Life in Daba Town

I love... (part 15)

2011-10-06T12:43:00.002-06:00

I love snuggly blankets.
I love my 2-year-old nephew's high five fist bump combo.
I love Viola's excitement when I come home.

It has been a long time.

2011-10-03T11:27:00.002-06:00

Since getting Viola, the major event has been David going to Tokyo, Japan for a year of school. We've been chatting every day online. He sends me pictures of Tokyo, his food, his friends, and himself. He is doing good and wants to say hi to everyone.

I've been weeding out unimportant habits / hobbies from my life since he's been gone. Trying to work on myself while I am alone so I will be a better wife once he gets back. One thing I have eliminated is almost all computer games. It has freed up some time and I am happier with one less thing to think about.

I hope all is well with my friends, family, and online buddies and I apologize for not reading many blogs over the last year or so. Life is getting less and less chaotic and I hope to return to reading blogs in the near future. I really enjoy reading about your lives and I miss the excitement of seeing a new post.

Daba Town Mascot

2011-06-03T15:05:00.005-06:00

There is a new member of Daba Town - we will call her the mascot. I posted about how I've been wanting a dog and which kinds I would like to have.

Her name is VIOLA. Vie for short. She is a Shih Tzu and one sweet cuddly puppy! She is about 5 months old and not quite potty trained, but we love her anyway.

I loathe... (part 9)

2011-02-16T12:04:00.000-07:00

I loathe enforcing my syllabus.
I loathe discussing why learning math is beneficial, especially when the intended audience isn't listening.
I loathe schedule conflicts.

I love... (part 14)

2011-02-14T12:16:00.003-07:00

I love how I felt yesterday when I received a gift ticket to see WICKED.
I love how much fun I had at the special Valentine's Dinner from Saturday night.
I love my husband and how much time we spent together last weekend.

Daba Town News

2011-01-20T08:34:00.002-07:00

School has started - I am currently teaching 8 sections of math split between three schools and four locations... EEK. Most of the time I enjoy the classes but tire of the amount of work. I'd love to blog, create, relax, play, sleep more often, but I am thankful for work.
David is excited and happy about his schedule this semester so far. He is almost done with the Gen Ed requirements.
Life living with others has been straining sometimes, but most of the time I feel it is going more smoothly than I expected and we haven't run out of money yet! (Blessed)
Nephew Owen (Big O, Monkey) is over 5 months old and he is such a chunk! He is rolling, playing, smiling, and starting to eat some baby food.
Met my 75 (minimum) books read goal last year. I will go ahead and try this again (3rd year).

Happy Holidays and Winter Break From Daba Town

2010-12-16T09:47:00.000-07:00

Student Quotes

2010-12-07T22:03:00.002-07:00

"Trinomial times Trinomial! Hold on. Better turn my paper to landscape."

"Monomial? I thought you said Malt-o-Meal."

"Someone left their fingernail on my keyboard. I'm not going to touch it - it isn't on a key I use much anyway."

Have a merry dead week and a happy finals week, too!

Snow Day Highlights

2010-12-01T22:25:00.003-07:00

Drank coffee with my husband at Starbucks.

Finished knitting my monster scarf.

Finished watching Bones season 4.

Finalized some grades.

Played Skipbo.

Advice from a College Math Instructor (part 1)

2010-11-17T13:42:00.003-07:00

This new idea for a post came from an encounter with a student today. I thought I would advise (rant) about general college behaviors along with math study tips.

Today's Topic: Special Favors

Don't ask for extra credit or special favors in front of the rest of the class.
If you ask for extra credit, extensions, answers to a test, or other special favors that make your life easier, then, when you receive a polite no, don't laugh and pretend you were just kidding.
Don't ask for special favors multiple times per meeting and pretend you are kidding.
Don't criticize the class or instructor for a mistake you made in regards to special favors, especially in front of other students.
If you are always asking for special favors, then complain when it appears someone else got one (when they didn't), then you probably won't receive one in the future.

Teacher in the Crosswalk

2010-11-16T10:52:00.000-07:00

Hit my teacher with my car.
Goal achieved: she flew quite far.
But of me she got the best-
When a proctor gave her test.

Quote

2010-11-12T09:07:00.000-07:00

"I wouldn't want to get a concussion on the way to school."

"Neither would I - it's not conducive to learning."

I loathe... (part 8)

2010-11-08T15:16:00.000-07:00

I loathe songs that are played over and over again on the radio.
I loathe a huge bag of candy containing no chocolate (such a waste).
I loathe clutter.

Didn't Get It

2010-11-04T21:31:00.000-06:00

So I wanted to write a blog reporting whether or not I got the full time teaching job I'd applied for at one of the schools I am teaching part time. The process has been long, but has taught me a lot about the field.

I didn't get the job, but was told to apply next time there is an opening because they really liked me and my talent/knowledge.

Knowing me (which most of you do) you can expect that I've already come up with a list of "on the bright sides."

BRIGHT SIDES:

I most likely won't have to teach 5 or more sections of DEVELOPMENTAL math next semester.
I have the opportunity to get an even better suited position in the future.
I met some nice people: peers I'd only emailed before this process.
I re-acquainted myself with a friend.
Other adjunct math teachers have talked to me more since finding out I'd made it past the first interview.

"Where's my hand?"

2010-10-21T09:22:00.001-06:00

David was sleeping when I called him last night. He doesn't remember talking to me. What he does remember is what happened in the middle of the night...

Him: "Where's my hand?" - said in a PANIC.

Me: "What do you mean? It is right here." And I grab both his arms to show him his hands.

Him: "No that is your arm! Where is MY arm and hand?"

Me: "Right here!"

Him: "Oh I thought that was your arm." Almost instantly he went back to sleep.

I thought he had been dreaming. Apparently, his arm was asleep so he couldn't feel anything and the weight of his arm felt like it was coming from me.

I love... (part 13)

2010-09-30T11:08:00.001-06:00

I love The Killers.
I love Mates of State.
I love Arcade Fire.

Logic in Math Class

2010-09-17T14:01:00.002-06:00

My students had a quiz this week and there were logic circuits on the quiz. The directions required the student to "write a logical statement using the diagram." Since I didn't emphasize that their answers should be in the form of a *symbolic* statement, one student decided to only write an English statement, which would have been alright if the student had done it correctly.

Here is what the student wrote:
"If it is delicious it is fried or it is not pork, but if it is fried it is pork."

This is funniest while grading at 2 am. The handwriting only makes it funnier.

Crazy!

2010-09-02T10:26:00.000-06:00

Crazy, chaos, unorganized, hectic, busy...

These words decribe my life at the moment.

In the middle of beginning a new semester, for which I am teaching 8 class total, 4 for two different colleges, we are moving to a house with my parents, brother, and a friend... Three separate "families" coming together is not easy to organize.

