Making dreams a reality

My girlfriends friend wants to be a fashion designer, and instead of just drawing dresses for fun, or sitting wishing he had certain opportunities he makes them for himself. Its so inspiring to see someone who has a dream that not many people support, but is still making the most out of everything he has and goes beyond peoples expectations. I hope to do that for my parents and everyone out there who's ever doubted me. I want to be extremely successful in business and prove people who had doubts in me wrong for my own benefit. It's great to be around people with a passion and I hope to find more of them on my way to the top tier of success.

Basketball Wins!

Multiple times a week I go to the rec and play basketball with some buddies. Even though its just for fun, I really get into it because I have a strong competitive spirit. Every now now and then I hurt myself by landing wrong or getting fouled. I had a game winning 3 pointer even though a guy was right in my face with his hand up trying to block it. I feel so amazing when I'm winning. I love to use my brain and body to make the most out of every situation I'm in. I like to challenge myself, and basketball is a great way that I can get exercise, have fun, and most importantly, win.

Eating Right

Its been so hard to maintain a healthy diet in college. Thankfully I had good standards of what healthy eating looked like before hand and realized the consequences of choosing foods that aren't helpful to my body. Some weeks I eat minimally and choose good foods, but other times I'm with friends who are stopping somewhere quick, or who want a late night snack and I join them in eating that pizza or that burger then don't feel good later. I honestly try to keep my body in the best of shape, and being stern in my need to eat beneficial foods is a goal I would like to continue succeeding with.

Packing up

Its so strange to be done with my first year of college. A lot of people were hoping I would be successful and I'm happy to make them proud. I've done so much better than I thought I would and learned so much about studying and managing my time wisely. First semester I thought that I just had to go it alone on the fate of my grades, but this semester I learned that in order to improve my grades and my education I need to communicate with my teachers problems that I'm having and things that I would like to fix.

The Most Interesting Man In the World

A few weekends ago I met an elderly man that was very much alive. I made a connection with him instantly because he had a deep passion for baseball. He told me he had multiple season tickets for baseball and football teams. We formed such an instant relationship that he invited me to use his season tickets to see a game. He invited me to his house to pick up the tickets. When I got there he was swinging on his porch in front of his 25 acre plantation. He had a huge amount of land where he grew squash and other vegetables to use for his amazing recipes. He also hunts with bows and teaches his dogs to point and help him hunt. The most interesting thing I learned though, besides the fact that he was a president of 6 different companies, was that he was the secretary in Charlie Wilson’s War. To think that he such a huge part in a largely known historical event was incredible. I can’t wait to talk to him again.

Family in Colorado

The nice thing about having parents who live in Colorado is getting to visit as often as I want. The atmosphere up there is so inspiring. It really gives me a deep connection to the earth. Not to mention I love attending concerts at the Red Rocks. The acoustics are great there. This summer I'm going to do the Urban Assault Race there. It's this scavenger hunt on bikes thats so much fun every year and tests you in both physical and mental challenges. I'm looking forward to biking in the mountain regions. Its going to be amazing. I also can't wait to see my parents again. Its been tough not having them near to talk to.

Easter Sunday

Despite my parents no longer living in town, I still made sure to attend the service at our church. It was a great day to connect with the true meaning of the day and see old faces. I did wish that we had a different Priest, because the guy who usually speaks was not doing the sermon I went to, but I got to see him afterwards and let him know how things are going at Texas State. It was also fun to see the new alter servers because I used to be one myself. I was looking sharp of course. I wish that more people would respect the service, especially on such an important holiday in the religion.

The death of Osama

The death of Osama finally brought closure to all those families that had lost love ones because of his terror. I'm so happy that our troops have been working so diligently to find peace for our nation. Obama's speech to the nation did a great job of bringing the nation together and letting us know that he still cares and has been working hard. On a side note, I recently watched the King's Speech and it made me appreciate Obama's presence in front of the public that much more.

Dangers of Biking

This past year I started bicycle racing. I've been training with the Texas State Cycling team and thankfully have only had a few minor tip overs. Some people havn't been as lucky though. A family friend of mine got hit by a car while riding his bike. He broke his wrist and his foot and now has a boot on his foot and is using crutches. He got a huge bruise on his upper thigh and is scraped up all over. To make matters worse he has a new baby at home and a wife who doesn't have a job. Poor guy is now in recovery mode and is amazingly pissed that a person wouldn't have the courtesy to stop and check if he was okay. Knock on wood that I stay injury-free.

Serendipitous happenings

For SXSW my friend Frank needed a wristband. By the time we made it to the parmer event center we found out that they didn't have any more general admission wristbands, but if you were a badge holder you could buy one. So we decided it'd be a good idea to find someone with a badge. Thankfully we did and when frank went up to the counter he asked if he was an artist and just for the hell of it he said yes. Little did he know that he would get a free backpack and free beer. He sure got lucky.

Mastering the comma splice

For years I had english teachers correcting my papers about simple conjunctions. I looked at the comment, but never really searched to understand the rule. My teacher continuously griped at us about it though, so I finally decided for the final I would sit down and understand it for myself. The sad thing is that it wasn't even that hard or that crazy of an idea. I just never thought it mattered that much until I realized that I needed to start sounding more professional and aware in my writing. I'm glad I learned the rule along with other writing techniques, they have helped me to make higher grades on my essays and feel more confident overall.

Another Long Night at Alkek

Its amazing how many people are packed in here. I had to really make a conscious effort to force myself to start studying a week in advance because I generally figured I could get by studying the night before. This year, I've definatly learned the advantage of preparing ahead of time. Starting my studying early has allowed me to really assess what I need to review, and take my time without the added stress of lack of time on me. Though my study environment wasn't the best, I was able to listen to music and zone in on my classes.

Finals

The great thing about finals is that it means I will be done very soon, the bad part is the immense amount of studying. Its so tough having to go over large amounts of material, especially when your brain isn't ready to focus, or the environment is crowded. Its also hard to learn what study methods are most effective. It was stressful trying to go to the library or coffee shops because they were so hectic I couldn't concentrate. Thankfully I found that Sewell Park was a great place to study. I feel like I've done a good job of understanding my materials.

Anniversary Dinner

My girlfriend and I celebrated our 2 year anniversary recently. We went to Gold Class Cinemas, the movie theatre with the comfy reclining seats. We ate some delicious pizza and quesadillas and saw the movie Arthur. It ended up being more of a love story than a comedy, but it was great for the occasion. My girlfriend also made me a cookie cake since cookies are my favorite dessert. It was great to enjoy some quality time with the person I care about most.

You ain't got no Yeezy?

Over spring break I went to shows at SXSW. The best one by far was the Kanye West Secret Show. That day me, my girlfriend, and my friend Frank got to the line at 2:30pm. There were a few people in the line, but it was considerably short. We sat there all day. We got to know the people around us pretty well seeing as 5 hours is a long ass time to be sitting waiting. We found out that the only way to get into the concert was by having a text from VEVO saying that you were in. Well we didn't exactly have that text, but we found a place along some train tracks where the fence was open. I kept looking for other options to get in. We talked to the security guy and made a deal with him to get us in. Unfortunatly when it came time to go in, he wasn't being so helpful because he had police watching. Before they let people from the line in they let in all these groups of older people that didn't look like kanye fans. Once I realized the guy wasn't going to be able to help us, I scoped out an open area between a tent and a fence that was off to the side. When the guards were busy, my girlfriend and I walked right in to that opening. We realized we were about to be caught if we stayed with the tech-y looking people getting badges so we went to another group of people. They didnt have backpacks and all the girls had heels. Thankfully my girlfriend was able to blend in a bit and we made sure to converse with the people around us. They started sectioning off the girls and guys to check ID's, of which none of us had. My girlfriend walked up to the table and realized she needed ID, so she said she needed to get it from a friend and surprisingly was able to walk right in and past the stage area to the bathroom. I snuck in past 2 guards going around a camera man then waited in the lounge area. By that time we were in, even though we didn't have any badges, had huge backpacks, and looked like we had been outside all day. We got to watch the whole concert in the front. My girlfriend saw Bon Iver and Kanye warming up for "Lost in the World." Kid Cudi, John Legend, Pusha-T, Big Sean, Cyhi Da Prince, and last but not least Jay-Z. P Diddy stopped by to watch. "All of the Lights" was performed with the Reagan Marching Band, it was the craziest, most amazing thing ever. It was really a story of a lifetime.

HE'S DEAD!!!!

Thank you to our Military for staying vigilant.  Osama Bin Laden is DEAD!!!! 

Finally Finished!

Finally the semester is over and finals are on their way. Although im happy school is over i did think it went by super fast. I had a great time in this US seminar class it was fun an cool. All my other classes were great also this semester turned out to be a good one. I have no complaints except for maybe not going to the river enough. Well i hope everyone does well on their finals and i hope yall have a great summer!

