December is here

Well I am still alive and well.  Sorry that it has been so long since I have updated.  Another quarter has started.  Break is unfortunately done and went too fast.  I went home on Friday, stopped in the twin cities, and hung around with lundon and sarah a bit, which is always fun! Then I stayed at a hotel overnight. It was a free stay and it was nice.  The next morning I hurried home so we could try to take family pictures quick before the extended family got there.  10 minutes for pictures when it includes 4 kids is not enough, but hopefully something turned out.  

For example,.Ava looks stoned because her eyes are closed but hopefully there is something that will work.

Then the family started arriving and soon I was surrounded by 20 some people.  It was fun.  The Breems side only gets together once a year.  It was good to see every one again.

our traditional BINGO game for grab bag gifts

helping Ava with her presents

Kristin and Parker.  Parker is a wild child even though she doesn't look it here

I can't forget the newest Breems of the bunch: Harper sitting by his grandpa

This was one of the rare moments he wasn't smiling

So that was all on Saturday...followed by a trip to our schools harvest festival and more people.  The next day we had Thanksgiving with the other side of the family.  It was fun, but short.  The rest of the trip was pretty uneventful.  I spent a lot of money on Black Friday (whats new) but it was less fun because my partner-in-crime wasn't around to shop with me.  But I did get most of my shopping done.  Saturday me and the parents went to the Twin Cities we went shopping (to pick out my christmas presents) and then to the holidazzle parade

some floats in the parade from their website

It was cold, but fun.  It was something different.  I hadn't been to the Holidazzle since I was in like 5th grade.  The next day I drove back and now I am back to work studying (when not procrastinating).  Its hard getting focused again and I have a busy weekend of leadership stuff for the frat, but better now than later.  We have a 3 test week before we leave for Christmas break (I suppose I was supposed to call it Holiday break? too bad).  So in other words, its time to get back to work.  Hopefully it won't be too long before I post again! I will try really hard :)

Have a great week!

My weekend in pictures

Here are some pics from my fun filled/crazy busy weekend.  I would write a full post but I really need to get SOMETHING done this weekend!  I'll try to write again soon but it probably won't happen until after finals.  Its crazy busy which is why although this weekend was awesome it was REALLY bad school wise!

Halloween fest: setting up the GASP booth

me and Alyssa

Hillary, me and Amanda

Cleaning up the yard

Being attacked and lots of laughter

Carving Pumpkins

Hard at work

Lunch at Bucca with the roomies

My pumpkin

The pumpkins that were lit up

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Chill in the Air

Its October already?! When did that happen? There is definitely a chill in the air.  We are in a frost advisory tonight.  Craziness!!! I am not ready for frost, snow, and whatever else.  It is NOT allowed! But unfortunately I can not control it.  Whats going on in my world?! I bet you can guess.  School, work, running and thats all.  There is NO social life.  and it seems like no breaks (well very few breaks).  We just got done with our first 2 test week, which was interesting.  But I think I survived haha.  This weekend included going straight from class to work friday night, catching up on sleep, attempting to get stuff done (and somewhat succeeding) and then working again, church, running and more studying.   I feel like I'm way behind right now.  Which I'm a little behind, but not a TON.  Anyways, not a lot of excitement here.  Things are going to be CRAZY the rest of October AND November! We'll figure it all out though.  Hopefully I'll only be working EVERY friday and saturday night for a little while longer.  I got rid of one shift this coming weekend and the next weekend I took off to go to Iowa! :) I'm finally going to see Kent and Dea and the kids! I haven't seen them since I think May! Way too long!!!

Last night at work I was told by one of the team leads that I didn't seem happy.  It took me by total surprise.  I started wondering what I was doing different than normal that I didn't "seem happy." I just told him that I didn't realize I was giving off that vibe.  I didn't want to be at work...but I usually don't. I try not to show that I dont want to be there though.  I try to at least put on a happy face.  So I guess now I'll have to work on that and just try to be happier. I'll try not to just put on a face...I will try to be genuinely happy (even though I thought I was before...at least for the most part).  Those were my thoughts last night and then I found out he told the other person working on our side of the store the same thing so I'm not sure what he was thinking.  But I'm off to try to be happy ( at least until I have another test to study for in a couple days!)

School Days, School Days...

Well, we now have 2 weeks of classes under our belts and tests start...next week. :( One last week of no tests.  I'm going to have to be really good about getting stuff done since I work Friday and Saturday night.  Things are speeding up quickly over here.  Between class, work, running, and meetings there is never a dull moment it seems.  Its way to early to be saying that...it kind of worries me.  But I'm sure I'll sure.  This year is actually pharmacy related stuff and I even have a class where I make IVs.  I get to put on all the fun stuff...booties over the shoes, hair net, lab coat thing (one of the disposable ones) gloves and a mask and safety glasses.  It looks pretty funny and I HATE wearing the mask but I'll have to survive.  I wish I had more interesting things to say, but theres not much else.  Right now I have a ton of stuff going on with recruiting for the frat and the beginning of the year meetings...getting our schedule worked out with timing the commute, etc. but we're getting it down to a schedule and its working out.

Well I'm off to finish some stuff! Hopefully I'll have something more exciting to post soon, doubtful but maybe :)

September?! Really?!

I know this gets said every year, but seriously, where did the summer go? Yesterday was the first day back to school and of course it felt like we never left.  Back to the grind.  I'm taking 16.5 credits. This quarter isn't supposed to be as bad as the others this year, but we'll see how it goes.  It'll still be busy.  So far we've only had a couple classes, but in the next couple days I'm sure it will pick up already.  Other than that things aren't too exciting.  The other girls are back at the house now.  So its a little different.  Hopefully we can stand each other for the next 2 years :) Its a little different than regular roommates in that our schedules are the EXACT same.  But it'll be fine I'm sure.  A couple of us are already making plans for spring break! I am about 95% sure its going to happen.  Not like other years where I talk about it and think about it and don't do anything.  We'll see, but I am so excited! All thats left is booking everything and that will most likely be done SOON! YAY!  I went on PLIA one year and to a friends house another year but never a spring break trip where I flew somewhere and went somewhere with sun and beaches! :) SOO excited! Well anyways, its almost time to head back to school (we had a 3 hour break) so I'll get going for now!