Daba Town has relocated, but the citizens are happy and healthy - just busy.

I want to continue to write blogs and I have accumulated some funny things that have happened (also some crazy things, frustrating things, and sad things).

So I guess this is to be continued. :)

Follow Up on Forced Changes

2010-08-04T12:52:00.001-06:00

So we bought a new-to-us used car to replace our Altima. We shopped a bit, almost got a newer Altima, but fell in love with a cute, pearly white, 2006 Jettta TDI. Drives like a dream and gets good gas mileage. David named it Ula so he can say "Now Ula Dance" when we start the car.

Forced Changes

2010-07-23T11:01:00.001-06:00

Getting your car smashed from behind forces your life to change.

Don't worry! We are okay! We just have a more interesting life now.

My brother and his family are moving about 1600 miles away. That forces another change in my life: not seeing my sweet nephew biweekly.

Has anything forced a change in your life recently?

Softball

2010-07-20T11:26:00.000-06:00

When I was younger, I played ten years of softball. In the last year I was on my way to playing for a college team, but I had a shoulder injury and couldn't throw overhand farther than a few feet. Even though I was a pitcher, I still needed to be able to throw the ball from home to first in case of a bunt, but I couldn't even throw it that far.

My father has had similar shoulder injuries and so we decided to rehabilitate our throwing arms with a weighted softball his friend recommended. We've played catch every day for two weeks and I've already seen significant improvements in my abilities. It has been great to play the game again and to spend a little time with my dad every day.

Are there any fun activities you've put on the back burner that you'd enjoy picking up again?

Funny Book

2010-07-16T10:07:00.000-06:00

I've loved Shannon Hale's books in the past so when I saw one on the library shelf I just grabbed it. I am currently reading The Actor and the Housewife and it is quite funny. I'm only about half-way through, but I've enjoyed it every much so far.

Shift in Interest

2010-07-05T13:14:00.000-06:00

I feel a shift coming on. My reading has slowed and I think crafts are coming in the near future. I still have my 75 book goal this year, but since I am at about 55 books read, I am sure I can reach my goal by the new year.

I have two baby gifts to make and some other experimental projects coming up.

What are your favorite crafts and what projects are you working on?

Summer Reading

2010-06-21T08:42:00.002-06:00

One of my favorite things to do each summer is read as many books as I can enjoy (which is usually a considerable amount). I like to read to relax, to be entertained, to get my mind off math, and to learn. I've been reading the Sookie Stackhouse "southern vampire" books and have been enjoying them in a fluff sort of way. They are easy to read, quick paced, a bit romantic, and very entertaining.

Here is my summer reading list from most recently read to read just after graduation - copied from goodreads.com - ignore the stars. I enjoyed Poison Study and Hourglass Door the most off of this list.

Dead as a Doornail (Sookie Stackhouse, #5)	Harris, Charlaine	read, ebooks, own [edit]	4.00	Jun 21, 2010	Jun 19	edit view
Dead to the World (Sookie Stackhouse, #4)	Harris, Charlaine	read [edit]	4.15	Jun 19, 2010	Jun 12	edit view
Club Dead (Sookie Stackhouse, #3)	Harris, Charlaine	read [edit]	4.02	Jun 13, 2010	Jun 12	edit view
Living Dead in Dallas (Sookie Stackhouse, #2)	Harris, Charlaine	read [edit]	3.92	Jun 12, 2010	Jun 07	edit view
Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, #1)	Harris, Charlaine	read [edit]	3.87	Jun 10, 2010	Nov 18, 2008	edit view
Spirit Bound (Vampire Academy, #5)	Mead, Richelle	read [edit]	4.57	Jun 05, 2010	Feb 06	edit view
Beauty: A Retelling of the Story of Beauty and the Beast	McKinley, Robin	read,ya_clean_recommendations [edit]	4.09	May 31, 2010	Nov 18, 2008	edit view
Mountain Laurel (Montgomery Saga, #7)	Deveraux, Jude	read [edit]	3.59	May 31, 2010	Jul 07, 2009	edit view
Enna Burning (The Books of Bayern, #2)	Hale, Shannon	read [edit]	3.90	May 29, 2010	Dec 30, 2009	edit view
Poison Study (Study, #1)	Snyder, Maria V.*	read [edit]	4.21	May 27, 2010	Feb 06	edit view
Living Dead Girl	Scott, Elizabeth*	read [edit]	3.84	May 25, 2010	May 01	edit view
The Hourglass Door	Mangum, Lisa*	read [edit]	3.81	May 23, 2010	Feb 27	edit view
The Sweet Far Thing (Gemma Doyle, #3)	Bray, Libba	read [edit]	3.93	May 22, 2010	May 11	edit view
Rebel Angels (Gemma Doyle, #2)	Bray, Libba	read [edit]	4.02	May 18, 2010	May 11	edit view
A Great and Terrible Beauty (Gemma Doyle, #1)	Bray, Libba	read [edit]	3.75	May 12, 2010	Aug 02, 2009	edit view

Funny Wake Ups

2010-06-18T02:04:00.000-06:00

David usually tells me when I say something 1/2 asleep. This morning the following conversation took place:

ALARM GOES OFF AND DAVID GETS UP TO TURN IT OFF
Me: "Did you get the answer right?"
Him: "I set the alarm for the right time."

I went back to sleep- I guess I was satisfied with that answer.

Too much math? Nah.

Updates in Daba Town

2010-06-01T16:57:00.000-06:00

I appreciate your patience with my fewer updates. I had good intentions on blogging more frequently but they flew out the window:

Got two part time teaching jobs: Brown Mackie and ITT Tech.
My grandmother isn't doing well and is in the hospital.
Our car was messing up but is now acting fine.
I got my graduation present! A touch screen laptop so I can easily teach math to my students.

I wanna hear about fun summer plans! I am teaching all summer and David has summer school so I need to live through others' fun times.

Updates in Daba Town

2010-05-17T11:50:00.002-06:00

I know it has been awhile. Sorry. That's what happens when you get three job interviews (finally) and graduate with your Master's degree. Now that school is out and things have calmed down I would like to say thanks to EVERYONE for all the help, love, and words of encouragement I received over not just the past few weeks but for my whole 19 years of schooling. A special shout out to my husband and my mom (madre) for the hours of extra encouragement.

In the next few posts I will be putting up pictures from the past month and moving right along with fun things I am planning to do now that I have EXTRA FREE TIME!!!!

News:

M.S. Mathematics and celebrations with family and friends.
Job @ Brown Mackie - contract signed for teaching a math class in June.
Grad present ordered: super sweet tablet (touch screen) laptop.

Snippet

2010-04-26T07:15:00.000-06:00

Today, when I was on the freeway headed toward Bodo (Boise Downtown), I put my blinker on to go around a curve in the road.

That's when I realized I am tired and need coffee.

