Ag and The Public... the questions my thesis leads me to

First, I apologize for being too busy too blog and there is no excuse. I sit here just having printed off a VERY rough draft of the first three chapters of my thesis- 22 pages. I hope the next 40 are slightly more exciting.

As I reflect on the past two months since that's how long I have been slacking, several things come to mind. First, in doing school work and working on my thesis which looks at the impact 4-H and FFA exhibits have on fairgoers's perceptions of agriculture, I have to wonder - Are we teaching our youth to be good advocates? Does the public care enough to visit the livestock areas (not the petting zoo, the hardcore stuff)? Do they realize the 4-H and FFA are associated with agriculture? Does the public value ag and what do they perceive and know about our industry? These are question that I hope to be able answer within the next several months.

While I would like to be optimistic, my research ad left a sour taste in my mouth and I feel the results might be depressing, even in the number 1 Ag producing stat in the country. What doe you think? Any guesses?What have 4-H or FFA taught you?

I am also grateful during the past few months to finally have my significant other in the same town and being able to enjoy each other's companionship and have a reason to cook, even if I am less than successful at times. He even puts up with the fact that I already have the house decorated for Christmas, minus the tree. I just can't help it - Christmas Lovers Anonymous here I come.

On a more or less important note, depending on how you look at it, I am already strategies for Black Friday- my second favorite holiday- yes it is it's own holiday. Stores are opening at 12, which almost defeats the Black Friday part, but for nuts like me is great! Although I won't have Ryan or family to shop with this year, I am sure I'll manage.

Just some thoughts for the week. Oh and for those in school, dead week = t-minus 1 month!

Too Long

Ok, so I haven't exactly been a good blogger lately.  However, I have good reason. Well, actually I don't but still. Ryan and I had a wonderful vacation to Denver. The weather was great and the junk food runeth over. I can't remember the last time we both let our tension and work go and just hung out with each other.

Now, school has been in session for 2.5 week and the real reason I haven't blogged is because I was too busy worrying about school and my thesis- which will kill me (I'm fairly certain). However, I'm being told "it's a process" and that I'm not expected to finish in a day. Stressful none-the-less. Living in the same town as my boyfriend for the first time ever has been nice. Someone to help carry the groceries up the stairs and eat meals with. However, boys are kinda smelly and not very tidy and tend to stay out all night. This has presented  few growing pains, but we are working on it.

Most exciting though is that two members of my family, the half that like to shop and eat and do it again  (with a nap in between or course) will be her this time tomorrow. Having spent the last 4 days feeling sick because the boy brought home germs, I am happy to say that shopping and girl time is in order.My life as I knew it is changing and I'm going to need new clothes to do it in.

With ACT meetings, officer retreats homework and life all merging into one- it ought to get interesting around here, but at least Stella still makes me smile.

AMS- A Whole New Adventure

Well, back from Ag Media Summit in NOLA. It was a wonderful experience to bond with other ACT members as well as business professionals. It is exciting to see college friends find new jobs that they love. In fact, it gives me hope for the rest of us. During the conference I was fortunate enough to attend various sessions covering a wide array of topics from social media to US Farm and Ranch Alliance.

Learning new tips about integrating digital media and increasing ROI brought up some interesting ideas on how to be more in the social media game and make it work. Plus, it never hurts that Shelly Kramer was hilarious.

As a pig farmer (ok retired pig farmer) it warms my hear to see that someone, or lots of someones actually, are banning together to tell our message. By checking our individual agendas at the door and promoting agriculture as a whole, we can and will stand up to those who are doing our industry harm. As young communicators, we must do our part in promoting ag to any and everyone who is willing to listen. If we each made a goal to talk to one person about ag a week that would be 52 people per year, multiplied by those who are willing to talk. Then, what if they told someone else? It may seem like a small act, but it could have a huge impact.

This conference renewed my passion for the ag industry. It has inspired me to talk tweet, and facebook about what is going in the ag industry. People are inspired by other people. I'm willing to talk, are you?

Once back from AMS, I had to catch up at work and with my assistantship duties. Stella of course demanded a great deal of attention and loving after being gone for 5 days. Now that August has arrived, I am excited for vacation in 14 days to a place that is NOT 112, friends to return to Stilly and family to visit. I look forward to cooler weather and serving as the NACT president and serving the members to the best of my ability.