Back to Life, Back to Reality

Back to Life. Back to reality...the song that unfortunately(?) rings true today.  It was a fun trip and I was definitely busy the majority of the time.  Good way to end the summer.  One more week of work and then school starts :( NOOOOO! Then I REALLY won't have a life! But like I said the trip was good.  So lets start right off with what all happened. Rewind to last week Saturday

Saturday: I took off around 9:30 am or so after a long night of work on Friday night.  I spent the next few hours in the car.  Trying to hydrate for a race and riding in the car for 6+ hours do not go well together by the way.  haha.  I got to the Twin Cities met up with Amber and then we went to Edina to pick up my race packet.  After that we met up with Lundon, Sarah, and Ethan to hit up Olive Garden for supper.  YUMMY.  I of course felt special when Ethan decided to sit on my lap most of the meal...so cute!  We got a couple rounds of Dutch Blitz in before we went back to the hotel.  My parents got there and we went to bed not long after for an EARLY morning.

Sunday: We got up at about o'dark thirty so that we could get to the race in the plenty of time.  If you are super interested you can read all the details of the race HERE  But yes I survived and finished :)   Not super exciting stuff but  oh well.  After the race we ended up tagging along with my parents while they ran errands lol.  Not too exciting, but it was good to spend time with the parental units, Amber Wilson, and my brother (THANKS AGAIN FOR COMING AMBER)! After that I headed towards p-burg and crashed on the couch in my newly remodeled house (it was weird...i am not used to it)

Monday: Most notable thing was lunch at Applebees with Chelsey. Great food, great company.  Never enough time to totally catch up with that girl. Golfing, but started raining on hole 5 and we could tell it wasn't going to stop so we called it quits right then.

Tuesday: Lunch with Sam at the Lunchbox (yes I ate out...a lot) Cards that night with the usual posse.

Wednesday: SHOPPING with mi madre.  We somehow ended up in Burnsville and I actually got some stuff! YAY! long but successful day.

Thursday: Went to willmar to get a haircut.  Nothing drastic just a trim.  Did some painting (every day I had to do something around the house to help the parents)

Friday: drove to Waupun WI and stopped at Amber (Daane's) place! YAY! We ordered some pizza, got a movie (Date Night) and caught up.  It had been over a year since I had seen her as well.

Saturday: stayed in Waupun til about 1 or so then drove the rest of the way to Chi-town had about an hour and a half of down time and then headed to work.  I have the next 2 days off so I will be getting everything ready for school and getting stuff organized.  Heres some pics of the trip...I wish I had taken more.

Me and Amber right before I left

Me and Amber Wilson after the race

me and the bro

random pic after I got my hair cut. like i said not much different

Hope everyone out there is doing well! :) 

I'm still alive

Don't worry.  I AM still alive.  Just not a lot worth posting.  Don't have the fun/interesting stories and travels that Elizabeth does.  Not a whole lot new happening.  I've been working a little more since its back to school time! Its been crazy busy because of the Illinois tax break happening this week for clothes and school supplies.  Tonight I work a shorter shift 6-close so I'll be leaving shortly.  A week from Sunday is my half marathon!  AHHH! can't believe it.  I'll be driving to MN next Saturday and then will spend a couple days in MN before coming back.

 So yeah...my life has been work and running and I need to start thinking about school :( Where has summer gone...oh wait its still here (heat index in the mid 90s right now) I actually have the AC on for once.  I try not to use it but sometimes I just give in.  But anyways I better eat some supper and take off.  Sorry that I have nothing more interesting to say.  Hope all of you (yes all 3(?) of you who actually read this haha) are doing good and having a more exciting summer than me!

Minneapolis here I come...

Making plans

"If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans."

That saying was on my mind this weekend.  Mainly because it seemed like all my plans got changed.  You all know that I am a very laid back, easy going, go with the flow type person.  I take each day as it comes.  This weekend between work, church, running, and relaxing...I had my weekend plan set.  I even made backup plans for running (I brought running clothes with me to work in case it was raining/way too humid when I got done to run outside so I could drive to the school gym).  Well plans changed Saturday when I was asked to stay late at work.  So  I worked from 12-9:30 so no running or relaxing on Saturday night.  Sunday I was going to get up, go to church, head to school to get a quick run in and then go to work.  I woke up Sunday and starting getting ready.  For some reason I decided to go on my church's website (still don't know why...I usually don't..especially not on sunday mornings).  So I was quite surprised to learn church was canceled...due to flooding. Those plans went out the window...and since school is by church (20 minutes away) I didn't want to drive over there for a short 2-3 mile run.  So I didn't do that (and I was saving my legs for my long run today).  So even though they were small plans.  They didn't happen and no it wasn't the end of the world.  That saying was also on my mind when a Dordt student died last week. Obviously he had plans for the summer, the year,etc etc and then the unthinkable happens.  Its just another reminder that we don't know for sure what will happen tomorrow.  We can make plans, but that doesn't mean they will happen.  However, God has plans for us and He knows what will happen and when it will happen.  I'm sure He has big plans for each and everyone of us.  I wish I knew what he had in store for me in the future...but I'll just have to take one day at a time to find out.

When everything breaks at once

Yesterday and today have been frustrating for me technologically speaking.  It was very annoying.  Last night I took my camera's memory card out of the computer slot and put it back in my camera and it said the card was locked.  You know how memory cards have that thing on the side that you can slide up or down to lock or unlock the memory card (which I never use) apparently it broke off.  There is no way to unlock the card anymore.  Annoyed.  I loved that memory card I got it super cheap and its 4gb so I think I've had like 800 or more pics and some videos on it and its never been filled.  I haven't deleted pictures in forever.  So now I bought a new, smaller one.  It'll do the job...I'll might just have to delete pictures every once in a while now.

This morning I woke up at 6..on a Sunday to get my 8 mile run in.  I just got new running shoes.

Aren't they pretty?! Anyways, I've been running with the Nike + that attaches to the ipod and then you have a sensor in your shoe and it keeps track of distance, pace, etc.  I had Nike + shoes in the past so those had a slot  to put it in so now I had to buy a pouch to put the sensor in.  So I switching the sensor from one pair of shoes to the next and then went out for the run.  In the first mile I happened to look down and after 5 minutes it said I had gone .07 miles.  Wrong..so I made the loop back to the house because I knew the loop was a  over a mile.  My ipod said .3 miles.  WAY OFF so I fiddled with it and went out and tried again..didn't work again.  Sad day.  I think I may  need to buy a new sensor (but I shouldn't).  Basically I only ran a little over 2 miles today :( Not good.   But I wasted too much time to map out 6 more miles  AND make it back in time to get ready for church and to church on time.  Its just annoying when more than I thing stops working.  This week I actually have a decent  amount of hours...Mainly cuz I actually have a couple full 8 hour shifts but of course not til the weekend.  Well its time for a nap before I have to get ready or work and I need to clean up the basement before the roommates get back.  Oh and yes I went to go see Eclipse and it was good :) I spent a lot of money yesterday with the shoes (shoes are technically from my parents) and movie and some other shopping but oh well.  Happy Birthday to Me! :) 

July Already?