Updates in Daba Town

2010-04-16T10:05:00.008-06:00

I have been busy lately. When I stopped being as busy I took a break to rejuvenate. So I haven't been commenting on blogs (though I have been reading most of them) and I haven't been posting much other than Quotes from Class.

Here are some things you've missed because I didn't post about them:

Big Things:

I passed my thesis oral defense (big sigh of relief).
I turned in the 2nd to last draft of my thesis (bigger sigh of relief).
My little brother passed his GED test.
My big brother took care of all his license issues with the state of New Jersey.
Two nieces/nephews on the way- one due Aug 1, one due Nov 24.

Medium Things:

I bought my cap, gown, tassel, and hood for graduation.
David signed up for summer school.
Lee J (nephew) crawls like a mad man, makes the "d" sound, and stands for long periods of time without falling.
I have been eating healthy foods and feeling good about it.
Played catch and hit some softballs with my dad. He says I "still got it."
Made a baby blanket (star shape through crochet) and I'm almost done making another one (patchwork of knit squares).
I learned how to make some new things like baby hats.

Small Things:

Tulips from our roommate to celebrate the thesis accomplishments.
David found 12 long gray hairs in a section on the back of my head.
Less than one month of being a student (for awhile).
Our dryer broke.
I still want a dog but it might have to wait another year.
I want a new lens for my camera because I want to get back into photography this summer.
Haven't read a book in almost a month (no time and using it as motivation to lose weight).

Quotes from Class

2010-04-12T11:20:00.000-06:00

More quotes from my Abstract Algebra class. Remember the German accent.

"This is an example of a bad proof. The best thing I can say about this proof is that it is probably correct."

"There should be a law: after 1000 times you shouldn't have to write square root of 2 or one half plus two thirds ever again. It would be illegal to write it after that."

"If you're lucky by the end of the course half your students know what you're talking about."

"Anything beyond x = 2/3 is too much."

"We always b**** about the bad students because they are always in your face, but there are many good students. I have to remind myself of this often or I'd shoot myself... but... I also have to consider my dog."

I love... (part 12)

2010-04-10T08:00:00.006-06:00

I love Ingrid Michaelson.
I love Jude Deveraux romances.
I love Masterpiece Theatre Classics.

Quotes from Class

2010-04-07T11:05:00.001-06:00

"While slavery was in full swing here in the US, Gauss was thinking about UFDs."

He wrote 'Same Natter' on the board and we call laughed. He said "Same Natter. Isn't 'natter' a word? I played scrabble with someone and they used it... it's famous... you can google it."

Sometimes he writes funny things when he is feeling too laid back to write all the details.

The funny part here is the "p divides this" statement.

Spinning and Knitting

2010-04-03T11:41:00.004-06:00

Over the break I went to my friend Ashley's house in Lincoln City, OR. She runs her own Fiber Arts store from her home. She buys wool, dyes it, and sells it. Sometimes she spins it but she says most people who buy from her want to spin their own yarn. She is teaching classes in Lincoln City on how to recycle yarn from sweaters, beginners knitting, beginners crocheting, and how to spin roving using a drop spindle.
We had a lot of fun this week. She practiced some of her lessons on me. Here are some pictures of what I learned.

This is what dyed roving looks like before it is spun. I picked one dyed periwinkle and violet.

Ashley also made the drop spindle I used. She is going to sell them. Mine has two leaves on the top and the word "grow."

Almost done with the scarf while in Lincoln City.

I spun the yarn extra hard to put the extra kinks into it.

This is the finished scarf project with beaded ends.

She also taught me how to knit baby hats.

Quotes from Class

2010-03-30T08:00:00.006-06:00

Other Professor: (This professor says some funny things, but not as many as the other one. This professor teaches my Linear Algebra class and these should be read with thick Latino accent.)

(Speaking of America's history) "In this country you have New York. Other than that you don't have cities- you have trains."

"If we squint a little bit, then it looks like the two dimensional complex number space."

"Whenever you have an equivalence you feel compelled to make a collection."

"If you choose carefully, then lots of good things will happen."

"I was young and happy doing homework and watching X-files on Sundays, I remember."

Quotes from Class

2010-03-26T10:12:00.000-06:00

I've needed some good laughs lately and so I gathered all the quotes I haven't had time to post. I will post these today and some more (from a different professor) are scheduled for next week while I am on spring break!

Student Quote:

"I have to self intersect... that always makes me uncomfortable."

Professor Quotes: (This is the same professor as previous Quotes from Class posts. He teaches Abstract Algebra and is also my thesis advisor. These should be read with a thick German accent.)

"So Gauss probably took out his ipod and his headphones were tangled for the thousandth time and he got fed up so he developed knot theory."

"Oh that's bad notation but I can't help it because it's in the book."

"We have five more minutes so we might as well go on. On the other hand we might as well quit."

"Here's a cute little theorem for you."

"And all of this is sort of bean counting."

"I'm 90% sure but I could be 10% wrong."

"You caught me on a pretty bad lie."

"...which is what you want, because all we have to do is factor, so we are done. At this point your calc students yell out 'But that's not what it says in the back of the book!' to which I say, 'Oh well!'"

"There's an annoying lemma coming up."

"Plus, I lost one of my contacts so I'm down on one eye."

Written on the board: "45 + 24 = too much"

"It's a good group but way too special."

"Who cares about small numbers? Screw 1, 2, 3, 4, 5."

"If this doesn't smell like free to you, then I don't know what does."

"I'm wearing sweaters with holes in protest of teacher salary cuts."

I loathe... (part 7)

2010-03-25T10:49:00.000-06:00

I loathe books formatted without chapter breaks.
I loathe dreams full of running late, panic, wrong answers, and general confusion.
I loathe The Hills and shows like it.

May the Lights Be With You

2010-03-19T07:21:00.001-06:00

Announcer: "...and the crowd goes wild! Bailey, you just made it to school in record time! How did you do it?"

Bailey: "Oh, you just gotta know how to work the lights. If they are all green, then, you know, you're going to make it there... quickly."

Announcer: "That is just fascinating! What a way to start the day!"

I love... (part 11)

2010-03-14T08:00:00.001-06:00

I love the number 2 (and even painted a picture with that theme).
I love browsing books in bookstores or online.
I love mindless puzzle video/computer games.

Today will be the definition of a long day.

2010-03-13T11:02:00.001-07:00

Woke up to the surprise of snow!
Did I think today will be a good day?
Yes.
I got to the MLC early so I decided to push the 2 in. of slush off the porch.
Did I remember to unlock the door before going outside?
No.
Did I go outside without any of my stuff (including phone with important numbers and keys)?
Yes.
Did the door shut behind me?
Yes.
Did I have to run to my office and figure out how to get back in?
Yes.
Did I have to wait outside in the snowy cold for security to get the job done?
Yes.

It is now 11 am and I am finally warm.