The Adventures Continue

What a busy, fun summer it has been thus far, and with only a month left until school starts, the end is proving to be just as full as the beginning. Stella and I are now fully settled and a majority of the decorating is complete. I have decided that this weather in Oklahoma is for the birds! I can't remember a day when is was cooler than 100. I mean honestly. However, I have come to the conclusion that as a reward to the people of Sillwater for not leaving completely during the summer months, the city hostsKrazy Days, a 3 day shopping adventure. Ok, I;m sure it's just to bring out the crazy shoppers like me. But, I am determined to behave myself.

I guess I shouldn't complain because despite the heat, the humidity hasn't been too off the chart. After checking the weather in New Orleans, I am sad to say it's going to be in the 90s with 94% humidity. This is not fun, I mean talk about sticky! Despite the weather, I am totally excited about Ag Media Summit. Meeting new people, catching up with old friends and networking will combat the weather nicely, I'm sure. 

Then, it only two and half weeks until Ryan and I go to Denver on vacay and school starts. I never thought I'd be excited for school, but if it means we finally live in the same town after 4.5 years, I'm game.  Looking forward to the next month, event the lawn mowers races at the end of the month! Updates on the conference and travels soon.

Until next time- KK

Colorado and Stella's New Digs

After signing my lease and two hours of painting, I left Okieville for the mountains of Colorado. However, I did make a brief pit stop at Ryan's to find out he got sheep fungus under his beard.  I told him the beard was a bad idea.  I mean, we aren't Brian Wilson now. Anways, After the 12 hour drive, parts of which were on the side of a cliff, I was happy to reach Pagosa Springs. So was my family, one because they were hungry and two because my mother was worried because she couldn't find my location on a map. Yes, she would chip me like a dog if I'd let her. Anyways, after two early mornings and lots of fishing,  I am happy to announce I won the fishing contest with 13 fish including blue gill, perch, trout and a bass.

Then, my family decided to drive to Oklahoma to help me move, a choice I am very much appreciative of. However, following dad back proved challenging. We drove all day and unpacked until 11:30 pm, then got up at 6 and unpacked some more. One thing my family did decide was that I have too much stuff and that they have a much more realistic idea of Oklahoma weather. I am happy to say  I returned my old apartment keys today and Stella is very happy in her new house. She was a little nervous to say the least.

After catching up wit h the bestie over the weekend, it's back to work for 2.5 weeks. I was also enlightened today about an event called Krazy Dayz, which is a town-wide side walk sale. Retails stores all over town have huge sales. So far certainly the highlight to staying here over the summer. Maybe that's how they reward people for not deserting over the summer... haha. Then, it's off to New Orleans for some Ag Comm fun and learning. Looking forward to more officer bonding and networking.

The weeks ahead are looking promising.

An A Serious Note- 4-H Desensitizing Kids- WHAT!!!

After perusing facebook, I noticed a fellow facebooker posted this link, http://eatocracy.cnn.com/2011/06/23/does-4-h-desensitize-kids-to-killing/?hpt=ea_r5.

Upon following it, I was astonished to find there are those out there who feel 4-H and FFA (I added that myself) are desensitizing  youth in regards to animal killing. Let me just share, that as past 4-H and FFA member, this couldn't be farther from the truth.  If anything, these programs made me a more compassionate person. Each of my animals had a name and it was hard to sell them with the understanding they would eventually be meat. However, the flip side is that Bubba, Happy, and the others provided nutrition to families such as mine.  I quite often consume animals I have raised.

Being in youth agriculture programs instilled in me a respect for hard work, the agricultural lifestyle and compassion and even respect for the animals I raised. At a young age, I learned that these type of animal are production animals and only were companions in the short-term. It doesn't mean that I don't have compassion for dying animals  (both companion and non) or that I wish to witness inhumane harvesting of animals either. It does mean I understand the process and can make informed choices about the products I eat and respect the farmer who worked hard to produce the food I consume.

Although I respect the opinions of others who believe differently than I do,  I can say from experience that I became more compassionate and aware not less. This does not prevent me from enjoying the protein and nutrients found in meats provided to me from humanely harvest 4-H ,and FFA products as well as large-scale operations.

Colorado and a New Place All in the Same Week!

Thank heavens for hump day! It will be great to talk to my good friend Charlie. He always seems to make life seem happier. Then, it's back to packing up my house for hte move next weekend. but in the process,  I have t pack my suitcase for my family vacation to Colorado. It ought to be really fun and interesting (especially if they bring Molly, our lab). I am not necessarily looking forward to the 12 hours drive alone, but  Ibet  it will be pretty this time of year.