I might as well update since it appears I have been MIA from blog land for a couple weeks.  No reason really...just didn't have much to say.  I have been working, but not much.  Other than that I don't do a lot since everyone else is barely around.  There are a couple things that I have done including going to see: 

Loved it! Great movie.  Even if I have become that loser who goes to movies by herself because she has no one to go with lol.  I also ran a race today

Yes another 4 miles, which was a nice break from training for the half because otherwise I would have had 8 miles on the schedule. YIKES so I will tackle that hurdle when it comes next week instead! Yes, I am having fun with the pictures.  Its better than just rambling on and on like i usually do :) Not much for plans coming up either.  I will be working and running and on the 4th I will be going to church in the morning and then unfortunately I got stuck working closing shift, but its time and a half and I REALLY need the money and the hours.  So you gotta do what you gotta do.  

Next week however, is my birthday and I've been known to have some pretty boring birthdays...but this one is going to be up there.  I do have to work, but other than that I will be doing nothing.  However if you would like to send some birthday love you can make checks payable to Kayla Breems, its spelled K-a-y-l-a- ok totally kidding.  As a birthday present to myself I may go see another movie this week and I can think of possibly 2 of you who could probably guess it...

Its probably worth the money just to see Jacob with his shirt off the whole time :) Oh and my other birthday present to myself was a new dress.  Its cute and was fairly cheap...so it works perfect.  Well thats the story of my life the last couple weeks (yes boring I know).  Have a great 4th of July weekend!!!

I'm a smart one :)

Well, I finally have started work.  I have not worked much, but I have at least started.  On my 3rd day of work, I was late! I was freaking out, but there is also a story to go along with this.  This is why the title is what it is.  I was getting ready for work and I was on time.  I was grabbing a snack for my break and then ran out of the house (locking the door on the way out) to my car.  I got in the car and all of a sudden wondered if I had my cell phone...NOPE. No big deal, I didn't feel like going back in for my phone so I just decided I'd take off.  I searched through my purse for my keys, not there.  I looked again...nope.  I checked to see if I was sitting on them...nope.  If it was work at a job I'd had for awhile I wouldn't have been so upset, but since I just started I was freaking out just a little bit majorly.  So there I was outside my house, no keys and no phone.  I doubled checked the doors...they were all locked.  Well, I guess 7:30 am was as good of time as any when I got to meet my neighbors for the first time.  She answered the door and I clearly woke her up...I felt terrible.  I hadn't decided how to get in the house yet, but I knew I was going to be late so I needed to call work.  I used their phone and looked through a phone book to find targets number...I couldn't figure out what part of the phone book it was in so my neighbor looked it up on the internet.  I called work and they thankfully told me to just get here when  I could.  I asked my neighbor if she knew who to call to get in my house since everyone with a key was out of town.  She didn't know but asked if any windows were open (why didn't I think of that?) So she said she'd come over and help me once she brushed her teeth.  So i went to our house and found it is easier than I thought to get into our house.  (Don't worry I won't be leaving as many windows open in the future).  I got the screen up and shimmied my chubby  self  through the small space and into our basement and got to work about 15 minutes later.   It made for an interesting morning.  If I would have thought of the windows right away I would have probably made it to work on time, but it didn't happen. I was so upset at myself for being late to work and so frazzled about it that I wasn't thinking straight.  It was an interesting day.  In the process I did find out that we have really nice neighbors, so thats a plus.  I still feel bad for waking them up.  I'm guessing they would have maybe ignored the doorbell, but they have a dog who was going nuts.  Thank you neighbors for letting me into your home and letting me call work so that I would not be fired.  Well thats the story for the week and as interesting as my life gets! Hope everyone is enjoying their summer!

13.1 miles. Say what?!

Yes, I thought I would let you know.  I decided to officially sign up for the half marathon in August.  Right after I did it I started to have a little freak out session, but I know that if I didn't do it I would always wonder if I should've done it.  So I guess we will find out for sure.  Yes, I am still a little freaked out that I'm actually going to do it, but I'll get over it I think lol.  So I'll be back in the MN that weekend for I don't know how many days yet...a few.  Its on Aug 22 in Minneapolis.  I've been to Minneapolis so many times, but I've never been to where the race is run (right along the Mississippi near downtown), so I'm excited.  Its supposed to be a pretty nice little area.  Alright that will probably be my biggest news of the summer.

I guess I will also let you know that if you ever get really curious about my running I actually have a blog strictly about running here.  The running blog community is awesome with lots of support and giveaways and tips and they are part of the reason I got so excited about running.  Its not very exciting if you don't like running though.  Heck i'm sure its not very exciting if you do like running either (i'm not very good at making my blogs interesting if you couldn't tell lol), but I have been very inspired by the other bloggers out there. :) Hope you're having a great weekend.

Nothing new

If you get bored by me saying the same as usual, you can stop reading now.  This is a boring post. I'm back in Illinois.  I'm trying to remember what all has happened since last post.  Absolutely nothing.  I know my life is boring.  I'm back in IL, I start "work" tonight.  Starting work basically means, watching orientation movies and "learning" about Target as a company.  Good thing about it: you get paid for doing nothing and filling out paperwork.  Bad thing: its boring and I've already done it, but since I have been out of the system for awhile I have to do it again.  So that will be fun.  In the meantime I'm just chillin, doing laundry and cleaning some stuff up.  But like I said, other than that nothing is really happening here.  I had a nice 7 mile run yesterday...by accident.  I got a little turned around and happened to add on a 1.5 mile loop to it.  But other than that, things are going alright.  Hopefully they schedule me a decent amount of hours and it picks up pretty fast, cuz I definitely need money.  Well, speaking of laundry...its time to change loads!

Memorial Day Weekend

I decided I wanted to spend more time in the car.  I am in MN.  On Thursday, I got an e-mail that told me my start date for work and its still a week away so I decided I would come home.  First, I decided to stick around Friday to mow the lawn and stuff.  So I drove to MN on Saturday and am staying til maybe Friday or Saturday(?).  Oh and now that i mentioned it, yes  I have a job.  Not a very good one, but its a job and I'll get my Target discount back! :) (its not very good because its not in the pharmacy and because its not in the pharmacy I don't get paid as much. But a job is a job and I NEED money.  Well, what else is new...absolutely nothing! I live a boring life right now.  I'm hoping to meet up with a couple people that I haven't seen in forever this week so hopefully that works! But other than that, my life is boring.  Hope everyone has a great Memorial Day weekend and remembers to thank those who serve our country.