Feelin' Nostalgic Are We?

2010-03-11T11:23:00.002-07:00

The other day my nostalgia was triggered. It happens. I thought it might be fun to list some of my triggers and ask all the readers to leave at least one as a comment. I may add to this list as I think of more.

The taste of a doughnut on a moving day.
The smell of a dewy softball field.
The sound Belle and Sebastian while cooking or doing dishes with David.
The smell of sawdust.

I love... (part 10)

2010-03-09T10:00:00.002-07:00

I love avocado.
I love my new Bodum coffee press.
I love eating with chopsticks.

Defend Thy Thesis or Else!

2010-03-05T08:00:00.002-07:00

"Why is it called a 'defense'? Are they going to attack?" ~ Frank

My paper doesn't have a title yet because we reorganized the paper and it has a new focus. It is about Carter surfaces, virtual knots, and the genus problem.

The whole idea of presenting my work in front of professors stresses me out even though most of my audience will be people who care about me and want me to succeed. I also think that half of the audience will get lost after the second slide (which is a good thing, because people who don't get it usually don't ask hard questions).

My thesis (master's in mathematics) defense is scheduled for April 7, 2010. If you are in the Boise area (or not), then you are welcome to come! I love support from friends and family. You may now leave me well wishes and encouragement. :)

Quotes from Class

2010-03-02T10:09:00.000-07:00

More math class quotes by same professor:

"You can also play with these things quietly in your room."

"I feel like I'm kicking a dead horse now."

(He walks to other part of the chalkboard.) "Let me do this on scratch paper."

"What now? There are probably a bunch of definitions and horrible lemmas I don't even want to prove."

I loathe... (part 6)

2010-02-27T10:12:00.003-07:00

I loathe unloading the dishwasher.
I loathe chalk.
I loathe when people text "I have a question" or "I have news" then don't text back until you text "Ok what?"

Shout Out

2010-02-25T11:57:00.006-07:00

We have two less wisdom teeth here in Daba Town. David had his pulled yesterday. His doctor said that he had really deep, curved roots that had grown together under his gums- very stubborn teeth- but they "came out beautifully."

Props to the Dentist:
- Welcoming atmosphere by the assistants and office ladies.
- Dental assistant constantly asked about David's comfort.
- A job well done by Dr. Vania.
- Well prepared conversation about how to take care David once he gets home.
- A bag full of treats picked specifically to help David with his first night after surgery.
- Two phone calls from the office to check up on him, both within 24 hours of the surgery, and one was from the doctor personally (much later in the evening than office hours).
- Semi-cheap considering we don't have insurance.

We are so pleased with the entire experience that we want to tell everyone about our dentist!
If you are in the Boise area and are looking for a dentist, then call 208-375-0665 and ask to see Dr. Harding or Dr. Vania.

Quotes from Class

2010-02-22T16:54:00.003-07:00

Olympic Edition:

"The Jordan-Holder Theorem deserves a medal. It's just as important, if not more so, than skiing."

"I should get a medal- Fastest Proposition 5.57 Prover. Now let me go on TV and drag bits of my private life out."

"You brush your teeth as a warm up for your math course."

"Let's prove this- I might run out of patience, but then I only get the silver medal."

I loathe... (part 5)

2010-02-17T10:45:00.004-07:00

I loathe the word "chagrin."
I loathe having unfinished craft projects with no time to work on them.
I loathe Family Guy.

Quotes from Class

2010-02-16T16:18:00.002-07:00

My math professor is hilarious. We all agree he isn't trying to be funny.

"I wouldn't know how to define 'theorem.' Theorems are just statements, like, 'All cats are gray,' except theorems are supposed to be true, and this one isn't- (pause) by counterexample."

"Criminal things always pay off - so that's always an option."

"The devil would have to do a lot of screwing to make this not isomorphic to that."

Daba Explained

2010-02-12T09:53:00.000-07:00

My husband and I are a unit. We both are compliments to each other and act best as a whole. When we became a couple, we decided on a funny "celebrity couple nickname" - Daba. Da for David. Ba for Bailey. The pronunciation is easy: Da is like the Irish name for father, which rhymes with ba as in the sound a sheep makes.

If you are married, then what would be your celebrity couple name?

I love... (part 9)

2010-02-09T11:30:00.002-07:00

I love Pink Pearl erasers.
I love the word "abide."
I love the smell of paper.

Traditions in Daba Town (part 1)

2010-02-04T11:55:00.006-07:00

We have a lot of traditions in Daba Town. Some we established as early as December 2006 (when David and I became an official couple). There are some we try very hard to keep and some we have missed a few times, yet it is still in the back of my mind. We made a rule when we got married: "We're our own family now! We get to make our own traditions!"

Since we have just experienced the massive celebratory season (middle November to middle January) and since we have a couple celebrations coming up, I thought it would be fun to list some of our non-traditional traditions.

Birthdays- David's birthday is coming up: Birthdays begin with sparkling Welch's grape juice at midnight. They are spent with spouse = slave of birthday spouse. Usually this day includes an expensive restaurant meal (on top of family home-made, birthday person's requested meal some day after actual birthday). Since we are impatient people here in Daba Town, we usually buy expensive presents "for each other" in mid November and call them our "Christmas/Birthday" gifts. By the time birthdays come around, we always like to spend a little more on a small token-ish present, usually a video game.
Valentine's Day- We were very poor for our first couple of Valentine's Days, so we began the $5 limit rule. For Valentine's Day we exchange gifts worth $5 or less. We've decided that after every 5 years of marriage we will add $5 to our gift limit. (David wanted us to start at $50 and work our way down, but he knows we can't afford THAT every year.)
Thanksgiving- When on our own in Kentucky and working at the movie theater on Thanksgiving, we made the traditional mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, rolls, deviled eggs, and pumpkin pie. We also included egg rolls and jalapeno poppers.
Daba Day- January 26th, the average of our two birthdays. We didn't do anything special for Daba Day this year because on that particular day we were really busy with school. This day came about because of the Wii. We thought it would be fun to make a "Mii" character who was the average of both our features. It was just a joke. When they asked for the name, of course we put Daba, but then it asked the birthday and we realized Daba needed a special day! Why put our anniversary when we can come up with another day to make special- another "excuse" to have fun? Thus the average of our birthday became a Daba Town holiday. Sometimes it is celebrated with a date or just making time to spend together at home, but we always say "Happy Daba Day!"

To be continued... but... What are some of your non-traditional traditions?

Photography

2010-02-01T09:48:00.008-07:00

I don't usually promote my photography "skills" since I haven't had much time to practice them lately. I love the hobby, but it is just that, a hobby. Friends and family sometimes use me as a free substitute for professional pictures. I'm pretty sure they get the job done. At holidays and get-togethers, I am behind the camera and sometimes I take pictures of things I find interesting or pretty.

Note: I always want a better camera.