Sad to have missed my sister's last county fair and my first missed show in 13 years. But It will be nice to have some family time. Then, it' back home to move my house about 70 yards. LOL. Hopefully Ryan and I will be able to complete the move and have my old house cleaned in 2 days time.

Then, three weeks after the move I will be headed to New Orleans for AMS. It should be a great time reconnecting with friends and making new ones. Plus, after looking at the tentative schedule, it seems like there are some wonderful workshops to glean information from this yearSchool will start not too far after that and  I will being working on my thesis... YIKES.

In closing, my thoughts go out to those in my life present and past who have gotten terrible news about their health this week. As always, Stella is good.

Family Vacay

It was great getting back to California for a few days. We had a ton of fun hanging out and enjoying each other's company. I got to see grandparents, aunts and cousins I hadn't seen in far too long. I very much appreciated my family's spirit when picking me up at 11 p.m. They each wore OSU gear and had a welcome home sign that was spelled wrong in true Okie fashion. LOL.

I of course got to see the fair animals and wish them luck at the San Joaquin County Fair. This will be the fist fair I have missed in 13 years. I am a little sad about it to say the least. As always I thoroughly enjoyed seeing all of the pets and must say that Sweetpea has really let herself go....

We took a day trip to Monterey where we went to the aquarium. It was a very fun trip to say the least. In addition, we went to the Gilroy outlets. I am officially in LOVE. Got a few cute things including the trouser jeans I have searched years to find :)

We concluded the trip with a Giants game. It may have started out slow, with Giants down 4 to in the 8th. But once we left the game turned around. We won in the 13th inning, the inning I watched from my couch and hour and 15 minutes away from the Field. HAHA.

Overall, it was a wonderful trip. Wish Ryan had been able to, but we might have to have our own vacay later this summer.  I am taking suggestions. Finally, I just got to see my Seedstock Edge story in print, which is a cool feeling. In just over 3 weeks  I will get to move into my big girl apartment and take another family trip to Colorado. What a fun month it will be.

As always Stella is great, despite my departure. She is just happy mommy is home.

Summer Fun!

After a fairly traumatic week,  I can confidently say I am ready for a break. My personal life is settling down and my sister, who some of you may know was in two car accidents, but wasn't hurt (thnakfully)! So, not too much to wine about.

We have put on three large events at work over the past three weeks, each of which went very well.  My first semester of grad school was extremely successful and  I look forward to moving through the program and graduating in Dec. 2012.

I am continuing work close to full time the rest of the summer, but have a few vacations planned. After finding some cat sitters,  I am now looking forward to going  home for a bit. It will be great to see my family and friends. Ryan and I are traveling home together and will spend a large portion of our time at the sheep show in Reno. Should be a fun time. Then, some shopping and girl time with the extended family. And finally, going to a Giants game. I haven't been in far too long.

Also looking to the future is AMS- Ag Media Summit.  I can't wait to be with fellow ACT members in New Orleans for learning and bonding. I will also be retiring from national ACT office.  I encourage anyone thinking about doing it to go for it. It is a wonderful experience.

And as always, Stella is doing great! Although, she and  I both don't appreciate tornado season.

Graduations and Such

Well, this week work went well and we got a tone accomplished. Two conferences this week and two newsletters to work on. Should keep me pretty busy. I spent Thursday and Friday involved in Redlands Community College graduation activities. Ryan and his judging teammates graduated and are moving on to the next phase in life. If we could just find a place for Ryan to live, we'd be good to go.

The weather has been optimal for pleasure reading and house cleaning. Stella continues to do well and run around like she owns the place, which she does. In two weeks I will be spending some much needed time at home with the family. I might even get to see some extended family and do some shopping. However, probably my favorite is the Giants game we are going to :) It has been way to long since I've seen them play.

Until next time!

Summer Begins!

Well, it has been too long. However, I have a variety of updates. I turned in my last paper for school today, which means I survived my first semester of grad school- YES! Classes are set and ready for next semester, which means I am well on my way. Now, I just have to start my research. Not Fun :(

I will be staying and working in Stillwater this summer and altougth I am excited to have a job in the first place I wish it wasn't an hour and a half from the reason I chose to stay here in the first place. But he has his own summer job that he couldn't be more happy about, so I am going to make the best out of it. I am getting a bigger apartment and excited to decorate untill my heart's content. I am currently trying to ind someone with a sewing machine to make pillows. people want to charge and arm and a leg. I think I'll just wait it out lol.