Settling

Hey all! WOWZERS! These past couple weeks have been absolutely NUTS!!! As you all know, finals were last week.  They went alright.  Finals are finals...thats how I feel.  Then as always, packing up and moving out of the dorm, which always takes awhile and  I always forget how much dumb stuff I have.  Let me just add...I hope I never have to move that much crap down 2 1/2 flights off stairs again!! AHHH!! My legs were sore for the rest of the week.  The rest of the time was spent painting and cleaning in the new house.  It was busy and hectic.  Finally, at 4:30 Friday, I was able to take off for Iowa to my brothers house.  Worst time to leave, but it was the first chance I had.  Luck was on my side and traffic wasn't bad in the direction I was going.  I got to Kent and Dea's around 9:30 at night...ps the soreness is not good for trying to walk after riding in the car a couple hours.  I looked ridiculous trying to walk around, I honestly was imagining that it was how you felt after running a long race such as a half marathon :) It was a good weekend, filled with fun with the kids of course.  We had isaiah's birthday party.  We went to Pizza Ranch for supper...so I pigged out since I never get to eat it.  Now, I'm back at the house.  I put some stuff away last night, but didn't do much...too tired.  Today, I have the laundry going and have started putting stuff away.  I am trying to avoid turning on the A.C. so I am hanging out in the basement since  the heat index is supposed to reach the mid 90s.  I have a weak internet connection that is off and on and Nicole brought a TV antenna so I actually have a couple stations here WAHOO!   I'm thinking a quick trip to IKEA is going to take place here probably within the hour.  Walk around in the AC for awhile and get some stuff for storage etc and a couple things for the kitchen, but I shouldn't need much.  I'm sure I will WANT  A LOT more than I buy, but lets face it...I have no money! So we'll just pick up a couple things. Then come back home and keep working on putting my stuff away (I have basically nothing put away in my bedroom...its too hot up there lol).  But I better get moving because once everything gets put away...need to keep looking for jobs! I'm sick of applications already, but need to keep moving on that.  Once stuff gets put away a little more...I'll try to post some pics of this place I will call home for at least the next 2 years! I really would enjoy some visitors out here this summer..hint hint!

Last week of classes

Well, I made it through another week.  One week of classes left.  Then finals.  As mentioned before also need to fit 1) running, 2) looking for jobs, and 3) moving in there...in that order too haha just kidding. This weekend has gone WAY TOO FAST! I have been lazy (well after 12pm on Sat). I am working on a little bit of stuff though and I have big plans for getting stuff done the rest of the night! Thankfully, its nothing that requires a ton of thought! Just some busy work.  But lets see what has happened this past week.  I had 2 tests, a meeting or two and a 5k...the week wasn't busy at all...oh wait! I'm still exhausted and have tried taking a nap on more than 1 occasion, but it hasn't happened. Anyways, the week went decently considering how busy it was.  Other than the fact on Thursday night I only got 2 hours of sleep because of studying (usually i have trouble staying awake til 1:30 before tests Thursday I had no problem staying awake til after 3) Yes I now its crazy.  I always get up a couple hours early on days of tests too so thats why it was 2...maybe 2 1/2 hours of sleep.  Also part of the reason is it started to storm around the time I decided to go to sleep which didn't help.  I went to Famous Dave's for a yummy meal Friday night and then went to bed early.  Saturday I had to be at the wellness center on campus by 7 am.  It came way too early.  I helped out with registration and then at 9 I ran.  It went alright.  I won't bore you with details, but I know it wasn't horrible just not as good as I wanted, but the only way to go is up! :) But I'm positive that my first race won't be my last! I just need to stick with the running!  I stayed around for the post-race party for volunteers.  I'm dutch..I HAVE to stay for the free food. I also got a $15 road ID gift certificate (its a bracelet/thing for your shoe with emergency info on it just in case something happens when you're running/biking/whatever you're doing).  I'm kind of excited about that cuz its definitely a good thing to have especially since I run alone most of the time.

Well, nothing big going on this week.  I have another meeting which is half a end of the year party.  I have to start studying for finals then on Friday theres another end of the year party and on Saturday we take possession of the house! :) Then on to finals! AH! Oh well, i'll make it.  Well, I'm off! Have a great week all!

Its already May!

Well hello again everyone.  This is a weekend where I should skip the blogging and just get busy, but I haven't done that the rest of the weekend so I why start now?! Haha.  I shouldn't say I haven' t done ANYTHING, just not as much as I should have.  But I still have some time tonight and tomorrow morning.  I can't believe its May already, wow! I need a job so bad! I've sent in a few apps, but haven't head anything yet, which stinks, but hopefully soon! I NEED MONEY! Especially since I need to start paying rent soon.  This is the break down of the next month (SUPER BUSY). 2 tests this week. This weekend=5k.  I need to be there for volunteering at 7 am...race is at 9 and I told them I would stay after for clean-up and the volunteer party (I'm not going to turn down free food! haha).  But I am going to be SOO tired after that!! Wowsers.  Volunteering and running, but I'm excited.  Then after that I need to finish stuff for a class that I need to have everything handed in on May 10.  During that week no tests, but i have a meeting or two, and a couple parties/get togethers.  Then Saturday the 15th we can take possession of the house so I might bring a few things over.  The next week is FINALS!! AHH! With finals also comes the after finals madness of moving out of one room/cleaning and moving into that house.  The weekend after finals includes like I said moving and I'm hoping to MAYBE go to Pella for Isaiah's b-day party (5 already) Wow, which also means its been 5 years since I graduated high school! Time flies when you're having fun! Alright...well back to the books!

Nearing the end

Well, we are nearing the end of the quarter.  This quarter has FLOWN by! I am in the midst of job applications, papers, and tests.  Everything is definitely piling up right now! But that always happens.  After this weekend, there are 2 weeks left of classes and then finals.  Its a little overwhelming when I think about all the things that should be getting done.  For example...I planned on running today but because I don't want to run in 40mph wind or the treadmill, I am taking an extra rest day this week.

Next week I have 2 tests, than a week without tests to be followed by moving week and finals!! Its going to be carazyy! Plus this Friday (tomorrow) we have spring initiation for the frat which will take up the WHOLE night from 5 til probably 10 or later because we will go out after and we'll see how long I stay out.  Then Saturday its the day for the longest run of the week and lots of studying.  A week from Saturday is the day: my first ever 5k.  I can't say I am officially registered, because I went to the office where I was supposed to turn it in and no one was there.  But tomorrow it will for sure be turned in.  I went the full 5k distance on Monday with a few walk interval and didn't have a time to be too embarrassed about so I'm signing up.  I'm excited yet nervous because I want to do well.   I just looked at the results from last year (I'll probably be towards the back of the pack) Oh well I guess. I'm going to do it..I have to do it.  Thats what I'm telling myself at least.