Here is a picture from a laid back, non-professional by any means, photo shoot of my nephew. Makes me wanna pinch his cheeks! ~Proud Aunt

Empathy, Sympathy, Silence

2010-01-29T09:46:00.004-07:00

I've been having what I call issues with my work load and final semester of school. It is hard to find someone who can understand my troubles. I spoke to my mom and my husband about it, but I didn't feel better. I guess I wanted empathy, not sympathy. Plenty of people can sympathize, but few can empathize. How many young women do I know who have recently gone through a master's program in mathematics? I know one woman who recently received her master's, and a few who semi-recently received doctorates, all of whom live in Kentucky. I spoke with my one math friend yesterday and I feel a bit better.

I've been reading more blogs lately so I feel like I have been exposed to a lot of personal, touching stories about the lives of relative strangers. Many of these stories are traumatic and I know I can't relate - so I don't pretend I understand. Sometimes I try to leave encouraging comments, something relevant - I offer sympathy since I cannot offer empathy. Most of the time I feel like I might cheapen the post by leaving a comment so I don't write anything.

Which is best: Empathy, Sympathy, or Silence?

I dare to say empathy, although hoping for empathy presents a conundrum: If I have been through a tragedy, and I hope for empathy, then am I hoping others have suffered as well? Misery loves company and all that.

Which is better when empathy isn't an option: Sympathy or Silence?

Follow-up On Trends

2010-01-27T11:18:00.005-07:00

Thanks for all the great comments. I have receive other comments outside of the post as well. I appreciate the thoughtful and honest answers.

My personal response:
I guess I am about a 3 on the scale- I don't run from trends and I lean towards negative feelings about them. Most of the time I show interest in trends just to see what the fuss is about, but my standards are pretty high when it comes of devotion. I also run the risk of keeping my "favorites" to myself. I like to financially support bands/artists/authors who I like, and, if asked, I will give an enthusiastic answer and recommendation- I just don't volunteer the information on a regular basis.

I don't know that much about other cultures so I cannot answer those particular questions.

I believe it is mostly possible to make choices without influence or pop culture, but I don't think it is ever 100%.

Pondering on Trends

2010-01-23T10:47:00.007-07:00

I've been thinking about trends a lot lately. I might be wrong, but I generally see two attitudes towards trends with a varying degree of intensity. Here is a list of different trend areas that I specifically have in mind: books, movies, clothes, music, decor, hobbies. This is not an exhaustive list. I just want you to have a clear picture of the topic.

Some people like trends and are usually called "trend-followers" or "trendy." In the extreme, a trendy person might encourage others to be trendy and look down upon those who don't follow trends. We might even see a fanatic devotion to certain trends. "I love this item WAY more than you ever could!"
To a lesser extent we have people who follow trends in perhaps dress or decor but maybe not as much in music, movies, books, or other areas. I don't particularly know all motivations for trend-following. I thought perhaps it is a mix between actually liking something that has become popular and wanting to fit in with the popular crowd. (I realize it could be either or neither.) They take pride in being with the popular instead of taking pride in being a creator. I'm not saying that trendy people aren't trend-setters. I am merely discussing the two different attitudes towards trends themselves.

The other attitude I will call "anti." Again, there are varying degrees. In the extreme we might see anti's who rebuke trendy people, perhaps calling them "sheep" or "followers" with a negative connotation. They might even go out of their way to not appear to be following any trends. Now there is, of course, plenty of discussion on whether they are truly independent of trendy influence or perhaps "following" the anti-trend pop culture. The rebellion for rebellion's sake.
The lesser extreme could include people who don't like the idea of trend-following, but will still like something "despite" its popularity. People in this group might not broadcast any of their favorites, for fear of a growth in popularity, and might be defensive when something becomes popular. The phrase "I knew it back before it was popular" is a bragging right found in this group. They take pride in being with the "firsts" instead of taking pride in being with the popular. They might believe that they are trend-setters or independent of pop culture. Motivation might be our individualistic upbringing or a result of being rejected by trendy people from a young age.

My questions:

Can anyone really be outside of trends or pop culture? Is there a way to actually make these preferential decisions without influence?
Is there a third attitude?
Is this battle of attitude found only in the USA, where we are taught to strive to be independent individuals, or can we see it in other cultures? Is this battle found more in capitalistic societies? Is it found more in developed countries as opposed to undeveloped (using it as a subjective term as we learn in elementary school)? Is this battle a youthful battle or do we see it throughout all ages?
Is one attitude better than another or more correct? Is this battle simply over a subjective preference that is beyond what's right or wrong? Can taking one attitude to the extreme be classified as "wrong"?
Which are you? The scale below is from 1-10. One being "anti" trend and ten being "totally trendy." Five would be "I am not either" or "I do a little of both depending on the item in question."

Please respond to whichever questions you would like to talk about. Some of you might be more qualified to discuss certain questions over others. I just want some outside input. I will put some of my answers in a follow-up blog. I know my readers are very limited in number so each answer counts!

Rant, Rationalize, or Retry

2010-01-20T07:04:00.006-07:00

The first phase (after a bad day):
I usually feel like ranting about what went wrong. Usually my office mates suffer but generally are nice enough to listen and sympathize.

The second phase:
I try to explain, this time to myself, what went wrong, when it went wrong, what I did wrong, and what others might have done wrong.

The third phase:
I think about making lists of what I learned from the mishap(s) and think about next time I am in a similar situation what I will do differently.

I thought about writing a blog on my bad day yesterday, but I didn't, and I am glad.
I thought about writing a list of all the lessons I learned (see similar post).
I thought about this almost all day yesterday, and since 2am this morning.

The result:
I am full of good intentions and motivation right now, but I fear that like usual, these feelings are fleeting. As I get older I feel stronger, but I don't always see the results of my strength when I apply it to my current efforts. These thoughts are pretty random. Another result from lack of sleep.

New Year, New Semester

2010-01-18T19:25:00.004-07:00

Last year I had a goal to read 75 books and met that goal early on. I didn't quite make double, but I am making the goal again this year. It felt good to accomplish the goal early on in the year. It's fun to have a joint goal so I am in a 75 books in 2010 group like I was in 2009 through goodreads.com. This is one of my favorite websites. I love lists and it is fun to keep a track of what I read and see what others read. I read a lot of Chick Lit and Romance as of late, but I also enjoy other genres. I especially enjoy recommendations so... pipe up! Let me know what I should be reading!

I loathe... (part 4)

2010-01-13T16:51:00.008-07:00

I loathe when authors drag out a depressing part of a plot over 100 pages.
I loathe getting up at 6 am.
I loathe unattached hairs.

I love... (part 8)

2010-01-13T16:28:00.005-07:00

I love getting my residual check directly deposited into my bank account right when funds are getting low.
I love month-long vacations.
I love kissable babies/toddlers (aren't they all?).