Stella is doing great but will surely be unhappy when I go home at the end of the month for a brief vacation with the fam and sheep show vacay with Ryan. Which, let's face it is going to be like heaven for him. But as long as  I don't get fungus, should be a good time. It sounds like I might get to hang out with extended family later in the summer too. And, I can't forget my trip to New Orleans for AMS 2011!

But for now, just making some Cinco De Mayo inspired enchiladas and preparing for the garage sales this weekend which should be fruitful! I can't wait tof r my first free lance story to come out this summer, possibly the most exciting thing to happen in a while. Summer 2011, let's do this :)

California State FFA Conference Updates

Not that very many of you will care, but for the sake of maintaining updates, etc. I will blog about the conference for my CA friend who can't be here and even my OK friends because OSU's own Mr. Riley Pagett is visiting as the National FFA President. The conference is shaping up to be a wonderful time.

Well, opening session was awesome, Lindsey and Ben both came down from the ceiling and the others entered on motorized vehicles. The members were super excited to Discover their Adventure. The skit proved hilarious and members seem to be really enjoying themselves. Josh Shipp inspired members to go above and beyond what people have categorized them and be the best they can be by not being average...and a goat!

Day 2- It started with a tribute to the FFA creed and all it means to agriculture. Mr. Brooks Gibbs spoke about the life choices we make and how to ensure positive consequences. We also heard two presentations from National FFA Offices, Including Mr. Pagett. Outstanding member achievements were recognized. Finally we heard three retiring addresses form Casey, Jessica and Ben. Tears filled the arena to hear their words of inspiration. Hard to believe conference is half over!

Day 3- At the only session, we heard the retirng address from Jackie Garcia and recognized the officer advisors. That night Gloriana performed for 4,000 members and guests. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.

Day 4- The final session of the conference was filled with excitement and tears. Press Corp, Courtesy Corp., the choir and band were recognized. We heard the retiring addresses from Lindsey and Vince. The officer's parents were recognized. Finally, the 2011-2012 officers were elected. For the fourth year in a row, Escalon has an officer on the team.

Overall, the conference and the trip home were very enjoyable. Now back to the real world and trying to get caught up.

Excited for the Cali Time

Well, only two days of work and 1 class period stand between me and the flights home. I am super excited to see my family and few close friends while I'm home. I even get to see some cousins I haven't seen since Christmas! Yea for Hanna B. It sounds like mom has a few projects for me to work on (no surprise there). But I get to see the pets and new showpigs, which makes me very happy. Can't wait to see what the CA FFA officers have in store for us! Updates to follow.

Branson Fun

Well, it has finally come and gone, the vacation that had been in the work for several months. I think I speak for my traveling partner too in saying it was a HUGE success! After traveling 4 hours, we enjoyed a large meal at Lambert's where they throw your rolls to you. Good thing Ryan can catch lol.

After a good night's rest in a lovely hotel (thank you grandma) we headed to Silver Dollar City. But we made a pit stop at the outlets first, but more on that in a sec. It was great to run around care-free and enjoy some rides and good food. I had never had a spiral cut potato, but was yummy, so was the chocolate covered strawberry. I even got a mini umbrella that they painted my name on (a shout out to my previous one I lost). After four hours my feet hurt and we headed to the landing to Dicks 5 & 10 and walked around a bit. Ryan surprised me by offering to cook a steak dinner, and I accepted of course! After a great dinner we watched TV in 2 separate rooms because he wanted sports and I watched say yes to the dress. I was quickly informed  I need two TVs at my house so this luxury can continue. Haha.

Let's see, that brings me to Saturday. So we had to go to the outlets first thing Friday because Ryan needed a jacket. we did some pre-shopping looking (ok, so I might have bought a couple of items). however, we hit the outlets good on Saturday.  I got a variety of new things from new dinner plates and a deviled egg holder to a track suit and a couple of dresses. After all, it was all at outlet prices :) Oh and my personal fav, the MAC discounted makeup!  Then, we headed to Shepard's of the Hill where we went down the world's tallest zip-line. And although I was petrified, it went well and was a fun experience, however we both passed when offered second rides at a discount- once is SO enough! Our day concluded with a dinner and show on the Showboats Branson Belle. It was wonderful entertainment that kept us laghing the entire time. We even got to join the high school prom that was going on (some interesting dresses to say the least). Anyways, we had a wonderful night.