On Tuesday night, I was 1 of about 200 midwestern students that went to the Cubs game.  It was a lot of fun, even though the Cubs lost.  But it was FREEZING.  It was about 40 degrees, which was what we expected but we didn't factor in the wind! BRRR! But we survived and now I can say I've gone to a game at Wrigley.  It was fun!  Well time to get stuff done!

Confession

Alright confession.  Ever since my "Goals" post (what was it only a month ago) ...I have gotten  myself hooked to everything running.  Even though I can't run that far yet and am trying to figure out the best pace/schedule for me (especially to try not to overdo it, which I tend to do).  And even though many days it is still a struggle to find the strength to run after a long day of classes or studying, I am pretty sure I am hooked.  I am finding myself looking at all kinds of running blogs (theres some great ones out there), running websites, running products (food, clothes you name it) and running magazines.  I think about running quite a bit, its kind of weird.  For example, on Monday I actually remembered right away in the morning that it was Boston Marathon day...I would have never known that in the past!  But anyways, I am about 95% sure I'm doing the 5k on the 8th, I just need to fill out the form and turn it in.  I may need to walk a bit of it, but if I do even though I know deep down I'll be dissapointed...who cares if i walk?! I am actually participating!!! I am also volunteering to help before it since its on campus.   it really is starting to become habit (I am SOOO glad to be able to say that).  I know what days I usually run, about how far on each day, and when it works into my schedule for each day.  I do get frustrated wishing I was faster or could go farther, but I know thats all in time, and that if I don't take it slow I'll be resting for a week or longer because of bad knees, shins, whatever.  So..I keep working on it.   If the first race or even 2 go well, I may actually try to do a half marathon sooner, (Yes I said sooner) than I originally planned (as in this fall) But we shall see, like before I am not committing to anything yet!

On a side note! I have a place to live! We're meeting with the owners to finalize everything on Sunday.  Planning on starting to move stuff in May 15ish.  Very exciting...although...now I'm going to have to find new running streets/routes :( I was starting to like my path/neighborhood (minus the hills but they'll be there for the 5 K so its a good thing I run them on all my runs).  Well, I'm off! Time for a short nap! Cuz ITS THE WEEKEND! Plus, I have NO tests next week! WAHOO!

A weekend off, now back to work

Well, I was right about not having time last week (besides the owl pics).  But its over and this week is underway and I really need to get stuff done, but priorities...gotta blog first!  :)  Anyways, I have til 9 at the latest and then I really have to get stuff done.  So last weekend, I made the last minute decision to go to my brothers.  My mom was there for grandparents day and even though Saturday and Sunday weren't good days for us to be there, I went.  Arrived Friday about 8...in time to get the kids excited right before bed (keep in mind I haven't seen them since mid December so they were extra excited).  But thats the job of an aunt, right?! I walked in the door and all I could hear was laughter and giggling.  But soon it was time for them to go to bed.  So we chilled the rest of the night.  In the morning of course I got woken up by giggling and 2 of the kids getting on the bed (we always give them permission to wake us up).  The morning was spent just playing with the kids and getting jumped on...a lot.  That was really on the only time spent with them :( The afternoon me and my mom went golfing with Kent.  Dea had a college friend coming to visit from Montana so Dea and the kids spent the afternoon with her friend and her friends daughter.  That night we went back for supper and then my mom and I went to a hotel.   The next morning, I took off back to Chicago...I did manage to stop at an outlet mall, walked away with 2 shirts. I could've bought more but did good considering the other things I wanted were just that..things I wanted and didn't need.    I stopped to shop there and then had to get a couple groceries once I was back so I went and spent more money.  oops! haha.

Elsa when a I went to get her from her nap  (another happy baby)

I managed to take this picture myself we have like 20 like this between smiling and sticking out tongues etc

Ava (not a good picture but i think its the only one I have of her from this weekend)

But overall, the weekend was fun even though I got NOTHING accomplished! I could have but didn't, even after I got back on Sunday.  I was tired and wasn't feeling good so I layed on my bed and feel asleep by 10:30! which is so weird for me! I'm feeling even worse tonight (sore throat and I'm sneezing a lot. boo!) But hopefully I'll get lots of sleep and get rid of it before it really starts!

Other updates: We're putting in an application for a house! It was one that was for sale and rent, so hopefully they'll take our offer! I'm still looking for a job so that I can hopefully stay out here! and finally running: I took an extended break because my knees were killing me all week (not sure why).  They felt worse and worse until probably last Friday.  I still have some pain in them but nothing  some Motrin and Tylenol can't fix.  So anyways, after a week of not running, I went today and it felt pretty good.  Pace was a little off but I survived and I have to admit I feel so much better on days when I run even if I'm in pain later.  I just know I can't overdo it.  So I'm still hoping for the 5k in 2 and 1/2 weeks.  I am volunteering to help out with it as well, so why not do both :)
Well its later than I hoped...I really have to get this journal club prep work done :(

Owl pics

I took a picture of the owlet today.  He's not very tiny any more so I just thought I would put the pics up.  Pretty soon it'll fly away and that will be a sad day! I'll put the before picture up and then the updated pics!

Blog happy :)

Well, I guess running has made me feel like blogging more as well.  I don't know why, but apparently it does.  Also, I guess I know I have time this week and won't have much time next week.  Anyways not a lot new going on.  I should be working on a paper, but its almost done, just have some kinks and reference stuff to fix.  So its getting there, and if I have problems staying awake tonight (even though it shouldn't take too long)  Its not due til 4 pm tomorrow so I have time :)  In all reality, I am almost done and I would be very surprised if it wasn't done tonight.  In other news, we were going to take the other two girls to see the house tomorrow and we just found out it is no longer available.  So that was kind of a bummer and we're back at square one.  We're hopefully going to see a couple different ones tomorrow.

Running I would say is going better than I like to think.  I've been getting frustrated with it because I can't go as far as I want or as fast as I want, even though I don't want to go that fast but I do have times in mind.  I hate the idea of doing it all in baby steps.  It drives me nuts.  I wanted to be able to run 2 miles at a time by now, but I also know that with how out of shape I was it isn't realistic.  So I just need to think of small goals.  My times are getting better even though I'm not going as far as I want. However, I have already logged over 18 miles (combination of walking and running) and I started not even 2 weeks ago, so not bad.  On the up side, the 5k i was looking at doing I get a discount for so I will most likely do it...unless I get injured or something.  But I am planning on registering for it soon and it will give me a good indication of where I'm at.  Once I start the 5ks and races like that I can start training for longer races (I think I found a 10k in the area for in the fall :) and eventually for the half marathon.  The one I'm looking at...I really want to do, but it would not be cheap! So we'll see.