Two-pence by Husband

2010-01-09T21:14:00.007-07:00

Only thrice in my life did I wind up with fleas
I then asked for advice from the low-hanging trees

"Oh good sir, not these
No advice from the trees
Without paying my massiveness,
Credulous fees."

"I'm not paying fees!" said my sad swollen knees
Who's voice had been rubbed wrong from swallowing bees

"Who spoke?" spoke the trees with their arms raised to seize
"We did!" said my morally sad swollen knees

"But kneecaps you are for little old czar,
Who's gameplay of sublets is only subpar.
Take off those snow masks and reveal who you are!"

My knees then bent back and then brought out a stack
Of books, papers, bungalows, lamb on a rack

"Oh man!" said my spine that was not a straight line
"I've never before had to drink all my brine!"

Then the swine tried to fine my incapable spine
With words, wisdom, newspapers, coins that won't shine
And its only way to convince me to stay
(Though stay I will without a bill:
A drill to fill up my fill)
Is to crawl on all fours through the red-wooden doors,
And to eat on the feet that walk steps to meet
A man with a hat and cigar-smoking cat
Who can play a tune grey with string, sticks and hay:
Yet better to pine and distill us some wine
With grapes, nectars, daffodils, summer squash vine

"Your not making sense
Like a garden hose fence!
For the time that you've wasted you owe us two-pence!"

No cash in my pocket, no list on my docket
I escaped my fate on a double-Schwinn Rocket

My Husband Can Be Funny

2010-01-08T15:41:00.004-07:00

So I am posting a couple of remarks that appeared on twitter recently. This is a warm up for his guest post coming soon to... well... right here.

You should hang out with me often, then you'll have something to say (on twitter) all the time.

ME: "I'm having fun. Aren't you?" HIM: "Yeah, In a SAW kind of way."

Congratulate Me!

2010-01-04T14:30:00.002-07:00

The most important goal from Thanksgiving until my birthday (soon) is to stay under a "goal weight." I have now made it through all the Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years festivities and I am able to say I am still under that number. I feel so good about myself that I wanted to share it with all of you. It is hard work being patient. It is hard to set achievable goals instead of reaching for the moon.

I don't post this for you, reader, I post this for me. I am a very happy woman today. I've come very far.

2010 Already?

2010-01-03T18:13:00.006-07:00

So I haven't posted much. I thought I would post more over break but I haven't been doing that. I am enjoying break more than ever before. I sit around... read... play video games... hang out with husband... It has been fantastic!
Here is a melting pot of thoughts from the past few weeks.

Resolutions:

Lose "the weight" by the deadline of September 1st, then begin on 2nd half of goal weight.
Finish Master's degree.
Read the entire Bible at least once.
Read over 75 books (repeat resolution).

Fun and Time-Sucking PS3 Video Games:

Civilization Revolution
Eden
Wheel of Fortune
Braid

Random Thoughts:

New Moon was good enough to see twice in the theater but the story line is still my least favorite of the four Twilight Saga books.
Still don't like doing housework.
Sore throats are a bummer.
South Beach Diet is the only diet that works for me (and holidays).
iTunes giftcards do not suck.
Family Game Nights are still the best.
I still LOVE my LG Dare cellphone- even after a year.

Well, that's about it right now. I might add some to this post as I think of items.

Sermon Says...

2009-12-23T15:06:00.002-07:00

The speaker Sunday night said some funny things. I believe they are funnier out of context.

I'm not going green on anybody.

My wife got sick and I lost my caregiver.

When did you bring me a cup of coffee... I mean... when did you bring me a cup of cold water?

Is this BroncoNation? I think I'm starting to fit in- I even got an orange shirt.

I worked 8 to faint.

Well, when we look at...oh that's the end.

First Day of Finals

2009-12-14T07:56:00.005-07:00

This week is finals week. Always a week of stress and little sleep. Perhaps this is an example:

Today I was walking down the hall toward my office five minutes before the first final. I passed a girl sitting in the hallway. She said, "Good luck." She was very friendly and smiled.

Smiling, I said, "I'm not taking a final. I'm a teacher. But thanks anyway."

She explained why she made the assumption that I am a student. I smiled and said thanks again, then walked into my office.

I found it humorous. I hope she does better on her finals than she did in the hall... that is... assuming she is a student who has finals this week.

I love... (part 7)

2009-12-12T12:10:00.006-07:00

I love snowy days spent indoors.
I love getting my requested teaching and tutoring schedule.
I love my HP Mini Netbook.

Lessons Learned

2009-12-07T10:58:00.008-07:00

Today I learned or was reminded of the following lessons... some are good, some are bad:

Fresh-fallen snow is beautiful.
Falling snow makes the world quieter.
Buses run late when it is snowing.
Walking for thirty minutes in the snow causes one's face to freeze if not properly covered.
Walking for thirty minutes in the snow causes one's legs to freeze if not properly covered (more than normally covered).
Walking like one would ice skate causes friction in one's shoes resulting in a happy warmth.
A stainless steel Starbuck's travel mug will protect coffee from freezing temperatures for longer than thirty minutes.

Blog Reading

2009-12-05T10:39:00.008-07:00

I love to read blogs. I think of myself as *designated reader* for my mother's writings, but I also think that I am a good audience for other writers.

So I list my few problems with blogs (in case some blogger wants my opinion as a reader).

First, I do not leave as many comments as I wish for the following reasons:

I have noticed most of my comments either go unread or unacknowledged.
I don't like to appear dumb, boring, or uninformed, which forces me to delete potential comments.
Some blogs are not written so that comments, other than "funny!" or "cute!" or "neat!", are hard to write.
Sometimes I do not have the time to think of comments, see below.

Second, I have noticed that many people post new blogs on Mondays. Monday is my busiest day, and so I find myself perusing blogs instead of reading them in detail (which is more enjoyable because I have time to digest them and perhaps comment). I find myself here, at work on a slow day, wishing there were new posts to read... but alas! there are no new posts to read. I could go back to some of the old posts I didn't get to read thoroughly, but that doesn't interest me. I will be happy when I am finished with grad school and able to read blogs everyday of the week.

If you acknowledge a comment from me or comment in response, then I thank you. I love the personal touch it adds every time I read another of your blog entries. Here are some blogs I enjoy more than others, partly due to their participation: commenter#1, commenter#2, commenter#3

If you post on a day other than Monday, then I thank you.

A Tribute

2009-12-01T10:51:00.006-07:00

Never have I found a site so consistently funny and in line with my sense of humor as xkcd.com. The site is dedicated to nerdy humor involving mathematical and scientific concepts. I don't want to steal any of their comics to post here, but I just wanted to say that I love the comic and if you like mathematics, then you'll love this site.

"You'll need this for later..."