ROYAL WEDDING

Lately with all of the sadness and dispair on the television it sure was great getting to see a happy ending. Future King of England, Prince William and Kate Middleton tied the knot in historic Westminster Abbey in a beautiful ceremony. I stayed up to watch the monumental nuptials. All the talk on the media was what the bride, Kate Middleton, would wear and what designer she would choose. She wore a Sara Burton gown with laced chest and arms and a sweetheart neckline followed by a beautiful train. All of England's finest showed up for the affair and all of the women attending were told via invitation to wear hats. Hats of all shapes and sizes were seen as the excited guests entered the building. All of the music and messages given during the ceremony were quite beautiful and meaningful. I hope that The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge live a long a healthy life together so that there still may be hope that fairy tales still do exist.

Ready for summer

Ready for summer, ready to get these classes over with and ready for finals.

Done

Im happy that this is the last friday class i have to wake up for. Its been very hard making it to class after many long thursday nights. I would like to say though that we were fortunate to have a cool professor. I wish everyone well in whatever yall choose to do in yalls future.

My last blog?

Omg! is this really going to be my last blog for this class? Lol. Yes i am saying that in a sarcastic way. But i am not saying it as in "blogging" was just a workload, because trust me it wasn't. It was actually trying to remember to blog that became the workload. lol. I enjoyed this class this semester, and I really didn't see it as beneficial, but whatever, i don't make the rules right? ha. I guess it was a clas to help you, well idk, not have a full schedule of course classes maybe. I did like my classmates tho. I felt like ebing in this class with them, made like a connection with everyone. yes i loved the connection however, I am very happy for this class to be done. everyone have a great summer! See you all 2marro morning for our last class day. :)

Summer!!

I suprised this week is going by so fast. I have been completely busy turning in last minute assignments and wrapping up classes. I can wait for the next few weeks. My finals are pretty spread out so i will have plenty of time to study and move out. This summer is going to mainly consist of me working and getting my thing together to move into my new apartment next year. I am taking a few vacations, one to panama and one to visit my greandparents in Atlanta, GA.

DAMN!!!!!!!!!!!

this shit bout to over!!! im real excited, but sad cause this ohhhh so wonderful class is gonna be over -.- i love you kelly

Wrapping it all up!

I think this will be the last blog! I am happy school is almost over. ACC still goes all the way till May the 15th but US is one less that I have to worry about. I did enjoy the time in class with all of you and I wish each and everyone of you a great year at school and a great experiece all the 4 years. You are all wonderful kiddos! See you for the last time on Friday and Lets PARTY!!!

My Last Blog

What do I say in the last blog?  It's hard to believe that my first semester is almost at an end.  The challenges of my classes have kept things interesting.  I have really enjoyed breaking out of the shell I had been in for so many years.  I'm still working on it, but I'm going full steam now, so it won't be long.  I officially registered for Fall last Friday, so I'm excited about getting a better choice of classes.  I had to come to school this semester five days a week.  That is a lot of fuel.  I have all my Fall classes on Tuesday and Thursday. (except one)  I'm the most excited about registering for "Beginning Scuba".  The Scuba lecture is on Tuesday evening, but I signed up for the "lab" on Friday morning, so I could have four days of Scuba freedom.  I'll be busting my butt this summer at my old job, so I can afford all the gear I need.  I've also been exercising seven days a week for the last three weeks in order to slim down and live healthier.  I went to HEB three weeks ago and used their health machine.  It said my blood pressure was Stage II and that I should contact my health care physician immediately, I ran the test twice with the same result.  (FYI, the levels are: Normal / Pre-Hypertensive / Stage I / Stage II)  I weighed in at 257 lbs. (I should be around 206).  After seeing that I bought fruits, vegetables, homemade salad stuff, several purified water (gallons).  I stopped my coffee intake and started drinking water all day, I also started eating fruits only for breakfast, vegetables or peanuts for snacks and a salad for dinner.  What I put on the salad is healthy also.  I make sure to exercise for at least two hours everyday.  I went back to HEB nine days later and my blood pressure was at Pre-Hypertensive and I was at 250 lbs.  Needless to say, I felt really good about that progress.  I'm going back on Thursday to try it again.  I'm hoping for normal blood pressure and the loss of a few more pounds, so my fingers are crossed.  I stopped smoking on December 1st of 2010, so that coupled with this diet has made me feel pretty good all around.  Well, I guess it's that time.  It has been really nice getting to know all of you.  I'll be in class Friday, but just to let you all know on here also, I wish you all the best of luck in the future.  This is Jason signing off!   (how dramatic lol)

Easter weekend/finals/overall semester/summer

My easter weekend was fantastic! I loved being home with my family and relaxing. I would have to say that this was the best easter i have had yet. Finals. Hmm i am not excited about finals in the slightest. but if it means im that much closer to summer, then i will put a smile on my face and get through it. I better start studying now :/ ugh. This semester has just flown by and i think everyone can agree with me. It seems like yesterday i was trying to find the US seminar classroom. I was not looking forward to this class at all, but now that its all over with, its safe to say i enjoyed it very much and had a lot of fun with you guys. (:

Have a Great Summer Everyone!

Last week was my last University Seminar class. I will be flying out of the state for some training for work and will not be there this Friday. This last semester just seemed to fly right by and I'm glad it's almost finally over. I only have a few more days of school left and hopefully I don't have to take any of my finals next week.

I don't know if we were going to discuss any semester highs or lows this Friday. But if we were going to discuss them I would have to say that my semester high was accomplishing my academic goals. My low, hmmmm, I can't really say that I had a semester low, I usually just had an occasionally nervous break down with my work load but it always managed to work itself out in the end.

I hope you all have a great summer and I will see you all around.

HAPPY EASTER!!!

When Easter Eggs Hatch!

Easterrrrr

going home for the weekend, last type of rest before crunch time!

the finals are coming! the finals are coming!

guess what guys?...the finals are coming! out of all of my exams i am the most worried about math. i have a borderline C at the moment and I really need it to stay like that. math has never been one of my best subjects and in college nothing changed. my brain does not think in numbers. i am sure that i will do really well on my others. i think my favorite class this year was geography. alot more than geography was taught and i think that is important. if you ever have the chance to take geo 1310 do it!

Easter weekend

I am ready for easter weekend but I am also overwhelmed with work and I just want to be done with work and school. I also have two job interviews this weekend.

Autobiography

I was really not wanting to do this whole autobiography crap. It seemed really pointless to me, until i started on it. It really brought up some emotional in me as i was going through my journey of how i got to where i am now. im presenting tomorrow so im sorta nervous. but i dont have a problem speaking in front of people. Especially our class since we have grown closer this semester. After that activity the other day, i feel very comfortable in front of my classmates. Well only a couple more blogs left... cant wait for the summer (:

closing time

so the end is near and i thought it wasonly gonna get easier. instead this last few weeks ive found myself slacking majorly. as of now im pretty sure my grades look pretty good, but after the last couple weeks i cant be too sure. hopefully it all works out and im not an upset student going into wat i hope to an excellent summer. all i know is that next semester will be a few notches better than this initial term.

School and Stress

I've overheard more than one person, speak on how the stress of the school year for them is nearly over...well I am the other side of the wall on that topic. School has completely stressed me out on different issue's. I have even had thoughts of transferring to anthoer university or even taking a break from school, and coming back when I feel more prepared for the whole college expierence. there are different factors that have me in this mindframe, some I have control over, but other larger ones, that I have no control over, and can not do anything but accept things how they come. I do however try to keep a positive mindframe, I try to not let the negative thoughts take over, and cause me to make regretful actions.

This week has been

crazy! Getting ready for finals and starting to pack up my dorm, this week has flown by! I really liked working on our project, surprisingly. It gave me time to be creative, which was nice. Not really much else to say except this semester has flown by! Crazy, crazy!

New Home Next Year

After class i met my friend that came up from Houston and we signed the lease for our apartment next year. i am so excited to move in. This Upcoming weekend i am pick my classes, this next semster should be pretty light. i am catholic so easter is fairly big for my family, we go to church sunday morning and spend the day hanging out, and going out to eat.
This semester is starting to wind down for me. the only "papers" i have to write are for this class. i am looking forward to summer and taking a break, and hanging out with olf friends before coming back next fall.

Autobio

I think the guys last weekend were really good in describing their life stories. I am very proud to be in a class with class mates such as you all. The diversity in the class is what makes it fun. I might be older than some of you but I have learned so much from all. I will really miss all when the class is over. I won't have a teacher that allows me to mess up with her no more. Oh well her lost. lol!! I am looking forward to our next class and to hear all about the life stories of the rest of the class, until Friday! later alligatores.