The last news I have is I have a job interview next week.  I think it would be a great job and a great opportunity so pray that it goes well.  It will be a very easy going interview, but this would be a great job.  There are 2 openings and the estimate was 10-15 people interviewing so I'm kind of nervous, but we'll see.  Its not for a week.  Hopefully, I'll have a job for the summer (fingers crossed) I'm getting nervous...nobody is hiring!

Well I think thats all...we'll see if I continue to be blog happy! :)
By the way...I love comments (this is aimed at the people who NEVER comment but read haha)

I LOVE SPRING!

Hello all! Here we are,  almost at the half way point of the quarter! Next week is week 5 out of a 10 week quarter (11 with exam week)!  Craziness.  This quarter is flying by and its hard to believe we've only had 2 tests so far.  Next week there are no tests and the week after that is our last 2 test week of the quarter, well till exams! WAHOO! So nice! I do have some random assignments to work on this weekend though.  And I'm planning on cleaning everything really good in here. :) I'll probably also watch a couple movies sleep and of course, run.

It has been over 80 here the last 2 days! So nice, but SOOOO windy.  Yesterday we had gusts of about 28 or so, today they are up to 34mph.  But still everything is greening up.  Today me and Alyssa were talking about going golfing.  The golf courses were either full or not open, so we hit a bucket of balls at the driving range (gorgeous yet expensive course, but driving range was reasonable).  Just seeing the green on the course put me in  a good mood.  After that we made a trip to target and went to look at some houses for rent.  We found one we like, but the other two roommates are gone this weekend so we'll show them next week and then talk about it.  But its the right layout, right price, decent location.  Just a couple of minor details to talk about.

Now to training, it has been hard getting back into shape but I am still going.  Not running very far at all yet, but slowly going.  My friends are telling everyone how I'm training for a half marathon so I guess I'm going to have to do it lol.  (we are keeping my training and running paths in mind while looking at houses lol).
So, I'm just working my way up incredibly slow, but we'll get there (I hope).  So if I can find the funds, I think I will try for the one in March (I figure its a good excuse to go to Florida for spring break haha).
Have a great week everyone!

New goals, big goals

Well, I debated how many people I should tell about the new goals I am setting for myself.   But also when I was thinking about it, I realized the  more of my friends that new about it, the more I would make sure I got it done, because other people would be counting on me to do it.  Now to start off, let me mention how incredibly out of shape I am.  I have not been good about working out because of how busy I have been since September.  But, my new goal is to run a half marathon.  I'm kind of aiming to get it done within 2 years, but I'm going to try to make it within the year.  I've talked to a couple people about it and they are convinced I only need the year time frame so I'm going to try it.  Yesterday was my first day running since....maybe fall?! Its been a long time! It was painful, I am not looking forward to getting in the habit of doing it again.  that is always the hardest part.  I'm going to try to start doing a couple 5ks this summer to get the feel of "racing" There is actually one on campus in May.  We'll see about that.  I should be able to be ready for it, but we'll see.  I'm still debating what my schedule should be while I'm starting out to make sure I don't overdo it, cuz I don't want to deal with bad knees and shins like I have before.  So I'll need all the encouragement I can get for this :) I do have a training plan off of the internet once I can run 3 miles at a time again.  But first, we need to get to that point.  I have been looking at what would be a good half marathon to do...if my training is going well, I may do one in Florida on my spring break next year, and I really would like to run with someone else so think about it people.  If I can do it you can too!! :)

Other than that not much is new.  I just need to really start looking for jobs hardcore and I have 2 tests this week so I have a lot of studying to do.  however next week I don't have any.  So thats awesome.  So I have a lot this week but than not too bad next week.  I think me and Alyssa will go to a movie next weekend cuz no one else will be around cuz of easter.  Oh yeah, and on Friday I have only 1 hour of class and am done at 11!!! YEAH!

I was going to take a picture of the baby owl  today, he or she is growing like a weed.  But, I didn't have a good view.  Our walk to class just isn't going to be the same once they fly away. :( Well, I'm off.  Gotta study for those tests! Oh and if anyone has any good workout songs to add to my list comment, I'm going to need to add more to my playlist :)

BY THE WAY...I just added a countdown to the potential race I would do, even though nothings official. I may not even do that one cuz its so far away. But it makes a more concrete goal/deadline especially since its close to the year date! Wish me luck!

Sunshine and Memories

First off I must admit, I LOVE SPRING!!! It has been so nice here the past week or so (minus the snow over the weekend) Its been in the mid to high 50s and the sun is shining! :) I love it.  With spring also comes sign of life.  The grass is greening up and we have nesting geese (what a pain) and a owl and owlet on campus.  Every day it seem like we are stopping to look at the owl or owlet, depending on if the mom is there.  When the mom is there you can't see the owlet, but when she's gone you see a white furr ball.  here are pictures someone else took.  Mom tends to fly away when class is going on...most likely too many people and gawkers, but we still see her every now and again.

As I was on facebook today, I finally realized the date.  I hadn't really payed attention earlier, but once I noticed it hit me like a ton of bricks.  Brings back lots of memories of 3/23/06 and the days after.  I can't believe it has been 4 years since the accident that took Adam and Jon from us.  Time flies, but as someone else said it still seems like yesterday.  Even though I didn't know them all that well, I still miss them and my heart still breaks every time I think of that day.  There's something about losing people close to your age when you/they are so young that makes it stick with you that much more.  They really were such great guys though! Anyways, those are just my thoughts of the day.  Hope the weather is as nice everywhere else as it is here :)

Green all around

Well, a weekend of plans! YAY! it was fun.  Yesterday afternoon, we went to a movie.  It was called "Our Family Wedding" which was pretty funny.  Afterwards I settled in for a night of watching basketball.  The gophers won in an overtime game.  As many of you can probably guess, I was sitting watching intently and talking to the tv.  Today, we went downtown.  We took the train in and then walked towards the area where they dye the river.  We made it there when they were in the process.  We watched, took pictures, and just hung out a little bit.  We then started walking towards the parade route.  We thought about eating downtown, but didn't have enough time before the parade.  We walked through millenium park (to get to the parade route) Of course, we needed some pictures by "the bean" Then we went and watched the most of the parade.  We left before it was done to make sure we caught the earlier train since they run every hour to two hours and took a cab since we were cold and wet.  It was a lot of fun, even though it wasn't very nice weather (cold and rainy)  Of course there was green everywhere.  It was fun and definitely the first time I did anything for St Patricks Day.  We took the train back and since all we had to eat all day were some M&Ms.  We were starving when we got back.  We took off to Rock Bottom for some yummy burgers and then I watched some more basketball.  Tonight I've been making some flashcards and getting stuff organized. Tomorrow the plan is: church, possibly flashcards and do a bit of reviewing but I really don't have much to do, and watching the gophers hoping they can just seal the deal and win the Big Ten Tourney! Wahoo! We'll see.  Anyways, I'm off better get some stuff cleaned up because even though its only 10:30 I guess its kind of 11:30 (stupid daylight savings).  Here are some pictures!

the river

me, alyssa, and anna

playing with the colors on my camera

a rain streaked bean picture

the foggy chicago skyline in the bean's reflection

me next to the bean

Hope you like it!