2009-11-18T13:04:00.006-07:00

Today I used 2 (or more) things I learned in the class I am teaching right now. I use the general stuff everyday, but I haven't used these two theorems for my upper division work in a loooong time.

When I tell my class: "You'll need this for later..." I am not kidding. It just made my life easier.

In case you are curious: I used the Intermediate Value Theorem and the Descartes' Rule of Signs

Writing a Story

2009-11-16T10:50:00.005-07:00

My mom wants to write a novel in the month of November because of Nation Novel Writing Month. She is already working on a blog story and another novel, but the rules say you must start a new work and get 50,000 + words written (typed) before December.

I have never considered myself a writer. A reader, yes. Writing has never been enjoyable or easy for me. It doesn't help that I put up my own stumbling blocks by reminding myself of the teachers who told me I couldn't write. I force myself to write so I don't become illiterate.

Mom likes to do things with others and I am not such a bad audience. I like to be "designated reader" for her from time to time. I like to think I can come up with fun plots or characters, even if I can't actually write the story. Well NO MORE OF THAT! I have written 6000 words this month (a miracle?) and I am enjoying most of it. I actually downright LIKE our story and it is fun to see it grow.

We may or may not try to publish, but I can almost guarantee it will be available to read in the future- either in book or blog form. So if you like "chick lit" you might want to watch out for our story!

I love... (part 6)

2009-11-12T15:52:00.001-07:00

I love new friendships.
I love old friendships.
I love romantic gestures.

The Difference Between Red and Green

2009-11-11T15:14:00.007-07:00

I almost died laughing during Abstract Algebra today:

Teacher: "...one is green and the other is red so there isn't much difference"

Important observation: Teacher is COMPLETELY colorblind.

My thoughts: "I know what he means, but to him, there is NO difference, and to me, those colors seem completely different... either way, the analogy doesn't work."

(I knew he meant very there is very little difference. And on another note...)

In your opinion: Is there a big difference between red and green? What if there is another context, like there are two cars exactly the same except one is red and the other is green, then is there a big difference?

I love... (part 5)

2009-11-07T15:20:00.004-07:00

I love crossing items off lists.
I love fleece blankets (my new Snuggie).
I love crackers with tomato, Brie cheese, and basil.

I loathe... (part 3)

2009-11-06T10:13:00.005-07:00

I loathe cilantro.
I loathe seeing purple with yellow.
I loathe seeing red with green.

Halloween

2009-11-02T15:35:00.005-07:00

This year we celebrated on the 30th at a party put on by some friends from church.

David and I decided to take the cheap route and make our costumes.

I must say they were a hit, but the little ones needed us to remove our masks before they would get near us. Who knew stick figures were scary?

I love... (part 4)

2009-10-26T14:41:00.002-06:00

I love when noisy neighbors move away.
I love Ticonderoga black #2 pencils.
I love funny teachers.

Welcome to the World!

2009-10-23T14:43:00.016-06:00

I am happy to announce my friend "C" and his wife "B" had their first baby: Lydia Charlotte! She was early (due on Halloween) but I know her parents were as sick of waiting as she was. She is such a blessed girl already! She has such wonderful people as parents (and an awesome "aunt Bailey").

I was waiting for her arrival to post pictures of the present I painted for her. I got the idea from a friend who likes to wood-burn and paint wooden items for people. She's made me a beautiful candle holder and that wonderful Math Wheel (see other post). B decorated Lydia's nursery in all things Dr. Seuss. They have blankets and sheets, they painted scenes to hang on the walls, etc. I thought that I could make a stool for the nursery that had a The Cat in the Hat theme with the hat's stripes on the legs. I love the way it turned out and I plan to make more of different themes for presents in the future. C and B said they love it. I hope Lydia loves it (eventually), too.

I really wish I could go meet her. Thousands of miles is very expensive! I hope to meet her before she turns one and I plan on seeing tons of photos!

Belle and Sebastian

2009-10-20T11:43:00.008-06:00

Last night I dreamt that I was at a concert and when Belle and Sebastian came on everyone except for me left the concert. I got my own private show.

So right now i am listening to Dear Catastrophe Waitress by Belle and Sebastian while writing my thesis.

When I was younger I would tell Madre my dreams and she always said they were weird but entertaining and I should write them down. I never really did that- maybe I'll start. (This one really isn't that weird.)

T.H.A.T. #2

2009-10-19T13:26:00.000-06:00

A person who thinks with lightning speed, like the needle of a sewing machine writes needle like skinny points on the tops of m’s, n’s, r’s, sometimes h’s. He or she can pierce through information and analyze it quickly. The taller the points in relation to the other letters, the quicker the thinker. Sometimes students who never study but always ace tests can be frustrating to other students and even teachers. They learn so quickly that the information seems to have gone unlearned, but really it was learned quicker than seemingly possible. These students may become lazy or bored in the classroom from lack of challenge, but some thrive and excel by challenging their rate of thought. See last line of diagram in previous T.H.A.T.

Today's Handwriting Analysis Tip (T.H.A.T #1)

2009-10-13T11:54:00.008-06:00

I've been on a handwriting analysis kick lately. I am reading a couple of books on the subject, keeping notes in a spiral, and making observations in my handwriting, and other samples I can find.

I find this very interesting so I've decided to share tips I've learned that I've found generally true (so far). I am at the beginning of my study so I may come back and say "FALSE TIP" to some of these, but I like the tips and take them with a grain of salt. My first posts will be tips that apply to my handwriting.

I'll be calling them T.H.A.T.'s.

Here is the first one:

A person who thinks slower than average, but will build knowledge like a wall and remember all things learned writes m's, n'm, r's and sometimes s's and c's like a rounded or flat top (like a brick). These types of thinkers are usually logical and once they've mastered a subject (no matter how long it takes) they will remember and be confident in the knowledge, using it in life and to master other subjects.

Thomas Edison was thought to be a slower than average learner in school, but the way he thought helped him in his scientific experiments. He had a patient persistence and worked logically until he completed the task at hand. His signature shows this in his "m" and "n."

I love... (part 3)

2009-10-12T13:05:00.004-06:00

I love students who are eager to learn (and bonus if the student has deep understanding with little effort).
I love my travel coffee mug (took trying 3 different styles before finding the right one).
I love my brother who is 26 today. (Happy birthday!)

Three Year Old Stomp I Want a Dog!

2009-10-08T09:30:00.014-06:00

The upstairs neighbors not only annoy us with loud noises after hours but now have a howling dog (which we aren't allowed to have by the lease) to annoy us during the day. Only thing worse than not getting to have a dog till May is being constantly reminded of the fact by a sad dog.

I want a dog!

I don't know what kind yet (small lap dog that preferably has hair instead of fur). Any suggestions?

Here are some of my top picks based on cute encounters:

The Maltese
We owned a Maltese for years. Her name was Spooky because we got her on Halloween and she was white as a ghost. That dog barked at everyone but I loved her so much. She followed my mom around everywhere and slept at her feet. Spooky loved my mom best because mom fed her. Mom also was in the house the most out of all of us so Spooky never barked at her.