I love great news

I've been a little worried about my finances lately.  The monthly BAH from the G.I. Bill is a decent amount, but with where I live and bills, it can get small quick.  I was very interested in the scuba diving course offered here and while I had heard it was expensive, didn't think too much of it because I have the G.I Bill that pays the tuition.  I called Aquarena Springs and talked to them about it.  They informed me that tuition needed to be paid to the school for the "credit", but another $300.00 went to them for the certification.  Then I was told that many students like to have their own snorkel, fins and so on and sometimes we're asked to "pitch in" on overnights to different lakes.  While all of that might turn most people off of doing it, I don't care.  I want to do it, so I am.  Enter financial concern.  I was worried for a bit, but than something really awesome happened.  Last Friday night I get a call from a friend of mine (Haul Truck Supervisor at my last job Asphalt Paving) asking me if I still wanted to work this summer.  I had been told three weeks ago that my old job was already filled; so I was very curious.  I told him I was and he told me that my old boss said that he would use me for as long as I was available, doing the same job for the same pay of $13.50 hr.  He liked the idea of someone who already knew what to do and WANTED to be laid off when school starts back up.  I filled in the new application and turned it in to my old boss and it looks like I start on May 2nd.  The hours are long, but the overtime will be well worth it.  No more financial concern for me thankfully.  I would love for this to be the same every summer, but I'm not getting my hopes up about it.  I'm already pricing full scuba suits and other accessories.  No, I won't buy anything until I've spoken with my instructors to see whats actually needed, but pricing doesn't hurt.  Anyway, I'll stop this novel here.  It's hard to believe that there's only two classes left and only one blog left for me to write.  Sad really, I have greatly enjoyed my experience at Texas State so far.

A little less stress

Now that I have mostly everything done for the semester I feel a little less stressed out about my day to day routine of class and work. Unless I'm missing something that I don't remember I'm done with experimental activities and my autobiographical presentation for University Seminar. I just have to keep up with my homework and quizzes for my math classes. Hopefully I'm on my way to acing my last management test so I don't have to take any of my class finals.

This semester is still far from over but then again classes will be wrapping up in a couple of weeks and I can't believe it's already the middle of April of 2011.

Okay blog I'm done with you...

X: A Fabulous Child's Story

The "X" story was very intresting to me. I enhoyed reading it. I did have to re-read the end, because I felt like I missed the whole point of the story, but after re-readind it, I realized the end of the story wasn't the point. The WHOLE story was the point. I got more of an identity problem out of the story, which I am sure everyone has faced some point in their lives. I don't think the age range of the story was good for the story tho, because most kid's that age don't have to face identity problems. They are usually just being kids around that age, and doing whatever feels right at the moment. Also you would think, with the story basically talking about "identity" within a youth, then other youth would be the one's taunting the "x child" right? In this case it was the parent's. The story was a good story, and I did enjoy it, and thought it was cute.

the truth

last week's class involved was uncomfortable at times, surprising at times, emotional and probably my favorite word to describe the class, transparent. It is amazing how much a simple exercise can open eyes. Making the decision to walk over the line even if the identity isn't necessarily the most flattering is very tough. It takes courage and some overall badassness in my opinion. I hope that my autobiography will bring out my inner bad ass so I can reveal to the class (and even myself for that matter) some identities I am not fully comfortable with.

Crossinfg the Line

The class experiment was an "eye opener". It shows how people of all different backgrounds can come together and ultimatly be inthe same place. It felt also good to see that people feel the same way I do and have been faced with some of the same challenges. Not everything was bad either, sometimes I was proud to cross the line and show what kind of backgorund I came from. After experiencing an exercise that was so bluntly honest, I needed most of the rest of the morning to digest and process before it really sank in.

The X Child

What a powerful story! It had such a deep meaning behind it. What I got from it was despite the fact that children may have a hard time identifying themselves in society, labels should not be the cause of their happiness. The article is relatable to issues in our society today.

Kids not being able to identify themselves.

What I really liked about the article was all the other children were okay with X. They did not judge X for not knowing its gender. The kids actually thought X was cool and wanted to be like it. Free of worries and just wanting to live a life that made them happy.

Ultimately, I thought the story was really informative without being forceful.

crossing the "invisible line"

I would like to say that I try to be funny when I give a hard time to the teacher but I actually like her little practices that she does. The thing that I like about the diversity practice we did last time was that everyone got to see how difficult it could be for those that are "differennt" but one of the things that I notice also was that any time anyone of us stand along across the invisible line, they all seem to have a certain sense of understanding for what the person across the line was feeling. I liked it. I think is important that other establishments where there is a group of people should try this kind of exercises.

xy and z

I love the story about little x. I think everyone at some point or another has been treated like little x for being different. I found the story so truth due to the fact that people tend to ignore any kind of good qualities in another person and concentrate on the differences more than there virtues. I applaude those in life that are little x's. :)

X and Projects

I read “X: A Fabulous Child’s story” by Louis Gould. It was interesting. I wouldn’t raise my child that way; I think it could be really damaging and confusing to the child. I realize that it’s just an article and not a literary masterpiece to be taken to heart, but just stating my opinion. The first project we did in class I felt had a deep impact on everyone. At first, it was funny, but by the fourth or fifth rotation, most people were walking the same no matter what “kind” of person was being called out. I also thought it was interesting that we went into a uniformed circle without being told too. The second project we did in class, I had also done during Allies Training; I thought it to be a cool project both times. I like that sometimes it was nice to “cross” the line, while at other times it was sad or embarrassing. If you were willing to fully participate, it forced you to be honest with yourself and your peers. I have new respect for all those brave enough to honestly participate.

Read the handout that Kelly gave us last week at the end of class and I liked the story. The reading I thought made a lot of sense because it hints towards a lot of stereotypical norms that our society has placed on both men and women.

I've been on the receiving end of negative comments because I did or said something that wasn't what a "guy" or a "man" is suppose to do or say. Then again I've also been guilty of doing the same thing to friends and family. It's like a type of programming we all go through and conform to and it does limit us in ways that baby "X" wasn't held back by. X was capable doing and performing tasks better than any one gender and was happier too.

Almost as unrealistic as the story may seem I went to high school with a couple of girls that played football. The same for the last three and a half years has had one of the first boys on their dance team and they are ranked as one of the best performing schools in the state. So sometimes it take someone brave and confident to just step forward and do what makes them happy and not care what others have to say. I think I summed up the story to say to me that I should live my life for me and not for others. That I limit myself only if I allow it to happen.

See everyone Friday for the presentation.

X!

not gonna lie that story was pretty cute. no homo. but real talk, it was pretty interesting . was this a true story? like a real experiment.. i think who ever thought of this is genius, now my only question about it is, whats gonna happen when he grows up? i mean that cant really adapt to his 'x' situation for the rest of his life, right? i wonder if he's forced to pick and identity, which would it be

Activity on friday and the X baby thing

I absolutely loved the activities we did on friday in class. It really made me think about how I judge people, or have ideas about people that arent even true. The rest of the day, that activity was on my mind (which i think that was the point) (: and i read the baby X story and it was pretty cool to read and relate to the activities we did in class. anyways, today is monday and im already wanting the weekend. going to fite nite on thursday to watch frat brothers beat the sh*t out of eachother. cant wait. (:

I thought the experience we had in class today was really eye opening. This shows that there are so many people with many different backgrounds. It also goes to show that you cant judge people by the way they look or by the way they do things.

Walking the line

Today's activity I liked. I actually think the first part was fun. Although some may have seen it as being demeaning or offensive, I don't think it was meant for you to over think, but just react. When something was called out and I found myself participating I just worried about me. When I found myself at a loss I looked around to see what others were doing instead and just observe the class.

The second activity actually put into perspective how there are deep underlying things you don't know about people because you aren't able to physically see them on the outside. Those experiences are what make us who we are or teach us on how not to be. I found myself walking across the room to identify myself with either events or people in my life and both the good and the bad have helped me grow.

All in all there are things that separate us from each other but then again there are also things that we all share in common. Very good class today. See you all next week.

Realizations

As the year wraps itself up, I've come to the realization that a lot if going on and that I need to get my self situated for the future. Mainly finding a job that works around summerschool is what will be the hardest as well as looking into LSAT prep tests.

glass bottom experience

so last week the entire class excluding the teacher went to a glass bottom boat tour. personallyi initially thought it was going to to be super boring and irrelevent. BUT! it was freakin sweet. i enjoyed the tour and the tour guide. it was very informative and extremely interesting. if this was our first out of class activity im pretty excited to see what else Miss Stone has in store for us.

its been another good week, and last weeks boat ride was legit, i love nature and all that good stuff so it was pretty cool, wasn't as boring as i thought they would've made it, but yeah anyway, bobcat build this weekend as well as texas relays!!!!! and i guess the actual relays will be fun to watch as well(; see y'all mañana :D

This Weekend: Texas Relays

I don't know if it is just me or what, but does anyone notice how TEXAS RELAYS has come to something that has nothing to do with the actual relays? I mean the event is actually about the best of the best relay teams coming out to compete and show their running skills. The event still takes place, but you don't really hear about the event at least where I'm from you don't. All I hear about is how many clubs will have this person performing, or how many cars will be crunk and how many after hour spots will be open. I hear about who will have the best clothes on and who's car will be slabbed out the best. Of course I'm not complaining, I like clubbing. lol. But I don't think it's fair to the actual relay teams that they are the actual reason to why so many people are coming to the town, but they don't even get that support from those people. I have been to relays twice, and plan on going this year(which is this weekend), and I've considered the thought of actually attending the relay events to show the runners my support that I think they deserve.

HOME SWEET HOME??

In my 18 years of life I have moved 19 times. As a child of divorced parents the court gave joint custody, but the majority of my life has been spent with my mom. My mom is the mover, my dad is more grounded. I received word today that my dad sold his house. This is really upsetting me. I have lived there during visitation for the past 7 years. With all the moving I have been involved with concerning my mom, my dad's house was the only real "home" I've thought I ever had. By the time I get home my dad will have already moved out and on to the new house. Home is an extremely important aspect of childrens and even adults lives. I hope that one day I will be able top provide a home for my children where they can live for their childhood and even visit throughout their adulthood.