Hey all! Hope you like the new background, etc.  It took me a while to fix a couple of stupid things...but I figured it out! WAHOO! Of course, now thats its done I can't believe it took me that long to figure out but thats alright!.

Its weird to actually have time to do stuff like this.  I will say, I am staying on top of stuff this quarter, there aren't as many super intense classes (thank goodness).  So its not that difficult...so far.  I will try not to jinx it, but obviously things will get busier as the quarter goes on.  But overall, because we do not have the full day in the pharmacy each week, the other days don't have near the number of hours of class each day because we don't need to make up for the extra day.  Wednesdays look like normally they will compete for the longest day. (9-11 and 12-4 or 5) but that is because of the elective I am taking.  We have 12-5 class for this elective, but most days we will be out before that and most of it is hands on, which definitely makes time go by faster.  Tomorrow we start actually doing stuff for micro lab which in a way I am annoyed that I didn't try to dig up my syllabus to get out of it, but I feel like the lab should help my grade so there was no point. However, it is mostly the same stuff that we did at Dordt so I'll know what I'm doing but it looks easier which might make it boring.  We will see.  Anyways, time for me to finish some random stuff I have been working on  before bed! Later!

Let me know what you think of the new layout.  Oh and to the old roomies...I am thinking of you since I had a few oreos and peanut butter tonight.  I can't remember who (if not all of you) turned me on to it! but it is amazing (but yet so horrible for me).

Great is Thy Faithfulness!

I've been meaning to blog all week since I've been off, but I've been having too much fun relaxing and doing nothing! Anyways, to the title of the post... Sunday at church we were singing Great is Thy Faithfulness which according to me is one of the greatest hymns.  I was just going along singing the song and towards the end I had one of those moments that just gave you the chills.  We started singing the chorus for the last time and as we did they opened the curtains (i think it was electronic where you just pushed a button cuz they opened very slowly).  As the curtains opened and the song continued the sanctuary was filled with light from outside (that entire wall of the sanctuary is windows).  Its kind of hard to explain but it gave me the chills. Its just a great song.

Well today was pretty much my last day at home.  I got here Monday night late and leave Sunday morning.  Tomorrow we are going to my grandpa's in Sheldon and my dad has an appointment for taxes in Worthington.  So we'll in be in the old hometown for a while.  We talked about going to the girls basketball game.  Its sections and we know a couple girls on the team.  But we'll see, that would mean home we would get home really late.  Then on sunday its still undecided whether I stay for church or not,but I might leave before church so I get back to IL a little earlier than 8 at night.  Its kind of weird because no one else is around right now.  So I will be leaving to go back before really even seeing anyone.  Kind of sad, but thats the way it goes.  I did stop in the Twin Cities to see Lundon, Sarah, and Ethan though on the way home.  It was tons of fun and great to catch up with them.  Ethan is getting SO big!!! I've have missed the 3 of them so much.  Such great friends.

So what have I done during break?! not a whole lot.  Slept, relaxed...started working on my grandma's photo book, got sidetracked and started making one for myself, but then she had asked me to do a few pages in her scrapbook so I did that.  I was in Willmar for a day shopping, getting a hair cut (well trimmed...I have been enjoying being able to get my hair in a ponytail without much effort again) and stuff like that.  But it has gone so fast.  It will be good to get another quarter started and just to get a full year under my belt.  Then only 3 years left (only ha) and only 2 years of tests.  Hopefully it goes fast and I'm sure it will go faster than I expect it too.  Theres just a lot ahead right now! Well...I think its time to call it a night.  Or at least time to start a movie :) Gotta get up early tomorrow, but then hopefully I'll be able to sleep in the car.

Bad scheduling!

Two more days of class then finals.  I am relieved yet stressed.  Plus, the olympics are on! I love the olympics!!! Who schedules finals during the olympics? I was not happy.  I am trying to watch as much as I can this week even though I am starting to prepare for finals.  So I am trying to watch a little and study at the same time.  tonight, there are a lot of good events on so I am trying to do more time-consuming but easy to do type of stuff.  I have my only paper of the quarter to work on, a reflection paper so its easy and also some getting organized type of stuff. So that is the goal for tonight.  I can't believe this quarter is almost over...but yet its been the longest quarter EVER!!! So glad to have a break.  I am also SOOOOOOOOOOO excited to go home! I was home at christmas but only for about 1 1/2 days so its long overdue.  I can't wait to sleep all day and just chill watching movies and stuff and of course spend time with whatever family will be aroundI think I might also pack up my wii and bring it home as well since I have a whole week at home! YAY! Although, I do have a couple projects one being my christmas present for my grandma haha.  I had told her she was getting a photo book (like one of the ones you can make on shutterfly) but I was waiting til after the cruise and I just haven't had time to work on it! She might finally get her xmas present!!! haha.  




Today was my final rotation visit.  The whole store (not just the pharmacy) got pizza since it was my last day! :) I'm going to miss going there each week.  It was nice to just get off campus and be in a pharmacy each week.  Plus, it was a class WITHOUT studying.  The people I worked with were fun.  I'll just say that each day was....interesting! but fun.  


Thankfully, I will have some time after my dreaded week of no sleep to just relax. I am looking forward to it soooo much!!! I can't wait to be at home.  If you can't tell...I'm ready for it to be next Friday (well next saturday so that I'm done with the 9 hour drive!) Until then...

Tests, tests, tests

Well, I guess I'll update even though I don't have a lot to say.  It has been busy non-stop since Christmas break. Honestly, people don't really understand.  You tell them you don' t have a life outside of school and they say something about well at least you have time to relax and do other stuff on the weekends.  Negative.  The weekend is when you need to get majority of the studying done because you're in class all week.  And yes, its like that for the whole class.  None of us have lives (except for the very few people who are just naturally good at taking tests).  I counted the number of tests in January and February alone...no quizzes included and our workshop final was not included....18!! Now that gives you a little more of a clue.  Anyways, just had to say it...I mean it is basically the only thing my life consists of.  The next 3 tests are in our hardest classes....This Tuesday, then Friday, then the next Tuesday.  In two weeks we actually have a Friday without a test!!!! :) Then its the week before finals already and we have 1 test, a workshop final, and a final on that Friday followed by finals week! So there is an end in sight!!! YAY!! Its less than a month away.