Finally, Ryan again surprised me with a a nice breakfast before we left. Sunday we finished our shopping and went the wax museum which was hilarious. I haven't seen someone so excited for wax. Ryan really had fun with the figures (see FB). Then, we headed home where Stella was waiting. All three of us watched the ACMAs, and enjoyed the last few hours of vacay. Overall , a wonderful time. Thanks for the company Ryan. California- I will see you in 9 days. I can't wait for the Ca State FFA Leadership Conference and to see my family and kitty at home.

The Week Ahead

I couldn't be more glad that last week is over. WWIII has ended, much to my relief. We are both looking forward to a relaxing trip to Branson with no talk of livestock, sheep or homework. On a personal note, I have been jogging ( not quite running) on a semi-regular basis and don't totally hate it. We'll see how long it lasts, but for now not too bad. Stella had her check-up appointment and is doing great. Other than that,  I hope this week is uneventful and leads to a fun weekend vacay.

What's to Come?

It seems as though my health has been restored. Thank heavens!  I was able to get a bunch accomplished over spring break and now only have the usual homework, work and assistanship things to take care of. in less than two weeks I will be on my way to Branson for my spring break (whether or not I am alone is yet to be determined  I guess). I even already have arranged a sitter for Stella. I hope the weather stays warm so  I can enjoy it. Now only 10 days, 2 essays, a stats test and several projects stand between me and relaxation. I can only hope that they go fast and that harmony comes in all areas of my life which aren't so harmonious at the moment.

Spring Break

I had forgotten what a real date is like. Got to hang out at Ryan's on Wed. night and go fishing. Score- Krista-1, Ryan- none. Then, we went to Old Navy ( in our yucky, smelly fishing clothes haha) and got date night clothes.  Hideaway Pizza was super yummy and hit the spot. Then, even though I live in a town that where shops close at 5 or 6 and some don't open at all during Spring Break, we walked around downtown. The weather was wonderful and we looked super cute on our new outfits. Then, we got my grocery shopping done so I didn't have to carry them myself. I  discovered at Wallie that Ryan enjoys the clearance aisle so much that he bought skillets and a coffee pot. HAHA. Then, we ate our low-fat, yet yummy ice cream bars and watched TV.  This morning we did some laundry and I showed him the joys of bargain shopping at ROSS. It was funny. After taking care of some scholarship business we got him a new OSU hat, which is the most painful process (they never fit just right...too big, too small, I wish that word wasn't there, or this word was). UGH! But we got it done and found a couple cute things for our upcoming trip to Branson. Our date day pt. 2 was concluded with a wonderful lunch at McAllisters. I am so glad judging is over for a while and can't wait to go to OYE, and have more regular person dates. Thanks babe- Love You!

Ready to Feel Better and for Break

Well, I went to the Dr. and got some meds.  I wouldn''t say I feel like a million bucks, but maybe a quarter of a million. Stella is doing great and running like a spaz. I have about 3 weeks worth of homework to do in 5 days, but it will be worth it when Ryan and I have more than 5 hours to spend together at a time. Only 3 weeks until Branson... a much needed vacay. In about 5 weeks from now, Ryan and I will be headed home for State FFA Conference and family time for a whole week. If I can just get the meds to kick in fast enough to bust out a ton of work in a minimal amount of time, then it will be smooth sailing in a week.

Ryan sent Stella and I get well gifts. So did mom = made me smile.

I Don't Even Know...

So the internship went well. I got some real-world experience about social media and maintaining blogs. The show and sell both went well. The seven hour drive home was LONG and I was very glad to be home and pick up Stella. I have managed to survive the first two days of the week, which have been abnormally stressful. I am behind in school (just a tick) but will spend my entire spring break working and doing homework. Honestly, the most exciting part will be seeing who wins on the bachelor. Anyways, on a more entertaining note, I was in Wal-Mart getting groceries (because I had knowingly put half sour milk in my tea just to get by) when I heard some interesting things. One- a woman asked a late 20, early 30-year-old male if he had been to Wal-Mart before. He responded NO. Are you kidding, who hasn't been to Wal-Mart.  Two- a girl walked by the bed and bath clearance section and said "Why do  they do this to me?" As if Wal-Mart was targeting just her with their clearance prices. HAHA. Both of these people made me laugh. Anyways, now I am preparing Ryan dinner and praying all goes well with Stella's surgery so I can remove my duck tape and have a normal, healthy de-clawed kitty. Just an average week. However, the light at the end of the tunnel- Houston is the last judging contest and my vacay to Branson is only weeks away....