Field Trip

I actually was really glad we did this field trip. The guide to the trip was really nice and he provided good information, he made it fun too! We missed the professor. (minus a grade point for her at the end of the semester) lol but overall it was really a nice experience. Lots of turtles!! and ugly fish too. oh well that is nature right? I am sure if fish had the ability to think they would have thought of us as being ugly too. lol well, I will see you all tomorrow in class.

Midweek Blues

Its wednesday and I am exhausted! Having an exam today, and having to give a speech, its safe to say my workout was sort of lacking today. And on top of that, ive got to read a ton tonight. This is a very tiring week so far and im looking forward to the weekend as is everyone else im sure. This weekend im going to the Kilgore Rangerettes Spring show Revels. I have about 6 of my friends performing so i can not wait to watch them. See everyone friday (:

Looking to the Future

I had actually been looking forward to the glass-bottom boat tour we did last Friday. I love getting out in nature. It’s much better than sitting in a classroom. My expectations for the field trip were pretty high and I must say that I wasn’t at all disappointed. I learned a lot of pretty cool information from our two guides. I’m actually looking into the Scuba Diving classes that are offered here because of this trip. The guides told us that TSU offers it, but it can be a rather expensive grade. Since the G.I. Bill pays my tuition, I just have to worry about the “extra” fees. Hopefully it’s not too insane. While searching around for that, I came across “Underwater Photography” which is a major interest of mine, so I’ll be looking deeper into both of those courses. This trip was not only fun and a learning experience for me, but it could also have an effect on my future. It took going to the USS Lexington moored in Corpus Christi to peak my interest in serving on a Carrier in the Navy. I served onboard the USS Carl Vinson (Nuclear Aircraft Carrier) from 00-04 because at MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station) I requested a carrier SOLEY because of my experience with the USS Lexington. It’s amazing how something that seems so small can actually be a pretty big deal in the scheme of things.

Aquarena Springs

At least, I think that's what it was called. The bottom-glass boat tour we went on was so cool! I really wasn't going into it expecting much but I LOVED it. Each different spring we learned about was so fascinating to me. All the fishes that live in them get to swim peacefully because apparently its illegal to fish (something every vegetarian/vegan should be proud of, just like I am). I thought the tour guide was pretty cool. Its really refreshing when you get a tour guide who really love their jobs. He was passionate about the way he presented everything and he just really cared for all of the creatures living in the springs. He reiterated how much he cared every time he saw a turtle. Overall it was a very enjoyable experience for me. I'm glad I ended up getting out of bed (I had a guest come in last Thursday night whom I hadn't seen in 3 months, so it was lovely).

On another note, I think my mother was trying to subtly hint that I need to start watching what I eat. Insert sigh here and another round of dieting begins. Yes.

Aquarena Springs

It has been a long time since I've taken one of those tours. The last time that I did they still had Ralph the swimming pig and mermaids. At that time the place was more of a theme park and had several rides and shows people could go to. I appreciated all the information that I didn't know about the springs and how much research is done there by Texas State. Our tour guide knew quite a bit about the history of the place and was very knowledgeable. I think it surprised me how much I actually did enjoy the little field trip. Gave me a little more appreciation for what is done in my community and aware of how historically important our little town of San Marcos is. I was scared that I was going to miss the trip because I would over sleep or arrive at the dock late. Well I'll see everyone this coming Friday in class.

Boat Tour week Ahead

I thought the boat tour was pretty cool. I really learned alot about river and it was cool to here the history of the aquifers. Learning to scuba dive and cleaning the river would be an awesome job. I am glad i had this opportunity because I would have never known about it on my own. This upcoming week is going to be a busy one. This week I have two tests and a paper due. Last weekend was mostly spent studying or sleeping. However, after this week I only have one more test until finals. I can't wait for summer to be here.

Boat tour!

After trekking across campus to get to the boat tour, it actually turned out better than i thought it would. I was a little surprised to not see our instructor there, but i do understand that things happen. I do expect some sort of notification of that instead of hearing it through the grapevine. The boat tour was a great way to start my friday and it was my first time in a glass bottom boat. it was cool seeing the springs.. i had no idea those existed down there. haha. but anyways, its sunday night, and im already wanting it to be friday again so i can float the river. this week the weather is supposed to be perfect (: see yall friday morning!

Boat Tour

So today we went on the boat tour, and I found it to be very intresting. Although our instructor wasn't there, which seemed to bother several of my classmates, I felt the tour went great. It didn't too much bother me that she wasn't there because, I mean we are college students. That was my first time riding on a glassboat, and I really enjoyed it. I immediately thought about bringing my little brothers to the place for a tour. We saw several fish, and a lot of turtles. I would have loved to see many of the other species that the tour guide mentioned lived there, but we went in the day time, and most of the other creatures come out at night. Overall the trip was postive and I learned many facts over the place. The only negative thing coming from the tour was the fact I had to walk back to campus because I had a 10 o clock class. The walk wasn't too bad tho. The tour was a great way to start my weekend. =)

mid terms

after stressing for about an entire week it has finally come to a hault. all but one mid term is finished. and honestly i feel pretty confident about the tests i have aready taken. another thing that has crossed my attention is the pay off of all the hard work put in this semester. in the end i know im going to be pleased becaus as of now im pretty suremy grades are meeting my own expectations. which is very good considering how hard on my self i have become. i can only hope for continuous success for the next few years while i continue to purse my goals.

Boat tour

I am really looking forward to the boat tour because i missed it last year when i was taking this class which is the reason i failed it because i always overslept. Anyways my friends that got a chance to go said it was pretty cool and they enjoyed it. Hopefully i make it and have a good experience from it.

Tons of homework

Ok, this week has been super busy for me and I feel like I am falling behind. Lots of classes, to do homework for. It is getting to be frustrading. well, I will see you tomorrow guys. Sounds like fun our "field trip" asta mañana people.

Falling Behind

Keeping up with this blog is seriously going to kill my grade. I dont even remember the last time i posted... Which is pretty pathetic because blogging really isnt that hard, yet i still for the life of me remember to do it. but i am going to set an alarm on my phone and remind me to blog every week (: (: I cant wait for our field trip. Its gonna be so nice to get out of the classroom and explore. Of course this is the week where i dont have my car and am going to have to walk all the way across campus ( San Jacinto hall is where i live) at 8:30 in the morning. too early for me, but you gotta do what you gotta do (:

Coming down to the wire

I'm quite a bit late with my blog today. Normally I post it every Wednesday morning, but it's 10:29pm this time. lol I am struggling with the "Consumption" video that I have to make (film, picture), Edit, Reference, answer questions in written form about it and then present it to the professor. The problem is that I have scrapped my last four attempts because I can't get it to look like I want. I don't just want to turn in crap so I'm being rather anal.(No pun intended) I am about 3/4 of the way through my fifth attempt and I think...I THINK...it's coming along much better. Oh yea, it's due tomorrow by midnight. So, that is why I'm so late with this blog. I've been hammering away all day whenever I can and in between class. So unfortunatly, I'm going to have to cut this blog short which I don't normally do, since I like to write, but I have got to get the video done. I hope everyone is having a splendid week so far. I'll see you on the boat Friday.

SO MANY POSSIBILITIES!

In preparing my resume for class this week it magnified my uncertainty on what I want to major in, what type of career I desire, what lifestyle I wish to have and even what I hope to accomplish in my time here living. When I was in the third grade I wanted to be a paramedic. This dream of mine materialized from watching tons of ER with my mom and watching a show about young EMTs on the Disney channel. When I was in the ninth grade I wanted to be a doctor. Biology was my favorite class that year and I exceeded more than my peers in the subject and my favorite TV show was Grey's Anatomy. When I began this academic year I just knew that I wanted to become a middle school teacher. Summers off, and the 7-4 work day was very attractive and you always hear that teachers are in high demand and can find a job ANYWHERE! But as this semester progresses I am left unsure about my calling. I am planning on scheduling an appointment with career services to find what I would be best at and the happiest with.

Looking Ahead

I'm already looking forward to the end of this semester. This spring has been crazy busy with school, work and family that I'm surprised that I've been able to keep up with everything. I just got my management test grade back and I did better on this one than what I did on my first test. I'm hoping that I can really do well on these last couple of test over the next two weeks so I don't have to take my finals in those classes. It would be awesome to just show up to class, do my regular assignments and not have to take those finals.

This week seemed like it was pretty heavy. I'm staying up later than normal to try to wrap up our resume that's due Friday. Then I have a few more experimental exercises to submit this week. See everyone on friday at the boat!

Field Trip

I am actually excited about our little field trip this Friday. I have so many reading assignments and essays that my brain needs a little break. I just hope is not cold on Friday. I also want to blog about the resume presentation. It was informative, I liked it. I thought I had a good resume but I sure hope the example essay helps me in perfecting it. See you all on Friday!!!!

blahhhh

Shit just another loaded week, working on all kinds of things, finishing up my resume, and we shall see what the rest of the week brings us, and how friday goes. i sure hope i wake up early enough to make it to the spot. haha but anyway i best get back to this college boy shiiiit and make momma proud.