I just thought I would let you all know...I am still alive.  Next quarter will be better...I might actually realize I am in Chicago once next quarter comes because I may have some spare time.  Well, I better get back to the books!

Wrap up of '09

Well I'm back already! Crazy huh.  I was thinking about how in past years when the new year started I did a blog about the past year and coming year...and then add just a couple pictures of the trip (although most of them probably were already on facebook).  So here we go.  


2009
There were a lot of changes in 2009.  Some happy, some sad, and some bittersweet.  
Lets see started off the New Year with a bang in Belize while having not slept in what like 36/38 hours, but it was definitely worth it.  It was a great way to start off the year and a lot of fun and a blessing to be able to go. 


Spring break...not so exciting, hotel with the fam, which was fun, then got my wisdom teeth out.  Weekend after spring break=AMAZING time with great roomies!!!! Had so much fun in Omaha.


May=I survived 4 years at dordt and left with a degree in Biology.  There was a lot of sleeplessness nights, hours in the lab, and weekends spent slaving away for that baby.  But, I survived it, and most of all I survived the research project! Dordt was a great time.  I met so many great people that I miss so much now.  I am so thankful for such a great undergrad experience! May was also a time of uncertainty (for many including me) with many trips to the twin cities and many applications filled out.  


July=the month where my life drastically changed.  I got a job working for target. Great time, met some really fun people and also got into pharmacy school! It was a whirlwind month (along with August)


August/September=moved to Chicago and started school


November=BREAK! one of the most needed and i would say deserving breaks ever.  Got to catch up with some great friends.  Lost one of my greatest role models/inspiration and basically my second mom when my aunt passed away from colon cancer.  It was a long battle and am glad she is no longer suffering.  She was such an incredible woman of God. I love you and miss you so much Sue!

December= christmas parties and cruise!!! Included a few extra days in New Orleans.  There were some fun times with family and friends.  Also, Elsa Ann was added to the fam on December 14.  

Hoping for a great year.  Shouldn't be full of as many changes, which is alright! Have a great new year everyone...now for a few pics

Its a big boat

All right, for those of you who didn't read the post from yesterday, I would advise you to start there.  It has the first dramatic (kind of ) part of the extended vacation.  For the rest of you, I told you I would update about the rest and so here we go...

The cruise left on the 26th.  We were told we could start checking in at like 10:30, so we went there are started the process. It took a little while, and then we just sat there.  Everything took a lot longer than we and they expected because of the terrorist events on Christmas day.  Apparently customs was a lot more thorough.  Because of that we got on the boat about 2 hours later than expected.  As my cousin said, "We're going on a big  boat." Jorge, the cruise director who was hilarious (if you want to know 10 of the stupidest questions asked on a cruise ask me, he told them to us and it was funnier coming from him but its still hilarious) said first time cruisers call it a big boat rather than a ship and I guess he was right.  We were eating supper when the ship started moving because it left later than expected as well cuz 30 or more people were delayed coming from the airport. That day consisted of walking around the boat, trying to figure out where everything was, the safety drill and we watched a comedian.  It was pretty fun.

27th
The 27th was a fun day at sea.  We went up to lay out, but it was quite cool so it was done with regular clothes and towels as blankets, which was kind of sad.   But we liked that we were able to be outside so we read and listened to music.  The rest of the day consisted of random competitions, shows, food, and listening to some karaoke

28th
The 28th was our day at Progresso (Merida).  We were up bright and early as we had to be ready for our excursion at 7 am.  That day we were going to the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza.  It was a 2 1/2 hour drive to the ruins.  There was a stop at a random store, but the ruins were incredible.  They were different than the ones in Belize, but of course there were some similarities.  Its hard to describe the similarities and differences. But they were really cool and big.  We didn't even see all of the ruins that were there.  It was neat and once again it was hard imagine people being able to building such a great empire so long ago.  That night everyone else watched shows.  I got sick that night...not until supper (the gulf was REALLY rough that night) I barely had noticed the boat until that night.  I felt better part way through the night, but I'm not gonna lie I was comfy and got too comfortable laying in bed watching a movie so I fell asleep early.

29th
This day was spent in Cozumel on the Carribean with the beautiful water where you can see straight down to the bottom.  On this day, we went on a Catamaran and snorkeling which was fun.  The snorkeling wasn't as good as Belize's but it was still fun.  They had some complimentary beer, margaritas and soda on the boat which as nice.  Then we went to the a spot on the beach for an hour...needed more time there but it was still fun.  After we got back towards the boat, we were trying to decide what to do next.  Me and Chels decided to price out parasailing.  We had to take a cab down the island to find a spot and we ended up doing it.  It was sooo fun.  It wasn't near as scary as expected and even the take off and landing were smooth.  The pictures are on my cousin's camera unfortunately but hopefully I will get them soon :) We went back to the boat after that cuz we wanted food.  We were going to lay out a little bit but it got cold again, so towels were blankets again. That night we watched more shows including a magician which was alright.  

30th
This was another day at sea.  I was woken up earlier than I appreciated, but I won't go into that.  That day was another day of relaxing, walking around the boat, watching random competitions, reading, etc.  That night they did one more vegas style show, which was pretty good.  They geared us up for a "slow process" of getting off the boat in the morning

31st
We got up early to beat some of the lines of getting off the boat.  The "slow process" of getting of the boat due to the terrorists earlier, took about 10 minutes.  They had told us it would take 2-3 hours.  So we had a lot of time.  We went and sat at the hotel where our shuttle would later pick us up and saw some of the Florida gator football team, including Tim Tebow, which was kind of cool.  We left our luggage there and then went to the aquarium.  We then left for the airport earlier than originally planned because of the "increased"security...not so much.  But the New Orleans airport really wasn't that big.  So was burned a lot of time in the airport before flying back to MN and then on the 1st i flew back to chicago.

Overall it was a good, fun trip.  It could have been warmer, but we can't do anything about that.  One of the days it was so windy that a lounge chair flew off of the top deck, thru the railings, and landed on a lady (on her leg). It was crazy cuz I was on the same deck as her and saw it happen, she probably will get a free cruise out of the deal. But yeah it was a great trip.  It was fun and now its back to the grind.  Unfortunately, I have a bad cold and have been coughing, what a way to go back.  So I've halfway been trying to get more sleep while getting stuff done.  But I'll probably still go to bed early tonight and have to work extra hard the rest of the week.  Anyways, I'm off! Happy New Year Everyone!!!