Southwest Type Conference

Day one of my internship went well. Did some envelop stuffing and helped to sort papers to ensure a smooth show tomorrow. Tomorrow will consist of picture taking, blogging and anything else that needs done. It is going to be a long,exciting day of pigs with increased numbers. Can't wait to get started.

ACT Professional Development Conference and My Homecoming

Well, PDC was a success, members from around the country were able to hear from professionals and learn new tips about the communications industry. My personal favorite was Dan Toland who spoke about social media and provided tangible advice and tips for helping to create a positive brand. You have to be present and noticed to have social media work for you.

After waking at 3:45 am it was a challenge to stay awake long enough to board the flight. Ryan picked me up and took me to a nice brunch. Then, we washed my car and made it sparkle and smell better (it smelt of sheep- yuck). Then, we picked up a few things at his place. There, I was given the most beautiful anniversary flowers, and headed home. Once I got home I realized the Stella was naughty and instantly had a tummy ache. Anyways, I have plans for her for next time.

Anniversary

Well, Ryan made me cereal with peaches for breakfast, which was a nice start. Then, I went to class and school feeling like crap for the third day. After, I made my way to El Reno and we had a nice dinner ( I had steak YUM). Then,w e went to his house where he played Call of Duty with Heath...NOT romantic.  The next morning he took me to the airport, but made a pit stop at IHOP. And although our meal was very delayed, which resulted in a 50% discount.  He got me to the airport on time, full and happy. However, my flight was cancelled in Atlanta, but I was able to get on the one 2 hours later. So the long and the short of it, I made it to Columbus, OH with a possible respiratory infection and coughing up a lung. But, PDC 2011 should be fabulous.

V-Day

After being apart or in a house with 7 others for a long time, we decided to keep it simple.  I made b-fast for dinner and had strawberries with whipped cream for dessert. YUM! I got him a sweet romantic card that was full of heart-felt sentiment. He got me  "a funny card" which bordered on disgusting. What is it about guys? He quickly realized my amusement was sprinkled with irritation. But, the card was very him and isn't V-Day about being with the ones you love even if they do give you stupid cards? All I can say is that my anniversary is next week and that's all up to him, wait and see....

My New Addition

Well, after a couple of cat-free years, I am alone no longer. As an anniversary/valentine's gift I got Stella. She is a 7-month-old rescue. I found here at PETCO in Stillwater and have already fallen in love. Granted, the first day she made a small mess, but we haven't had any issues since. Let's re-cap:
Night 1: She totally hated me and spent the night hiding in the closet and behind the couch (which is now here safe spot). I was sure I was in for trouble.
Night 3: She can to me on her own accord for the first time, but remains very independent
Day 5: I had to take her to get her shots.... She cried and  I thought I would too. But she is well-medicated and had trimmed claws.
Night 5: She is sitting on my lap and purring happily. I do love her and hope we can spend many more happy and fun times together.
Most of all, I hope she doesn't ruin anything, as I have debated over and over about the proper cages (plastic, nylon and big or small). Oh, and she is the only cat I have ever had that hates tuna.  Updates to follow.

SNOW- NO

Well Feb. 1 has officially brought the biggest storm I have ever been in. So far, we have gotten 10 inches and from my warm house, it appears that there may be a large drift behind my car. It doesn't appear as though I will be leaving for at least a couple of days. However, I did brave Wal-Mart yesterday so I have plenty of food. Speaking of Wal-Mart, I am pretty sure that going yesterday was like being in hell. I had to park 100 yards away and walk my happy butt. There were two accidents outside bc there were so many people. next time, I will prepare earlier. Well, I suppose I should prepare myself some lunch, in my warm house.

Longtime No Blog

Well it has been a while. Here is the quick update, I am now in grad school, working two jobs and an assistantship and trying to maintain some sort of social life. Oh, plus working on the National ACT officer team to promote professional development and networking for our members. I have my first real vacation with Ryan planned in March and couldn't be happier. Well  I will be happier when judging is over (50 days form now :) Other than that, I focus on keeping up with reading and school work.