End of the week

It's the end of the week/ the week back from spring break. I'm feeling really off track with priorities. Last night I went out for my good friends birthday knowing that I had spanish midterm today. Hopefully I do well.

Back to Reality!

Well the week off for spring break was great! I had a great week full of fun but now that schools back its back to reality! Time to get to work and study like crazy. But not all fun is lost this great spring weather is great for tubing and i dont know about everyone else but i cant wait!

after spring break

getting back into things after spring break is hard. I am glad to go back to school but I have several exams this week and next week too so is a little heptic but is good I guess it keeps me busy. Well I will see you all in class.

Oh geez

I'm not even sure how to start this one...my spring break was amazing, my best friend stayed at my house for the week while helping me get through a very interesting time of my life. I think that had he not been there for me I would have driven as far as I possibly could and never come back.
I finally had to accept the fact that I am no longer getting married because I caught my douche ex fiancé cheating...just months before our wedding. What kind of idiot would do that? (this happened last month but I just pushed it out of my head). So this week I had to figure out how I'm supposed to get into contact with a freaking ton of my friends and family and his as well to tell them that we are no longer getting married. I couldn't tell them why when they asked, I had to hold back the urge I had to destroy his life and just tell them "we simply grew apart". Awesome right? This week I was supposed to figure out what to do about my freaking dress that I cannot return that I sent hundreds of dollars on and I was supposed to get an estimate of exactly how much money was wasted so I can get that idiot to give it back to me. Instead though, I decided to go out every night with my roommate, I think there was even a night I had to get my best friend to come pick us up. That was a really stupid idea now that I think about it but at least I finally had some fun. I'm usually not one to write things in public like this for everyone to see but I really needed to vent. Hopefully I get all of this out of the way really soon. Ugh.

Week After Spring Break

This week has been so long. Normally this week is long to begin with just the fact that we have a week off but Monday i woke up with a fever and sore throat. Tuesday the fever carried over and hade to write a 750 word paper over the "american dream" which is not an easy topic to elaborate on. The rest of the week just kinda dragged on but i am relieved it is almost over.

Life is HARD

Spring break turned out to be a time period in which world chaos effected millions and this suffering did not just stay in foreign lands, there were aftershocks in my life as well. The day following the earth shattering news of Japan my boyfriend and his family received heart breaking news. After surgery on his mother's lungs, a surgery to cure the stage Ia cancer the doctors diagnosed the health care physicians changed their prognosis. My boyfriend's mother Amanda, my "second momma" got the news of stage IV non small cell lung cancer. They followed the news by saying she has 6 months to 3 years to live. Amanda is a non-smoker, 39 years old, a mother and a wife. My boyfriend's reaction was anger, mine was tears. How could this death sentence be given to her? So unfair, so tragic, so unjust. Just like the Japanese citizens, this horrific event was out of her control and in Gods. When tragedy happens the only thing I have learned to do is move along. The All-American Reject song "Move Along" helps me to pick up, breathe and carry on. I pray for the Japanese victims and Amanda everyday.

Eventful Week Continues

I had a pretty good spring break. I didn't really go a whole lot of places, but where I did go, I had fun. It was nice catching up on some things that really needed attention. It was a most interesting week. It didn't start out well at all. The 9.0 Earthquake and subsequent Tsunami that hit Japan and wiped out entire towns just before spring break started; then the Nuclear Reactors at Fukushima Daiichi overheating and explosions at four of the six reactor buildings. The escalating situation in Libya with Muammar Gaddafi and the rebels, during spring break made for a lot of news watching. I made sure that no matter where I was at, I had the ability to hear the news. I had my phone with me and had set up the CNN / CBS and Twitter alerts. We are all back in our classes, but a lot is still going on. The contaminated foods and continuing issues with the Japanese reactors along with the horrific death toll of 9,408 confirmed dead and 14,716 confirmed missing (Latest update from CNN). We are engaged in another scuffle in a foreign land. It has been said that Col. Muammar Gaddafi is not the target. Gaddafi NEEDS to be the target. He should have been executed back in December 1988 for the bombing of Pan Am 103 also called the Lockerbie bombing. Everyone knows he was responsible for ordering the bombing that killed 259 passengers on that plane and another 11 people on the ground. Politics are politics though and this will drag out for a long time. It’s more politically correct to attack the snake at its tail then to start at the head. But I digress. I hope everyone had a fun and safe spring break. See you on Friday.

Gay people aren't contagious

Today, during the last few moments of my math class, our conversation somehow turned to people who were homophobic. The girl in front of me goes "I have a collective few 'gay' friends but for the most part, I'm pretty standoffish. I don't understand them". That girl was nothing more than pure ignorant. Gay people shouldn't be classified as "them". They're people, just like everyone else. I was pretty surprised that she was so harsh considering that she can't stand racism. Homophobia is a form of racism too. You're judging before you're getting to know people. Who cares if someone likes the same sex? Its not your place to judge. Our world is filled with enough hatred already, do we really need to attack love as well?

spring break is over, back to business ready to stay focused and knock this baby out the part. gotta finish the semester in good shape and get ready for a good summer! keep your heads up its almost over just a month and some left! it should fly by, start preparing your summer plans :D

life....not for eternity.

I think life is short and unstable. I feel so sad for the things that are happening in Japan and all the misery that people have to endure. I know that just hearing from all those things depresses me, I can only imagen what the people in Japan are feeling. I wish none of these things ever happen to humanity but is imposible, I guess is part of a circle of life. It makes me think on all the things that we do on daily basis, did I made the time of having quality time with my family, did I said to my love ones.." I love you" enough times? do I consider the impotant things and the trivial I let them go? I should feel blessed because I am not suffering a major tragic event in my life, my problems are nothing compare to our brothers and sisters in Japan. I hope things get better soon for them and that we all can provide for them. Please tell your love ones every day that you love them. We never know what kind of tragedy we end up having in any given time and we want to make sure we made our life one that can be remember.

Wrapping Things Up

It's been over a week since our last class and a part of me wants and needs to get back on a schedule so I can feel that sense of accomplishment. I had an amazing vacation/break and now I'm ready to just get to it and wrap up this school year. So far this semester has been going to plan and I've been making deadlines on almost everything I've set as a goal. Hopefully everything will go as planned and I can continue to do what I've been doing to make this year a success.

Hope everyone had a good Spring Break and I'll see everything this Friday.

Life This Week

I decided to stay in Texas for spring break. I'm catching up on a lot of family, house and computer stuff. It's nice to get a break from classes, but I'm ready to get back to it.
My thoughts and hopes are with all those affected by the Earthquake, Tsunami and Nuclear situations in Japan. If you want to donate, I would suggest giving to a trusted organization like the Red Cross. I posted this information on an earlier comment, but I’ll repost it below.
Yahoo has a page of all the organizations that can use your help and a link to donate. Go to Yahoo.com; look in the left hand corner and you'll see "Help Japan" written in red. That link will send you to this link: http://news.yahoo.com/s/yblog_newsroom/20110311/wl_yblog_newsroom/japan-earthquake-and-tsunami-how-to-help.
I found it interesting that even in the shelters; the Japanese people are still maintaining their recycling program. It makes my excuses for not recycling as much, kind of ridiculous. The way the Japanese people are handling this is something we could all learn from.

????

I was not able to assist class last friday. I tripped and I hurt my back so spend all day in bed Thursday, Friday and Saturday. I am not sure of what are we suppose to be blogging about by I hope the teacher takes this blog as a way to keep in touch with the class and give me credit. You will right professor? Well I got lay off so I will have more than plenty time to catch up with all my classes, I guess I cannot really enjoy spring break cause I have to save my last paycheck some how. I hope everyone has a wonderful time during spring break. I will try to make a difference by buying less of the things that polute the environment etc... well see you back on the 25th guys.

Alright, it's finally Spring Break and although I still have to work for the next couple of days my schedule isn't that bad at all. This past weekend was great in some respects. I aced a math test and management quiz before classes let out this week. I'm not behind on any of my studying or school work. Several kids that I train competed in a tournament and did amazing! See you all next week!

I'm not sure about anyone else but

I was devastated about the news in Japan. First the Earthquake, then the Tsunami. All of those people dead and the hundreds of people who ares still missing. My thoughts are going out to the people of Japan but it doesn't seem enough. I was hoping someone could give me suggestions as to what I could do to help. I.E. an organization I could donate to that was specifically set up to help Japan. Or if we could possibly do something as a class? That would be lovely as well. All I know is that Japan could really use our help in their time of need right now.

XOXO

impacted by no impact

This week I began reading No Impact and needless to say, it has indeed made an Impact. This man goes so far to one end of the environmentalist spectrum and I love this even more about him. One thing I began doing this week inspired by Colin Beavan was reusing my water bottle that Texas State issued to me at the beginning of Freshman Orientation. I can clip it to my backpack and be on my way. My typical use of water bottles per week averages 7 to 10. If I stick with this lifestyle change I could potentially be saving 520 water bottles per year. That is amazing! The Beavans lifestyle may not be for everyone, but even making the smallest change can have a huge impact.

