, I'd love to try some neat vintage designs. As soon as I can, I will post up a picture of my finished quilt.

Well, I guess winter has finally arrived in Flag this year. True to Flagstaff style, the days have been cold, windy, and very icy. The best weather for which to stay inside, curled up with a hot mug of tea and a good book.

Da da da dum, da da da dum, dum da da dum dum da da da da dum. That was the tune of the wedding march, In case you didn't know. I'm so excited to be planning my wedding in addition to being a part of Steve and Rachel's wedding. Who knew there were so many options for invitation cards?

That's all for now, assayez hereuses et etre simple! (Bad French, I'm sure, but at least I tried!)

Late Night Musings

2005-12-27T22:08:00.001-08:00

Everyone always says the big question is "why are we here?" Why is this such a difficult question to answer? One could say: why are the flowers here? The insects, the fish, all the other animals that walk the earth or fly high in the sky? Seems to me that while everyone is so busy asking the question "why," we lose sight of what makes us human, and why being human can be wonderful.

From asking the question "why," we have countless religious beliefs, moral philosophies, treatsies on the rights of man, et cetera, et cetera. How many wars have been fought over the question "why?" Maybe I'm too simplistic to understand the reality of it all.

On the other hand, I've realized that I am disenchanted with what we claim is reality. I'm disenchanted with politics, disenchanted with religion, disenchanted with economics. What is the point of it all when "we come into this world with not a cent to our name, and leave this world likewise," as Paramahansa Yogananda's father once said?

Let's direct our energy to what should be the meaning of life, our "why:" enjoying eachother. Enjoying other human beings, other animals, other plantlife. For what else are we here for that makes a difference? Crooked politicians will have their way, wars will be fought and lost, inflation will always exist, and people will always be "saving" people.

What makes the real difference is happiness and joy that people can bring to one another when they stop and take a moment from this hectic life we are supposed to lead. When people stop and realize that everyone around them is just the same, and that all anyone ever really wants is to be loved and accepted and cherished.

If I could wish for one thing for the New Year, it would be for us to all realize that happiness is not so far away. Happiness is where we create it, with the people we know and love, but never spend as much time with them as we should. "Why are we here" isn't the real question. The real question is "since we are here...."

Back To School

2005-11-17T13:16:00.000-08:00

After a crazy weekend of academics and dancing in Las Vegas, I'm glad to be back in school, not missing classes, and generally worrying about the massive amounts of homework due by the end of the semester in 4 weeks. I will say this much about Las Vegas though:

1. wearing comfortable shoes is a must
2. pretending to have a French accent near the gardens at the Bellagio gets you and a friend into "Light" for an opportunity to dance the night away
3. gambling is okay for some, but I've spent my first and last dollar on gambling that I ever will
4. certain pictures will never see the light of day

Expect the Unexpected

2005-10-04T15:07:00.000-07:00

Who would have thought that come 2:00 today I would be discussing DNA replication and genetic inheritance models with my (very) conservative developmental psychology professor? When I began the semester, I heard that this professor would be very biased and that he would constantly promote his views and put down other (more liberal) points of view. I admit this professor has shortcomings in some arguments (likes to play the blame game), yet blaming aside, actually makes an effort to understand new developments in biological sciences, and to incorporate these developments into the way he teaches his classes. Hooray for biased professors who teach unbiased (for the most part) classes!

Couples Hollandaise

2005-09-30T17:08:00.000-07:00

Here's a quick and fun classic Hollandaise sauce recipe adapted for two. Hollandaise sauce is great on fish and chicken, and is usually tough to make, but with two people, things are much simpler.

Ingredients:
3 egg yolks
4 T. boiling water
1/2 c. melted butter
1 1/2 tsp. lemon juice
pinch salt
pinch cayenne
A couple (one to add ingredients, and one to keep whisking)

Heat water in a double boiler to hot, but not boiling. Add the egg yolks and stir with a whisk until they begin to thicken. Add one T boiling water, stir until they begin to thicken, and repeat this process until the 3 remaining T boiling water are used up. Add the lemon juice, remove from heat and whisk in the butter. Finally, add the salt and cayenne and serve immediately. Enjoy with your partner!

Living in my Back Body

2005-09-22T13:36:00.000-07:00

On the very first day of beginning yoga this semester, Dr. Connor had us all practice a very simple exercise. We were told to walk across the room several times as if each of us were a horse with a carrot dangling in front of our mouths. We listened to the sounds made by our hurrying bodies, and observed our forward-slanted postures. Then, we practiced walking more in what Dr. Connor calls the "back body." Being in our front body, or walking toward the figurative carrot is analagous to making a constant mad rush for the future and being worried about classes, work, and extracurricular activities. Being equally in the front and in the back body means being fully aware of the present and making every minute of the day personally fulfilling.

Recently I've been having a hard time dealing with the pressures many people place on getting into graduate school. There's the GRE to worry about, internships, and getting stellar references. But then I realized that I've totally forgotten about my back body. Today I'm turning over a new leaf, which means withdrawing from some committments and making more time for myself, family, and friends. I'll still work hard to get good grades and submit an amazing application to PT school, but what use are these efforts if I don't enjoy myself at the same time?

Three cheers for not overcommitting and for living in the back body.

Life Rythms

2005-09-12T14:36:00.000-07:00

Days seem to be long and busy in Flagstaff lately. Between school, work, and play, it seems there is hardly any down time to veg. But sometimes being busy can be pretty fun. I'm enjoying flowing in the rhythm of life as a peaceful, warm summer gives way to a windy and alive fall.