The Pomeranian
A friend on a softball team owned a Pomeranian. It was so little and cute and even if it was biting hard I barely felt anything!

The Shih Tzu
A friend from school had a Shih Tzu and I always thought as a puppy it looks like a mop-head running around on the floor.

The West Highland Terrier (Westie)
I don't know why I've always been drawn to Westies. My aunt had a Scottie and I like how Westies are basically white versions of Scotties.

The Yorkshire Terrier
Again, I don't have many experiences with them but I have heard good things and think they are adorable.

The Scottish Terrier
Like I said earlier, my aunt had a Scottie and I always think of Lady and the Tramp when I see one. They seem so wise!

Math Trig Wheel / Lazy Susan

2009-10-06T19:50:00.005-06:00

Ashley was doing some of her many arts and crafts this summer while I was visiting her in Lincoln City, OR. She wood-burned and painted a Lazy Susan for her husband's relative and had an extra one. I told her that I always wanted a wheel that converts radians and degrees but that I wanted it color coordinated for when I teach trigonometry someday (color coordination makes it easy to memorize). Well we both got brainstorming and I listed exactly what to put where, which colors for the degrees/radians parts, and a bunch of other trig-related concepts like special triangles and "SOH CAH TOA." Right away Ashley jumped on my suggestions and came up with this masterful wheel that has an application problem, three major concepts, and the conversion wheel all in one. It is beautiful and functional! I cannot wait until I get to use this wheel in the classroom! Thanks Ashley!

I loathe... (part 2)

2009-10-06T10:48:00.004-06:00

I loathe camping in a tent at night.
I loathe slow computers.
I loathe most rap music.

I love... (part 2)

2009-10-01T10:38:00.003-06:00

I love coffee, especially on a chilly morning.
I love cold weather because of the comfy clothes, shoes, and blankets that get used.
I love pumpkin.

Ignored, Insulted, and Entertained

2009-09-26T16:28:00.017-06:00

Results of our date night:

We went to the Vietnamese Pho Nouveau Bistro in downtown Boise last night. We'd been there before at lunch, but never for dinner. When we got there we were happy and excited about a date. It's been awhile since we've had one and a really long time since we've done something besides a movie. Things started to go downhill about two minutes after we sat down. The waitress seemed distracted and uninterested in serving us. After the initial taking of the order we had to stop her to ask her for something ... every ... single ... time. We ordered the spring roll appetizer, the chicken pho (pronounced fuh), the clear noodle soup (VERY clear noodles in purple-tinted liquid with various sea foods and veggies).On top of bad service, she took our food to be boxed, forgot about it till we asked for the bill, let it sit next to the bin of dirty dishes (20 minutes?), and boxed it after dessert but before bringing our bill. She didn't say goodbye or thanks or anything. The only redeeming quality of the experience was the amazing French press coffee and homemade tiramisu with coconut cream on the side. We walked out the door and trashed the leftovers at the first available bin. Talk about a $45 waste of a meal.

The opening band for the Killers' concert insulted the audience by discussing the Boise renown "right wing" majority. They said we were all right wing compared to them being left wing... ummm... at a ROCK CONCERT don't you think many people might be middle of the road or left wing even in a city like Boise? For the people who are right wing: who wants to be stereotyped anyway? They didn't get much enthusiasm from the crowd. The second band was an English-speaking mariachi band. They seemed to be mellow and glad to play for us and we enjoyed their music.

The Killers were AMAZING. We overheard 10-20 people saying this was the best show they'd ever been to or that the show was much better than they expected. I've experienced the Killers before and they did not disappoint. Since this venue was larger than the last, we got to see an excellent light show with confetti on top of the high-energy entertainment that is typical of the Killers. I guess they can still be my favorite band.

Oh Killers and Late Nights

2009-09-25T10:52:00.005-06:00

Oh The Killers, how I love thee. I am going to listen to them off and on all day to prepare for tonight's show. If the show in Nashville is any indication, then I will have a VERY entertaining night. David and I are also going to go out to eat downtown before the show. We like the newest restaurant, Vietnamese Pho Nouveau Bistro, so we might go there.

I got about four hours sleep last night because I've been busy. Yesterday was my "day off" and I accomplished a great deal (I think):

-2 pages written on thesis
-35 graded tests
-Lecture prepared
-Stage 1 on a craft project
-Finished a novel I've been struggling through (not Nora's best)
-Grocery shopping
-Laundry
-Watched new Always Sunny and Juno while grading

Even though I had to get up at 6:20 am and go to sleep at 2:45 am I felt so productive! I won't regret missing out on exercise since I did so many other things on my list... hehehe.

I loathe... (part 1)

2009-09-23T10:02:00.006-06:00

I loathe bacon.
I loathe stale cigarette-scented clothes.
I loathe wet spots on tile floors while wearing flip-flops.

I love... (part 1)

2009-09-22T10:39:00.004-06:00

I love the word "Tuesday."
I love hidden public bathrooms that hardly ever get used.
I love cinnamon.

New Roommate?

2009-07-08T13:51:00.001-06:00

There is a possibility that a friend might be moving in with us. We aren't sure yet, but it looks like it might happen.

I got my tentative teaching schedule: MATH143 Section 003 MWF 8:40-9:30

Research

2009-07-02T13:00:00.002-06:00

Research is going good. I have about three pages typed up and learned how to insert figures into my paper (took me 5 hours to get it right).

Hunter has his birthday (17 years old!) today! HAPPY BIRTHDAY (he won't read this).

I have been reading a lot lately, mostly youth reading and romance. It's been a nice summer so far, but I dread the math conference. I've never had to participate at one before.

Les Claypool Concert

2009-06-24T12:36:00.002-06:00

O'Death opened with an amazing show. They are from New York and have an alternative/bluegrass/punk sound. It was a lot of fun and we got a CD.

Les Claypool was absolutely amazing. Skyler couldn't stop raving and David thinks the performance was just as good, if not better, than when he performed with Primus.

The three of us got to spend some time together which is rare considering the other news.... Sky's baby Leo James Luther Sexton was born June 18, 2009 at 12:01 am. He was 5 lbs 10 oz and 19 3/4 inches long. He is so adorable I can't help bragging. He is so tiny. He's been eating more lately and staying awake for longer periods of time. Doesn't make me want one, though. Sorry Parents.

Waiting

2009-06-16T11:08:00.003-06:00

We are waiting for Lee J!!!

Book Day

2009-06-12T12:53:00.001-06:00

David and I went to the library and the used books store today. We didn't have time for much browsing but we did check some things out and sell some used books. The store we went to was kind of picky when it came to used books. If I owned a used bookstore, then I would take anything in good condition. Oh well.