Spring Break!

Finally it is here! No school for a week. This last week of school was very busy but just knowing that there was some light at the end of the tunnel was enough to keep me going. I had one test this week and also worked and had a bunch of meetings. All in all it turned out to be a great week and i cant wait to start my spring break!

SPRING BREAK!!

This was the hardest week of class for me, it took everything that I had to make it to my classes and get all of my work done. It was also a really frustrating week because my laptop was dropped or something (I still have no idea how it happened) but I walked in and I found it on the floor, when I went to turn it on the stupid screen was broken. All week I have had to turn in paper after paper which means I have to keep going up to the school to print them.....ugh. Oh well stuff happens and it is finally spring break which my roommate and I are super excited about because one of our best friends is going to spend the week with us and we are going to make a fort in our bedroom and other craziness :-p of course only we would get excited about that! I am hoping that once we get back from break I can get into the swing of things again and stop procrastinating on everything and hopefully it will also be a little easier to bring my self to go to classes. But I don't want to get too far ahead of myself and think about already coming back to school.

End of midterms

After a long week of midterms I have barely gotten any sleep and I am ready to enjoy myself. With that being said, there's not much I would like to blog about, but what I would like to say is that, I hope everyone did well on their midterms and I hope everyone has a great and safe Spring Break.

Spring Break

Im looking forward to spring break because we get a week off of school but im not looking forward to having to go home. Me and my friend are driving back to Midland, Texas after class. Its a six hour drive but luckily he is driving since i drove during Thanksgiving break last semester. Hopefully we have a safe and fast trip.

spring breaaaaakkkkkk!!!!!!!! SPI!!!

going home for the week super excited, kinda half way through with the semester huh?

that what im talking bout man, shit been going good, now i just gotta go turn in these activities

have a safe week people have fun

Spring Break!!!!

Of course I'm quite sure the topic of discussion this week is SPRING BREAK 2011; I'm going ham!! haha. Im sure there's alot of people reading this wondering what in the hell is "going ham"? I'll make it short and quick, it's just another slang saying meaning, going all out! :) I have plans to travel the world. Not really. lol. I know for sure I'm going to Padre and Corpus! I am just so excited and ready to spend a FULL week with my people(family and friends). Two days during the weekend is just not cutting it for me. ha. Well I hope all you enjoy your spring break and be safe, cause I know I sure as hell am! :)

Girl versus No man Impact

I think is a great idea that we try things to make a difference but some of the things done by the no man impact I do not agree with him. like the not toilet paper idea or the elevetor. at least does 2 things I believe to be a necessity, and there are so many other things that we can do to achieve the goal to make a difference but not does 2. Toilet paper is a nice invention lets not give it up. :)

The Break of Spring

It's almost time for the big break. I haven't really decided what I'm going to do yet, if anything. I was thinking of renting a car and heading to Utah to see my brother and his family. I did that in April of last year and really enjoyed the trip. (Picture of a snow covered mountain I took while in Utah) I'm also contemplating flying up there. Another possibility is flying to Washington state and hanging with some of my Navy buddies for a few days. Another option would be to stay here and work on my 3rd WIKI assignment for World Geography. I have to make a five minute movie about "Consumption" in San Marcos. I have to drive around San Marcos and film areas of consumption, then edit it into a movie using Windows Live Movie Maker. I'm really enjoying the assignment so far. Last but not least, I could just hang around with family I have in New Braunfels and San Antonio. They want to get together at the lake for a little 'que, camping, shoes and swimming. Sounds like fun right? Decisions, decisions. Oh well, whatever I decide, I'm sure I'll get the most from it. Anyway, I hope everyone is ready for Spring Break and you all have a blast.

Spring Break hurry up

This week feels like it is taking forever. I have 2 midterms that I have been studying for all week and last night i did 6 hours of Calculus homework. Luckily one of my classes we are watching Toy Story for our mid term which is pretty awesome.I can't wait for spring break to finally arrive. My friends and I are going hang out in College Station for a few days and then rent a house in Galveston.

Late article post

I know this post is SO late, but after reading the articles i really got to thinking about technology and our world today. I love how new ideas are being challenged and created. The world is changing, and i believe that we as students and citizens should embrace these changes and try them out. I think the idea of lectures before coming to class is very constructive and the use of cell phones in class is a great idea. we already have our cell phones out, whether we are allowed to or not, so why not put them to good use?

Almost Spring Break!

One more week and it's time for St. Patricks Day and a little Mardi Gras! Just one more week of classes, homework, studying, quizzes and tests and a weeks vacation. I'm gonna go with the philosophy of, "I work hard to play even harder!" There is a goal for this week. To once again do well on my quizzes and tests so I don't have to take the final exams in any of my classes. So I'm going to end this blog and go back to hitting the books so I can lighten the load a little for the end of this semester.

Does anyone else have plans for Spring Break?

Last week articles

I found the articles informing and entertaining, but I do not agree with any of the information.

Mobil for education?

Ok...I was supposed to have completed this blog last week, but I figured might as well do it even though is late. I read the article and I simply find the notion to be a crazy thing. What is wrong with the way we have it right now? why do we have to create these new ways all the time? I believed that one of the issues besides changing the classical experience of education is that all these new forms of "education" can be costly for the student. Why buy into new technology that not all can afford. Our education is one hard thing to finance, even to get our books for class is costly, then why have students and their parents expend more in gadgets for school? I don't agree with it.

My week

has just been one really long week. I feel as if the universe is working against me this week. Well, I feel as if the universe has been working against me every week. I love TX State and being on my own and what not. I feel as if I'm doing pretty decent with classes, and whenever I get overly stressed I just listen to music or whatever. But I feel as if I haven't found my place. I've always felt like that. I watch relationships and friendships and see people interacting with other people, and while I'm able to do that, I feel as if its easy to forget me. Tonight, for instance, I was with a group of people and not one of them noticed when I left. I feel as if I'm fading from people's lives and I've had enough of that. That's not how I want to feel. Like something extra in the background. Its hard enough to fit in at our age, but I feel as if its something different. I've always been socially shy, not awkward, but shy. And I just feel as if no one would notice if I faded away into nothing.

I know we're supposed to blog about the class, so I'll do that at a later date. I just needed a place to write anonymously.

articles

all four articles were extremely interesting i thought. The first one about facebook was very informative. although it was helpful, it was also in my opinion irrelevent. what the facebook spokesmen said was very verdict bringing. the amount of security optinions are very diverse. the second one about Dr Bowen was neat as well. his theory was supportive but in the end i still find it hard to believe the motivation students will have to require to access pre class lectures online. the third argument in my eyes can be prevented with simple skills to maintain your own personal profile. lastly the cell phone talk has been around for years and in this case has proven its self to be a neccessity. not a life supply but neccessity in social lifestyle

Technology and social networking

I think our society has conformed to the idea that technology rules a great part of our lives. Unfortunately its getting to the point where employers are actually scouting out perspective employees to see if the content on their facebook is appropriate for a career. Additionally professors want to remove powerpoints from lecture halls and would rather engage in discussion. Although it seems like a plausible idea, how can you have a discussion in a classroom full of 400+ students? Seems pretty impossible to me. On the contrary others believe technologies such as the cellphone should be incorporated into teaching and will better the quality of ones education because we are so dependent on things like that. My view is that cellphones could be incorporated into the system and should benefit the learning experience, however, if it is used excessively it would draw attention away from real life applications because in the real world when we have jobs, we can't turn to our cellphones to do tasks or handle business, that comes from being in a classroom and engaging in discussions and learning from the professors.

Phones in the classroom

Dial M for Mobile interterested me the most. I think appling cell phone use to the classrooms would benifit students. Today almost any kid can pick up the phone and knows how to work its basic components. wether the teacher has consent or not phones will be in the classroom regardless, so why don't use them to help students learn. Teachers can give quizzes and podcasts for thier students to listen to or be used to help review. Online texts book are also being more common, having a student able to access thier text book from thier mobile phones can help cust costs of school and be a fundamental to into a students success.