I'm realizing more and more that I am still very much on a journey of self-discovery. I've been playing piano since I can't remember, and I'm still nervous to play songs in the middle of Cowden lobby. And for some reason, unlike Freshman year, I am more self-conscious in crowds and less likely to converse with random strangers.

In biochemistry, we are learning about DNA and protein coding. Sometimes I am simply amazed at how many combinations such a small amount of information can create, and ultimately lead to the diversity of life on Earth. Even with my simple understanding of the concept, it is completely mind-boggling!

The split rail quilt I'm creating for the Quilting I class at Pine Country Quilts is coming along very nicely. I can't remember the last time I've sewed this much! I am definitely more interested in 1930's quilts and heirloom quilts than modern varieties, though. The bright flowery 1930's patterns and flower gardens are so pretty!

Here's to being busy and keeping it simple at the same time.

Early One Morn'

2005-08-20T05:54:00.000-07:00

As I realize I've gotten up way too early for this year's Climb the Mountain to Conquer Cancer event, maybe I should put up a post.

There's something to be said for artisanal crafts. Knitting, tatting, quiltmaking, crochet... good skills like these are quickly waning in today's society. I'm a knitter and crochet (er?), and will soon be learning how to quilt, but why do I hang on to these old-fashioned trades? When I'm knitting, I need to focus on that project. I can't process watching TV or listening to NPR while knitting - I'm forced to replay a simpler mode of life. There's nothing more calming than sitting quietly, soft ball of alpaca yarn in my lap, listening to music or the sound of friends laughing, and creating something beautiful at the same time.

Last night, Rachel, Steve, Bryan, and I all went out to Monsoon and then Barnes and Nobles for coffee. One hot topic was wedding planning, and it seems like Bryan and I have our work cut out for us. We aren't that interested in a very traditional wedding, but still, maybe knowing the date and where the wedding will take place a little in advance are good ideas.

One sore spot. The GRE. That's all I'm saying.

Summer Reading

2005-08-12T06:41:00.000-07:00

One thing I know I'll miss about summer is being able to read books for pleasure. Two that I'd recommend are Life of Pi by Yan Martel and The Story of B by Daniel Quinn, the author of Ishmael. Life of Pi is about how a young boy from India develops his spirituality and also his survival instinct (I can't say much more or I'll give away the plot). I'm in the process of reading The Story of B, and it is very interesting so far, as I expected since it's subtitle is An Adventure of the Mind and Spirit. There is great philosophical discussion in this book, and I keep remembering one line in particular:

" If the world is saved, it will be saved by people with changed minds,

people with a new vision. It will not be saved by people with old minds

and new programs. it will not be saved by people with the old vision

but a new program."

One reason for all this book reading is that Flagstaff is in the midst of monsoon season. Every day brings inches of rain, all with spectacular displays of lightning and explosions of thunder. This means clear mornings that smell fresh and dewy, and cozy afternoons indoors playing games and reading books. The monsoon season is predicted to last two weeks into September, so maybe this means the drought is disappearing little by little.

Calm before the storm

Meanwhile, Bryan and I are babysitting a friend's wonderful, tiny, almost all white kitten. His name is Coconut, and he has been a joy to have in the apartment. Coco pounces on anything and everything, moving or not moving. After keeping us up the first night with his antics, we tired him out with play before going to bed last night, and things were much more peaceful. Until he woke me up at 6:30 am todayby scampering all over the bed, ha ha. Sleeping now, he seems so peaceful, and I can't wait until Bryan and I have a place big enough to be fair to keep our own animals.

Coconut

Cat Days of Summer

2005-08-04T08:35:00.000-07:00

Who ever coined the term "dog days of summer" anyway? With one month left of summer, Bryan and I are keeping busy with work and play. While we both agree there may be more entertainment options in Prescott, Flagstaff beats all for keeping things simple.

Flagstaff reminds us that we don't have to always see the latest movie at the theatres, or even dine at a different restaurant every Friday night (three cheers for El Capitan). Flagstaff lets us walk to a slower and more peaceful pace of life. Nothing beats staying up all night under the glittering sea of stars with friends at a star-party, or any other "s" party for that matter.

And if anything is better than living in Flagstaff, it's living in a studio apartment in Flagstaff. Having all the material possessions one could ever want denies us true happiness, because nothing challenges creativity and being at peace with one's lifestyle like not posessing everything. How's that for a tounge twister?

As summer comes to a close a new school year is fast approaching. Students are moving back to Flagstaff, and I'm excited for a change of pace. The cooler weather means more knitting, and hopefully I'll be able to post some pictures of knitting projects soon. I will soon be buying my blood pressure cuff and stethoscope to finish up my final year as an exercise science major. Prochnow movies will be playing at NAU again, and we will be having the annual Jaws night at the pool in September. Ahh... life in the pines.

One Step at a Time

2005-07-20T10:21:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it seems so difficult to make progress in this world, but things don't always have to seem this way. How easy it is to believe that you don't make a difference in this world. How easy it is to think that just that one extra trip to the supermarket for a dinner ingredient doesn't make a difference in greenhouse gas emissions. Yet if everyone believes they don't make an individual impact on the environment, just think of how great an impact our combined actions create. Every little effort counts. Here are links to a few e-mail newsletters that I enjoy due to their emphasis on the importance of individual impact on our precious environment: redjellyfish.com and nrdc.org (look for a link to recieve the newsletter called "This Green Life").

Beginning

2005-07-14T10:42:00.000-07:00

This blog is dedicated to living simply, freely, and in the moment. Comments are welcome as long as they are positive and harmonious. I am very excited to start this blog and look forward to posting!