TECHNOLOGY FOR ALL

THIS WEEK WE WERE ASSIGNED THE JOB OF READING ARTICLES SPEAKING OF TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIAL NETWORK AND HOW IT WILL EFFECT GENERATIONS. I FOUND MANY OF THE ARTICLES VERY INFORMATIVE AND WELL ROUNDED. THE ONE THAT INTERESTED ME THE MOST SPOKE OF THE THINGS WE MAY PUT ON SOCIAL NETWORKING SIGHTS THINKING THAT NO ONE ELSE WILL SEE. WHEN I WAS IN HIGH SCHOOL I PUT A HALF NUDE PICTURE OF MYSELF ON MYSPACE AND HAD MANY COMMENTS AND COMPLIMENTS. THE ATTENTION WAS AWESOME! BUT MY OLDER SISTER WHO WAS MY ONLY FAMILY MEMBER WHO WAS A FRIEND TOLD ME TO REMOVE IT ASAP AND THREATENED TO TELL MY DAD IF I DIDN'T GET RID OF IT FAST. I WAS SO MAD AND I DID NOT UNDERSTAND WHAT THE BIG DEAL WAS. NOW THAT I LOOK BACK ON IT I AM SO HAPPY SHE WAS LOOKING OUT FOR ME. THE PICTURE WAS ENTIRELY IMMATURE. NOW I PRAY THAT THE PICTURE WILL NEVER RESURFACE WHILE I AM TRYING TO GET A JOB IN THE FUTURE. I DID NOT SEE THE BIGGER PICTURE WHEN I PUT THE IMMODEST PICTURE UP, I JUST DID NOT EVEN THINK. YOU LIVE AND YOU LEARN, BUT WITH TECHNOLOGY THE LIVING PART IS ALWAYS KEPT ON FILE SO I HOPE EVERYONE STARTS TO REMEMBER THAT.

damn y'all be writing some novels up in here!! i wish i was good at writing and what not, but anyway after reading those articles, it left me thinking, lk damn whats this world coming too, seems like you cant do shit around here without someone having an eye on you or it coming back to bite you in the ass, i always had a feeling that shit was going on with the Facebook, thats why im a little 'iffy' of what i put up at times, and those other to articles also really left me thinking, wow :o

hope y'all had a good week. and hope mrs stones hand feels better :p

Reading articles

After reading Bosses Peek on Facebook, I felt angry. Bosses who look on facebook for future prospecting clients will most likely not find ones they're really going to feel a connection to. People normally do not lie on their facebooks. Its a place where we feel like we have no on telling us how to be or how to act. So of course people will tell every bad thing about themselves to just make them seem more appealing. As a society, we love the bad ones. Of course, bosses may also judge on appearances only. For instance, if someone looks on some one's facebook page and realize they do not want to hire them solely because of their ethnicity, they've just made their interviewing process a lot easier. I feel as if we need to caution what we put on our facebooks, but not to the point were we have to worry about if we'll get a future job or not.

The other article that I found interesting/infuriating was "Dial M for Mobile". I'm not sure if I necessarily want to rely solely on getting my education through my cell phone. I prefer having a hands on relationship with my professor instead receiving all of my information through my cell phone. The part that I found interesting however, was when Liz Kolb compared the new phone to an army swiss instead of the most annoying thing in the classroom. Its fascinating to see how far our technology is taking us today in society.

My Thoughts Over the Most Appealing Article.

After reading all the articles that were posted, "Bosses peek in on Facebook to sceen job applicants" was the most appealing to me. I certainly don't agree on this step in the business world. I believe what someone does while social networking is their personal life and decisions. It shouldn't be stalked and tracked down by their business life. Someone should definetily not be hired or screeed by what is on the internet. I agree with Stillman's quote when he mentions, being judge by the internet is not right, but if what we were doing on the internet was the same thing we were doing at our job, and it was inappropiate, then I could understand. I just think the social internet is being overrated more than ever right now. So many people use this intenet, so I wouldn't understand why other people would want to use this against others. People feel they can be open on the internet, and to know it's possible for their boss, or someone else in ahigher level than them to see their personal thoughts, only makes me people be someone their not. I just completely disagree with these steps the business world is taking a look at while attempting to hire someone.

Bosses, Social, Comp and Dial Articles

The article's "Bosses peak in on Facebook" and "Social Networking has Hidden Dangers" to me are one in the same article. You should know that anything you post online on a "social network" could at any time be viewed by anyone. You can have your Facebook, MySpace etc. account hacked at any time and your information shot all across the globe. The rising in popularity of social gaming is a major player as well. Many people will accept invites from anyone so they can add them to their gaming applications thus giving a wide open gate to future employers. Sometimes we rely way to heavily on technology and don't realize that it's flawed. As the articles state, you can't just hit delete and all the mistakes you made miraculously disappear. There will always be a digital footprint. Imagine the archaeologists who find old dinosaur bones, now imagine a "Computer Archaeologist". In 80 years from now, that picture of you naked, drunk and pretending to hump a fire hydrant is found and sent to people from all over the world under the title "Drunk Idiot with a tiny pickle". Is that really how you want to be remembered? I don't want to be somebody that discourages women from posting naked pics of themselves, so I just used a guy title.<< hahaha let's see who's actually reading this. It all comes down to personal responsibility. Know what you post and keep some things private. It might be a good idea to keep certain things off of your computer in general. Hackers love to not only destroy your computer files, but also to steal and exploit them

The article "Computer's leave classrooms" has good points on both sides of the spectrum. Having a podcast or something beforehand then using class time for questions can be a good thing and keep students interested. The ultimate goal is education and not just passing. Students would have to spend extra time before that class to take in the pre-lecture material. That might not be too bad except when you consider the possibility of all classes with the same format. A full time student would have to deal with studying pre-lecture material, then going to the lecture, and then doing the homework for each class, making a rather large and possibly more stressful college experience. Both sides have valid pros and cons.

The article "Dial M for Mobile" was really interesting. It makes some really good points both ways. Relying so much on technology can be an extremely dangerous thing, but you can't hide from it either. Using them interactively in the classroom might be a bit much. While I can understand the desire to integrate technology into the classrooms, it doesn't mean that history class or English class needs to teach students how to use cell phones. The many distractions that could occur may hinder the learning process rather than help it. I do find the correlation between the two of these articles interesting. One article wants to remove some technology from the classroom and one wants to add more.

Technology

I just finished reading all of the articles and all I can say is, "Wow!" It's amazing to see how far technology is come and even where it is headed but it is also scary to see how much we have become reliant on the same technology to function in even the most basic tasks of day to day living. It's a double-edge sword because you need to use the most current means of technology to do certain daily tasks but then they can be addictions like checking your Facebook account 10 times a day. Especially if you have a smartphone and can access it from downloading an App. Not to mention the down side of posting things that you might regret later or the information that you will let others access. People have to start developing a more reasonable and healthy approach to how they handle technology. Classes or courses should be made available to younger kids and even adults on what things are probably not the best to post on the internet and why.

I guess it would be important for everyone to understand that nothing is private once it is posted on the internet. That actually talking to someone on the phone or face to face shouldn't always be replaced by a Facebook post or text message. Learning in the classroom should be learning not memorizing. That if i'm gonna make the effort to come to a class and pay for it I want the teacher to have at least gone through the effort of preparing a great lecture so I can get the best bank for my buck.

Great articles.

School

So I think its safe to say that everyone is ready for spring break and even more ready for summer. as I was driving to austin yesterday to work, i saw about 100 college students laying by the river at sewell park. Yeah.. its about that time where we start putting away our books and pull out our swimsuits and i don't believe that the two can exist happily. im so ready for beach days and all night parties. summer here i come.

Sorry

This is the first time I'm able to really blog. I was not able to get the website to work, it kept blocking me and then Ms. Stone fixed it. So, I promise I'll be blogging religiously like we're supposed to. (:

BLUR?

Last week in class the speaker on alcohol really left me with a lot of thoughts on the drug so many college students adore. I know what alcohol abuse is and what is looks like just in my family. My grandfathers are both alcoholics. One died after recieving a liver transplant and the other is still alive and continues his 25 year sobriety with an organization known as AA. My own father has been in rehab three times struggling with DWIs and divorce. He now has control over his drinking and can enjoy a beer without spiraling out of control. My mother still parties like she is my age and her actions while on alcohol are scary. My family's history on the drug has always made me afraid to be a drinker because I do not want anything as simple as a drink in control of me. What the presentation said to me last week has only given me more excuses and reasons not to gamble with my health or life for that matter.

Great week

So this week has been a really good week with the change in the weather and baseball season getting started. It is shaping up to be a good spring. I cant wait to go out and catch a texas state baseball game not only because as a student you get in free but because we have a really good team thats is fun to watch. Another reason this week has been kind is because i didn't have any tests which has really made my week great.

Nothing special

I think that I am starting to get burnt out of school. I am completely ready for spring break to get here already. I feel like my body is on autopilot when I get to school. At the end of the day I never remember actually being at school but I know that I was there. A nice long break will be so amazing. Hopefully after I get that I will be able to get back into the swing of everything and get back on my school work instead of doing it an hour before class starts, pretty bad habit to have I suppose but at least I am still getting my stuff done.

Mid-year evaluation

These past two weeks I've been faced with a lot of decisions regarding my future from internships, to business opportunities etc. It's hard to distinguish the bullshit from the valuable stuff but I hope I can network in such a way that will allow me to figure that out. Aside from that, I need to pick it up in Math and Political Science. Time to start

just another day

For some reason I felt like that was the best title for my blog this week. Nothing excited really happen, however my plans I wrote about in my last blog fell through. I finally went out with a couple friend to watch For Colored Girls here on campus at LBJ. The movie was great, but I enjoyed the expierence more than watching the movie. Going around on campus with other classmates made me feel more part of being here at Texas State. On top of that I got to visit the gym, or rec for the very first time, and I loved it there:) lol. Things seem to be looking up for me at Texas State, and I look foward to engaging in other campus events with my Texas State classmates.

big news

with school going on im finding it easy to get caught up in the whole grades thing and lose sight of the luxuries in life. wtih two tests and an essay cramed in one day i found out that relaxing with my friends can be so much more enjoyable when you havnt been able to do so in a while. i guess what im just saying is that taking the full responsibility of a full time student at texas state is an experience im going to have to work at.

DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE!!!!!!

I like the presentation we had last class. The guess speaker did good in presenting the information. The information was clear and straight forward. I do think though that a little more emphasis in the "DON'T DRINK AND DRIVE" would have been good. I have a little negative thing to say.... I do not want to put anyone in the spot but someone asked how to "fool the breathalyzer" (not in those exact words by the way) I really was not impressed with the answer the guess speaker gave, but other than that it was a good class. I believed that a social life is very important, but social life does not equal alcohol consumption. seriously most of the time people end up regretting everything they did while under the buzz. I am not prune and I am not hypocrite, I have had drink before but in moderation and moderation is the key. One can have so much fun and rewarding friendships when one actually have fun with friends doing more active things than just drinking, besides alcohol makes people look old. I know people have their own perception of fun times, moderation etc... but however way you guys choose to have fun...please DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE most of the time the innocent gets kill, entire families, and the drunk lives. Not a fair trade.

another dollar, another day!

another week flies by, and 3 test come by, i did pretty good on my math and art test and did kinda shitty on my comm test as expected, but im staying optimistic and i know ima do good on my next two test and pass that class, on a brighter note knocking out these test made me realized spring break is around the corner!!! i get to go home, spi baby!! :)

i also got myself a job, sweet deal. :D

A day at TSU

It's another fine day in Texas. I'm not really too sure what to write about this week. Things seem to be going in a pretty normal flow. Last weeks guest speaker was pretty cool. I enjoyed the presentation and the way he kept us interested and participating. Although, he could never be as cool as our instructor (Shameless attempt at sucking up) heh heh I'm looking forward to Alkek's newest exhibition this Friday: "Bittersweet Harvest: The Bracero Program, 1942–1964." I also have Allies training this Saturday, so it should be a pretty interesting week over all. Well, I will also point out that I'm enjoying this weather. It's nice not having to wear a jacket all the time. That's it for this week. Will I finally start hitting the gym? Will I download new music to my MP3 player? Will I in fact have a hot apple pie with that? Tune in next week to find out the answer to these questions and many more on "OUR TEXAS EXPERIENCE: The Ageyiptus Saga".

I can't believe that the semester has been flying by as fast as it has. Just finished my first few quizzes and tests in classes and feel pretty good about the semester. I don't know how my grades have been on my tests but my grades on my quizzes have been pretty good so far. I can feel the pressure from both just school and work. I'm just hoping that I don't get behind. Isn't Spring Break coming up in three weeks? Can't wait...

Late!

This week i had a series of waking up late. I hate to rush out the door because there is no time to eat anything. I love living off campus but sometimes waking up late isnt an option because if i miss the bus i miss class! I would ny a permit to park but they are so expensive.

Rough Week

3 tests 1 paper and a lot of stress. Although i'm glad that i'm done with all that stuff, I think this is a good opportunity for me to see where I am and how I am doing this semester regarding school commitment. I feel like I need to do more in Math and US Seminar as well.

Blah

This week at school has been so very boring. I feel like I have only been there a few times and I haven't even spent a lot of time on campus. I noticed on Wednesday when I was there that an organization had put up boards to demonstrate how much the national debt was and the boards went half way down the wall that is behind the horse statue, it blew my mind. When I was walking by it, a lot of people were taking pictures of it and they had a video camera set up pointing right at it, I wonder what it was for I should have stopped to learn more.

my expierence on campus so far!

So it's 12:36a.m., and this blog is due by 9a.m. 2marro morning. Why am I such a procastinatator? Although I am still a procrastinator, I truely believe I have gotten much better since highschool days! lol. Well off to my topic I plan on bloggin about. My university expierence. I am enjoying the time I've been here so far, and I think the longer I am here, the better it gets. First thought about my dorms, was definitely negative thoughts! Well after being here for almost 5 weeks, it's not so bad afterall. The few people I know, I actually met here on my floor. My classes are good, and I scored well on the past couple exams I have took. (pat myself on the back)! My only downfall would be that I feel I don't know enough about the campus and I haven't met enough people yet. I guess I haven't got involved yet is what I am trying to say. I believe it is my fault, for the reason I haven't attended any events I've been invited to, and I've been home every weekend so far. Well I have figured out what I'm going to do to help myself, because to me not being involved is going to make this expierence hard for me. I also know a lot of others on campus would agree with me. So next weekend I plan on staying on campus, and attending two events with a few girls from my floor. I'm actually not to excited for the commitment I made, but I know it will only benefit me in the long run.

Paying It Forward

I am a strong believer in karma and doing onto others as you would do to yourself, so this week when I felt like the universe was finally picking up on my attempts of being a good person I couldn't help but smile. At times doing the right thing is super tough, with practice I think it gets easier, but it is an everyday challenge of being good. I felt rewarded for my good deeds this week when I was on my way home from HEB arms full of groceries. I was just walking outside of the parking lot on the journey and long walk to my hall when a very kind lady told me that she had a few minutes to spare and she would be happy to give me a ride back to campus. I was so relieved. She was so kind and full of small talk to make me feel at ease during the short car commute. That simple act of kindness made my day. I hope that within the next few days I can make a strangers day by doing a simple, random act of kindness for them. We should all try to pay it forward anyway we can when the opportunity strikes us. We never know what it could mean to that other person, and plus it also makes you feel great once you complete the act.

whats up whats up!?!?

just another day at the beautiful texas state. i just realized why i get really excited for this class, cause that means its friday!! woo!! weekend baby!! shit its been an interesting week, did alright on one test and i got an art test tonight wish me luck. I wool like to share that i finally feel fully settled in. On the other hand that video we watched last week was kinda 'iffy' for me.. only because i feel guilty lol :p

see y'all and the badass teacher tomorrow.

Classes

Well i had my first exam this monday in Comm. And to my surprise i scored an 80!!! yayyy go me. and I turned in my first paper. This week has just been a week of firsts for me at texas state. I transferred here from the University of Oklahoma and I can already tell that im happier here and its showing in my school work. Although we have been here for a month already i feel like i have just now settled in my room. i have everything where i want it. (: ive been home once so far and im going home this weeknd so im very excited for that!

Classes

Now that I have gotten used to my classes and the professors / Instructors, things are going much smoother. My favorite class so far is World Geography with Dr. Niem Huynh. I never really thought much about Geography until I took this class. It's amazing to find out just how much about the world you don't know, that you thought you did. Learning about different people and their cultures, politics, religions, foods etc. is keeping my interest. I'm actually looking into possibly switching Major's from Wildlife Biology to one of the Geography degree's.
Not to sound like a kiss up, but I would say that US1100 is one of my top favorite classes as well. I enjoy writing and being allowed to be creative while doing it. The fact that there is no pressure in that class from exams is enough to push it to the top. Throw in a laid back instructor and you have the perfect credit hour.
My least favorite class is of course Math. Although having been behind in math for the better part of 18 years, it does feel good to finally start catching up again. I have had a love/hate relationship with Algebra since I left high school at 16. I loved to hate it. Now I'm starting to slowly pick it up. While I still don't see the actual use for it, I know I have to learn it anyway. When I get the homework and quizzes back with 90's and 100's on them, it certainly does feel like a great accomplishment.
Basically, all my classes are going smoothly, whether I like them or not. My Texas State Experience has been a good one thus far.

Stuff ...made me think about stuff

The story of stuff was kind of a wake up call to me, in the sense that even thou I already know some of those facts, and I am aware of the government's lack of help in making things better, it made me realized one thing, it made me realized that I can blame any body or any organization any time I want, because it is easier to do so, but blaming them does not take away the responsibility that I have in making a difference, and caring enough to stop blaming others and start acting. By this statement; I do not mean to say the government is not responsible but rather I meant to say that "we" allow these things to happen. We allow then to lie to us, to deceive us and by being ignorant or by going with the flow we neglect our responsibility on the matter. The point is that we allow things to happen. I think one good starting thing we can do is to educate ourselves in anything that has to do with our way of life. Nutrition, education, politics, resources, policies etc... by doing so we are more prepare to make a difference and address the issues in the way they should be address and with good outcomes.

Stuff

The video we saw in class today was great in the way it might make you reflect on what you do daily in terms of contributing to the problem or helping ease some of the environmental issues the narrator was discussing. About three years ago I wanted to see how much money I could save if I didn't eat out at all for a month. So I ate breakfast and dinner at home and packed lunch and snacks. Over the course of a week the average I would spend on lunch and dinner was about $8 per meal and stopping at the convenient store for a snack or two cost another $2-3 bucks. All together I was spending about $11-19 a day on just food because I always felt like I was on the run not to mention all the trash I was throwing out as a bi-product of the food I was purchasing. I was able to save money, time and helped on my part not to contribute as much to a growing problem of wasting resources.

Recently I've gone from buying a cup of coffee everyday to making my own at home and preparing enough in a separate container as back up to refill throughout the day. Again I didn't realize I was spending so much money on just a cup of coffee that added up from week to week to total about $100.00+ a month. I thought since Mrs. stone established a challenge of wanting to see what we could do on a personal level to help I would share a little something and contribute to this blogger.